Shielding card holder system

A shielding card holder system for providing a versatile protector and holder which shields wireless transmissions from a card such as a smartcard. The shielding card holder system generally includes a card protector adapted to shield wireless transmissions from a card such as a smartcard. A card holder is removably attached to the card protector, the card holder being adapted to removably receive cards of varying thicknesses. A protector magnet on the card protector is adapted to magnetically engage with a holder magnet on the card holder or the card holder itself to removably attach the card holder to the card protector. A securing member may be utilized to secure the card protector against an article of clothing, with the securing member including a securing magnet adapted to magnetically engage with the protector magnet through the clothing.

CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

Not applicable to this application.

Not applicable to this application.

BACKGROUND

Field

Example embodiments in general relate to a shielding card holder system for providing a versatile protector and holder which shields wireless transmissions from a card such as a smartcard.

Related Art

The use of electric and magnetic cards has become ubiquitous in modern society. Cards such as badges, credit cards, identifying cards, access cards, and the like are a staple of modern life. While many such cards utilize magnetic strips, modern technology has allowed for the use of cards which utilize electronic devices such as chips to wirelessly transfer information.

Such cards are susceptible to intrusions such as skimming, in which an electronic device may be utilized to scan the card for cloning or data theft. Most modern smart phones include near-field communication (NFC) functionality which may allow the smart phone to scan the data from the card.

While various methods have been utilized to prevent such skimming, the methods in use often severely inhibit the versatility of the card, particularly with respect to accessibility to the card and options for how to wear or otherwise attach the card to one's self. For example, foil or similar sleeves require that the sleeve be retrieved from a wallet or purse and then that the card be fully removed from the sleeve.

SUMMARY

An example embodiment is directed to a shielding card holder system. The shielding card holder system includes a card protector adapted to shield wireless transmissions from a card such as a smartcard. A card holder is removably attached to the card protector, the card holder being adapted to removably receive the card. A protector magnet on the card protector is adapted to magnetically engage with a holder magnet on the card holder or the card holder itself to removably attach the card holder to the card protector. A securing member may be utilized to secure the card protector against an article of clothing, with the securing member including a securing magnet adapted to magnetically engage with the protector magnet through the clothing.

There has thus been outlined, rather broadly, some of the embodiments of the shielding card holder system in order that the detailed description thereof may be better understood, and in order that the present contribution to the art may be better appreciated. There are additional embodiments of the shielding card holder system that will be described hereinafter and that will form the subject matter of the claims appended hereto. In this respect, before explaining at least one embodiment of the shielding card holder system in detail, it is to be understood that the shielding card holder system is not limited in its application to the details of construction or to the arrangements of the components set forth in the following description or illustrated in the drawings. The shielding card holder system is capable of other embodiments and of being practiced and carried out in various ways. Also, it is to be understood that the phraseology and terminology employed herein are for the purpose of the description and should not be regarded as limiting.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

An example shielding card holder system generally comprises a card protector20for shielding wireless transmissions from a card70. The card protector20comprises an upper end21, a lower end22, an outer surface25, and an inner surface26. An outer flange27may extend at least partially around an outer edge of the outer surface25of the card protector20. A first protector magnet33is connected to the card protector20, with the first protector magnet33including a first surface80and a second surface81opposite of the first surface80. A card holder40adapted to removably hold the card70within the card holder40is removably attached to the outer surface25of the card protector20. The card holder40is adjustable between an opened position and a closed position. The card holder40is adapted to removably hold the card70within the card holder40when the card holder40is in the closed position. The card holder40is adapted to magnetically engage with the first surface80of the first protector magnet33so as to removably attach the card holder40to the card protector20.

A securing member60may be removably attached the inner surface26of the card protector20. A first securing magnet64is connected to the securing member60. The first securing magnet64is adapted to magnetically engage with the second surface81of the first protector magnet33so as to removably attach the securing member60to the card protector20. A second protector magnet35may be connected to the card protector20and a second securing magnet66may be connected to the securing member60. The second securing magnet66is adapted to magnetically engage with the second protector magnet35so as to removably attach the securing member60to the card protector20.

The first protector magnet33is connected near the upper end21of the card protector20and the second protector magnet35is connected near the lower end22of the card protector20. The first securing magnet64is connected near the upper end61of the securing member60and the second securing magnet66is connected near the lower end62of the securing member60. The securing member60may comprise one or more openings67.

The card holder40comprises a first member41and a second member50. The first member41and the second member50are movably connected such that the card holder40is adjustable between an opened position and a closed position. The card holder40comprises a bias member49for biasing the card holder40towards the closed position. The bias member49is connected between the first member41and the second member50of the card holder40. The bias member49may comprise a leaf spring. The bias member49may comprise a magnetic material. A fastener48may be connected between the first member41and the second member50of the card holder40. The fastener48may be rotatable to adjust the card holder40between the opened position and the closed position.

Another example shielding card holder system generally comprises a card protector20for shielding wireless transmissions from a card70. The card protector20may comprise an upper end21, a lower end22, an outer surface25, and an inner surface26. The card protector20may include an outer flange27extending at least partially around an outer edge of the outer surface25of the card protector20. A first protector magnet33may be connected to the card protector20. The first protector magnet33may include a first surface80and a second surface81opposite of the first surface80.

A card holder40may be removably attached to the outer surface25of the card protector20. The card holder40is adapted to removably hold the card70within the card holder40and is adjustable between an opened position and a closed position. A first holder magnet47may be connected to the card holder40to magnetically engage with the first surface80of the first protector magnet33so as to removably attach the card holder40to the card protector20.

A securing member60may be removably attached to the inner surface26of the card protector20. A first securing magnet64may be connected to the securing member60so as to magnetically engage with the second surface81of the first protector magnet33to removably attach the securing member60to the card protector20. A second protector magnet35may be connected to the card protector20. A second securing magnet66may be connected to the securing member60. The second securing magnet66is adapted to magnetically engage with the second protector magnet35so as to removably attach the securing member60to the card protector20.

The card holder40may comprise a first member41and a second member50, with the first member41being movable with respect to the second member50so as to adjust the card holder40between the opened position and the closed position. The first holder magnet47may be connected to the first member41and a second holder magnet53may be connected to the second member50. The first holder magnet47and the second holder magnet53are adapted to magnetically bias the card holder40towards the closed position.

Also disclosed is a method of wearing a card70utilizing the shielding card holder system, comprising the steps of securing the card70within the card holder40, attaching the card holder40to the card protector20, positioning the securing member60against the interior of an article of clothing13, and positioning the card protector20against the exterior of the article of clothing13adjacent to the securing member60such that the first protector magnet33of the card protector20magnetically engages with the first securing magnet64of the securing member60through the article of clothing13.

B. Card Protector

As shown throughout the figures, the shielding card holder system may comprise a card protector20to which a card70may be secured, such as with a card holder40as described herein. The card protector20may provide a number of functions. It may act as a backing for the card70so as to lessen the risk of damage to the back of the card70, and particularly any electronic or magnetic strips. The card protector20may also act to shield wireless signals such as RF waves and the like so as to protect the card70from intrusions such as being cloned or skimmed.

The card protector20may comprise various types of materials known to shield wireless transmissions, such as but not limited to metals, metal alloys, and the like. By way of example and without limitation, the card protector20may be at least partially comprised of shielding materials such as aluminum, copper, nickel, brass, silver, steel, tin, and alloys thereof. In some embodiments, only portions of the card protector20may be comprised of such shielding materials. In other embodiments, all of the card protector20may comprise such materials. In some embodiments, the shielding materials may be connected to, rather than integrated with, the card protector20. For example, a shielding material such as a plate or cover may be connected to the outer or inner surfaces25,26of the card protector20.

The card protector20may comprise various shapes and dimensions depending on the card70to be shielded, as well as other considerations such as where the card protector20is meant to be worn. In the exemplary embodiments shown in the figures, the card protector20is illustrated as comprising a rectangular shape. It should be appreciated that the figures merely illustrate an exemplary embodiment of the card protector20and thus should not be construed as limiting in scope.

In the embodiment best shown inFIGS. 1-3, the card protector20is illustrated as comprising an upper end21, a lower end22, a first side23, a second side24, an outer surface25, and an inner surface26. The card protector20may include an outer flange27which extends at least partially along the outer perimeter or edge of the card protector20such as shown inFIG. 1. The depth of the outer flange27may vary, but will preferably be sufficient to cover the outer edge of the card70as shown inFIGS. 1 and 15. In this manner, the card70may be shielded from unauthorized intrusion such as replication.

The outer flange27may include breaks along its length to accommodate the card holder40. In some embodiments, the outer flange27may only be included on portions of the card protector20. For example, only the corners of the card protector20may include an outer flange27in some embodiments. As a further example, only the sides23,24of the card protector20may include an outer flange27in certain embodiments. The outer flange27may function to center and retain the card70within the card holding space28of the card protector20. In some embodiments, the outer flange27may be omitted entirely.

With reference toFIG. 1, it can be seen that the outer flange27defines a card holding space28within which the card70may be secured, with at least a portion of the back side of the card70being positioned against or near the outer surface25of the card protector20. The inner surface26of the card protector20may be secured against an article of clothing13such as a shirt, pants, belt, jacket, or the like by operation of the securing member60as shown inFIGS. 16-20.

As shown inFIGS. 1-3, 4A, 4B, and 4C, the card protector20may include an extended portion30such as a tab or other type of projection which extends outwardly from the upper end21, lower end22, first side23, and/or second side24of the card protector20. The extended portion30is illustrated as extending from the upper end21of the card protector20in the embodiments shown inFIGS. 1-3, 4A, 4B, and 4C, but in alternate embodiments, the extended portion30may instead extend from one of the two sides23,24of the card protector20, or from the lower end22of the card protector20. The extended portion30may function as a handle for the card protector20.

With reference toFIG. 1, it can be seen that the extended portion30of the card protector20may comprise an opening31which may be utilized in wearing the card protector20as discussed below. The shape, size, and positioning of the opening31may vary in different embodiments. In the exemplary embodiments shown in the figures, the opening31is illustrated as comprising a keyhole shape.

The card protector20will generally include one or more protector magnets33,35which are utilized to removably secure the card holder40and/or the securing member60to the card protector20. In some embodiments, the protector magnets33,35may be fixedly connected or integral with the card protector20. In embodiments such as shown inFIGS. 5A and 5B, the protector magnets33,35may be removably connected to the card protector20.

The card protector20may include magnet openings32,34in which the protector magnets33,35may be secured such that the protector magnets33,35may be flush or depressed with respect to the outer surface25of the card protector20. In some embodiments, the protector magnets33,35may instead extend at least partially outwardly from the outer surface25of the card protector20. In some embodiments, the protector magnets33,35may be secured against the outer surface25of the card protector20without use of any magnet openings32,34, such as by use of a fastener or adhesive.

In the embodiment shown inFIGS. 5A and 5B, it can be seen that the card protector20may comprise a first magnet opening32and a second magnet opening34, with the first magnet opening32being positioned near the upper end21of the card protector20and the second magnet opening34being positioned near the lower end22of the card protector20. It should be appreciated that the positioning of the magnet openings32,34and that of the protector magnets33,35may vary in different embodiments and thus should not be construed as limited by the exemplary embodiments shown in the figures.

Continuing to referenceFIGS. 5A and 5B, it can be seen that a first protector magnet33may be connected to the card protector20near the upper end21of the card protector20and a second protector magnet35may be connected to the card protector20near the lower end22of the card protector20. The positioning and number of protector magnets33,35utilized may vary in different embodiments. In some embodiments, more or less protector magnets33,35may be utilized than are shown in the exemplary figures.

The type, strength, and polarization of the protector magnets33,35may vary in different embodiments. The protector magnets33,35will generally comprise permanent (as opposed to temporary) magnets such as but not limited to neodymium iron boron, samarium cobalt, alnico, ceramic, and ferrite magnets. In some embodiments, electromagnets may be utilized.

The shape of the protector magnets33,35may vary in different embodiments. In the embodiment shown in the figures, each of the protector magnets33,35is illustrated as comprising a rectangular shape. It should be appreciated that various other shapes may be utilized for the protector magnets33,35, and thus the rectangular shape, including dimensions, shown in the figures should not be construed as limiting.

With reference toFIGS. 7 and 8, it can be seen that the card protector20includes a first protector magnet33and a second protector magnet35. In the upright orientation shown inFIG. 7, the first protector magnet33comprises an upper magnet and the second protector magnet35comprises a lower magnet, with the first protector magnet33being positioned near the upper end21of the card protector20and the second protector magnet35being positioned near the lower end22of the card protector20.

It should be appreciated that, in some embodiments, the first and second protector magnets33,35may not be positioned near the upper and lower ends21,22of the card protector20. For example, in some embodiments, the first protector magnet33may be positioned near the first side23of the card protector20and the second protector magnet35may be positioned near the second side24of the card protector20. The card protector20may also be rotated in orientation, such as rotated into a horizontal orientation (as opposed to the vertical orientation shown in the figures), such that the protector magnets33,35are oriented horizontally rather than vertically.

The first protector magnet33may be utilized to removably attach the card holder40to the card protector20such as shown inFIGS. 1, 2, and 6. The first protector magnet33may thus include a first surface80such as an outer surface and a second surface81which is opposite to the first surface80, such as an inner surface. The polarity of the first surface80of the first protector magnet33will generally be opposite to the polarity of the second surface85of the first holder magnet47such that the inner surface of the first holder magnet47is attracted to the first surface80of the first protector magnet33to removably secure the card holder40against the card protector20by magnetic attraction between the first protector magnet33and the first holder magnet47.

The first protector magnet33may also be utilized to removably couple the securing member60to the card protector20. Thus, the polarity of the second surface81of the first protector magnet33will generally be opposite to the polarity of the outer surface of the first securing magnet64of the securing member60such that the outer surface of the first securing magnet64is attracted to the second surface81of the first protector magnet33to removably couple the securing member60against the card protector20by magnetic attraction between the first protector magnet33and the first securing magnet64.

In the exemplary embodiment shown in the figures, it can be seen that the first surface80of the first protector magnet33is visible on the outer surface25of the card protector20and that the second surface81of the first protector magnet33is visible on the inner surface26of the card protector20. It should be appreciated that, in some embodiments, a pair of first protector magnets33may instead be utilized, with a first on the outer surface25of the card protector20and a second on the inner surface26of the card protector20.

In some embodiments, or depending upon the orientation of the card protector20, the functions of the first and second protector magnets33,35may be interchangeable. Thus, in some embodiments or orientations, the card holder40may be removably attached to the first protector magnet33. In other embodiments or orientations, the card holder40may instead be removably attached to the second protector magnet35. Thus, the scope should not be construed as limited by the exemplary embodiments shown in the figures in which the card holder40is removably attached to the first protector magnet33, as depending upon the orientation and/or embodiment of the card holder40, the card holder40may instead be removably attached to the second protector magnet35.

As shown inFIGS. 7 and 8, a second protector magnet35may also be integral with or connected to the card protector20. Generally, the second protector magnet35is utilized to secure the securing member60against the card protector20though, as mentioned herein, the second protector magnet35may in some embodiments be utilized to secure the card holder40. In the embodiment shown in the figures, the polarity of the inner surface of the second protector magnet35will preferably be opposite to the polarity of the outer surface of the second securing magnet66such that the second securing magnet66will be attracted to the second protector magnet35for securing the securing member60against the card protector20, either directly or indirectly.

In a preferred embodiment, the polarity of the first protector magnet33and the second protector magnet35will be reversed with respect to each other. Thus, the first surface80of the first protector magnet33will be opposite to the same surface of the second protector magnet35. The use of reverse polarities on the pair of protector magnets33,35ensures that the first holder magnet47of the card holder40is only attracted to the first protector magnet33, and not to the second protector magnet35. Such a configuration prevents the card holder40from accidentally magnetically engaging with the second protector magnet35rather than the first protector magnet33.

The second protector magnet35will generally be utilized for coupling the securing member60to the card protector20. In the embodiment shown inFIG. 10, it can be seen that both the first and second protector magnets33,35are utilized to secure the securing member60against the card protector20(with or without a layer of clothing positioned between the card protector20and the securing member60).

However, it should be appreciated that alternate configurations may be utilized. As a first example, the second protector magnet35could be omitted entirely; with only a single protector magnet33being utilized exclusively to secure both the card holder40and the securing member60to the card protector20. As a second example, the first protector magnet33may be utilized exclusively for the card holder40and the second protector magnet35may be utilized exclusively for the securing member60. As a third example and as shown in the figures, the first protector magnet33may be utilized to secure the card holder40and both the first and second protector magnets33,35may be utilized in concert to secure the securing member60.

As best shown inFIGS. 3 and 8, the card protector20may include a pair of upper ribs36a,36band a pair of lower ribs37a,37bwhich serve as a guide for positioning of the securing member60and which aid in securing an article of clothing13between the card protector20and the securing member60as discussed herein. The use of the ribs36a,36b,37a,37bfunction to prevent the securing member60from sliding with respect to the card protector20, such as side-to-side. Thus, ribs36a,36b,37a,37bcreate a track within which the securing member60may be secured to efficiently attach the card protector20to an article of clothing13.

As best shown inFIGS. 2, 5A, 5B, and 7, the outer surface25of the card protector20may include depressions which form the upper ribs36a,36band the lower ribs37a,37b. It can be seen that a first upper rib36ais comprised of a depression in the outer surface25of the card protector20and that a second upper rib36bis comprised of a depression in the outer surface25of the card protector20. Similarly, a first lower rib37ais comprised of a depression in the outer surface25of the card protector20and a second lower rib37bis comprised of a depression in the outer surface25of the card protector20. Such a configuration may be the result of stamping the card protector20so as to form a depression on the outer surface25and a projection on the inner surface26.

As best shown inFIGS. 3 and 8, the inner surface26of the card protector20may include projections which form the upper ribs36a,36band the lower ribs37a,37b. In some embodiments, the upper and lower ribs36a,36b,37a,37bmay not form depressions in the outer surface25of the card protector20, and only be comprised of projections from the inner surface26of the card protector20. Thus, rather than the ribs36a,36b,37a,37bbeing pressed into the outer surface25of the card protector20, they may instead be secured to or integral with the inner surface26of the card protector20.

The shape, size, and configuration of the ribs36a,36b,37a,37bmay vary in different embodiments, and thus should not be construed as limited by the exemplary figures. In the figures, it can be seen that the upper ribs36a,36bare each comprised of an elongated rib which are parallel to each other. Similarly, the lower ribs37a,37bare each shown as comprised of parallel elongated ribs. The first upper rib36ais shown as being aligned with and spaced-apart with respect to the first lower rib37a, and the second upper rib36bis shown as being aligned with and spaced-apart with respect to the second lower rib37b.

Aligning the upper and lower ribs36a,36b,37a,37bforms a rectangular track or guide for the securing member60to fit within. It should be appreciated that the spacing, dimensions, positioning, and orientation of the ribs36a,36b,37a,37bmay vary depending upon the shape and size of the securing member60. In some embodiments, only a single upper rib36aand a single lower rib37amay be utilized, such as for example with embodiments in which the securing member60is shorter in length than the embodiment shown in the figures.

As best shown inFIGS. 3, 5A, and 5B, the card protector20may comprise a pair of holder openings38a,38bin which the card holder40may pivot when in use. The holder openings38a,38bmay be formed within the upper or lower ribs36a,36b,37a,37b. In the embodiment shown in the figures, the first upper rib36aincludes a first holder opening38aand the second upper rib36bincludes a second holder opening38b. In alternate embodiments, the holder openings38a,38bmay instead be positioned within the lower ribs37a,37b. In yet other embodiments, the holder openings38a,38bmay be independent of any ribs36a,36b,37a,37b.

The shape and size of the holder openings38a,38bmay vary in different embodiments. In the exemplary embodiment shown in the figures, the holder openings38a,38bare each illustrated as comprising vertically-oriented elongated openings. In some embodiments, the holder openings38a,38bmay instead be horizontally-oriented or diagonally-oriented. Further, the positioning of the holder openings38a,38bmay vary depending upon the embodiment of the card protector20and/or card holder40. Additionally, the length and overall dimensions of the holder openings38a,38bmay vary and should not be construed as limited by the exemplary embodiment shown in the figures.

C. Card Holder

As shown throughout the figures, a card holder40may be removably connected to the card protector20via magnetic attraction. The card holder40is utilized to retain a card70such as a credit card, identification card, an RFID badge or the like of varying thicknesses. It should be appreciated that a wide range of types of cards70may be utilized in connection with the systems and methods described herein. Thus, the scope should not be construed as limiting to any particular type of card70with any particular type of functionality. Generally, the card70will first be secured within the card holder40, and then the card holder40will be secured to the card protector20. However, in some embodiments, the card holder40may instead be first connected to the card protector20prior to inserting the card70into the card holder40.

The card holder40is generally adjustable between an opened position, such as shown inFIGS. 12B and 13B, and a closed position, such as shown inFIGS. 12A, 12C, 13A, and 13C. In the opened position, the card holder40allows for insertion of a card70to be retained in the card holder40. In the closed position, the card holder40holds the card70until such time as the card70is removed. The card holder40is adapted to hold cards70of varying thicknesses, ranging from thinner cards70such as credit cards to thicker cards70such as badges. It should be appreciated from viewing the embodiments of the card holder40shown in the figures that, in the closed position, portions of the first member41may be drawn away from the second member50such that the projections44a,44bof the first member41are drawn towards the arms54,56of the second member50. Conversely, in the opened position, portions of the first member41may be drawn towards the second member50such that the projections44a,44bof the first member41are drawn away from the arms54,56of the second member50. Thus, when the card holder40is in its opened position, there is a space between the first projection44aand the first arm54and a space between the second projection44band the second arm56. When the card holder40is in its closed position, the first projection44ais positioned against the first arm54and the second projection44bis positioned against the second arm56.

The card holder40may be biased towards the closed position, such as through use of a bias member49. In one exemplary embodiment such as shown inFIG. 5B, a pair of holder magnets47,53may be utilized to magnetically bias the card holder40towards the closed position. The manner in which the card holder40is adjustable between the opened and closed positions may vary. In another exemplary embodiment such as shown inFIGS. 13A, 13B, and 13C, a fastener48such as a screw may be utilized to open and close the card holder40.

The card holder40may comprise a clamp.FIGS. 5A and 5Billustrate an exploded view of the card holder40in which it can be seen that the card holder40comprises a first member41and a second member50, with the first member41being movably connected to the second member50. The first and second members41,50are configured such that the card70is secured to the card holder40by being pressed or sandwiched between the respective first and second members41,50of the card holder40.

As best shown inFIGS. 12A, 12B, and 12C, the first member41of the card holder40may be biased towards the second member50of the card holder40such that, absent application of force, the projections44a,44bof the first member41are positioned against the arms54,56of the second member50of the card holder40so as to retain a card70between the first and second members41,50. With application of force, the projections44a,44bof the first member41and the arms54,56of the second member50may be slightly separated so that a card70may be inserted into or removed from the card holder40. Upon cessation of the application of force, the first and second members41,50revert back to their natural position in which they are pressed together.

The first member41may include a handle42which may be primarily utilized to grasp the card holder40when the card holder40is being removed from or attached to the card protector20. The handle42may also be utilized when pivoting the card holder40so as to pivot the card70away from the card protector20such that the card70may be scanned without fully removing the card holder40from the card protector20. In some embodiments, the handle42may also be utilized to open or close the card holder40by pivoting the first member41either towards or away from the second member50.

The shape, size, and orientation of the handle42may vary in different embodiments. In the embodiment shown in the figures, the handle42may comprise an angular tab-like structure which extends outwardly from the first member41. The handle42may include an opening43which is utilized for securing the card holder40to various devices, such as a strap14or extension reel16as discussed below.

As shown inFIGS. 5A and 5B, the main body of the first member41may comprise a substantially rectangular shape, with the handle42extending outwardly from the main body. The first member41generally includes a pair of projections44a,44bwhich extend outwardly from the sides of its main body. These projections44a,44bfunction in concert with the arms54,56of the second member50to secure the card70in the card holder40.

Continuing to referenceFIGS. 5A and 5B, it can be seen that a first projection44aextends outwardly in a first direction from a first side of the first member41of the card holder40and that a second projection44bextends outwardly in a second direction from a second side of the first member41of the card holder40. A pair of depressions45a,45bare defined between the projections44a,44band the handle42, with a first depression45adefined between the first projection44aand the handle42and a second depression45bdefined between the second projection44band the handle42. Portions of the arms54,56of the second member50may rest within these depressions45a,45bas discussed in more detail below.

As shown inFIGS. 5A and 5B, it can be seen that the first member41of the card holder40may include a magnet opening46in which a first holder magnet47may be secured. It should be appreciated that the first holder magnet47may be removably connected within the magnet opening46, or may be fixedly connected. In some embodiments, the first holder magnet47may be integral with the first member41of the card holder40. The shape and size of the magnet opening46may vary depending upon the shape and size of the first holder magnet47. In some embodiments, the magnet opening46may be omitted, with the first holder magnet47being instead attached to the surface of the first member41. Thus, the first holder magnet47may be flush with the first member41, may extend out past the first member41, or may be depressed with respect to the first member41.

The type, strength, and polarization of the first holder magnet47may vary in different embodiments. The first holder magnet47may comprise a first surface84such as an outer surface and a second surface85opposite to the first surface84, such as an inner surface. The first holder magnet47may have a first polarity on the first surface84and a second polarity on the second surface85. The first holder magnet47will generally comprise a permanent (as opposed to temporary) magnet such as but not limited to neodymium iron boron, samarium cobalt, alnico, ceramic, and ferrite magnets. In some embodiments, electromagnets may be utilized.

In some embodiments, the card holder40, including the first member41and/or the second member50, may instead be comprised of a magnetically-attractive material. In such embodiments, the first holder magnet47may be omitted, with the card holder40itself being magnetically-attracted to the first protector magnet33of the card protector20for removably attaching the card holder40to the card protector20. In such embodiments, at least a portion of the card holder40may be comprised of a magnetically-attractive material. For example, the first member41in such embodiments may be comprised of a magnetically-attractive material which is adapted to magnetically engage with the first protector magnet33of the card protector20.

The shape of the first holder magnet47may vary in different embodiments. In the embodiment shown in the figures, the first holder magnet47is illustrated as comprising a rectangular shape. It should be appreciated that various other shapes may be utilized for the first holder magnet47, and thus the rectangular shape, including dimensions, shown in the figures should not be construed as limiting. The positioning and orientation of the first holder magnet47on the first member41of the card holder40may also vary and should not be construed as limited by the exemplary figures.

The first holder magnet47is primarily utilized for securing the card holder40to the card protector20such as shown inFIGS. 9 and 10. Thus, the first holder magnet47is generally adapted to magnetically engage with the corresponding first protector magnet33of the card protector20. In a preferred embodiment, the polarity of the second (inner) surface85of the first holder magnet47will be opposite to the polarity of the first (outer) surface80of the first protector magnet33such that the first protector magnet33and first holder magnet47are attracted to each other for securing the card holder40against the card protector20. Preferably, the polarity of the second (inner) surface85of the first holder magnet47will be the same as the polarity of the outer surface of the second protector magnet35such that the first holder magnet47does not inadvertently engage with the second protector magnet35, rather than the first protector magnet33. As best shown inFIGS. 5A and 5B, the card holder40also includes a second member50which is pivotable with respect to the first member41. The second member50is illustrated as comprising a central portion51from which a pair of arms54,56extends rearwardly such as shown inFIGS. 5A and 5B. The central portion51may comprise various shapes, such as a substantially rectangular shape as shown in the figures.

Continuing to referenceFIGS. 5A and 5B, it can be seen that the second member50includes a first arm54and a second arm56. The first arm54is adapted to press against the first projection44aof the first member41and the second arm56is adapted to press against the second projection44bof the first member41such that the card70may be secured between the respective projections44a,44bof the first member41and the respective arms54,56of the second member50. The first and second members41,50may be biased towards each other such that, absent application of force, the first arm54of the second member50is pressed against the first projection44aof the first member41and the second arm56of the second member50is pressed against the second projection44bof the first member41.

As best shown inFIGS. 5A and 5B, the arms54,56may each include teeth55,57which aid with gripping the card70. More specifically, it can be seen that the first arm54of the second member50includes first teeth55and that the second arm56of the second member50includes second teeth57. The shape, size, and number of teeth55,57may vary in different embodiments. In some embodiments, the teeth55,57may be omitted. In other embodiments, the teeth55,57may instead be replaced by a rubber or plastic strip or the like. Where teeth55,57are utilized, various materials may be utilized, including metals, plastics, rubbers, and the like.

In the embodiment shown inFIG. 5B, the central portion51includes an opening52in which a second holder magnet53may be positioned. Such an opening52may be omitted in some embodiments. The opening52may or may not extend through the entire body of the second member50. Thus, the configuration of the opening52may vary in different embodiments such that the second holder magnet53may be visible from the outer end of the second member50, or not be visible from the outer end of the second member50.

As shown inFIG. 5B, the second member50may include a second holder magnet53. The second holder magnet53may be visible from both the outer and inner surfaces of the second member50, or may be only visible on the inner surface of the second member50. The type, strength, and polarization of the second holder magnet53may vary in different embodiments. The second holder magnet53may comprise a first surface86such as an outer surface and a second surface87opposite to the first surface86, such as an inner surface. The second holder magnet53may have a first polarity on the first surface86and a second polarity on the second surface87. The second holder magnet53will generally comprise a permanent (as opposed to temporary) magnet such as but not limited to neodymium iron boron, samarium cobalt, alnico, ceramic, and ferrite magnets. In some embodiments, electromagnets may be utilized.

The shape of the second holder magnet53may vary in different embodiments. In the embodiment shown in the figures, the second holder magnet53is illustrated as comprising a rectangular shape. It should be appreciated that various other shapes may be utilized for the second holder magnet53, and thus the rectangular shape, including dimensions, shown in the figures should not be construed as limiting. The positioning and orientation of the second holder magnet53on the second member50of the card holder40may also vary and should not be construed as limited by the exemplary figures.

In embodiments in which it is included, the second holder magnet53will function in concert with the first holder magnet47to bias the card holder40into its closed position in the absence of application of force. Accordingly, the polarity of the second (inner) surface87of the second holder magnet53will preferably be the same as the polarity of the first (outer) surface84of the first holder magnet47such that the second (inner) surface87of the second holder magnet53is repelled by the first (outer) surface84of the first holder magnet47. When the first member41and second member50of the card holder40are pushed away from each other by magnetic repulsion between the matching polarities of the first and second holder magnets47,53, the arms54,56of the second member50are drawn closer to the projections44a,44bof the first member41such that the card holder40is biased towards the closed position.

As shown throughout the figures, the first and second members41,50work in concert such that the card holder40may function as a clip for the card70. The card holder40may be opened so as to receive a card70by pressing on the handle42to overcome both the bias force of the bias member49and/or the magnetic repulsion force of the first and second holder magnets47,53such that the first and second members41,50pivotally open to receive the card70. Upon release of the handle42, the bias force of the bias member49and/or the magnetic repulsion of the first and second holder magnets47,53will draw the projections44a,44band arms54,56of the card holder40into a closed position to secure the card70therein.

The manner in which the card holder40is opened or closed may vary in different embodiments. In the embodiment shown inFIG. 5Aa bias member49is utilized to bias the card holder40towards a closed position in which the first and second members41,50of the card holder40are pressed against each other. The type of bias member49utilized may vary in different embodiments. In the exemplary embodiment shown inFIGS. 5A, 11, 12A, 12B, and 12C, the bias member49may comprise a leaf spring which is positioned between the first and second members41,50of the card holder40. In some embodiments, the bias member49may be magnetized, such as by being comprised of a magnetic material.

The bias member49is positioned between the first and second members41,50of the card holder40so as to bias the first and second members41,50towards each other. The bias member49is positioned between the main body of the first member41and the central portion51of the second member50.

Because of the placement of the arms54,56, which extend rearwardly from the central portion51of the second member50, the force of the bias member49applied between the first and second members41,50functions to press the arms54,56of the second member50against the projections44a,44bof the first member41such as shown inFIGS. 12A, 12B, and 12C.

In the embodiment shown inFIG. 5B, the card holder40may comprise a first holder magnet47connected to the first member41and a second holder magnet53connected to the second member50such that the first and second holder magnets47,53are adapted to magnetically repulse each other, biasing the projections44a,44band arms54,56of the card holder40towards each other into the closed position. Thus, the card holder40of such an embodiment may be biased towards the closed position by the magnetic repulsion between the first and second holder magnets47,53.

An alternate embodiment of the card holder40is shown inFIGS. 13A, 13B, and13C. In such an alternate embodiment, a bias member49and second holder magnet53may be omitted entirely. Instead, a fastener48such as a screw or the like is utilized to open and close the card holder40. The fastener48is positioned to extend through both the first member41and the second member50of the card holder40. Rotating the fastener48in a first direction tightens the fastener so as to draw the first projection44aof the first member41towards the first arm54of the second member50and the second projection44bof the first member41towards the second arm56of the second member50to close the card holder40. Rotating the fastener48in a second, opposite direction loosens the fastener to as to separate the first and second members41,50to open the card holder40.

The type of fastener48utilized may vary in different embodiments. The fastener48may include a knob or the like, such as a watch knob, to ease rotation of the fastener48. The fastener48may comprise various types of materials. In a preferred embodiment, the fastener48may comprise a magnetically-attractive metal.

D. Securing Member

As shown throughout the figures, a securing member60may be provided to aid in wearing the card protector20. As best shown inFIGS. 15-20, the securing member60is adapted to be coupled to the card protector20, with clothing being sandwiched between the inner surface26of the card protector20and the securing member60. In this manner, the card protector20may be worn on an individual12by securing the card protector20to an article of clothing13with the securing member60. The securing member60may also be directly secured against the card protector20for various other functions, such as for extending a strap14through one or more of the central openings67of the securing member60as discussed herein.

In further embodiments, the securing member60may be utilized to secure the card protector20against a belt, with the card protector20positioned on the outer surface of the belt and the securing member60positioned on the inner surface of the belt. The securing member60may thus function as a belt clip in some embodiments. In such embodiments, the securing member60may be curved or bent to more easily fit over a belt. The securing member60may be fixedly secured at its upper end61to the inner surface26of the card protector20in some embodiments so as to function as such a belt clip. In such embodiments, the first and/or second securing magnets64,66may be omitted.

The securing member60will generally comprise an elongated, rectangular member having an upper end61, a lower end62, a first side68, and a second side69. However, various other shapes may be utilized for the securing member60, and thus the shape and size shown in the figures should not be construed as limiting in scope. While the figures illustrate that the securing member60is approximately the same length as the card holder40, it should be appreciated that the securing member60may be longer than, or shorter than, the card holder40in different embodiments.

In the exemplary embodiment shown inFIGS. 9 and 10, the securing member60may include a pair of securing magnets64,66which are utilized to couple the securing member60with the card holder40. As shown inFIGS. 5A and 5B, the securing member60may include an upper magnet opening63and a lower magnet opening65. The securing magnets64,66may be removably or fixedly attached within the magnet openings63,65. In some embodiments, the magnet openings63,65may be omitted, with the securing magnets64,66being fixedly attached to the surface of the securing member60, or integrally formed therewith. The securing magnets64,66may be flush with the surface of the securing member60, may extend past the surface of the securing member60, or may be depressed with respect to the surface of the securing member60.

The type, strength, and polarization of the securing magnets64,66may vary in different embodiments. The securing magnets64,66may have a first polarity on the first side and a second polarity on the second side. The securing magnets64,66will generally comprise permanent (as opposed to temporary) magnets such as but not limited to neodymium iron boron, samarium cobalt, alnico, ceramic, and ferrite magnets. In some embodiments, electromagnets may be utilized.

In a preferred embodiment in which the first protector magnet33has a reversed polarity configuration when compared with the second protector magnet35, the first securing magnet64will similarly have a reverse polarity configuration when compared to the second securing magnet66. Thus, in such a preferred embodiment, the first side of the first securing magnet64will have an opposite polarity with respect to the first side of the second securing magnet66. Such a configuration is utilized such that the first and second protector magnets33,35may have opposite polarities without affecting magnetic attraction with the securing magnets64,66.

The shape of the securing magnets64,66may vary in different embodiments. In the embodiment shown in the figures, each of the securing magnets64,66is illustrated as comprising a rectangular shape. It should be appreciated that various other shapes may be utilized for the securing magnets64,66, and thus the rectangular shape, including dimensions, shown in the figures should not be construed as limiting.

The positioning of the securing magnets64,66may vary in different embodiments. In the exemplary embodiment shown inFIGS. 9 and 10, the first securing magnet64is positioned near the upper end61of the securing member60and the second securing magnet66is positioned near the lower end62of the securing member60. In some embodiments, one or both securing magnets64,66may be omitted. In embodiments in which the securing member60does not include any securing magnets64,66, the securing member60may itself be comprised of a magnetically-attractive material so as to magnetically engage with the first and second protector magnets33,35directly.

As shown inFIGS. 9 and 10, the securing member60may include one or more central openings67. These central openings67may be utilized for a wide range of functions. By way of example, a strap14may be inserted through one or more of the central openings67to aid in wearing the card holder40. The number of central openings67may vary in different embodiments and thus should not be construed as limited by the exemplary figures. Further, the size of the central openings67may also vary. In some embodiments, different sizes may be used for each of the central openings67.

The central openings67are illustrated as being linearly aligned as they extend between the upper and lower ends61,62of the securing member60. It should be appreciated that the positioning and orientation of the central openings67may vary in different embodiments. Thus, the positioning and orientation shown in the figures should not be construed as limiting in scope.

As previously described, the inner surface26of the card protector20may include ribs36a,36b,37a,37bwhich form a guide or track for the securing member60. Thus, the securing member60may be secured to the card protector20such that the first ribs36a,37aare positioned on a first side68of the securing member60and the second ribs36b,37bare positioned on a second side69of the securing member60. In this manner, the securing member60will be prevented from shifting or moving from side-to-side, and thus anchored in place. The ribs36a,36b,37a,37balso provide a guide for ideal positioning of the securing member60on the card protector20.

E. Operation of Preferred Embodiment

The systems and methods described herein may be utilized for the protection and shielding wireless transmissions or communications of a wide range of devices, including but not limited to various types of cards70such as identification cards, credit cards, RFID badges and the like. More specifically, the card protector20may be utilized so as to cover all but the front face of the card70, with the sides of the card70being covered by the outer flange27of the card protector20to shield wireless transmissions. By positioning the card70into the card holding space28of the card protector20, one can protect and shield the card70from intrusion such as skimming of wireless transmissions.

In use, the card70is generally first secured within the card holder40. The card holder40may be opened into its opened position to receive the card70, and then closed into its closed position to secure the card70within the card holder40. In a first embodiment as shown inFIGS. 12A, 12B, and 12C, an individual12may grasp the handle42of the card holder40and press downwardly, which separates the first member41and the second member50of the card holder40. The card70may be inserted between the first and second members41,50of the card holder40and then the handle42may be released.

Upon release of pressure on the handle42, the first and second members41,50will revert back to their original position by force of the bias member49and/or holder magnets47,53. In such an original position, the card70will be secured between the projections44a,44bof the first member41of the card holder40and the arms54,56of the second member50of the card holder40such as shown inFIG. 12C.

To remove the card70, pressure may be applied again to the handle42to open the card holder40by moving the first and second members41,50away from each other. With the handle42depressed and the card holder40in the opened position, the card70may be safely removed from the card holder40. The handle42may then be released, with the first and second members41,50reverting back to their original closed position by force of the bias member49and/or first and second holder magnets47,53.

In an alternate embodiment as shown inFIGS. 13A, 13B, and 13C, a fastener48may instead be utilized to open and close the card holder40. In such an embodiment, the fastener48may be loosened by rotating in a first direction so as to draw the first and second members41,50of the card holder40away from each other for the card70to be inserted therein. The fastener48may then be tightened by rotating in a second direction to draw the first and second members41,50of the card holder40towards each other to secure the card70within the card holder40such as shown inFIG. 13C.

To remove the card70from the card holder40in the embodiment ofFIGS. 13A, 13B, and 13C, the fastener48may again be loosened to draw the first and second members41,50of the card holder40away from each other such that the card holder40is in the opened position. The card70may then be removed from between the first and second members41,50of the card holder40. The fastener48may be tightened again to close the card holder40until such time as the previous card70or a new card70is to be inserted using the steps described in the paragraph above.

With the card70secured within the card holder40, the card holder40may be secured to the card protector20. It should be appreciated, however, that in some embodiments the card holder40may first be secured to the card protector20, followed by insertion of the card70into the card holder40. The order in which the card70is inserted into the card holder40(i.e., before or after the card holder40is secured to the card protector20) may thus vary in different embodiments and to suit the needs of different individuals12.

To secure the card holder40to the card protector20, one need only position the card holder40such that the first holder magnet47is brought near to the first protector magnet33. To prevent the first holder magnet47from inadvertently engaging with the second protector magnet35, the polarity of the outer surface of the second protector magnet35may be the same as the polarity of the inner surface of the first holder magnet47such that the first holder magnet47is repelled from the second protector magnet35.

Upon the first protector magnet33and first holder magnet47being near each other, they will be magnetically attracted so as to removably secure the first holder magnet47against the first protector magnet33. In this manner, the card holder40may be removably attached to the card protector20. The card70will rest within the card holding space28of the card protector20, with the outer flange27covering the sides of the card70such as shown inFIGS. 1 and 15.

When it is desired to use the card70, such as to make a payment, access an area, or identify one's self, the card holder40and card70may be fully removed from the card protector20such that the card70may be swiped or scanned. The card holder40and card70may then be easily reconnected to the card protector20using the steps described above, with the card holder40snapping into place on the card protector20when the first protector magnet33and first holder magnet47are brought near to each other.

In some situations, it may not be necessary to fully remove the card holder40and retained card70from the card protector20. In such situations, one may simply grasp the extended portion30of the card protector20while pressing down on the handle42of the card holder40, which pivots the card70outwardly from the card protector20so as to partially expose the rear side of the card70such as shown inFIGS. 6 and 14. In such a position, the first protector magnet33and first holder magnet47remain engaged, with only the bottom of the card70being raised from the card protector20.

An individual12may choose to affix the card protector20, including the attached card holder40and retained card70, to his or her body or to an article of clothing13. The figures illustrate a number of exemplary methods for securing the card protector20to one's self. It should be appreciated that the described and shown methods are merely for exemplary purposes, and are not meant to be exhaustive as there are numerous methods for securing the card protector20to one's self. Further, the orientation of the card protector20may vary and should not be construed as limited by the figures.

If one desires to secure the card protector20to an article of clothing13, the securing member60may be utilized such as shown inFIGS. 15-20. The securing member60is positioned on the interior (inside) of the article of clothing13, such as inside of a shirt. The card protector20may then be positioned on the exterior (outside) of the article of clothing13in alignment and adjacent with the underlying securing member60. The securing magnets64,66of the securing member60will magnetically engage through the clothing13with the protector magnets33,35of the card protector20, thus sandwiching the article of clothing13between the card protector20and the securing member60. In this manner, the card protector20may be secured against an article of clothing13.

While the figures illustrate the article of clothing13as comprising a shirt of an individual12, it should be appreciated that the securing member60may be utilized to secure the card protector20against a wide range of types of articles of clothing13, including but not limited to pants, shorts, sweaters, jackets, hats, belts and the like. Further, in some embodiments or with certain types of cards70, it may be desirable to secure the card protector20horizontally, rather than vertically as shown in the figures.

FIG. 16illustrates a card protector20being secured against a shirt of an individual12, with the securing member60not being visible as it is underneath the shirt adjacent to the card protector20.FIG. 17illustrates the individual12completely removing the card holder40and card70together for use. After use, the card holder40and attached card70may be snapped back onto the card protector20as described previously.

It may be desirable to wear the card protector20around one's neck with a strap14such as a lanyard or the like.FIG. 18illustrates the card protector20being worn around the neck of an individual12. As shown, the strap connector15which is generally a clip may be secured to the opening31of the extended portion30of the card protector20. Although not shown, the strap connector15may be connected to various other locations on the card protector20, card holder40, or securing member60. For example, the opening43on the handle42of the card holder40may be utilized as a connection point for the strap connector15. As another example, one or more of the central openings67on the securing member60may serve the same function.

It may be desirable to link the card holder40to the card protector20, such as with a strap or the like. In the embodiment shown inFIGS. 19 and 20, an extension reel16is utilized which anchors the card holder40to the card protector20while still allowing the card holder40to be removed from the card protector20. In such an embodiment, the first connector18of the extension cord17extending from the extension reel16may be connected to the card protector20, such as to the opening31on the extended portion30of the card protector20. The second connector19of the extension cord17may be connected to the card holder40, such as the opening43of the handle42of the card holder40. Thus, the individual12may pull the card holder40and attached card70away from the card protector20, with the extension cord17anchoring the card holder40to the card protector20. Upon releasing the card holder40, the extension reel16will reel in the extension cord17to bring the card holder40and card70back to the card protector20to be secured in place.