Note : Les descriptions sont présentées dans la langue officielle dans laquelle elles ont été soumises.
CA 2966436 2017-05-10
PIVOT PANEL CASE CONSTRUCTION FOR AN ELECTRONIC DEVICE
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
FIELD OF THE INVENTION
The disclosed invention generally relates to a case construction for encasing
an
electronic device such as a laptop type computer, tablet type computer, mobile
phone or
similar other mobile communications device. More particularly, the disclosed
invention
provides a device-holding case construction with posterior pivot panels for
enabling a
user to selectively encase an electronic device and/or selectively display the
electronic
device in either a landscape orientation angled display position or a portrait
orientation
angled display position.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE PRIOR ART
Case constructions for use in combination with electronic devices such as
tablet
type computers and the like are well known in this field of art. While the
basic function
of a basic case construction is to protect and/or enclose the device it
encases, the art
continues to develop with. an eye toward enhancing functionality of the case
constructions
so as to provide the user with various means of manipulating and/or re-
positioning the
devices. Two of the more pertinent prior art patent-related disclosures
relating to cradle-
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like devices for holding and enabling display of the devices they hold are
described
hereinafter.
United States Patent No. 8,359,078 ('078 Patent) and 8,731,626 ('626 Patent)
authored by Hung and owned by Belkin International, Inc. of Playa Vista
California
disclose a Mobile Media Device Enclosure, Method of Use of Mobile Media Device
Enclosure, and Method of Providing a Mobile Media Device Enclosure. The '078
and
'626 Patents describe a mobile media device enclosure or cradle having an
interior, an
exterior, a top side, a bottom side, a right side, and a left side wherein the
interior is
configured to form a cavity sized and shaped to retain a mobile media device.
The enclosure further includes both a vertical boundary and a horizontal
boundary. The vertical boundary is configured to substantially bisect the
mobile media
device enclosure from the top side to the bottom side, and the horizontal
boundary is
configured to substantially bisect the mobile media device enclosure from the
left side to
the right side. The vertical and horizontal boundaries are thus configured to
substantially
divide the mobile media device enclosure into four sections, each of which is
flexibly and
elastically coupled to two other sections of the four sections, and each of
which four
sections may be temporarily removed from the electronic device.
From a review of the foregoing citations in particular, and from a
consideration of
the prior art in general, it will be seen that the prior art perceives a need
for a pivot panel
case construction for enabling a user to removably receive an electronic
device as
exemplified by a tablet type computer or mobile phone and selectively pivot
panels away
from a device-holding cradle for propping or supporting the device as received
in the
cradle in either a landscape or portrait orientation angled display position.
Further, the
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prior art perceives a need for a pivot panel case construction for enabling a
user to retain
pivotal panels in juxtaposition against posterior surfacing of the device-
holding cradle as
summarized according to the present invention in more detail hereinafter.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
Among the many objectives of this invention is the basic provision of a case
construction for selectively encasing and displaying an electronic device such
as tablet
type computer or mobile phone. The case construction(s) according to the
present
invention preferably comprise or include variants of a device-holding
mechanism or
cradle, and variants of a multi-section panel assembly as attached or anchored
to the
device-holding mechanism or cradle at an attachment site. The device-holding
mechanism or cradle according to the present invention is preferably formed of
a
moldable material and molded so as to be of a fixed size and shape to
removably receive
a particularly sized and shaped electronic device and thus serves as an
interface of sorts
between the received electronic device and the multi-section panel assembly
attached
thereto.
The device-holding cradle preferably comprises an anterior device-receiving
section, a posterior panel-opposing or panel-interfacing section, a peripheral
cradle
edging, and a cradle length, width, and depth generally dimensioned to receive
the
external volume of the electronic device. The anterior device-receiving
section thus
removably receives the electronic device for cradling or jacketing the
electronic device
and the posterior panel-opposing section comprises a panel assembly attachment
portion,
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with temporary panel seating portions in adjacency thereto. The panel seating
portion(s)
oppose pivotal sections of the multi-section panel assembly otherwise anchored
at the
= panel assembly attachment portion.
In a first alternative embodiment, a multi-layer, multi-section panel assembly
preferably comprises an inner or lower flexible, panel-interconnecting
material layer, and
an outer or upper substantially rigid, panel-sectioned material layer. The
panel-sectioned
material layer is attached to the flexible panel-connecting material layer and
comprises at
least four panel portions, which four panel portions comprise a static panel
portion and at
least three dynamic panel portions. The flexible material layer at the static
panel portion
is further permanently attached the permanent panel-attachment portion for
anchoring the
static panel portion thereto.
In other words, each of the four panel portions are flexibly coupled to at
least two
other panel portions of the four panel portions via the flexible material
layer of the first
alternative case construction. A first and a second primary support panel
portion of the
three dynamic panel portions are pivotal relative to the static panel portion
about first and
second pivot axes for selectively supporting the device-holding cradle in
either a
landscape orientation angled display position or a portrait orientation angled
display
position relative to a support surface.
The first and second primary support panel portions are those dynamic panel
portions flexibly connected to the static panel portion. A first secondary
support panel
portion of the three dynamic panel portions pivots in unison with either of
the first or
second primary support panel portions for enhancing stabilized support of the
device-
holding cradle in either of the angled display positions. The first secondary
support panel
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portion is flexibly connected to the first and second primary support panel
portions in
diagonal relation to the static panel portion.
The case constructions according to the present invention may further
preferably
comprise or include certain dynamic panel retention means for selectively
retaining the
dynamic panel portions of the multi-section panel assemblies in engagement
with the
posterior panel-opposing section of the device-holding cradle for enabling the
user to
more easily position the device-holding cradle in a flat or prone display
position relative
to the support surface. In other words, the dynamic panel retention means
operate to
selectively hold the dynamic panel portions in engagement with the posterior
panel-
opposing section for enabling the user to more easily lay the case
constructions flat upon
a surface.
It is contemplated that any number of temporary fastening means may be
utilized
to perform a dynamic panel retention function, such as hook and loop type
fastening
means or resilient snap-together type fastening means. In certain preferred
embodiments,
= 15 however, it is contemplated that the dynamic panel retention
means may be exemplified
by magnetic panel retention means for magnetically attracting the dynamic
panel portions
toward the posterior panel-opposing portion of the device-holding cradle.
A second case construction essentially differs from the first case
construction by
providing a unibody multi-section panel assembly having a single layer or
material
= 20 construction with a plurality of panel portions or sections
interconnected by integrally
formed, living hinges or flexure bearings. Recalling that the multi-section
panel
assembly of the first case construction comprises a plurality of panels
interconnected by a
lower flexible, panel-connecting material layer, it will be noted that the
living hinges or
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flexure bearings may be constructed from the same material as the two panel
portions
each of the living hinges or flexure bearing structures interconnects.
The second case construction according to the present invention may also
comprise or include certain dynamic panel retention means for selectively
retaining the
dynamic panel portions of the multi-section panel assembly in engagement with
the
posterior panel-opposing section of the cradle for enabling the user to more
easily
position the device-holding cradle in a flat display position relative to the
support surface.
In this regard, it is contemplated that the dynamic panel retention means may
be
preferably exemplified by snap-fit, peripheral panel edging formed to as to
resiliently
engage the peripheral cradle edging of the device-holding cradle.
The snap-fit, peripheral panel edging is formed to as to resiliently engage
the
peripheral cradle edging and thereby secondarily cradles the device-holding
cradle in
= much the same manner as the device-holding cradle cradles the electronic
device. In this
regard, the multi-section panel assembly of the second case construction may
be said to
provide a cradle jacket to the device-holding cradle, which cradle jacket
operates to both
protect the device-holding cradle and also enable the user to prop or support
the device-
holding cradle in either of the angled display positions.
= A third case construction essentially differs from the second case
construction by
providing the multi-section panel assembly without the peripheral panel
edging, and thus
in the third case construction, other dynamic panel retention means, such as
the magnetic
panel retention means may be the preferred panel retention means substantially
as
previously summarized for magnetically attracting the dynamic panel portions
toward the
posterior panel-opposing portion.
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Fourth and fifth case constructions according to the present invention are
further
contemplated and in both case constructions, co-molded elastomeric-
polycarbonate
flexure bearing or hinge structures respectively and flexibly interconnect
opposed
polycarbonate panel portions of multi-section panel assemblies, which
assemblies
cooperate with certain device-holding cradles for selectively encasing and
displaying an
electronic device.
In the fourth alternative embodiment, a device-holding cradle is provided to
comprise or include a differing posterior panel-opposing section that features
the addition
of a hub member and a series of rib members that extend rearwardly from the
posterior
panel-opposing. In this case construction, the flexure bearing or hinge
structure of the
multi-section panel assembly provides or defines a hub-receiving aperture. The
hub
member extends rearwardly and is thus received in the cooperatively shaped hub-
receiving aperture for enhancing attachment and positioned placement of the
multi-
section panel assembly to the device-holding cradle.
The multi-section 'panel assembly preferably comprises a series of at least
four
panel portions, which four panel portions are flexibly coupled to one another
via the
hinge structure(s). The cooperative association of the hub member and hub-
receiving
aperture operates to help attach the multi-section panel assembly to the
device-receiving
cradle such that a pair of panel portions from the four panel portions are
pivotal about a
select one of two pivot axes for supporting the device-holding cradle in a
select angled
display position relative to a support surface.
The assembly-to-cradle attachment mechanism according to the fourth
alternative
embodiment provides certain alternative panel retention means and may be
further
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exemplified by comprising a series of rib-receiving slots formed in the multi-
section
panel assembly. In this regard, the rib members are receivable in the rib-
receiving slots
for also enhancing attachment and positioned placement of the multi-section
panel
assembly relative to the device-holding cradle. Notably, the four panel
portions are
hingedly and flexibly interconnected via the flexure bearing or hinge
structure(s), which
flexure bearing or hinge structure(s) are preferably abbreviated in length
relative to the
corresponding length of opposed panel portions hingedly and flexibly
interconnected
thereby for forming the rib-receiving slots.
With regard to the fifth case construction according to the present invention,
the
device-holding cradle comprises or provides a unique posterior panel-opposing
section
that differs from other cradles at least insofar as the addition of certain
matable male
and/or female structures for mating with corresponding structures formed on
the multi-
section panel assembly usable in combination therewith to form the fifth case
construction. The assembly-to-cradle attachment mechanism of the fifth case
construction is defined, in part, by the cooperative association of the
matable elements
formed on the panel assembly and the cradle.
In this regard, the four panel portions again comprise a static panel portion
and
three dynamic panel portions. The static panel portion is preferably anchored
to a panel
attachment site or portion of the posterior panel-opposing section via the
assembly-to-
cradle attachment mechanism defined by matable structures. Thus, a first
primary
support panel portion and a second primary support panel portion of the three
dynamic
panel portions are pivotal relative to the static panel portion about the
first and second
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pivot axes for selectively supporting the device-holding cradle in the select
angled
display position relative to a support surface.
Other objects of the present invention, as well as particular features,
elements, and
advantages thereof, will be elucidated or become apparent from, the following
description
and the accompanying drawing figures.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
=
Other features and objectives of the invention will become more evident from a
consideration of the following brief descriptions of patent drawings:
FIG. 1 is a first anterior view of a first alternative pivot panel case
construction
according to the present invention showing a device-holding cradle.
FIG. 2 is a first posterior view of the first alternative pivot panel case
construction
according to the present invention showing a multi-section panel assembly
attached to the
device-holding cradle.
FIG. 3 is a first lateral edge view of the first alternative pivot panel case
construction according to the present invention showing the multi-section
panel assembly
attached to the device-holding cradle in a closed configuration.
FIG. 4 is a second posterior view of the first alternative pivot panel case
construction according to the present invention showing a multi-section panel
assembly
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attached to the device-holding cradle with hidden magnet members being
depicted in
broken lines; hexagonally-shaped breakaway portions to show otherwise hidden
cradle
structure; and a triangular-shaped breakaway portion to show an otherwise
hidden
adhesive layer.
= 5
FIG. 5 is a second lateral edge view of the first alternative pivot panel case
construction according to the present invention showing the multi-section
panel assembly
attached to the device-holding cradle in a closed configuration.
= 10 FIG. 6 is a top edge view of the first alternative pivot panel
case construction
according to the present invention showing the multi-section panel assembly
attached to
the device-holding cradle in a closed configuration.
FIG. 7 is a bottom edge view of the first alternative pivot panel case
construction
15 according to the present invention showing the multi-section
panel assembly attached to
the device-holding cradle in a closed configuration.
FIG. 8 is a first top anterior perspective view of the first alternative pivot
panel
case construction according to the present invention showing the multi-section
panel
20 assembly attached to the device-holding cradle in a closed
configuration.
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FIG. 9 is a first top posterior perspective view of the first alternative
pivot panel
case construction according to the present invention showing the multi-section
panel
assembly attached to the device-holding cradle in a closed configuration.
FIG. 10 is a second top anterior perspective view of the first alternative
pivot
panel case construction according to the present invention with an electronic
device
received in the device-holding cradle.
FIG. 11 is a second top posterior perspective view of the first alternative
pivot
panel case construction according to the present invention with an electronic
device
received in the device-holding cradle.
FIG. 12 is a second anterior view of a first alternative pivot panel case
construction according to the present invention with an electronic device
received in the
device-holding cradle.
FIG. 13 is a second posterior view of the first alternative pivot panel case
construction according to the present invention showing a multi-section panel
assembly
attached to the device-holding cradle with an electronic device received in
the device-
holding cradle.
FIG. 14 is a third top anterior perspective view of the first alternative
pivot panel
case construction according to the present invention with an electronic device
received in
the device-holding cradle and shown in a portrait orientation open-pivot
configuration.
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FIG. 15 is a third top posterior perspective view of the first alternative
pivot panel
case construction according to the present invention with an electronic device
received in
the device-holding cradle and shown in a portrait orientation open-pivot
configuration.
FIG. 16 is a fourth top posterior perspective view of the first alternative
pivot
panel case construction according to the present invention with an electronic
device
received in the device-holding cradle and shown in a landscape orientation
open-pivot
=
configuration.
FIG. 17 is a fourth top anterior perspective view of the first alternative
pivot panel
case construction according to the present invention with an electronic device
received in
the device-holding cradle and shown in a landscape orientation open-pivot
configuration.
FIG. 18 is a fifth top anterior perspective view of the first alternative
pivot panel
case construction according to the present invention shown in a portrait
orientation open-
pivot configuration.
FIG. 19 is a fifth top posterior perspective view of the first alternative
pivot panel
case construction according to the present invention shown in a portrait
orientation open-
pivot configuration.
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FIG. 20 is a sixth top anterior perspective view of the first alternative
pivot panel
case construction according to the present invention with an electronic device
received in
the device-holding cradle and shown in a portrait orientation open-pivot
configuration.
FIG. 21 is a sixth top posterior perspective view of the first alternative
pivot panel
case construction according to the present invention with an electronic device
received in
the device-holding cradle and shown in a portrait orientation open-pivot
configuration.
FIG. 22 is a posterior perspective view of the first alternative pivot panel
case
construction according to the present invention with an electronic device
received in the
device-holding cradle and shown in an open-pivot configuration about a first
pivot axis.
FIG. 23 is a posterior perspective view of the first alternative pivot panel
case
construction according to the present invention with an electronic device
received in the
device-holding cradle and shown in a closed configuration.
FIG. 24 is a posterior perspective view of the first alternative pivot panel
case
construction according to the present invention with an electronic device
received in the
device-holding cradle and shown in an open-pivot configuration about a second
pivot
axis.
FIG. 25 is a third anterior view of the first alternative pivot panel case
construction according to the present invention showing a device-holding
cradle.
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=
FIG. 26 is a longitudinal cross-sectional view of the first alternative pivot
panel
case construction according to the present invention as sectioned from Figure
No. 25 and
shown in an open-pivot configuration about the first pivot axis.
FIG. 27 is a lateral edge view of the first alternative pivot panel case
construction
according to the present invention shown in a closed configuration with a
magnet shown
in hidden or broken lines to depict how the magnet holds the panel assembly in
engagement therewith.
FIG. 26A is an enlarged, fragmentary sectional view as sectioned from FIG. 26
enlarged to show in greater detail the pivot junction site of the multi-
section panel
assembly.
FIG. 26B is an enlarged, fragmentary sectional view as sectioned from FIG. 26
enlarged to show in greater detail the magnet embedded structure of the device-
holding
cradle.
FIG. 26C is an enlarged, fragmentary sectional view as sectioned from FIG. 26
enlarged to show in greater detail the multi-layer structure of the multi-
section panel
assembly.
FIG. 26D is an enlarged, fragmentary sectional view as sectioned from FIG. 26
enlarged to show in greater detail the multi-layer structure of the multi-
section panel
assembly as adhesively anchored to the static panel portion of the device-
holding cradle.
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FIG. 27A is an enlarged, fragmentary sectional view as sectioned from FIG. 27
enlarged to show in greater detail the multi-layer structure of the multi-
section panel
assembly in juxtaposition with the magnet embedded structure of the device-
holding
cradle.
FIG. 28 is an anterior plan view of a second alternative multi-section panel
assembly of a second alternative pivot panel case construction according to
the present
invention highlighting a static panel portion outfitted with an adhesive
layer.
=
FIG. 29 is a posterior plan view of the second alternative multi-section panel
assembly of the second alternative pivot panel case construction according to
the present
invention.
FIG. 30 is an exploded first lateral edge view of the second alternative pivot
panel
case construction according to the present invention showing the multi-section
panel
assembly exploded from the device-holding cradle in a closed configuration.
FIG. 31 is an exploded second lateral edge view of the second alternative
pivot
panel case construction according to the present invention showing the multi-
section
panel assembly exploded from the device-holding cradle in the closed
configuration.
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FIG. 31A is an enlarged, fragmentary sectional view of the flexure bearing
structure
junction site intermediate opposed panel portions of the multi-section panel
assembly as
sectioned from FIG. 31.
FIG. 32 is an exploded top edge view of the second alternative pivot panel
case
construction according to the present invention showing the multi-section
panel assembly
exploded from the device-holding cradle in the closed configuration.
FIG. 33 is an exploded bottom edge view of the second alternative pivot panel
case construction according to the present invention showing the multi-section
panel
assembly exploded from the device-holding cradle in the closed configuration.
FIG. 34 is an anterior plan view of the second alternative pivot panel case
construction according to the present invention with an electronic device
received in the
device-holding cradle.
FIG. 35 is a lateral edge view of the second alternative pivot panel case
construction according to the present invention with an electronic device
received in the
device-holding cradle.
FIG. 36 is a first posterior perspective view of the second alternative pivot
panel
case construction according to the present invention shown in a first open,
portrait
orientation case configuration.
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FIG. 37 is a second posterior perspective view of the second alternative pivot
panel case construction according to the present invention shown in a second
open,
landscape orientation case configuration.
FIG. 38 is a third posterior perspective view of the second alternative pivot
panel
case construction according to the present invention shown in a third open,
portrait type
case configuration.
FIG. 39 is a fourth posterior perspective view of the second alternative pivot
panel
case construction according to the present invention shown in a closed case
configuration.
FIG. 40 is a fifth posterior perspective view of the second alternative pivot
panel
case construction according to the present invention shown in a fourth open,
landscape
type case configuration.
FIG. 38A is a first posterior perspective view of a third alternative pivot
panel
case construction according to the present invention shown in a first open,
portrait type
case configuration.
FIG. 39A is a second posterior perspective view of the third alternative pivot
panel case construction according to the present invention shown in a closed
case
configuration.
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FIG. 40A is a third posterior perspective view of the third alternative pivot
panel
case construction according to the present invention shown in a second open,
landscape
type case configuration.
FIG. 41 is an anterior perspective view of a fourth alternative pivot panel
case
construction according to the present invention.
FIG. 42 is a first posterior perspective view of the fourth alternative pivot
panel
case construction according to the present invention.
FIG. 43 is a second posterior perspective view of the fourth alternative pivot
panel
case construction according to the present invention shown in a first open,
landscape
orientation case configuration.
FIG. 44 is a third posterior perspective view of the fourth alternative pivot
panel
case construction according to the present invention shown in a second open,
portrait
orientation case configuration.
FIG. 45 is a dual posterior-anterior view of the fourth alternative pivot
panel case
construction according to the present invention with the posterior view being
superimposed over the anterior view.
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FIG. 46 is an exploded posterior perspective view of the fourth alternative
pivot
panel case construction according to the present invention with the upper
multi-section
panel assembly being exploded from the lower device-receiving cradle.
FIG. 47 is an exploded posterior perspective view of a fifth alternative pivot
panel
= case construction according to the present invention with the upper multi-
section panel
assembly being exploded from the lower device-receiving cradle.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS
= Referring now to the drawings with more specificity, the present
invention
preferably provides a case construction, as variously exemplified and
referenced at 11,
12, 13, 61, and 62 for selectively encasing and displaying an electronic
device as at 10.
The case constructions 11, 12, and 13 according to the present invention all
preferably
comprise or include a device-holding mechanism or cradle as at 14, and
variants of a
multi-section panel assembly as attached to the device-holding mechanism or
cradle 14 at
a permanent panel attachment site. The case constructions 61 and 62 comprise
slightly
modified cradles 67 and 68 respectively as compared to cradle 14.
The device-holding mechanism or cradle 14 according to the present invention
is
preferably formed of a moldable material and molded so as to be of a fixed
size and shape
to removably receive a particularly sized and shaped electronic device 10. In
other
words, the inner volume defined by the anterior-device receiving section 15 or
cavity of
the device-holding cradle'14 is configured so as to generally and
cooperatively receive
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the external volume of the electronic device 10 while allowing the user to
interact with or
utilize input/output means of the device 10 such as a touch screen, buttons as
at 50, or a
camera lens as at 51. =
As indicated, the device-holding cradle 14 preferably comprises an anterior
device-receiving section as at 15, a posterior panel-opposing or panel-
interfacing section
as at 16, a peripheral cradle edging as at 17, and a cradle length, width, and
depth
generally dimensioned to receive the external volume of the electronic device
10. The
anterior device-receiving section 15 thereby removably receives the electronic
device 10
for cradling or jacketing the electronic device 10. The posterior panel-
opposing section
16 comprises a permanent panel-attachment portion as at 18, and a temporary
panel-
attachment portion as at 19.
The permanent panel-attachment portion 18 is referenced in Fig. 4 at a
hexagonally-shaped breakaway to show otherwise hidden structure and is
exemplified as
a single quadrant of a four-quadrant posterior panel-opposing section 16.
Further, the
temporary panel-attachment portion 19 is referenced in Fig. 4 at hexagonally-
shaped
breakaways to show otherwise hidden structure and is an L-shaped, three-
quadrant
combination of the four-quadrant posterior panel-opposing section 16. The
permanent
panel-attachment portion 18 is the site of attachment for the multi-layer,
multi-section
panel assembly 20. In the first alternative embodiment or case construction
11, the multi-
layer, multi-section panel assembly 20 is adhered to the permanent panel-
attachment
portion 18 via an adhesive layer as generally depicted and referenced at
triangular-shaped
breakaway 21. Adhesive layers 21 are also depicted and referenced in Fig. 26D.
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The multi-layer, multi-section panel assembly 20 of case construction 11
= preferably comprises an inner or lower flexible, panel-connecting
material layer as at 22,
and an outer or upper substantially rigid (or load-supportive), panel-
sectioned material
layer as at 23. The panel-sectioned material layer 23 is (adhesively) attached
to the
flexible panel-connecting material layer 22 and comprises at least four panel
portions,
which four panel portions comprise a static panel portion as at 24 and at
least three
= dynamic panel portions as at 25. The flexible material layer 22 at the
static panel portion
24 is further permanently attached the permanent panel-attachment portion 18
via an
adhesive layer 21 for anchoring the static panel portion 24 thereto.
Each of the four panel portions 24 and 25 are flexibly coupled to at least two
other
panel portions of the four panel portions via the flexible material layer 22
in case
construction 11. A first primary support panel portion 26 and a second primary
support
panel portion 26 of the three dynamic panel portions 25 are pivotal relative
to the static
panel portion 24 about first and second pivot axes 101 and 102 for selectively
supporting
the device-holding cradle 14 in either a portrait orientation angled display
position or a
landscape orientation angled display position relative to a support surface
100 as
generally depicted in Figure Nos. 14 ¨ 21.
The portrait orientation angled display position is enabled when dynamic panel
portions are pivoted about axis 101 and the landscape orientation angled
display position
is enabled when dynamic panel portions are pivoted about axis 102. Notably,
however, a
portrait orientation substantially vertical display position is also enabled
when dynamic
panel portions are pivoted about axis 102 as generally depicted in Figure Nos.
14 and 15;
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and a landscape orientation, substantially vertical display position is also
enabled when
dynamic panel portions are pivoted about axis 101 (not specifically
illustrated).
The first and second primary support panel portions 26 are those dynamic panel
portions 25 flexibly connected to the static panel portion 24. A first
secondary support
= 5 panel portion 27 of the three dynamic panel portions 25
pivots in unison with either of the
first or second primary support panel portions 26 for enhancing stabilized
support of the
device-holding cradle 14 in either of the angled display positions. The first
secondary
support panel portion 27 is flexibly connected to the first and second primary
support
panel portions 26 in diagonal relation to the static panel portion 24.
The first primary support panel portion 26 and the second primary support
panel
portion 26 are preferably spaced from the static panel portion 24 at an upper
surface plane
103 thereof such that opposed panel edging 28 of the static and dynamic panel
portions
24 and 25 engage one another when in either of the angled display positions
for
enhancing stabilized support of the device-holding cradle 14 in the angled
display
position. Similarly, the first secondary support panel portion 27 is
preferably spaced
from the first and second primary support panel portions 26 such that opposed
panel
edging 28 of the dynamic panel portions 25 engage one another when in the
angled
display position for enhancing stabilized support of the device-holding cradle
14 in either
of the angled display positions.
The opposed panel edging 28 is preferably obliquely angled relative to the
plane
103 of the outer panel surfacing of the multi-layer, multi-section panel
assembly 20.
Comparatively referencing Figure Nos. 26 and 26A, the reader will there
consider that the
obliquely angled opposed panel edging 28 operates to fix the display angle 104
of either
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of the angled display positions relative to the support surface 100. In other
words,
differing angles at edging 28 will operate to vary the display angle 104 of
the angled
display position. The edging 28 has been illustrated as roughly 45 degree
angle(s)
relative to the plane 103 for providing a pivot panel combination of dynamic
panel
portions 25 that extend roughly 45 degrees relative to the plane 105 of the
static panel
portion 24.
Preferably, the case construction 11 according to the present invention
further
comprises certain dynamic panel retention means for selectively retaining the
dynamic
panel portions 25 of the multi-layer, multi-section panel assembly 20 in
engagement with
the posterior panel-opposing section 16 for enabling the user to more easily
position the
device-holding cradle 14 in a flat display position relative to the support
surface 100. In
other words, the dynamic panel retention means operate to selectively hold the
dynamic
panel portions 25 in engagement with the posterior panel-opposing section 16
for
enabling the user to lay the case construction 11 flat upon a surface 100.
It is contemplated that any number of temporary fastening means may be
utilized
to perform a dynamic panel retention function, such as hook and loop type
fastening
means or snap-together type fastening means. In the preferred embodiment,
however, it
is contemplated that the dynamic panel retention means may be exemplified by
magnetic
panel retention means for magnetically attracting (as at arrows 106) the
dynamic panel
portions 25 toward the posterior panel-opposing portion 16.
More particularly, the temporary panel-attachment portion 19 comprises at
least a
first cradle magnet 29 and a second cradle magnet 29 in quadrants adjacent the
permanent
panel-attachment portion 18. The first and second primary support panel
portions 26
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respectively comprise at least a first primary panel magnet or magnet layer
and a second
primary panel magnet or magnet layer as at 30. Together, the first and second
cradle and
primary panel magnets 29 and 30 are respectively cooperable for magnetically
attracting
(as at 106) the dynamic panel portions 25 toward the posterior panel-opposing
portion 16.
Noting that the temporary panel-attachment portion 19 preferably further
comprises at least a third cradle magnet 31 adjacent both the first and second
cradle
magnets 29, and the first secondary support panel portion comprises at least a
first
supplemental panel magnet as at 32, the third cradle and first supplemental
panel magnets
31 and 32 are further respectively cooperable for magnetically attracting the
dynamic
panel portion 27 toward the posterior panel-opposing portion 16.
The second alternative embodiment or case construction 12 essentially differs
from the case construction 11 by providing a multi-section panel assembly as
at 33,
which multi-section panel assembly 33 essentially comprises a unibody material
construction with a plurality of panel portions 35 being interconnected by
integrally
= 15 formed, living hinges or flexure bearings as at 34. It will
be recalled that multi-section
panel assembly 20 comprises a plurality of panels as at panel portions 24 and
25
interconnected by a lower flexible, panel-connecting material layer 22.
The living hinges or flexure bearing structures 34, by contrast, may be made
from
the same material as the two panel portions 35 each of the hinges or flexure
bearing
= 20 structures 34 interconnects. Alternatively, hinges 64 may be
used, which hinges are co-
molded elastomer-polycarbonate hinges that operate to flexibly interconnect
opposed
polycarbonate panel portions as discussed in more detail in connection with
alternative
fourth and fifth case constructions 61 and 62 below.
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Similar to multi-section panel assembly 20, multi-section panel assembly 33
preferably comprises a static panel portion as at 35 and three dynamic panel
portions as at
36. The material construction at the static panel portion 35 may be
permanently attached
the permanent panel-attachment portion 18 of the device-holding cradle 14 for
anchoring
the static panel portion 35 thereto. Referencing Figure No. 28, the reader
will there note
a depicted adhesive layer as at 37 (analogous to adhesive layer(s) 21) for
adhesively
anchoring the static panel portion 35 to the permanent panel-attachment
portion 18 of the
device-holding cradle 14.
Each of the four panel portions 35 and 36 are flexibly coupled to at least two
other
panel portions of the four panel portions via the living hinges or flexure
bearing
structures 34. A first primary support panel portion 38 and a second primary
support
panel portion 38 of the three dynamic panel portions 36 are pivotal relative
to the static
= panel portion 35 about first and second pivot axes 101 and 102 for
selectively supporting
the device-holding cradle 14 in either a landscape orientation angled display
position or a
portrait orientation angled display position relative to a support surface
100. A portrait
orientation angled display position is generally depicted in Figure No. 36 and
a landscape
orientation angled display position is generally depicted in Figure No. 37.
= The first and second primary support panel portions 38 are those panel
portions
flexibly connected to the static panel portion 35 via living hinges or flexure
bearing
structures 34. A first secondary support panel portion 39 of the three dynamic
panel
portions 36 pivots in unison with either of the first or second primary
support panel
portions 38 for enhancing stabilized support of the device-holding cradle 14
in either of
the angled display positions. The first secondary support panel portion 39 is
flexibly
=
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connected to the first and second primary support panel portions 38 in
diagonal relation
to the static panel portion 35.
The first and second primary support panel portions 38 are preferably spaced
from
the static panel portion 35 at an upper surface plane 107 thereof such that
opposed panel
edging 40 of the static and dynamic panel portions 35 and 36 engage one
another when in
the angled display position for enhancing stabilized support of the device-
holding cradle
14 when in the selected angled display position. Similarly, the first
secondary support
panel portion 39 is preferably spaced from the first and second primary
support panel
portions 38 such that opposed panel edging 40 of the dynamic panel portions 36
engage
one another when in the angled display position for enhancing stabilized
support of the
device-holding cradle 14 in the selected angled display position.
The opposed panel edging 40 is thus similar in form and function to opposed
panel edging 28 and is also preferably obliquely angled relative to the plane
107 of the
outer panel surfacing of the multi-section panel assembly 33. As was the case
with
opposed panel edging 28, differing angles at opposed panel edging 40 will
similarly
= operate to vary the display angle of the angled display position. The
opposed panel
edging 40 has been illustrated as roughly 45 degree angle(s) relative to the
plane 107 for
providing a pivot panel combination of panel portions 36 that extends roughly
45 degrees
relative to the plane (as at 107) of the static panel portion 35.
Preferably, the case construction 12 according to the present invention
further
comprises certain dynamic panel retention means for selectively retaining the
dynamic
panel portions 36 of the multi-section panel assembly 33 in engagement with
the
posterior panel-opposing section 16 for enabling the user to more easily
position the
26
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device-holding cradle 14 in a flat display position relative to the support
surface 100. In
other words, the dynamic panel retention means operate to selectively hold the
panel
portions 36 in engagement with the posterior panel-opposing section 16 for
enabling the
user to lay the case construction 12 flat upon a surface 100.
It is contemplated that any number of temporary fastening means may be
utilized
to perform a dynamic panel retention function, such as hook and loop type
fastening
means or snap-fit type fastening means. In case construction 12, it is
contemplated that
the dynamic panel retention means may be preferably exemplified by snap-fit,
peripheral
= panel edging 41 formed to as to resiliently engage the peripheral cradle
edging 17; and
alternatively exemplified by magnetic dynamic panel retention means
substantially as
previously described for magnetically attracting the dynamic panel portions 36
toward the
posterior panel-opposing portion 16.
With regard to the snap-fit, peripheral panel edging 41 formed to as to
resiliently
engage the peripheral cradle edging 17, it will be seen that the peripheral
panel edging 41
is preferably formed so as to secondarily cradle the device-holding cradle 14
in much the
same manner as the device-holding cradle 14 cradles the electronic device 10.
In this
regard, the multi-section panel assembly 33 may be said to provide a cradle
jacket to the
device-holding cradle 14,=which cradle jacket operates to both protect the
device-holding
cradle 14 and also enable the user to prop or support the device-holding
cradle 14 in
either of the angled display positions.
With regard to the magnetic dynamic panel retention means, it is contemplated
that the temporary panel-attachment portion 19 may alternatively comprise at
least a first
cradle magnet 29, a second cradle magnet 29, and a third cradle magnet 31
adjacent the
27
=
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permanent panel-attachment portion 18. The first and second primary support
panel
portions 38 and first secondary support panel portion 39 may alternatively and
respectively comprise at least a first primary panel magnet or magnet layer
and a second
primary panel magnet or magnet layer as at 42. In this regard, it is
contemplated that
magnetic layer 42 is exemplified by a magnetic paint layer or a magnetic dust
added to
the inner superficial layer of the material construction of the multi-section
panel assembly
33.
The third alternative embodiment or case construction 13 essentially differs
from
the case construction 12 by providing the multi-section panel assembly 33
without the
peripheral panel edging 41, and thus in case construction 13, the magnetic
dynamic panel
retention means may be the preferred panel retention means substantially as
previously
described for magnetically attracting the dynamic panel portions 36 toward the
posterior
panel-opposing portion 16.
The panel assembly 33 of case construction essentially comprises a unibody
material construction with a plurality of panel portions 35 being
interconnected by living
hinges or flexure bearing structures as at 34. The multi-section panel
assembly 33 of case
construction 13 also preferably comprises a static panel portion as at 35 and
three
dynamic panel portions as at 36. The material construction at the static panel
portion 35
may be permanently attached the permanent panel-attachment portion 18 of the
device-
holding cradle 14 for anchoring the static panel portion 35 thereto.
Each of the four panel portions 35 and 36 are flexibly coupled to at least two
other
panel portions of the four panel portions via the living hinges or flexure
bearing
structures 34. A first primary support panel portion 38 and a second primary
support
28
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panel portion 38 of the three dynamic panel portions 36 are pivotal relative
to the static
panel portion 35 about first and second pivot axes as at 101 and 102 for
selectively
supporting the device-holding cradle 14 in either a landscape orientation
angled display
position or a portrait orientation angled display position relative to a
support surface 100.
The first and second primary support panel portions 38 are those panel
portions
flexibly connected to the static panel portion 35 via living hinges or flexure
bearing
structures 34. A first secondary support panel portion 39 of the three dynamic
panel
portions 36 pivots in unison with either of the first or second primary
support panel
portions 38 for enhancing stabilized support of the device-holding cradle 14
when in the
selected angled display position. The first secondary support panel portion 39
is flexibly
connected to the first and second primary support panel portions 38 in
diagonal relation
to the static panel portion 35.
The first primary support panel portion 38 and the second primary support
panel
portion 38 are preferably spaced from the static panel portion 35 at an upper
surface plane
107 thereof such that opposed panel edging 40 of the static and dynamic panel
portions
35 and 36 engage one another when in the selected angled display position for
enhancing
stabilized support of the device-holding cradle 14 in the angled display
position.
Similarly, the first secondary support panel portion 39 is preferably spaced
from the first
and second primary support panel portions 38 such that opposed panel edging 40
of the
dynamic panel portions 36 engage one another when in the angled display
position for
enhancing stabilized support of the device-holding cradle 14 in the angled
display
position.
29
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The opposed panel edging 40 is thus similar in form and function to opposed
panel edging 28 and is also preferably obliquely angled relative to the plane
107 of the
= outer panel surfacing of the multi-section panel assembly 33. As was the
case with
opposed panel edging 28, differing angles at opposed panel edging 40 will
similarly
operate to vary the display angle of the angled display position. The opposed
panel
edging 40 has been illustrated as roughly 45 degree angle(s) relative to the
plane 107 for
providing a pivot panel combination of panel portions 36 that extends roughly
45 degrees
relative to the plane (as at 107) of the static panel portion 35.
Fourth and fifth case constructions according to the present invention are
further
depicted in Figure Nos. 41 ¨ 47. The fourth case construction 61 is generally
depicted
and referenced in Figure Nos. 41 ¨ 46, and the fifth case construction 62 is
generally
depicted in Figure No. 47. In both case constructions 61 and 62, co-molded
elastomeric-
.
polycarbonate flexure bearing or hinge structures 63 and 64 are exemplified
and
respectively and flexibly interconnect opposed polycarbonate panel portions of
multi-
section panel assemblies 65 and 66, which assemblies 65 and 66 cooperate with
the
device-holding cradles 67 and 68 respectively for selectively encasing and
displaying an
electronic device as at 10.
More particularly, case construction 61 preferably comprises a device-holding
cradle as at 67 for removably receiving an electronic device 10, which device-
holding
cradle 67 is molded to comprise or include an anterior device-receiving
section
substantially identical to anterior device-receiving section 15 and a
posterior panel-
opposing section 69. It is contemplated that cradle 67 may be molded from a
moldable
material such as thermoplastic polyurethane. Posterior panel-opposing section
69 differs
CA 2966436 2017-05-10
from posterior panel-opposing section 16 at least with the addition of (a) a
hub member
70 extending rearwardly from the posterior panel-opposing section 69 and (b) a
series of
rib members 71 extending rearwardly from the posterior panel-opposing section
69.
In the case construction 61, the flexure bearing or hinge structure 63 of the
multi-
section panel assembly 65 provides a hub-receiving aperture as at 72. The hub
member
71 extending rearwardly from the posterior panel-opposing section 68 is
preferably of a
rhombic or diamond shape such that the pivot axes provided by the hinge
structure(s) 63
bisect the shape into equal triangular halves. Hub member 71 is thus received
in a
cooperatively shaped hub-receiving aperture 72 for enhancing attachment and
positioned
placement of the multi-section panel assembly 65 to the device-holding cradle
67.
The multi-section panel assembly 65 preferably comprises a series of at least
four
panel portions as at 73, which four panel portions 73 are flexibly coupled to
one another
via the hinge or flexure bearing structure(s) 63. The assembly-to-cradle
attachment
mechanism defined, in part, by the cooperative association of the hub member
71 and
hub-receiving aperture 72 operates to help attach the multi-section panel
assembly 65 to
the device-receiving cradle 67 such that a pair of panel portions from the
four panel
portions 73 are pivotal about a select one of two pivot axes as at 101 and 102
for
supporting the device-holding cradle 67 in a select angled display position
relative to a
support surface. Figure No. 43 depicts a landscape orientation angled display
position
and Figure No. 44 depicts a portrait orientation angled display position.
The assembly-to-cradle attachment mechanism according to the present invention
provides certain panel retention means and may be further exemplified by
comprising a
series of rib-receiving slots as at 74 formed in the multi-section panel
assembly 65. In
31
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this regard, the rib members 71 are receivable in the rib-receiving slots 74
for also
enhancing attachment and positioned placement of the multi-section panel
assembly 65
relative to the device-holding cradle 67. Notably, the four panel portions 73
are hingedly
and flexibly interconnected via the flexure bearing or hinge structure(s) 63,
which flexure
bearing or hinge structure(s) 63 are preferably abbreviated in length relative
to the
corresponding length of opposed panel portions 73 hingedly and flexibly
interconnected
thereby for forming the rib-receiving slots 74.
With regard to case construction 62, the reader will note that the
construction 62
preferably comprises a device-holding cradle as at 68 for removably receiving
an
electronic device 10, which device-holding cradle 68 comprises or includes an
anterior
device-receiving section substantially identical to anterior device-receiving
section 15
and a posterior panel-opposing section 75. It is contemplated that cradle 68
may also be
molded from a moldable material such as thermoplastic polyurethane. Posterior
panel-
opposing section 75 differs from posterior panel-opposing section 16 at least
with the
addition of certain matable male and/or female structures for mating with
corresponding
structures formed on the multi-section panel assembly 66 usable in combination
therewith
to form case construction 62.
In the case construction 62, the flexure bearing or hinge structure(s) 64 of
the
multi-section panel assembly 66 eliminates the hub-receiving aperture
otherwise
associated with assembly 65. The multi-section panel assembly 66 does comprise
or
include a series of at least four panel portions as at 76, which four panel
portions 76 are
flexibly coupled to one another via the hinge structure(s) 64. The assembly-to-
cradle
32
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attachment mechanism of case construction 62 is defined, in part, by the
cooperative
association of the matable elements formed on the assembly 66 and the cradle
68.
In this regard, the four panel portions 76 comprise a static panel portion as
at 77
and three dynamic panel portions as at 78. The static panel portion 77 is
preferably
anchored to a permanent panel-attachment portion 79 of the posterior panel-
opposing
section 75 via the assembly-to-cradle attachment mechanism defined by these
matable
structures. Thus, a first primary support panel portion and a second primary
support
panel portion of the three dynamic panel portions are pivotal relative to the
static panel
portion 77 about the first and second pivot axes 101 and 102 for selectively
supporting
the device-holding cradle 68 in the select angled display position relative to
a support
surface.
As indicated, the assembly-to-cradle attachment mechanism comprises a series
of
cooperative male/female structures formed on the static panel portion 77 and
the
permanent panel-attachment portion 79. The cooperative male/female structures
are
cooperable to attach the multi-section panel assembly 66 to the device-holding
cradle 68.
It is contemplate, for example, that the static panel portion 77 may
preferably comprise a
series of tongue-like protuberances as at 80, which protuberances 80 are
insertable into
groove-like female receptacles as at 81. Further, a pin-like structure 82
formed on the
static panel portion 77 is receivable in a pin-receiving hole 83 formed on the
permanent
panel-attachment portion 79.
The assembly-to-cradle attachment mechanism according to case construction 62
may also be further exemplified by comprising a series of rib-receiving slots
as at 74
formed in the multi-section panel assembly 66. In this regard, the rib members
71 may
33
CA 2966436 2017-05-10
also be formed on the cradle 68 and made receivable in the rib-receiving slots
74 for
further enhancing attachrrxent and positioned placement of the multi-section
panel
assembly 66 relative to the device-holding cradle 68.
While the above descriptions contain much specificity, this specificity should
not
be construed as limitations on the scope of the invention, but rather as an
exemplification
of the invention. The basic invention may be said to essentially teach or
disclose a case
construction for selectively encasing or displaying an electronic device such
as a smart
phone or tablet computer as exemplified by case constructions 11, 12, 13, 61,
and 62
respectively. The case constructions 11, 12, and 13 each preferably and
essentially
comprise a device-holding cradle as at 14 and a multi-section panel assembly
as at 20 or
33.
The device-holding cradle 14 is sized and shaped to removably receive an
electronic device 10 and preferably and essentially comprises an anterior
device-
receiving section 15, a posterior panel-opposing section 16, and a peripheral
cradle
edging 17. The posterior panel-opposing section 16 comprises or includes a
permanent
panel-attachment portion as at 18 and a temporary panel-attachment portion as
at 19. The
multi-section panel assemblies each comprise at least four panel portions
including a
static panel portion as at 24 or 35, and at least three dynamic panel portions
as at 25 or
36.
The static panel portion of either multi-section panel assembly is anchored to
the
permanent panel-attachment portion of the device-holding cradle such that each
of the at
least four panel portions of the multi-section panel assembly is flexibly
coupled to at least
two other panel portions. A first primary support panel portion and a second
primary
34
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support panel portion of the three dynamic panel portions are each being
pivotal relative
to the static panel portion about first and second pivot axes for selectively
supporting the
device-holding cradle in An angled display position (either landscape or
portrait
orientation) relative to a support surface.
The four panel portions may be either hingedly and flexibly interconnected via
integrally formed, living hinges or flexure bearings as at 34 as in case
constructions 12
and 13 or via a flexible material layer as at 22 as in case construction 11.
In case
construction 12, the multi-section panel assembly 33 may preferably comprise
peripheral
panel edging as at 41, which peripheral panel edging 41 is configured or sized
and shaped
to resiliently engage or receive the peripheral cradle edging 17 of the device-
holding
cradle 14. The multi-section panel assembly 33 of case construction 12 thereby
provides
a cradle jacket for jacketing posterior and edge portions of the device-
holding cradle 14.
In case construct* 11, the multi-section panel assembly 20 is preferably multi-
layered thereby providing a multi-layer, multi-section panel assembly. The
multi-layer,
multi-section panel assembly 20 comprises an inner or lower flexible material
layer as at
22, which flexible material layer 22 is permanently attached to (a) each of
the at least four
panel portions of the panel assembly 20 and (b) the permanent panel-attachment
portion
of the posterior panel-opposing section 16 of the device-holding cradle 14 for
anchoring
the static panel portion 25 of the multi-section panel assembly 20 thereto.
A first and a second primary support panel portion as at 26 or 38 of the three
dynamic panel portions (25 or 36) are each pivotal relative to the static
panel portions 24
or 35 about first and second pivot axes for selectively supporting the device-
holding
cradle 14 in an angled display position relative to a support surface as at
100. The angled
CA 2966436 2017-05-10
display position may be either a landscape type orientation as generally
depicted in
Figure Nos. 16 and 17 or a portrait type orientation as generally depicted in
Figure Nos.
18 and 19.
A first secondary support panel portion as at either 27 or 39 of the three
dynamic
panel portions diagonally opposite the static panel portions 24 or 35 pivots
in unison with
either of the first primary support panel portion or the second primary
support panel
portion for enhancing stabilized support of the device-holding cradle 14 in
the angled
display position depending on whether the angled display position is either of
the
landscape type orientation or portrait type orientation.
The first and second primary support panel portions are spaced from the static
panel portion such that opposed panel edging of the static and dynamic panel
portions
engage one another when in the angled display position for enhancing
stabilized support
of the device-holding cradle in the angled display position. In keeping with
this structural
feature, the first secondary support panel portion is also spaced from both
the first and
= 15 second primary support panel portions such that opposed
panel edging of the dynamic
panel portions engage one another when in the angled display position for
enhancing
stabilized support of the device-holding cradle in the angled display
position.
The opposed panel edging is preferably obliquely angled relative to outer
panel
surfacing of the multi-section panel assemblies such that the obliquely angled
opposed
panel edging operates to fix a display angle of the angled display position
relative to the
support surface. When the case construction is not in the angled display
position, the
case may be placed in a prone or flat display position. The case constructions
according
to the present invention may thus comprise certain dynamic panel retention
means for
36
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selectively retaining the multi-section panel assembly in engagement with the
posterior
panel-opposing section for positioning the device-holding cradle in a flat
display position
relative to the support surface.
The (dynamic) panel retention means are variously exemplified and may be
defined by either comprising certain magnetic means for magnetically
attracting the
dynamic panel portions toward the posterior panel-opposing portion or by
comprising
certain peripheral panel edging that resiliently engages or cooperates with
the peripheral
cradle edging of the device-holding cradle to retain the panels of the multi-
section panel
assembly in parallel relation to the posterior panel-opposing portion.
In the variously outfitted case constructions with magnetic panel retention
means,
the temporary panel-attachment portion may preferably comprise or include at
least a first
cradle magnet and a second cradle magnet adjacent the permanent panel-
attachment
portion. Further, the first and second primary support panel portions
respectively
comprise at least a first primary panel magnet and a second primary panel
magnet.
The first cradle and primary panel magnets and the second cradle and primary
panel magnets are respectively cooperable for magnetically attracting the
dynamic panel
portions toward the posterior panel-opposing portion. The temporary panel-
attachment
portion may further comprises at least a third cradle magnet adjacent both the
first and
second cradle magnets, and the first secondary support panel portion may
comprise at
least a first supplemental panel magnet. The third cradle and first
supplemental panel
magnets are respectively cooperable for magnetically attracting the dynamic
panel
portions toward the posterior panel-opposing portion.
37
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Stated another way, the case constructions according to the present invention
operate or function to selectively encase and display an electronic device
such as a
mobile phone or tablet type computer, and essentially and preferably comprise,
include or
provide a device-holding cradle and a multi-section panel assembly. The device-
holding
cradle is of fixed size and shape to removably receive the electronic device,
and
= comprises or includes an anterior device-receiving section and a
posterior panel-opposing
section. The posterior panel-opposing section has a panel-attachment portion
and a
panel-seat section or portion (i.e. that portion of where pivotal panels may
temporarily
seat upon the posterior panel-opposing sections).
The multi-section panel assembly comprises or includes four panel portions,
which four panel portions include a static panel portion and three dynamic
panel portions.
The static panel portion is anchored to the permanent panel-attachment
portion, and the
four panel portions are coupled to one another such that a first primary
support panel
portion and a second primary support panel portion of the three dynamic panel
portions
are pivotal relative to the static panel portion about first and second pivot
axes for
selectively supporting the device-holding cradle in an angled display position
relative to a
support surface.
When viewed from a further perspective, the case constructions according to
the
present invention may all be said to comprise a device-holding cradle as
variously
exemplified; a multi-section panel assembly as variously exemplified; and an
assembly-
to-cradle attachment mechanism as variously exemplified. The device-holding
cradle
basically operates to removably receive an electronic device and comprises or
provides
an anterior device-receiving section and a posterior panel-opposing section.
38
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The multi-section panel assembly basically or essentially comprises four panel
portions or sections, all of which are flexibly coupled to one another. The
assembly-to-
cradle attachment mechanism operates to attach the multi-section panel
assembly to the
device-receiving cradle such that a pair of panel portions from the four panel
portions are
pivotal about a select one of two pivot axes for supporting the device-holding
cradle in a
select angled display position relative to a support surface.
The assembly-to-cradle attachment mechanism may comprise or include a hub
member extending rearwardly from the posterior panel-opposing section and a
corresponding hub-receiving aperture may be formed in the multi-section panel
assembly.
The hub member of the posterior panel-opposing section is thus receivable in
the hub-
receiving aperture of the multi-section panel assembly for enhancing
attachment and
positioned placement of the multi-section panel assembly to the device-holding
cradle.
The assembly-to-cradle attachment mechanism may further comprise a series of
rib members extending rearwardly from the posterior panel-opposing section
with
corresponding rib-receiving slots formed in the multi-section panel assembly.
In this
regard, the rib members are receivable in the rib-receiving slots for
enhancing attachment
and positioned placement of the multi-section panel assembly to the device-
holding
cradle. Noting that the four panel portions are hingedly and flexibly
interconnected via
flexure bearings, it is further noted that the flexure bearings may be
abbreviated in length
relative to opposed panel portions hingedly and flexibly interconnected via
the flexure
bearings for forming the rib-receiving slots.
The four panel portions may preferably comprise a static panel portion and
three
dynamic panel portions such that the static panel portion is anchored to a
permanent
39
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panel-attachment portion of the posterior panel-opposing section via the
assembly-to-
= cradle attachment mechanism. A first primary support panel portion and a
second
primary support panel portion of the three dynamic panel portions are pivotal
relative to
the static panel portion about the first and second pivot axes for selectively
supporting the
device-holding cradle in the select angled display position relative to a
support surface.
The assembly-to-cradle attachment mechanism may comprise a series of
cooperative male/female structures formed on the static panel portion and the
permanent
panel-attachment portion such that the male/female structures are made
cooperable or are
matable to attach the multi-section panel assembly to the device-holding
cradle. Other
assembly-to-cradle attachment mechanisms or panel retention means may be
exemplified
by hook and loop fastening structures, adhesives, snap-fit structures and
cooperable
magnetic structures for selectively retaining the multi-section panel assembly
in
engagement with the posterior panel-opposing section for positioning the
device-holding
cradle in a flat display position relative to the support surface.
40
