Abstract:
This invention relates to a portable case adapted for holding handheld devices such as phones, cameras, camcorders, radios and other products as well as non-electronic devices such as flashlights. The case is supported by a selectively bendable stand which may be altered in any variety of positions to provide a support for the case and associated electronic equipment. The case may also include an elastic cord element to removably interconnect the electronic device on an exterior surface of the case during use.

Description:
[0001]    This application is a Continuation of pending U.S. patent application Ser. No. 09/902,510, filed Jul. 9, 2001, which claims priority of U.S. Provisional Patent Applications Ser Nos. 60/216,977 and 60/241,631, filed Jul. 7, 2000 and Oct. 19, 2000, respectively, and U.S. Design Patent Application S/N 29/137,521, now U.S. Design Pat. No. D453,417, filed Feb. 21, 2001, each application or issued patent incorporated by reference in their entirety herein. 
     
    
     
       FIELD OF THE INVENTION  
         [0002]    The present invention relates to carrying cases for handheld apparatus and more specifically to carrying cases having an interconnected selectively adjustable and reversible stand to provide an apparatus for supporting or hanging the carrying case in a plurality of positions.  
         BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION  
         [0003]    Handheld cases are used for any variety and number of purposes to protect electronic devices such as cameras, camcorders and other products from exposure to weather and other elements. These cases are also used to hold products such as flashlights, cell phones, global positioning systems (GPS), personal digital assistants (PDA&#39;s) portable radios and other similar handheld devices (herein collectively “electronic device”) These handheld cases are typically made of leather, nylon, or other fabrics which are resistant to wear yet provide protection from the elements. Certain cases also have the additional feature of providing a belt strap or other interconnection mechanism to attach the case to a user&#39;s belt or clothing. This feature prevents the case and associated electronic device from being inadvertently lost or stolen, yet allowing a user to have their hands free for other uses. One example of this type of case is a cell phone case manufactured and sold by McGuire-Nicholas which comprises a sheath or holster designed to receive the phone, and which is interconnected to a short, rigid metallic clip extending from the back of the sheath. Although the clip can be used on a belt, the carrying apparatus and enclosed electronic device cannot be supported in a stable upright position on a flat object such as a desk top. Further, the metallic clip is incapable of being reversibly bent to either support or hang the carrying case in any number of positions.  
           [0004]    Another type of holder especially designed for a flashlight is disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 6,206,542 for a “Flashlight Support Device”. This device allows a flashlight to be positioned in one of numerous different positions with four independently operated legs, yet is incapable of holding and securing other electronic devices within the rigid plastic sleeve. Further, the lower end of the plastic sleeve does not independently provide a stable base to secure an apparatus in a stable, upright position, nor provide a means for securing an electronic device to an exterior surface of the sleeve.  
           [0005]    Thus, none of the existing prior art storage cases provide a means for supporting or hanging an electronic device in a preferred position of use, while otherwise allowing the electronic device to be stored in a secure position adjacent a user&#39;s body. For example, to access the key pad on a cellular phone or PDA, it is preferable to have the device supported in a secure upright position. A further problem exists with flashlights which can be utilized in a number of different ways if the beam of light can be oriented in a preferred direction. For example, when a user needs both hands to operate tools or other machinery, it is preferable to have some type of case which can be used to support or hang the flashlight, yet can also be secured adjacent a user&#39;s body during transportation.  
           [0006]    Thus, a need exists for a carrying case which has a selectively adjustable support stand which allows the case to be oriented and positioned in a firm upright position or hung from an object to orient an electronic device in a preferred position of use. Additionally, a need exists for the support stand to be reversibly bendable in such a degree that it can be alternatively used as a belt clip or a support device with a plurality of positions of use.  
         SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION  
         [0007]    It is thus one aspect of the present invention to provide a portable carrying case for an electronic apparatus with a built-in selectively adjustable stand which can be either supported on an object such as a table top or hung from an object. As previously stated, these electronic apparatus may include but are not limited to cellular telephones, personal digital assistants (PDA&#39;s), radios, global positioning systems, (GPS), cameras, flashlights and other similar devices. The invention is designed to provide a reversibly bendable support member interconnected to a sheath or holster such that the apparatus and/or the case can be used in a multiplicity of applications. For example, the carrying case in one embodiment is designed to hold a cellular telephone. The selectively adjustable stand can be used to position the cellular phone in an upright position on a table or desk top for hands free operation. Further, the device can be used to hang the phone from an object such as a rear view mirror or cup-holder in an automobile. The selectively adjustable stand may also be used as a belt clip for securing the case to one&#39;s belt or another article of clothing when not in use. Further, the case may be secured on a belt and tilted in a preferred orientation of use while removably interconnected to a user&#39;s belt or pocket.  
           [0008]    In one aspect of the present invention, a removably bendable support stand is provided which may be bent in at least two distinct directions to allow the carrying case to either be supported on or hung from an object. In one embodiment of the present invention a bendable metallic material is provided for the support stand which is preferably covered with a fabric, plastic, rubber or other material.  
           [0009]    It is another aspect of the present invention to provide a means for supporting the electronic apparatus on the exterior of the carrying case to allow use while exposing keypads, buttons, speakers and other gadgetry associated with the electronic device. In one embodiment of the present invention, an elastic cord is interconnected on a front surface of the sheath to accommodate this feature. Alternatively, mesh fabric materials, hook and loop straps or other types of similar devices may be used for the same purpose.  
           [0010]    It is another aspect of the present invention to provide a carrying case with a reflective flap cover, wherein the interior surface of the flap has a reflective lining. This reflective lining may be chosen from metal foils or any other reflective fabrics to reflect a light source in a preferred direction. The reflective inner lining is preferably used in conjunction with a flashlight to deflect light similar to a lantern. Thus, the flashlight/carrying case may be adjusted using the selectively adjustable stand to deflect light off the flap inner lining to disburse the light over a greater area than a typical flashlight.  
           [0011]    It is yet a further aspect of the present invention to provide one or more sleeves interconnected to the case for storing batteries or other auxiliary devices. The sleeves are generally created by an elastic band sewn or otherwise attached to the carrying case body. The elastic sleeves are typically sized for the batteries commonly used in the device for which the carrying case is designed to carry, although other types of accessory items commonly used with the electronic apparatus can also be conveniently stored on the case.  
           [0012]    It is yet another aspect of the present invention to provide a secondary elastic band or other similar apparatus which is interconnected to the support stand, sheath, or both and which enables the carrying case to be attached to a secondary object. In the example of the flashlight carrying case, this feature enables a user to create an adjustable headband for holding the carrying case and associated flashlight on a user&#39;s head.  
           [0013]    It is a further aspect of the present invention that the support member and associated sheath and backing plate have sufficient rigidity to provide at least three distinct points of support, i.e. from a minimum of two corners on the sheath back support and one on the selectively adjustable support member. Preferably, at least four distinct points of support are provided, i.e., two from the corners of the sheath back support and two from the corners of the adjustable support stand corners to provide a stable, secure stand that will not easily tip over during use. Alternatively, in one embodiment of the present invention a support member with two distinct legs is provided which works in operable combination to support or suspend the carrying case and electronic apparatus.  
           [0014]    It is a further aspect of the present invention to provide a sheath and/or support member with a skid-resistant material such as rubber or soft plastic which in use is in direct contact with a table top or other planer object to impede slipping. Thus, in one embodiment of the present invention a rubber material is positioned along a lower edge of the support member, or sheath back support.  
           [0015]    It is another aspect of the present invention to provide a removable support stand in combination with a carrying case for use with cameras and other similar devices wherein the selectively adjustable stand may be used as a tripod for a camera for which the case is designed. More specifically, the camera case can be selectively adjusted to support a camera, camcorder or other similar hand-held object in a stable, preferred position wherein a remote control or timing device can be used to operate the camera in a “hands-off” mode. When not in use, the selectively adjustable support stand can be removed and stored in a sleeve, pocket, or other similar storage area integral to the case.  
           [0016]    It is yet another aspect of the present invention to provide a flexible sheath made of a sewn and stitched material with a rigid backing sheet to provide sufficient support for the apparatus while positioned upright on a planar object such as a table or desk top. As opposed to rigid plastic cases, the sewn and stitched type sheath provides flexibility for different sized electronic devices, and is cost effective to manufacture.  
           [0017]    In one embodiment of the present invention, a one-piece bendable, metallic support member is provided, and which extends along substantially the entire rear portion of the sheath. Preferably, the one-piece bendable metallic support stand has a sufficient length to comprise both a back support for the sheath and the selectively adjustable support member, and being bendable in a position substantially midway between a first end and a second end. Alternatively, dual support legs which operate in substantial unison may be provided with the sheath to provide a case with sufficient support to be oriented in an upright position.  
           [0018]    It is a further aspect of the present invention that the support member include a snap, button or other similar securement device which allows the support member to be removably interconnected to the sheath to allow the carrying case to be secured to a belt or other object. Preferably, the device may be secured with the use of one hand, such as with a snap on hook and loop material.  
           [0019]    Thus, in one aspect of the present invention, a case adapted for protecting an apparatus and providing a selectively adjustable support stand is provided, which comprises:  
           [0020]    a case body comprising a back support and a sheath for defining an interior space to receive the apparatus, said sheath comprising an upper end, a lower end and opposing lateral edges positioned therebetween;  
           [0021]    a support member having a free end, a connecting end and opposing lateral edges positioned therebetween, said support member being reversibly bendable along substantially an entire length and interconnected on said connecting end to said sheath, wherein said support member can be maintained closely adjacent to said sheath or selectively bent to either support or hang said carrying case in a plurality of positions. 
       
    
    
     BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS  
       [0022]    [0022]FIG. 1 is a front perspective view of one embodiment of the present invention;  
         [0023]    [0023]FIG. 2 is a front elevation view of the embodiment shown in FIG. 1;  
         [0024]    [0024]FIG. 3 is the rear elevation view of the embodiment shown in FIG. 1;  
         [0025]    [0025]FIG. 4 is a right elevation view of the embodiment shown in FIG. 1;  
         [0026]    [0026]FIG. 5 is a right elevation view of the embodiment depicted in FIG. 1 with a flashlight held in a vertical position of use;  
         [0027]    [0027]FIG. 6 is a right elevation view of the embodiment of FIG. 1, wherein a flashlight is held in an angled position;  
         [0028]    [0028]FIG. 7 is a side elevation view of the embodiment of FIG. 1, wherein the selectively adjustable stand is formed to provide a handgrip;  
         [0029]    [0029]FIG. 8 is a right elevation view of the embodiment of FIG. 1, with a portion of a reflective flap used to provide a lantern;  
         [0030]    [0030]FIG. 9 is a top plan view of the embodiment shown in FIG. 1;  
         [0031]    [0031]FIG. 10 is a front perspective view of an alternative embodiment of the present invention;  
         [0032]    [0032]FIG. 11 is a front perspective view of the embodiment of FIG. 10 shown with a flap extended upwardly to identify various pockets;  
         [0033]    [0033]FIG. 12 is a left elevation view of FIG. 10;  
         [0034]    [0034]FIG. 13 is a front perspective view of the embodiment of FIG. 10 with an incorporated shoulder strap;  
         [0035]    [0035]FIG. 14 is a front perspective view of another embodiment of the present invention used to hold a portable camera;  
         [0036]    [0036]FIG. 15 is a right elevation view of the embodiment shown in FIG. 14 with a camera positioned on top of the case;  
         [0037]    [0037]FIG. 16 is a front perspective view of the an alternative embodiment of the present invention;  
         [0038]    [0038]FIG. 17 is a front perspective view of the embodiment shown in FIG. 16 in an open position;  
         [0039]    [0039]FIG. 18 is a front perspective view of the portable support stand used to hold a camera as shown in a position of use;  
         [0040]    [0040]FIG. 19 is a side view of the embodiment shown in FIG. 18, in application with a camera positioned on top of the support stand;  
         [0041]    [0041]FIG. 20 is a securing screw for use in the embodiment shown in FIG. 15;  
         [0042]    [0042]FIG. 21 is a front perspective view of one embodiment of the present invention shown with an elastic cord element;  
         [0043]    [0043]FIG. 22 is a top plan view of the embodiment of FIG. 21 and shown in application as a headband;  
         [0044]    [0044]FIG. 23 is a front perspective view of the embodiment shown in FIG. 22 in use as a headband;  
         [0045]    [0045]FIG. 24 is a front perspective view of another embodiment of the present invention designed to hold a cell phone;  
         [0046]    [0046]FIG. 25 is a right elevation view of the embodiment shown in FIG. 24 with an elastic cord shown in a stored position;  
         [0047]    [0047]FIG. 26 is a right elevation view of the embodiment of FIG. 25 with the support stand shown hung over an object;  
         [0048]    [0048]FIG. 27 is a front perspective view of one embodiment of the present invention designed to hold a 2-way radio;  
         [0049]    [0049]FIG. 28 is a left front perspective view of the invention of FIG. 27;  
         [0050]    [0050]FIG. 29 is a rear perspective view of the invention of FIG. 27;  
         [0051]    [0051]FIG. 30 is a left perspective view of the embodiment of FIG. 27 shown hung over an object;  
         [0052]    [0052]FIG. 31 is a front view of an alternative embodiment of the present invention and designed to hold a cellular phone;  
         [0053]    [0053]FIG. 32 is a left front perspective view of the embodiment shown in FIG. 31;  
         [0054]    [0054]FIG. 33 is a rear perspective view of the embodiment shown in FIG. 31;  
         [0055]    [0055]FIG. 34 is left perspective view of the embodiment of FIG. 31 and shown in a hung position of use;  
         [0056]    [0056]FIG. 35 is a front perspective view of an alternative embodiment of the present invention, designed and used to hold a personal digital assistant;  
         [0057]    [0057]FIG. 36 is a left front perspective view of the embodiment shown in FIG. 35 with the flap down;  
         [0058]    [0058]FIG. 37 is a rear perspective view of the embodiment shown in FIG. 35;  
         [0059]    [0059]FIG. 38 is a front perspective view of the embodiment of FIG. 35 and shown hung from an object;  
         [0060]    [0060]FIG. 39 is a front perspective view of an alternative embodiment of the present invention which is designed to hold a global positioning system;  
         [0061]    [0061]FIG. 40 is a left front perspective view of the embodiment of FIG. 39;  
         [0062]    [0062]FIG. 41 is a rear perspective view of the embodiment of FIG. 39;  
         [0063]    [0063]FIG. 42 is a front elevation view of the embodiment of FIG. 39, and shown hung from an object;  
         [0064]    [0064]FIG. 43 is a front elevation view of the present invention in use in combination with an electronic apparatus; and  
         [0065]    [0065]FIG. 44 is a right front perspective view of the invention shown in FIG. 43 with the selectively adjustable support member removed from a user&#39;s belt. 
     
    
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENT  
       [0066]    Referring now to the drawings, FIG. 1 shows one embodiment of the present invention. In general, the invention comprises a case body  30  with a back support  32  and a sheath  34  interconnected to the back support  32 . The back support  32  typically has a lower end  36  and an upper end  38  which provides rigidity and support to the sheath  34 . Alternatively, a sheath  34  may be provided without the back support  32 . One distinct and novel feature of the present invention is the selectively adjustable support member  40 , which generally has a free end  42  and a connection end  44 . The adjustable support member  40  is interconnected to an upper portion of the back support  38  in a manner which allows the support member to be rotated about a point of interconnection with an upper portion of the back-support  38  or sheath  34 .  
         [0067]    The adjustable support member  40  is bendable and positionable so as to allow selective adjustment and orientation of the carrying case to a desired position of use or storage. Preferably, the adjustable support member  40  is hingedly interconnected to the back support upper end  38 . More preferably, the adjustable support member  40  is bendable in at least a first direction and a second direction, and has the ability to repeatedly be bent and configured in a plurality of positions without damaging the bendable material associated with the adjustable support member  40 . It is also preferred that the adjustable support member  40  be flexible enough to be repositioned to another desired position or to its original position, i.e., reversibly bendable. Additionally, it is preferable that the adjustable support member  40  be reversibly bendable along at least substantially its entire length.  
         [0068]    In a preferred embodiment, the adjustable support member  40  has a sufficient length to extend substantially along an entire length of the sheath  34 , and thus serves the dual role of being both a back support  32  and a selectively adjustable support member  40 . In one embodiment, the selectively adjustable support member  40  is used in conjunction with a sewn and stitched, durable fabric material which provides some flexibility to hold different types of apparatus in the same case in a cost effective manner. To enhance the flexibility, the sheath  34  may be constructed with elastic panels which interconnect the back support  32  to a front panel of the sheath  34 . Further, in some embodiments which store electronic devices, it is preferable to have some form of aperture or opening on a lower end of the sheath  34  to allow the removable interconnection of attachment devices such as headphones, etc.  
         [0069]    Thus, as seen in FIGS. 5-8, the adjustable support member  40  may be bent to either provide a support for a substantially flat object such as a desk top, or be used to hang the case and associated electronic apparatus from an object such as a vehicle rear view mirror or other object.  
         [0070]    Also shown in FIG. 1 is a plurality of storage sleeves  46 . In this embodiment two storage sleeves  46  are attached to the sheath  34 . Each storage sleeve  46  is essentially a piece of elastic fabric folded to form a tube and sewn to or otherwise attached to the case body  30 . The embodiment of FIG. 1 further includes a sheath cover  48  for securing the apparatus within the case body  30 .  
         [0071]    In the embodiment shown in FIG. 1, the sheath cover  48  has a flap end  50  and a secured end  52 . The secured end  52  is attached to the back support head end  38  and can be selectively secured to the case body  30  by cover securement means  54 . The cover securement means  54  may be hook and loop closure, snap, button or other equivalent device for selective securement. Alternatively, the sheath cover  48  may be sized to accommodate selective insertion and removal of a writing instrument  55 , such as a pencil, into the sheath  34  beside the carrying case&#39;s intended electronic device without displacement of the sheath cover.  
         [0072]    [0072]FIGS. 2-4 represent the front elevation, rear elevation and right elevation views of the embodiment of FIG. 1. FIG. 4 is a partially exploded view which provides more detail regarding the adjustable support member  40  and the construction thereof. FIG. 3 depicts the selectively adjustable support member  40  with an interconnection mechanism  60  for securing the adjustable support member  40  to the back support  32 . This interconnection mechanism  60  may be any securement means such as a snap, hook and loop closure, such as VELCRO®, or other equivalent device that allows the adjustable support to be maintained in a proximal relation to the case to minimize the area required to store the case  30 . More specifically, the snap or other similar device is typically used to secure the adjustable support member  40  and associated case body  30  to a user&#39;s belt or other similar device.  
         [0073]    [0073]FIG. 3 also depicts a flashlight bulb holder  62 . The bulb holder  62  is typically fabricated in the same manner as the other storage sleeves  46 . However, in this embodiment the bulb holder  62  is attached horizontally between the seam of the sheath cover secured end  52  and the back support head end  38 . The bulb holder may be used, among other things, to store a replacement bulb for a flashlight for which the carrying case is designed.  
         [0074]    [0074]FIG. 4 depicts a right elevation view of the embodiment of the present invention shown in FIG. 1. FIG. 4 shows in a partially exploded view and one possible method of forming the selectively adjustable support member  40 . In this view, the bendable support member  40  is housed within one side by the inner support lining  66  and the inner fabric cover  70  and on the other side by the outer support lining  68  and the outer fabric covering  72 . In this way, the bendable support member  40  may be formed from any formable material, for example sheet metal, bendable plastics and other similar materials. The support linings  66  and  68  protect the fabric coverings  70  and  72 , respectively, from wear and abrasion by the bendable support member  40 . In one embodiment, the fabric coverings  70  and  72  are secured together by a support edge covering  74 . Thus, the fabric coverings  70  and  72 , plastic linings  66  and  68 , and bendable support member  40  are all protected along the edges. The support edge covering  74  also provides a method of securement by stitching, adhesive or other similar method.  
         [0075]    With regard to the physical shape and characteristics of the selectively adjustable support member  40 , any number of configurations could be used for the same purpose of providing a selectively adjustable support which can be reversibly and repeatedly bent in a plurality of positions. More specifically, the support member  40  may have a generally rectangular, square, or triangular shape, or may be comprised of two legs (as opposed to one) working in operable combination to provide a stable support mechanism capable of supporting or hanging the sheath  34 . Further, in one embodiment of the present application it is anticipated that the adjustable support member be biased to extend outwardly when pressure is applied to a lower portion of the sheath  30 , back support lower end  36 , or a lower portion of the support member  40 . Thus, the selectively adjustable support member  40  can be automatically extended upon setting the case body  30  on a surface (not shown). Further, anti-skid materials such as rubber may be placed on a lower portion of the adjustable support member  40 , lower portion of the back support  32 , or lower portion of the sheath  34  to inhibit the device from sliding while positioned on a table top or other similar surface.  
         [0076]    Referring now to FIGS. 5-8, in another aspect of the present invention a reflective lining  56  is provided on an interior surface of the sheath cover  48 . This reflective lining  52  causes the sheath cover  48  to deflect light when used in combination with a flashlight. The reflective material is generally comprised of a reflective surface such as aluminum foil, tin foil and other well known materials which may be sewn, stitched or otherwise interconnected to the interior flap surface. One such material is a metallic silver wolf grain laminated to an Osnaburg cloth as manufactured by Kline Processing, Inc. of Trenton, N.J.  
         [0077]    [0077]FIG. 1 further shows an additional embodiment of the present invention used in combination with the reflective lining  52 , and which includes an eyelet  58 . The eyelet  58  can be used in conjunction with a flashlight in the carrying case  30  and the reflective lining  56  to create a type of signal mirror, for example, to be used to signal help. The user may look through the eyelet  58  in the direction of the light reflected by the reflective lining  56  to verify the reflection is directed as desired. The user may also line up a target person to receive a signal with the eyelet  56  and prevent unwanted persons or animals from viewing the signal.  
         [0078]    [0078]FIGS. 5-8 shows the present invention in use with a typical handheld flashlight. In this application the selectively adjustable support member  40  is positioned relative to the case body  30  in one of a plurality of possible positions to direct a beam of light in a preferred direction. FIG. 7 shows a side view of the alternative use of the embodiment of the present invention. In this embodiment, the adjustable support member  40  is formed so as to fit the hand of the user of the case body  30  such that the user&#39;s hand may hold the adjustable support member  40  while keeping the other hand free to hold another device such as a baton or other weapon in the use of law enforcement.  
         [0079]    [0079]FIG. 8 shows a side view of yet another application of the embodiment of the present invention shown in FIG. 1. In this application, the selectively adjustable support member  40  is positioned such that the case body in conjunction with a flashlight is held in a vertical position. In this configuration, the reflective lining  56  of the sheath cover  48  is placed above the flashlight such that the flashlight can be used as a lantern by disbursing and defracting light over a greater area.  
         [0080]    [0080]FIG. 9 is a top plan view of the embodiment shown in FIG. 1, and identifying in greater detail some of the features discussed above. To form some of the numerous storage sleeves  46  used in the present invention, an elastic fabric  76  is generally cut to a desired length and folded to form the storage sleeves  46  secured by a tube seam  82 . The elastic fabric  76  has a constraining member  78  along one of the lateral sides of the elastic fabric  76 . The constraining member  78  provides for one end of the storage sleeves  46  to remain at some desired size such that unwanted slippage of a battery or other accessory device does not occur through that respective end of the storage sleeve  46 . The constraining member  78  may be a thread, a cord, a wire, a staple or any other like method inserted in the elastic fabric  76  to limit the stretching along at least a portion of the material.  
         [0081]    [0081]FIG. 10 depicts another embodiment of the present invention wherein the case body  30  is designed to hold a cellular telephone  86 . As in other embodiments of the present invention, this embodiment generally comprises a sheath  34  designed to fit a particular apparatus. The sheath  34  may be interconnected to a back support  32  with a sufficiently wide lower end  36  to provide stability and inhibit the case body  30  and enclosed electronic apparatus from inadvertently tipping. Thus, it is preferable that the case body  30  and interconnected selectively adjustable support member  40  have at least three distinct points of contact to provide a stable, non tipping base. In FIG. 10, the adjustable support member  40  has at least one distinct point of contact while the lower end of the back support  32  has a point of contact on each corner. Preferably the adjustable support member  40  is wide enough to provide two distinct points of contact, i.e., one on each corner.  
         [0082]    [0082]FIG. 10 shows an alternative embodiment of the present invention whereby the sheath cover  48  may include a logo  88  or other distinctive design to allow the user to show support for a company, corporation or particular sports team. FIG. 11 shows the embodiment of the present invention as in FIG. 10 without the cellular phone in the sheath  34 . In this view it is possible to see alternative embodiments of the invention such as a business card pocket  90  formed on the outside of the sheath  34 , and a money pocket  92  formed between the sheath  34  and the back support  32 . These alternative embodiments allow the user to employ the case for additional purposes beyond merely storing a cellular telephone. The money pocket  92  and the business card pocket  90  may be used in applications other than what their names would imply. For example, the business card pocket  90  could easily store a thin calculator. Similarly, the money pocket  92  could be just as easily house credit cards, or similar items. As FIG. 11 shows, the case may suffice as an all purpose wallet or purse such that the user need not carry any additional personal items.  
         [0083]    [0083]FIG. 12 is a left elevation view of the embodiment invention shown in FIG. 11 with the sheath cover  48  in a closed position and containing a cellular telephone. FIG. 11 further shows how a flashlight  96  or other electronic device may be stored in a desired location in one of the storage sleeves  46  immediately adjacent the cellular telephone.  
         [0084]    [0084]FIG. 13 depicts an alternative embodiment of the present invention shown in FIG. 12, wherein a shoulder strap  98  is secured between the adjustable support member  40  and the back support  32  by the interconnection mechanism  60 . In this way, the case  30  may be carried with the shoulder strap  98  over the user&#39;s shoulder, much like a purse. Alternatively, the strap could be wrapped around an object to secure the case  30  in a desired position. In one embodiment the shoulder strap may comprise an elastic cord or other similar type of stretchable material. Alternatively, non-stretching materials such as leather may be used.  
         [0085]    [0085]FIG. 14 shows an alternative embodiment of the present invention for use with a camera. In this embodiment, a camera mounting surface  100  is formed by the sheath cover  48 . The camera mounting surface  100  preferably contains a mounting screw aperture  102  for selectively mounting a camera to the sheath cover  48  and thus the case body  30 . In this manner, the present invention may be used as a camera stand by positioning the selectively adjustable support member  40  in a desired orientation. The camera mounting surface  100  may additionally include a plate (not shown) attached to the sheath cover  48  to provide a more rigid surface for resting a camera.  
         [0086]    [0086]FIG. 15 is a side elevation view of the embodiment of the present invention showing FIG. 14 in application. As depicted, the camera  106  for which the case is sized is nested upon the carrying case body  30  for hands free use. For example, with the use of a timer on a camera, the camera may be secured to the sheath cover  48  and the associated camera mounting surface  100  by means of a mounting screw  104 . FIG. 20 shows a possible embodiment of the mounting screw  104  in greater detail. In this embodiment, the mounting screw  104  has opposing sides with two distinct sized threads. The mounting screw minor thread  108  is sized to properly insert into the base of the most common sized small screw receiving cameras. Similarly, the size of the mounting screw major thread  110  is selected to fit the most common sized large screw receiving cameras, and thus has multiple uses.  
         [0087]    [0087]FIG. 16 shows yet another embodiment of the present invention. In this embodiment, the case body  112  is hingedly connected to a case cover  114 . The case cover  114  may be selectively secured to the case body  112  by the case cover securement means  118 , which may include a snap, button, hook and loop material or the like. The embodiment of FIG. 16 is shown with a carrying strap  116 . The carrying strap  116  is generally secured to the lateral edges of the case body. The embodiment of FIG. 16, however, differs in one important aspect from the embodiments described thus far. In this embodiment, the adjustable support  120  are removably attached to the inside surface of the case cover  114  by Velcro® or other attachment means.  
         [0088]    As shown in FIG. 17, the embodiment of the present shown in FIG. 16 is shown in the open position. This case body  112  could be used to carry a camera and other ancillary equipment such as a telephoto lens. FIG. 18 shows the removably attached supports  120  from the inside of the case cover  114  in application. The formable supports  120  can be positioned to form a camera stand by using two adjustable supports  120  in tandem. Both adjustable supports  120  preferably have a central screw aperture  122  such that when the screw hole apertures  122  are aligned the two adjustable supports  120  form a mounting platform  124 .  
         [0089]    [0089]FIG. 19 shows the mounting platform  124  of FIG. 23 in application as a camera stand. The mounting screw  104  is inserted through the screw aperture  122  into the camera to provide a secure position. The free ends of the support members may be positioned to properly orient the camera as desired by the user.  
         [0090]    With reference to FIG. 21, the present invention may also include an elastic cord element  126  on the case body  30  of the present invention which is adapted for use with a flashlight. In the embodiment shown in FIG. 21, the two opposing ends of the elastic cord element  126  are attached to the case body  30  at the base end  36  of the back support  32 . The elastic cord element  126  may thus be used to form a loop with the base end  36  of the back support  32 . The elastic cord element  126  may be used to maintain the position of the selectively adjustable support member  40 . The elastic cord element  126  may also be used in tandem with the adjustable support member  40  to maintain the case body  30  at some position relative to another object. The sheath cover  48  may also be placed behind the item in the sheath  34  to prevent interference, e.g., to prevent the sheath cover  48  from blocking a portion of the light beam from a flashlight in the sheath  34 .  
         [0091]    As further shown in FIG. 21, a central portion of the elastic cord element  126  may be looped around the adjustable support member  40  to maintain its relative connection. Additionally, a portion of the adjustable support member  40  may be bent on one end to further facilitate the connection. With reference to FIG. 21, the elastic cord element  126  may be placed in a stored position when not in use. One possible storage position of the elastic cord element  126  is created by forming a loop in a central portion of the elastic cord element  126  and placing it over the adjustable support free end  42  and moving the loop to the adjustable support free end  44 .  
         [0092]    With reference now to FIGS. 22-23, one possible use of the present invention with an elastic cord element  126  is shown. In FIG. 22, the adaptation of the present invention with the elastic cord element  126  for use as a head band is shown in a top plan view. The present invention in this drawing is shown for encasing a flashlight. As shown in FIG. 22, the adjustable support free end  42  may be bent to form a hook  128 . The elastic cord element  126  may then be placed over the hook  128  and the head of a user may be placed within the band created by the case body  30 , the adjustable support member  40 , and the elastic cord element  126 . FIG. 23 shows the embodiment of FIG. 30 shown in front plan view. The case body  30  may then be positioned to direct the light beam of the flashlight to user&#39;s line of sight, thus allowing for hands-free use of the flashlight.  
         [0093]    Referring now to FIG. 24, in one embodiment of the present invention an elastic cord element  126  may be provided on the case to assist in maintaining an object on an exterior portion of the sheath  34 . In one embodiment, an elastic cord element  126  may be attached to opposite lateral sides of the back support  32 . Alternatively, the elastic cord element  126  may be attached to a portion of the sheath  34 . Preferably, the elastic cord element  126  is attached to the opposing lateral sides of the back support  32  closer to the lower end  36  than the upper end  38 . If a longer elastic cord element  126  is used, the elastic cord element  126  may be wrapped around the case body  30  a plurality of times to sufficiently hold the stored device, e.g., a cellular telephone  86 , to the exterior of the case body  30 . If a shorter elastic cord element  126  is used, the elastic cord element  126  may be used to hold the stored device to the exterior of the case body  30  simply by moving the elastic cord element  126  to the front of the case body  30  and inserting the stored device therein. As shown in FIG. 24, the elastic cord element  126  may also be used with the stored electronic device in the sheath  34  to more securely hold the stored device in place.  
         [0094]    Referring now to FIG. 25, the embodiment of FIG. 24 is shown in a right elevation view. In this view, the elastic cord element  126  is placed in a position of storage around the back support  32  of the case body  30 . In this position, the elastic-cord element  126  is placed out of the way to prevent undesired snagging of the elastic cord element  126  on foreign bodies or other interferences. The elastic cord element  126  may be maintained in this position with or without the back support  32  secured to the case body  30  by interconnection mechanism  60 .  
         [0095]    With reference now to FIG. 26, the embodiment of claim  24  is shown in a right elevation view. In this embodiment, the elastic cord element  126  is used to secure an object, e.g., a cellular telephone  86 , normally stored within the sheath  34  to the exterior of the case body  30 . The elastic cord element  126  may also be used to store an additional object, e.g., a note pad or other device, to the exterior of the case body  30  with or without the normally stored object within the sheath  34 . Additionally, FIG. 35 shows how the selectively adjustable support member  40 , because it is reversibly bendable along at least substantially its entire length, may be bent in a plurality of directions to accommodate the necessary usage. In this figure, the selectively adjustable support member  40  is bent to form a hook such that the case body  30  may be supported by an object B. Once the hooking of the case body  30  is no longer required, the selectively adjustable support member  40  may be bent back to its original shape and placed once again in a storage position or bent to form another desired orientation.  
         [0096]    Referring now to FIGS. 27-30, numerous depictions of one embodiment of the present invention is provided herein. More specifically, a case for a two-way radio is shown. Likewise, FIGS. 31-34 are drawings of a case for a cell phone, FIGS. 35-38 are drawings of a case for a PDA, and FIGS. 39-42 are drawings depicting a case for a GPS.  
         [0097]    Referring now to FIGS. 43-44, one additional aspect of the present invention is provided herein. More specifically, a case designed to hold a PDA or other electronic device is provided, and as shown interconnected to a user&#39;s belt in FIG. 43. As depicted, the selectively adjustable support member  40  may be positioned behind a user&#39;s belt, while the interconnected back support member  40  and sheath  34  are oriented upwardly in a position which allows the PDA to be used in any number of desired configurations which are convenient for the user. FIG. 44 is a front perspective view of the carrying case and associated PDA shown in FIG. 43, with the device removed from the user&#39;s belt and identifying the interconnection of the PDA to the exterior of the sheath by the use of elastic cords  126 . As appreciated by one skilled in the art, the carrying case shown in FIGS. 43-44 can be used to carry any type of electronic or non-electronic devices.  
         [0098]    To assist in the understanding of the invention and associated drawings, the following list of components and associated numbering are included herein.  
                                             #   Component                                30   case body       32   back support       34   Sheath       36   back support lower end       38   back support upper end       40   selectively adjustable support       42   adjustable support free end       44   adjustable support connection end       46   storage sleeves       48   sheath cover       50   sheath cover flap end       52   sheath cover secured end       54   cover securement device       55   writing instrument       56   reflective lining       58   Eyelet       60   interconnection mechanism       62   flashlight bulb holder       64   bendable support       66   inner support lining       68   outer support lining       70   inner fabric cover       72   outer fabric cover       74   support edge covering       76   elastic fabric       78   constraining member       80   constraining stitch       82   tube seam       84   cellular phone wallet       86   cellular telephone       88   Logo       90   wallet business card pocket       92   wallet money pocket       94   nail clippers       96   Flashlight       98   shoulder strap       100   camera mounting surface       102   mounting screw aperture       104   mounting screw       106   Camera       108   mounting screw minor thread       110   mounting screw major thread       112   Case       114   case cover       116   carrying strap       118   case cover securement means       120   removably attached support       122   screw aperture       124   mounting platform       126   elastic cord element       128   Hook       130   personal digital assistant                  
 
         [0099]    The foregoing exemplary descriptions and the illustrative preferred embodiments of the present invention have been explained in the drawings and described in detail with varying modifications and alternative embodiments being taught. While the invention has been so shown, described and illustrated, it should be understood by those skilled in the art that equivalent changes in form and detail may be made therein without departing from the true spirit and scope of the invention, and that the scope of the present invention is to be limited only to the claims except as precluded by the prior art. Moreover, the invention as disclosed herein, may be suitably practiced in the absence of the specific elements which are disclosed herein.