CN112584724A

CN112584724A - Accessory cover for a portable electronic device

Info

Publication number: CN112584724A
Application number: CN201980051485.8A
Authority: CN
Inventors: J·A·斯特赖克; C·M·麦克莱因; T·C·佩德莱; N·A·特莱德维尔; 朱浩; 周阳
Original assignee: Apple Inc
Current assignee: Apple Inc
Priority date: 2018-09-07
Filing date: 2019-03-25
Publication date: 2021-03-30
Anticipated expiration: 2039-03-25
Also published as: KR20210018516A; KR102498169B1; WO2020050880A1; CN112584724B

Abstract

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

Description

Accessory cover for a portable electronic device

Technical Field

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

Background

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

Disclosure of Invention

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

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

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

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

Drawings

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

fig. 12 shows a side view of an accessory device supporting an electronic device in an alternative configuration;

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Detailed Description

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

The second section 102b is designed to wrap and cover the electronic device 180, including the display 186 of the electronic device 180. As such, the second section 102b may be referred to as a front panel or bezel. The second section 102b may include a plurality of segments. For example, the second section 102b may include a first section 108a, a second section 108b, and a third section 108 c. Each section is capable of rotating or moving relative to the remaining sections. Additionally, although a discrete number of segments are illustrated, the number of segments may vary in other embodiments.

The second section 102b is coupled to the first section 102a by a hinge 112 such that the first section 102a can rotate relative to the second section 102b and vice versa. Hinge 112 may be formed in part from one or more continuous pieces of material extending along first section 102a and second section 102 b. The material forming one or more layers may comprise a polymer, such as polyurethane, wrapped with a glass fibre material. Other materials such as leather are also possible. However, to facilitate the flexibility and relative movement of the aforementioned sections and segments, fiberglass material (and/or other relatively rigid or stiff materials) may not be located at the hinges 112 and may not be located between the segments. As will be shown and described hereinafter. Additionally, soft, non-abrasive materials, such as microfibers, may cover the first, second, and

third segments

108a, 108b, 108 c. In this way, when second section 102b wraps around and covers display 186 (which may include a transparent cover overlying display 186), the soft, non-abrasive material does not cause damage when in contact with the transparent cover.

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

magnetic elements

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

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

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

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

second sections

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

third sections

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

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

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

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

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

FIG. 3 illustrates a cross-sectional view of the accessory device 100 shown in FIG. 2 taken along line 3-3, illustrating various features of the accessory device 100. The accessory device 100 can include a first layer 122a and a second layer 122 b. First layer 122a and second layer 122b may include polymer layers that extend over both first region 102a and second region 102b (shown in fig. 1 and 2). Alternatively, each of the first and

second layers

122a and 122b may comprise other materials, such as leather. In this regard, the first layer 122a and the second layer 122b may define (shown in fig. 1 and 2) the hinge 112. The accessory device 100 can further include a third layer 122c surrounded by the first layer 122a and the second layer 122 b. The third layer 122c may comprise a relatively rigid material, such as fiberglass (as a non-limiting example). The third layer 122c may fill each of these sections. For example, as shown, the third layer 122c fills the first section 108 a. However, a third layer 122c may be defined to the first section 108a to facilitate flexibility of the second section 102b (shown in fig. 1 and 2) and relative movement between the sections. In addition, although not shown, the first and

second layers

122a and 122b may terminate along the second section 102b, and additional layers (similar to the first and

second layers

122a and 122 b) may form the first section 102 a. In this regard, the hinge 112 (shown in fig. 1 and 2) may be formed from materials other than the first layer 122a and the second layer 122 b.

The accessory device 100 can further include a layer on each section. For example, the first section 108a includes a layer 124 a. Layer 124a may comprise a fabric layer, including microfibers. In general, layer 124a may include a material that prevents scratching of the glass (or other transparent cover or transparent layer) of electronic device 180 (shown in fig. 1). To promote flexibility, the layer 124a may terminate at (or may be defined to) the first segment 108 a. Further, the layer 124a may be applied to an uppermost (flat) surface of the first section 108a and a portion of the bend (along the first layer 122 a) around the uppermost surface. In some cases, layer 124a extends along a surface that is substantially perpendicular to the uppermost surface. However, layer 124a may terminate before reaching an additional surface that is parallel, or at least substantially parallel, to the uppermost surface. In general, the layer 124a may extend between a first line 126a and a second line 126b shown at each end of the first section 108 a. It should be noted that the second and

third sections

108b and 108c (both shown in fig. 1 and 2) may include the same layers as shown for the first section 108a, including the same features and configurations of these layers. For example, layer 124b (separate from layer 124 a) is positioned on second section 108 b.

The accessory device 100 can further include a stiffening element 128 positioned between the first layer 122a and the second layer 122 b. By way of non-limiting example, the stiffening element 128 may comprise fiberglass, rigid plastic, or metal. The accessory device 100 can further include an adhesive 132a and an adhesive 132b that secure the first layer 122a to the second layer 122 b.

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

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

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

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

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

Fig. 8 shows a side view of accessory device 100, showing first section 108a of second section 102b pulled away from back surface 134 of first section 102 a. As shown, a pulling force may be applied to the second section 102b that overcomes the magnetic attraction force created by the magnetic coupling between the magnetic element 114g in the first section 102a and the magnetic element 114j in the second section 102 b. The pulling force may also overcome the magnetic attraction of

magnetic elements

114e and 114j (both shown in fig. 2) with

magnetic elements

114h and 114i (both shown in fig. 2), respectively, and cease magnetic coupling.

Once the first section 108a is pulled away from the back surface 134, the second section 108b and the third section 108c can disengage the back surface 134, as shown in phantom. Further, the second section 108b and the third section 108c may disengage the back surface 134 without any additional pulling force being applied to the second section 102 b. In other words, the force causing disengagement between the first section 108a and the back surface 134 is sufficient to cause disengagement of the second section 108b and the third section 108c from the back surface 134. Thus, once the magnetic elements in the first section 108a are no longer magnetically coupled with the magnetic elements in the second section 102a and the first section 108a is pulled away from the back surface 134 of the first section 102a, the second and

third sections

108b, 108c are sequentially caused to disengage from the back surface 134. That is, the second section 108b is disengaged from the back surface 134, and then the third section 108c is disengaged from the back surface 134. This is due in part to the magnetic coupling and offset alignment between the magnetic elements 114k and 114l in the first section 102a and the

magnetic elements

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

Fig. 9 shows a side view of the accessory device 100, showing the first section 108a engaged with the second section 108 b. In the absence of any external force, the first section 108a will disengage and disengage from the second section 108b due to gravity, as shown by the dashed lines. Additionally, as shown, the first section 102a is folded away from the second section 102b such that the second section 102b is not joined to the first section 102 a.

Fig. 10 shows a side view of the accessory device 100, showing the first section 102a partially engaged with the second section 102b, and the first section 108a rotated to engage the second section 108 b. As shown, the magnetic element 114h in the first segment 108a is magnetically coupled with the magnetic element 114q in the first section 102 a. The magnetic element 114h and the magnetic element 114i (both shown in fig. 2) in the first section 108a may also be magnetically coupled with the magnetic element 114r and the magnetic element 114s (both shown in fig. 2) in the first section 102a, respectively. Thus, the first segment 108a remains engaged with the second segment 108b due in part to the magnetic coupling between the magnetic elements in the first segment 108a and the magnetic elements in the first section 102 a. Further, the first section 108a no longer covers a portion of the back surface 134 so that the camera component 184 of the electronic device 180 can protrude through the opening 106 and capture images. Fig. 9 and 10 illustrate that the first segment 108a may not remain engaged with the second segment 108b unless the first section 102a engages the second section 102b such that the magnetic elements in the first segment 108a may magnetically couple with the magnetic elements in the first section 102 a.

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

Fig. 12 shows a side view of an accessory device supporting an electronic device in an alternative configuration. A user of the electronic device 180 may also interact with the display 186 of the electronic device 180 in this configuration. As shown, the first, second, and

third sections

108a, 108b, 108c may be folded to form an alternative triangular support for the electronic device 180. The first section 102a is sufficiently rigid and strong to support the electronic device 180 without warping or twisting, and therefore, the first section 102a is not affected by the weight of the electronic device 180.

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

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

Fig. 15 shows a side view of the electronic device 180 positioned between the first section 102a and the second section 102b of the accessory device 100, showing the first section 102a and the second section 102b extending beyond the electronic device 180. As shown, both the first section 102a and the second section 102b are engaged with the electronic device 180. Further, the magnetic elements in the first section 102a and the magnetic elements in the second section 102b may be magnetically coupled with the magnetic elements in the electronic device 180. Further, the electronic device 180 may include an audio module 188, such as a speaker module, designed to generate acoustic energy in the form of audible sound. This type of audio module is known in the art to comprise a permanent magnet. In some cases, when the accessory device 100 is exposed to heat, the material of the accessory device 100 may bend or warp. For example, excessive heat may cause the first and

second sections

108a, 108b to extend away and at least partially disengage the electronic device 180, as shown by the dashed lines. However, the accessory device 100 can include the magnetic element 114t in a position corresponding to the position of the audio module 188, such that the magnetic element 114t is magnetically coupled with the audio module 188, and in particular with the permanent magnet of the audio module 188. The magnetic attraction between the magnetic element 114t and the permanent magnet of the audio module 188 may cause the first and

second sections

108a, 108b to remain engaged with the electronic device 180 and overcome problems associated with excessive heat. As shown, the magnetic element 114t is located in the first segment 108 a. However, the magnetic element 114t may be located in the second section 108b to accommodate different locations of the audio module 188 in the electronic device 180.

Fig. 16 illustrates a plan view of the electronic device 180 and the accessory device illustrated in fig. 15, showing the first section 102a extending beyond the electronic device 180 in multiple dimensions. The electronic device 180 is covered by the first section 102a and is indicated by a dashed line. Accessory device 100 can include a dimension 142a that allows first section 102a to extend beyond first edge 192a and second edge 192b of electronic device 180. The accessory device 100 can include a dimension 142b that allows the first section 102a to extend beyond the third edge 192c and the fourth edge 192d of the electronic device 180. Thus, the first section 102a may extend beyond the electronic device 180 along both the X-axis and the Y-axis. Second section 102b (not shown in fig. 16) may include any of the dimensional features described for first section 102 a.

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

Fig. 18 shows a side view of the accessory device 100 and the electronic device 180, showing the electronic device 180 engaged with the second section 102 b. A magnetic element (not labeled) in the second section 102b couples with a magnetic element (not shown in fig. 18) of the electronic device 180 and provides sufficient magnetic attraction such that the weight and weight of the electronic device 180 is reversed and the electronic device 180 remains engaged with the accessory device 100 along the second section 102 b.

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

Fig. 19 shows a side view of an alternative embodiment of an accessory device 200 holding an electronic device 180, further illustrating an object 240 coupled with an edge of the electronic device 180. Object 240 may include a digital stylus designed to interact with display 186 (not shown in FIG. 19) when display 186 includes touchscreen functionality or other input functionality initiated by object 240. The accessory device 200 can include a retaining element 234 coupled to the first section 202a and the second section of the accessory device 200. The retaining element 234 may include a bag or other type of strap that engages and retains the object 240 such that the object 240 retains engagement with the electronic device 180 and/or the accessory device 200. The retaining element 234 may include a resilient capability to provide additional retaining force. The retaining element 234 may be permanently coupled with at least one of the first section 202a or the second section 202 b. Permanent coupling may be achieved by adhesives, stitching, welding, and/or other bonding techniques. Alternatively, the retaining element 234 may be removably coupled with at least one of the first section 202a or the second section 202 b. The removable coupling may include a reusable adhesive material, a hook and loop feature (such as Velcro), or a magnetic element. As shown, the retaining element 234 protrudes beyond the surface of the first and

second sections

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

second sections

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

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

second sections

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

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

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

Claims

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

a first section defining a receiving surface for holding the portable electronic device, the first section further including a back surface opposite the receiving surface; and

a second section coupled with the first section and capable of covering the portable electronic device when the portable electronic device is held at the receiving surface, the second section including a first section and a second section, wherein disengagement of the first section from the back surface causes disengagement of the second section from the back surface.

2. The accessory device of claim 1, wherein:

the first section comprises a first magnetic element; and is

The first section includes a second magnetic element magnetically couplable with the first magnetic element to magnetically engage the first section with the second section.

3. The accessory device as recited in claim 2, wherein the first segment is not magnetically coupled with the second segment.

4. The accessory device as recited in claim 2, wherein the first section includes an opening that receives a camera component of the portable electronic device, and wherein the opening is uncovered by the first section when the first magnetic element is magnetically coupled with the second magnetic element.

5. The accessory device of claim 4, further comprising:

a filler material embedded in the first region; and

a reinforcement layer embedded in the first region and separated from the filler material, the reinforcement layer surrounding the opening.

6. The accessory device of any of claims 1-5, wherein the second section further comprises a third segment, and wherein disengagement of the first segment and subsequent disengagement of the second segment causes disengagement of the third segment.

7. The accessory device of any of claims 1-5, further comprising:

a first magnetic element and a second magnetic element, the first and second magnetic elements located in the first region;

a third magnetic element located in the first section, the third magnetic element being magnetically couplable with the first magnetic element; and

a fourth magnetic element in the first section, the fourth magnetic element magnetically couplable with the second magnetic element.

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

a first section defining a receiving surface for the portable electronic device; and

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

9. The accessory device as recited in claim 8, wherein the first section has a first size such that the first section extends beyond a first edge of the portable electronic device and a second edge of the portable electronic device.

10. The accessory device as recited in claim 9, wherein the first section has a second size such that the first section extends beyond a third edge of the portable electronic device.

11. The accessory device as recited in claim 10, wherein the second section extends beyond the first edge, the second edge, and the third edge.

12. The accessory device as recited in any one of claims 8-11, further comprising a magnetic element carried by the second section, the magnetic element being magnetically coupled with a magnetic element of an audio module located in the portable electronic device, wherein the magnetic coupling holds the second section in engagement with the portable electronic device.

13. The accessory device of any of claims 8-11, wherein

The first section comprises a first magnetic element; and is

The second section comprises a first section and a second section rotatable relative to the first section, wherein the first section comprises a second magnetic element magnetically coupled with the first magnetic element such that the first section remains engaged with the second section.

14. The accessory device as recited in claim 13, wherein the first segment is not magnetically coupled with the second segment.

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

a first section defining a receiving surface for the portable electronic device, the first section further including a back surface opposite the receiving surface;

a first magnetic element embedded in the first region;

a second section coupled to the first section and capable of covering the portable electronic device; and

a second magnetic element embedded in the second region, wherein magnetic coupling between the first magnetic element and the second magnetic element aligns the second region with the back surface.

16. The accessory device as recited in claim 15, further comprising a hinge connecting the first section with the second section.

17. The accessory device as recited in claim 16, wherein the second section comprises:

a first section carrying the first magnetic element; and

a second section coupled to the first section, wherein the second section is closer to the hinge than the first section.

18. The accessory device as recited in any one of claims 15-17, wherein the magnetic coupling between the first magnetic element and the second magnetic element is such that the second section is aligned with the back surface before the second section is laid flat on the back surface.

19. The accessory device as recited in any one of claims 15-17, further comprising:

a third magnetic element located in the first region; and

a first section and a second section, the first section and the second section defining the second section; and

a fourth magnetic element carried by the first segment, the fourth magnetic element magnetically coupled with the third magnetic element such that the first segment remains engaged with the second segment.

20. The accessory device as recited in claim 19, wherein the first segment is not magnetically coupled with the second segment.

21. An accessory device for use with an electronic device, the accessory device comprising:

a first section defining a receiving surface for holding the electronic device; and

a second section coupled with the first section and capable of covering the portable electronic device when held at the receiving surface, the second section comprising:

a first section,

A second section coupled to the first section by a first fold region, and

a third section coupled to the second section by a second fold region different from the first fold region.

22. The accessory device as recited in claim 21, further comprising a magnetic element in the first region, the magnetic element being magnetically couplable with a magnet in the electronic device.

23. The accessory device as recited in claim 21, further comprising:

a first magnet located in the first section; and

a second magnet in the first section, the second magnet magnetically couplable with the first magnet to hold the first and second sections together.

24. The accessory device as recited in claim 23, wherein the first section is smaller than the second section and smaller than the third section.

25. The accessory device as recited in any one of claims 21-24, further comprising:

a first fabric layer located on the first section;

a second fabric layer on the second section, the second fabric layer being separate from the first fabric layer; and

a third fabric layer on the third section, the third fabric layer being separate from the second fabric layer.

26. The accessory device as recited in claim 25, wherein the first fold region and the second fold region are each not covered by the first fabric layer, the second fabric layer, and the third fabric layer.

27. The accessory device as recited in claim 25, wherein the first fabric layer, the second fabric layer, and the third fabric layer include microfibers.

28. An accessory device for use with an electronic device, the accessory device comprising:

a first section defining a receiving surface for the electronic device, the first section including a first magnet and a back surface opposite the receiving surface; and

a second section rotationally coupled to the first section, the second section comprising:

a first surface capable of engaging the electronic device;

a second surface opposite the first surface, and

a second magnet located between the first surface and the second surface, wherein magnetic coupling between the first magnet and the second magnet aligns and engages the back surface with the second surface.

29. The accessory device as recited in claim 28, wherein the second section comprises:

a first section;

a second section rotationally coupled to the first section; and

a third section rotationally coupled to the second section.

30. The accessory device as recited in claim 29, further comprising a third magnet carried by the first section, the third magnet configured to magnetically couple with a magnet of the electronic device such that the first section remains engaged with the second section.

31. The accessory device of claim 29, further comprising:

a third magnet carried by the third segment; and

a fourth magnet embedded in the first section, the fourth magnet being magnetically coupled with the third magnet when the back surface engages the second surface.

32. The accessory device of claim 29, wherein the second section further comprises:

a first layer;

a second layer combined with the first layer to cover the first section and the second section; and

a stiffening element positioned between the first layer and the second layer, the stiffening element positioned at an edge of the second section.

33. The accessory device of any of claims 29-32, wherein the first segment is smaller than the second segment and smaller than the third segment.

34. The accessory device as recited in any one of claims 29-32, wherein when the back surface engages the second surface, removing the first section from the back surface automatically disengages the second section and the third section from the back surface.

35. An accessory device for use with an electronic device, the accessory device comprising:

a first section defining a receiving surface for the electronic device; and

a first section covered by a first fabric layer, and

a second section covered by a second fabric layer, the second section rotationally coupled to the first section by a fold region not covered by the first and second fabric layers, wherein a folded configuration includes the first and second sections forming a support that receives the first section,

such that the first section engages the fold region.

36. The accessory device of claim 35, wherein the first section includes an elevated portion that is raised relative to the fold region, and wherein the first fabric layer covers the elevated portion.

37. The accessory device as recited in claim 36, wherein the elevated portion defines a first surface and a second surface that is perpendicular to the first surface, and wherein the first fabric layer covers the first surface and the second surface.

38. The accessory device as recited in claim 3, wherein the first section is smaller than the second section.

39. The accessory device as recited in any one of claims 35-38, further comprising an opening formed in the first region, wherein the opening provides interlocking with a camera of the electronic device when the camera is positioned in the opening.

40. The accessory device of any one of claims 35-38, wherein the folded configuration includes the first section not being in contact with the first fabric layer and the second fabric layer.

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

a first section defining a first surface to receive the portable electronic device, the first section further comprising a second surface opposite the first surface; and

a second section coupled with the first section and capable of covering the portable electronic device when the portable electronic device is held at the first surface, the second section comprising a first section and a second section, wherein disengagement of the first section from the second surface causes disengagement of the second section from the second surface.

42. The accessory device of claim 41, wherein:

the first section comprises a first magnetic element; and is

43. The accessory device as recited in claim 42, wherein the first section is not magnetically coupled with the second section.

44. The accessory device as recited in claim 42, wherein the first section includes an opening that receives a camera component of the portable electronic device, and wherein the opening is uncovered by the first section when the first magnetic element is magnetically coupled with the second magnetic element.

45. The accessory device of claim 44, further comprising:

a filler material embedded in the first region; and

46. The accessory device of any one of claims 41-45, wherein the second section further comprises a third segment, and wherein disengagement of the first segment and subsequent disengagement of the second segment causes disengagement of the third segment.

47. The accessory device of any of claims 41-45, further comprising:

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

a first section defining a first surface to receive the portable electronic device, the first section further comprising a second surface opposite the first surface;

a first magnetic element embedded in the first region;

a second section coupled with the first section by a hinge that allows the second section to pivot relative to the first section and cover a display of the portable electronic device; and

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

49. The accessory device of claim 48, wherein the second section comprises:

a first section carrying the first magnetic element; and

50. The accessory device as recited in claim 49, further comprising a third section coupled to the second section, wherein the first section and the second section are defined by a first size, and wherein the third section is defined by a second size that is smaller than the first size.

51. The accessory device of any one of claims 48-50, wherein the magnetic coupling between the first magnetic element and the second magnetic element is such that the second section is aligned with the second surface before the second section is laid flat on the second surface.

52. The accessory device of any of claims 48-50, further comprising:

a third magnetic element located in the first region; and

53. The accessory device as recited in claim 52, wherein the first section is not magnetically coupled with the second section.

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

55. The accessory device as recited in claim 54, wherein the first section includes a first dimension such that the first section extends beyond a first edge of the portable electronic device and a second edge of the portable electronic device.

56. The accessory device as recited in claim 55, wherein the first section includes a second dimension such that the first section extends beyond a third edge of the portable electronic device.

57. The accessory device as recited in claim 56, wherein the second section extends beyond the first edge, the second edge, and the third edge.

58. The accessory device as recited in claim 55, further comprising a magnetic element carried by the second section, the magnetic element magnetically coupling with a magnetic element of an audio module located in the portable electronic device, wherein the magnetic coupling holds the second section in engagement with the portable electronic device.

59. The accessory device of claim 54, wherein:

the first section comprises a first magnetic element; and is

60. The accessory device of claim 59, wherein the first segment is not magnetically coupled with the second segment.