Abstract:
A case apparatus attachable to a portable device enabling the storage and transport of a variety of articles. The apparatus is optimally configured with releasable components enabling interchange of various features including those which facilitate attachment to the device allowing a single case implementation to securely fit various device implementations. The apparatus includes a large utility panel which receives attachment of all other case components, smaller utility panels which receive attachment of various articles, compartment enclosures which cover the smaller utility panels while allowing easy access to their contents, a large presentation panel to cover and conceal the entire case assembly and contained contents but having openings to allow access to the compartment enclosures and either a strap and clasp retention assembly to bind the case around the device or a clip fastening assembly which attaches to corresponding fittings on an adapted device to fasten the case to the device.

Description:
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS 
     This application claims the benefit of provisional patent application Ser. No. 60/918,873, filed 2007 Mar. 19 by the present inventor. 
    
    
     FEDERALLY SPONSORED RESEARCH 
     Not Applicable 
     SEQUENCE LISTING OR PROGRAM 
     Not Applicable 
     BACKGROUND 
     1. Field of Invention 
     This invention generally relates to portable electronic devices and, more specifically, an attachable portable device case cover with interchangeable components 
     2. Prior Art 
     Portable laptop notebook computers and similarly configured devices have become more frequently used for both business and personal use. They have become less expensive and often more durable than their predecessors. Instead of just being used in one location, shut down, packed in a case, and taken to a new location, they are increasingly taken from room to room in the workplace or in the home. Typically, in order to carry the device along with its accessories and any other articles, the device and all of the other items would be inserted into a case, transported, and removed from the case to resume use. If any of the accessories require connection to the device, they would often have to be disconnected and reconnected at the new location. Consequently, there is an increasing need to accommodate storage, transport and deployment of frequently used accessories and articles that often accompany these portable devices. 
     The objective of some prior art has been to primarily transport and/or protect the device and secondarily to store accessories. There are several designs in the marketplace that are molded to tightly fit around a device and either snap onto device or be attached with adhesive. One invention, U.S. Pat. No. 6,149,001 to Akins, implements a glove-like structure into which the device is inserted. These approaches restrict an implementation of the case to limited implementations of the device. 
     Conversely, some commonly found solutions attempt to accommodate too many implementations of the device. Some employ straps made of elastic or other material to loosely span a broad area of the device to attach the case or cover. Although this design will accommodate a wide variety of devices, it does not allow for a secure attachment suitable for supporting the transportation of many accessories and articles. Additionally, the straps often obstruct vital parts of the device such as the display. 
     Some prior art propose modifying the device to include additional storage. One invention, U.S. Pat. No. 6,392,876 to Ramonowski, suggests storage compartments within the body of the device. This solution would only provide benefit to devices that have been adapted accordingly. Some similar art employ some post-manufacture adaptation means such as adhesives to attach a storage apparatus to the device which may cause the device to suffer permanent disfigurement as a result of the case installation. 
     Some solutions in the marketplace are “work-in” cases where the device is placed in case structure which may additionally contain storage space for accessories and other articles. To use the device, the case is placed where the device would normally be placed and then opened to allow access to and use of the device. In order to accommodate the device and any additional articles, the dimensions of the “work-in” case are typically significantly larger than those of the device. Therefore, the spaces where the device may normally be used would also have to be large enough to accommodate the “work-in” case. Additionally, prolonged use inside these types of cases is discouraged as problems from heat build-up may result. 
     The prior art examples having containment features employ some fixed-structure approach thereby preventing the implementation from being used in any manner which significantly deviates from the original design parameters. 
     SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION 
     For a portable device having at least one enclosure member, a case body which substantially conforms to the device and a means for controllably joining the case body to the device whereby the case can be securely attached to compatible devices with minimal adaptation. In a portable device an integrated means of joining an external structure to the device whereby compatible external structures may be securely attached to the device with minimal adaptation. 
    
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
         FIG. 1  shows an attachable device case cover attached to a laptop notebook computer along with some examples of the peripheral devices and personal articles that the case could accommodate 
         FIG. 3A  is an exploded view of components in an advanced embodiment of a case cover as installed on a standard device 
         FIG. 3B  is an exploded view of components in an advanced embodiment of a case cover as installed on a device adapted for use with a case cover 
         FIG. 4A  is an exploded view of a strap clasp assembly 
         FIG. 4B  is an exploded view of a partial assembly of an upper strap, case utility panel, and strap clasp 
         FIG. 4C  is a top view of a device with a partially installed upper strap, case utility panel and one strap clasp. 
         FIG. 4D  is a side view of a device with a partially installed upper and lower strap, case utility panel and two strap clasps. 
         FIG. 5A  is a partial sectional view of a clip and fitting with integrated connectivity 
         FIG. 5B  is an exploded view of a clip assembly 
         FIG. 5C  shows a wired clip outer arm 
         FIG. 5D  is an exploded view of a partial assembly of a case utility panel and clip 
         FIG. 5E  is a top view of a device with a partially installed case utility panel and clip. 
         FIG. 6A  is an exploded view of device utility panel and USB hub installation 
         FIG. 6B  is an exploded view of a compartment enclosure installation 
         FIG. 7A  shows a repositionable LED assembly on an installed case body 
         FIG. 7B  shows some alternative implementations of an interchangeable LED assembly 
       
         
           
                 
               
                 
                 
               
             
                 
                     
                 
                 
                   DRAWINGS—Reference Numerals 
                 
                 
                     
                 
               
               
                 
                     
                 
               
            
             
                 
                     
                   10—attachable device accessory case 
                 
                 
                     
                   cover with interchangeable 
                 
                 
                     
                   components 
                 
                 
                     
                   12—Illuminated emblem 
                 
                 
                     
                   17a—portable device (rudimentary) 
                 
                 
                     
                   17b—portable device (advanced case) 
                 
                 
                     
                   17c—portable device (advanced case on adapted device) 
                 
                 
                     
                   18a—presentation panel (rudimentary case) 
                 
                 
                     
                   18b—presentation panel (advanced case) 
                 
                 
                     
                   22—USB hub (w/cables) 
                 
                 
                     
                   23—Intermediary USB cable 
                 
                 
                     
                   24—case utility panel 
                 
                 
                     
                   26a, 26b—retaining straps 
                 
                 
                     
                   27—repositionable sticker 
                 
                 
                     
                   28a, 28b—compartment enclosures 
                 
                 
                     
                   30a, 30b—compartment utility panel 
                 
                 
                     
                   32a, 32b—device/article utility panel 
                 
                 
                     
                   34a, 34b, 34c, 34d—strap clasps 
                 
                 
                     
                   35a, 35b, 35c, 35d—clips 
                 
                 
                     
                   36—strap clasp outer arm 
                 
                 
                     
                   37—clip outer arm 
                 
                 
                     
                   38—strap clasp inner arm 
                 
                 
                     
                   39—clip inner arm 
                 
                 
                     
                   40—strap clasp spring bar 
                 
                 
                     
                   41—clip hinge pin 
                 
                 
                     
                   42—strap clasp male snap 
                 
                 
                     
                   44—strap clasp female snap 
                 
                 
                     
                   50a, 50b, 50c, 50d—integrated clip fittings 
                 
                 
                     
                   60a, 60b, 60c, 60d—interchangeable 
                 
                 
                     
                   LED assemblies with an 
                 
                 
                     
                   illuminated emblem 
                 
                 
                     
                   62—flexible housing for LED assembly 
                 
                 
                     
                 
               
            
           
         
       
     
    
    
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION 
     General Embodiment— FIG. 1   
       FIG. 1  shows an embodiment of an attachable portable device case cover with interchangeable components  10  attached to a notebook computer. The embodiment implements attachable containment features which can house various peripheral devices and/or personal articles. 
     Preferred Embodiment Implementing Interchangeable Means of Joining and Attachable Components— FIG. 3   
       FIG. 3A  shows an advanced embodiment of an attachable device case with interchangeable components as implemented for use on a standard notebook computer device  17   b  configuration. This embodiment implements a strap and clasp means of joining for a standard device implementation having no adaptation for case attachment. 
       FIG. 3B  shows the embodiment which implements a clip joining means for a device  17   b  implementation that has been adapted with fittings that correspond to fastening members of case  10 . 
     One common element between these embodiments ( FIGS. 3A and 3B ) is case utility panel  24 . Panel  24  is the attachment base and support means for case  10  components and any contained devices and articles. Panel  24  is also the case body attachment base for whichever presently preferred joining means is implemented. Panel  24 , which is hidden in the final assembly, is made of a thin lightweight rigid material suitable for supporting the weight of the other case  10  components and contents. The size of panel  24  would be approximately the height and width dimensions of the corresponding body enclosure member of the device implementations to which it will be attached. It has hook-and-loop fastener strips attached or is covered entirely with hook-and-loop material to which other case components will attach. 
     An outermost presentation panel  18   b  ( FIGS. 3A and 3B ) is assembled using techniques known by those skilled in arts such as the manufacture of business cases, handbags, luggage or other similar products. It comprises one or more layers of leather, vinyl, fabric, plastic, rubber, metal or other material. The size of panel  18   b  in this implementation would be approximately the height and width dimensions of the device implementations for which it is intended and would therefore substantially conform to device  17   b  or  17   c    
     Panel  18   b  in this figure implements an interchangeable containment feature embodiment having openings which allow attachable compartment enclosures  28   a  and  28   b  to pass through and be accessible after all components are attached. Hook-and-loop fasteners are attached to the rear of panel  18   b  in a configuration that corresponds to hook-and-loop fasteners on panel  24 . 
     Retaining Strap Means of Joining— FIG. 4   
     To implement a clasp retaining strap interchangeable joining means (as shown in  FIG. 3A ), four clasp mechanisms for grasping and drawing straps  26   a  and  26   b  are attached to panel  24 .  FIG. 4A  shows a close-up view of the clasp assembly for clasps  34   a ,  34   b ,  34   c  and  34   d  each comprising five parts: strap clasp outer arm  36 , strap clasp inner arm  38 , strap clasp spring bar  40 , strap clasp male snap  42  and strap clasp female snap  44 . Outer arm  36  and inner arm  38  are preferably made from any type of sheet metal suitable for securing straps  26   a  and  26   b . Outer arm  36  is cut or punched with protruding tabs for hooking the horizontal strips of straps  26   a  and  26   b  (which are punched with corresponding holes) and drilled and fitted with an appropriately sized male snap  42  on one end. 
     Outer arm  36  can be formed by rolling or bending one end of a piece of metal into a hollow cylinder with the approximate diameter of spring bar  40 . Then, outer arm  36  is bent creating an arc having a diameter that is approximately the sum of the depth of device  17   b  body enclosure member, the thickness of panel  24  and the thickness of the corresponding hook-and-loop fasteners attached to panel  24  and inner arm  38 . Inner arm  38  is formed by using a “T” shaped piece of metal. The arms of the “T” preferably extend the diameter of the arc of outer arm  36  and are shaped in a semi-circle to match outer arm  36 . Inner arm  38  is drilled or punched with holes on each arm that will align with the cylinder of outer arm  36 . Inner arm  38  is drilled and fitted with appropriately sized clasp female snap  44  that will align with clasp male snap  42  on outer arm  36 . The arms of inner arm  38  are then bent at 90 degree angles to form a bracket. Inner arm  38  is then bent the opposite direction of the bracket to conform to the shape of the side of device  17   b  section to which it will be attached. 
     Outer arm  36  and inner arm  38  are connected by first inserting clasp spring bar  40  into the hollow cylinder of outer arm  36  and then outer arm  36  with clasp spring bar  40  inserted is placed inside the bracket shaped opening in inner arm  38  allowing clasp spring bar  40  to expand into the holes in the bent arms of inner arm  38 . Inner arm  38  is affixed with one of the hook-and-loop fastener enabling clasps  34   a ,  34   b ,  34   c , and  34   d  to fasten to corresponding hook-and-loop fasteners affixed to panel  24 . 
       FIG. 4B  shows how panel  24 , clasps  34   a ,  34   b , and  34   d  (clasp  34   c  is hidden in this perspective) and retaining strap  26   a  ( 26   b  excluded for added clarity) are positioned for attachment assembly. Straps  26   a  and  26   b  are made of a thin flexible material sized to horizontally span and wrap around device  17   b  screen section. The preferred material for straps  26   a  and  26   b  is clear vinyl so as to not obstruct device  17   b  display or border which may contain text or illuminated indicators. Straps  26   a  and  26   b  would have openings or contours that correspond to latches or any other protrusions and surface features on the front of device  17   b  body enclosure member and, therefore, would have to be customized for specific implementations of the device. Additionally, straps  26   a  and  26   b  would preferably have vertical strips which would wrap over and under device  17   b  section. The width and distance between the two vertical strips on each of straps  26   a  and  26   b  may also have to be customized to allow for any protrusions or obstructions on the top or bottom edges of device  17   b  section on specific device implementations. 
     The horizontal strips of straps  26   a  and  26   b  would be punched with holes which would align with and hook onto tabs on clasps  34   a ,  34   b ,  34   c  and  34   d  enabling the horizontal strips of straps  26   a  and  26   b  to be securely grasped and wrapped around the sides of device  17   b  section. The optional vertical strips of straps  26   a  and  26   b  would wrap over the top and under bottom respectively of device  17   b  display panel and attach to panel  24  using corresponding hook-and-loop fasteners. The horizontal strips provide the primary fastening security while the vertical strips provide additional stability. 
       FIG. 4C  shows the fastening of strap  26   a  to clasp  34   b  as viewed from the top of device  17   b . Strap  26   a  is placed on the front of device  17   b  section aligning the latches and/or any other surface features with the openings and contours in strap  26   a . The horizontal end strip of strap  26   a  is placed against outer arm  36  in its open position which holds strap  26   a  slightly away from the surface of device  17   b . The holes in the horizontal end strip of strap  26   a  are aligned with and hooked onto the tabs on clasp outer arm  36 . Outer arm  36  is then closed inward towards inner arm  38  and fastened using clasp snaps  42  and  44  or some other fastening means. The closing motion stretches strap  26   a  outward and around device  17   b  section which also causes the front of strap  26   a  to move backwards towards the front surface of device  17   b  section. The remaining horizontal end strips of strap  26   a  and  26   b  are likewise fastened to clasps  34   a ,  34   c  and  34   d . Although the straps could be fastened directly to panel  18   b  without use of a clasp or other mechanism, the clasps promote a uniform application by reducing the inconsistencies caused by the installer&#39;s abilities or perceptions while only requiring straps  26   a  and  26   b  to be customized for a device implementation. 
       FIG. 4D  shows the optional vertical end strips of strap  26   a  wrapped over the top and under the bottom of a section of device  17   b  and fastened with corresponding hook-and-loop fasteners on panel  24 . In this embodiment which is shown on a standard notebook computer device, the vertical end strips of straps  26   a  and  26   b  are passed respectively over the top of the display panel and through openings between the bottom of the display panel and the base section and then fastened to panel  24  with corresponding hook-and-loop fasteners. When all clasps are closed and fastened, and the vertical strips are attached, panel  24  is secured to device  17   b.    
     When the surface of the body enclosure member is curved and/or made of a material to which straps  26   a  and  26   b  material may not completely conform, sticker  27  with repositionable adhesive may be applied (in indefinite plurality if necessary) to the surface of the body enclosure member. The exposed side of the sticker would be made of a material that clings to the side of strap surface that would normally contact the surface of body enclosure member. In this embodiment, the surface of the sticker would be cling vinyl which would adhere to the surface of the vinyl in straps  26   a  and  26   b . Straps  26   a  and  26   b  would then indirectly adhere and conform to the contours and curves of body enclosure member even when the surface of the member is made of a material on which vinyl may typically slide. 
     Fastener/Fitting Means of Joining, Integrated Connectivity Means, and Means for Controllably Joining External Structure— FIG. 5   
     When the clip joining means is implemented into device  17   c  ( FIG. 5A ), device  17   c  body enclosure member is fitted with slotted openings behind each of which is an integrated fitting  50   a ,  50   b ,  50   c , and  50   d  that accept the insertion of a thin rigid rectangular-parallelepiped shape form which would be held in place by friction. When the integrated connectivity means is implemented, one or more of the fittings, ( 50   d  in this embodiment), is configured to provide communication and/or power generated by or passed through device  17   c . Fitting  50   d  would operate similar to and be created using techniques used in the manufacture of electronic connectivity hardware like female modular cables and connectors as well as slots for memory cards, bus card slots, and media cards. Fitting  50   d  is wired to device  17   c  in accordance with the nature of device  17   c  hardware architecture and the type of connectivity being implemented. In this embodiment, the fitting would be wired to the universal serial bus of device  17   c.    
       FIG. 5B  shows a close-up view of the assembly for clips  35   a ,  35   b ,  35   c  and  35   d  which consists of three parts: clip outer arm  37 , clip inner arm  39 , clip hinge pin  41 . Clip outer arm  37  and clip inner arm  39  are made from any type of sheet metal suitable for securing panel  24 . Outer arm  37  would be of a predetermined shape and size that would mate with the corresponding opening and fittings  50   a ,  50   b ,  50   c , or  50   d  in device  17   c . Outer arm  37  is bent 180 degrees creating an arc (or, alternatively, at to 90 degree angles) having a diameter of or opening width of approximately the sum of distance between the opening in device  17   c  and the surface of device  17   c  back, the thickness of panel  24  and the hook-and-loop fasteners attached to panel  24  and inner arm  39 . 
     Clip inner arm  39  is a rectangular shaped piece of metal of similar width as outer arm  37 . The end of outer arm  37  opposite device  17   c  attachment end is bent or rolled to form a hollow cylinder. One end of inner arm  39  is bent or rolled to for a hollow cylinder. Prior to assembly, the ends of inner arm  37  and outer arm  39  must be cut to some predetermined size that would enable the two parts to align creating a hinge union. Once aligned, hinge pin  41  would be inserted into the cylinder. Hinge pin  41  is either sized to be held in place by friction or reshaped or fitted after insertion to disallow removal. Inner arm  39  is affixed with a hook-and-loop fastener enabling clasps  35   a ,  35   b ,  35   c , and  35   d  to fasten to corresponding hook-and-loop fasteners affixed to panel  24 . 
     In this embodiment which implements the communication and power connectivity means integrated with the joining means,  FIG. 5C  shows clip  35   d  outer arm  37  which is wired to enable USB or other communication and/or power means to be supplied from device  17   c  to case  10 . The clip connector and wiring structure would be fabricated using techniques used in the fabrication of electronic connectivity hardware like modular cables and connectors, memory cards, bus cards and media cards. 
     Clip  35   d  would have leading edge connectors which, when inserted into the corresponding fitting  50   d , would connect device  17   c  to potentially supply case  10  and contents with power and/or data communication. Wired clip  35   d  edge would preferably be notched to prevent insertion in an incorrect orientation. Clip would preferably have a ribbon style cable (to minimize thickness) connected to the edge connectors and passed through the outer surface of outer arm  37 . 
       FIG. 5D  shows clip  37   d  which, in this embodiment, will ultimately be connected to a standard USB hub  22  having a Type Mini B female connection port. However, the connectors shown have an example of a proprietary connecting implementation having a greater number of wires and contacts (4 plus 2) than is required by the current USB specification (4). The proprietary connector mates with an intermediary cable  23  having a corresponding proprietary connector which would then terminate with a Type Mini B Male USB connector which could connect with a standard hub  22  supplying it with power and communication. By adding cable  23 , this implementation of clip  35   d  can be made to accommodate a wider variety of existing and future means of connectivity with varying wiring configurations. 
     After inserting outer arm  37  edges of clip  35   d  ( 35   a ,  35   b , and  35   c  not shown operate similarly) into fitting  50   d  and over panel  24 ,  FIG. 5E  shows that inner arm  39  of clip  35   d  is moved inward towards panel  24  and attached with corresponding hook-and-loop fasteners. Outer arm  37  generally applies pressure to hold panel  24  to device  17   c . Inner arm  39  reduces any potential lateral movement of panel  24 . 
     Attachable Interchangeable Containment Features and Means of Connectivity Derived from a USB Bus— FIG. 6   
     Illustrated in  FIG. 6A , a standard hub  22  is attached to panel  24  using corresponding hook-and-loop fasteners. A thin light-weight hub with a small footprint would be the preferred implementation. 
     The attachable containment features are implemented in the embodiment as Device/article panels  32   a  and  32   b  which are made of a thin light-weight rigid material. Panels  32   a  and  32   b  have dimensions suitable for the types and sized of devices and articles that will be attached. This embodiment would have panels  32   a  and  32   b  of the preferred dimensions of approximately 6″ H×3.75″ W to accommodate commonly used items such as mice, numeric keypads, power adapters, eyeglasses, pens, pencils, small notepads, and other articles of similar size and weight. 
     Hook-and-loop fastening material is applied to what will be the back sides of panels  32   a  and  32   b  in an amount only sufficient for supporting the weight of the potential devices to be contained, not so much as to make difficult the detachment of panels  32   a  and  32   b  from panel  24 . Optionally, a small strip of thin material may be attached to panels  32   a  and  32   b  to aid in the pulling and lifting of device panel from panel. Hook-and-loop fasteners would align with the openings on compartment panels  30   a  and  30   b . Panels  32   a  and  32   b  are configured on their front sides by whatever means would be necessary to accept insertion or attachment of any device or personal article that is of suitable size and weight for transport and storage inside case  10 . 
     The implementation of panels  32   a  and  32   b  shown are a mouse harness and cord/dongle harness on panel  32   a  and numeric keypad harness on panel  32   b . The mouse and cord/dongle harnesses are made be stitching or otherwise fastening suitably sized elastic or other stretchable material onto panel  32   a . The numeric keypad harness comprises two corresponding hook-and-loop fastener straps sewn or otherwise fastened to panel  32   b.    
     Panels  30   a  and  30   b , which are only partially visible after assembly, are made of a thin light-weight material. Panels  30   a  and  30   b  are cut or punched with openings that allow the fasteners on the rear of panels  32   a  and  32   b  to pass through and attach to panel  24 . Fastening straps are attached or panels  32   a  and  32   b  are shaped to provide strap functionality. Hook-and-loop fasteners are affixed which correspond to those on the exterior of enclosures  28   a  and  28   b . The side of the straps which are exposed in the final assembly could be made of any material that would match or coordinate with the materials of the other exposed surfaces of enclosures  28   a  and  28   b  and panel  18   b . Panels  30   a  and  30   b  must be of a size and materials suitable for the restraint of enclosures  28   a  and  28   b . The dimensions of panels  30   a  and  30   b  approximately correspond to the height dimensions of enclosures  28   a  and  28   b  and have a width sufficient for the inclusion of pass-through openings for panels  32   a  and  32   b  hook-and-loop fasteners. 
       FIG. 6B  shows interchangeable compartments  28   a  and  28   b  prior to attachment. The exteriors of enclosures  28   a  and  28   b  are visible in the final assembly and are, therefore, made using similar techniques and materials as those of panel  18   b . They are made in height, width and depth dimensions that are sufficient to enclose the variety of devices and articles that are suitable for containment in the case body. This embodiment would have the preferred dimensions of approximately 6″ H×3.75″ W×1.5″ D to accommodate commonly used items such as mice, numeric keypads, power adapters, eyeglasses, pens, pencils, small notepads, and other articles of similar size and weight. Enclosures  28   a  and  28   b  are attached using the straps of panels  30   a  and  30   b.    
     Any cables and adapters appropriate for connecting any desired devices may be installed as needed. The cables and adapters would preferably be light-weight and of minimal length to reduce the weight and increase the organization of the device/case assembly. Hub  22  is connected with a USB cable to an available USB port on device  17   b.    
     Illumination Means Implemented as a Repositionable Interchangeable USB Powered LED— FIG. 7   
       FIG. 7A  shows the powered case feature and illumination means implemented as a universal serial bus powered interchangeable light emitting diode (LED) assembly  60   a  with an illuminated emblem  12  which is assembled using commonly known electronics manufacturing techniques. The LED could be any color and intensity that can be powered from device  17   b  or  17   c  or other appropriate predetermined source. The LED (adapted with resistance means to adapt to USB standards if necessary) is connected to one end of a USB cable preferably with a Type A male USB connector on the opposite end which would allow the LED to be connected to a standard hub  22  without adaptation. To create an emblem  12 , the LED is housed within or behind some presentable form. Emblem  12  would primarily consist of or comprise a clear or translucent material. Additional emblem  12  materials could be any material that is light-weight yet sturdy enough to protect the LED and corresponding wiring. Emblem  12  would be made to attach permanently or controllably to panel  18   b  (or whatever panel embodiment is implemented) by various means including adhesive, sewing, hardware fastening, friction-fit, snap, and hook-and-loop means. 
     Additionally, the completed assembly  60   a  is attached to or contained within a retractable and/or flexible housing  62  which could be positioned within or against some part of the case body during normal use and then extended and flexed to reposition the illumination from emblem  12  over the keyboard or anywhere near device  17   b  or  17   c  where illumination is useful. In this embodiment, the housing of emblem  12  is fabricated to allow light pass through the side opposite the presentation side which eliminates the need to turn emblem  12  around to direct the illumination. 
     In this embodiment, housing  62  is a hollow semi-rigid envelope through which the cable of assembly  60   a  is passed. Housing  62  would comprise a metallic or other material that can be repeatedly bent throughout its range of motion and still retain its shape. Housing  62  would have some attachment at the lower end to prevent the housing from unintentionally separating from the case body. 
     Alternate versions of assembly  60   a , some examples of which are illustrated in  FIG. 7B  as assemblies  60   b ,  60   c , and  60   d  may be attached to panel  18   b  or inserted into housing  62  as desired. 
     LED assembly  60   a  is connected to hub  22  and panel  18   b  is attached to panel  24  with the corresponding fasteners to complete case assembly. 
     Operation— FIGS. 6B and 7A   
     Panels  32   a  and  32   b  are accessible by reversing assembly order ( FIG. 6B ). Some or all of the straps of panels  30   a  and  30   b  are lifted from enclosures  28   a  and  28   b . Enclosures  28   a  and  28   b  can be open or removed completely to insert and remove their contents as needed. Panel  18   b  ( FIG. 7A ) may optionally be removed if greater accessibility to case  10  components is required. 
     Unless otherwise modified, emblem  12  will illuminate upon being supplied power from the USB connection. Assembly  60   a  in housing  62  may be repositioned as needed ( FIG. 7A ). 
     Advantages 
     From the description above, the advantages of these case designs become evident. The most obvious of which is that a user will be able to easily transport and access many of their peripheral devices and articles along with their primary devices. The case can be used on a variety of devices whether those devices have been adapted for the case or not. The case provides the user with a variety of options to suit changing needs throughout the life of a device or throughout the use and replacement of similar devices. Additionally, the case will add functionality and aesthetic appeal added to their devices. 
     In addition to transporting the device, the case allows the transport of various peripheral devices and articles. Coincidentally, the case may also provide some protection of the device as well as the case contents. The case design will often be securely attachable onto a variety of implementations of the device with little interference of normal use. Often, the device will require no adaptation to accommodate the secure attachment of the case. In the preferred embodiments, the secure attachment of the case will cause no permanent disfigurement of the device. The device will have minimal size or weight added allowing the device to be used as it had been prior to case attachment. 
     CONCLUSION, RAMIFICATIONS, AND SCOPE 
     Although the description above contains many specifics regarding the presently preferred embodiments, these specifics should not be construed as limiting the scope of any of the embodiments. There are numerous potential alternative embodiments including but not limited to:
         Case  10  can also be used on other similarly configured devices like portable DVD players, video players, gaming devices and desktop computer monitors.   Components of case  10  could be designed or treated to resist various hazards like moisture, heat, cold, fire, stains, etc. Depending on the implementation, the components may also be ruggedized to offer some protection of device   Case  10  could be designed to break away from device  17   b  or  17   c  if overloaded or if undue force is exerted upon it   Implementations of case  10  can be customized to more closely conform to specific implementations of device  17   b  or  17   c  for functional or   Case  10  components can be embellished with a variety of items including (but not limited to) beads, crystals, embroidery, metal, jewels and embossments.   Case  10  components may be imprinted with photo images and graphics   Panel  18   a  or  18   b  can be made from any material suitable for the manufacture of case  10 , the level of functionality desired and case  10  intended environments. Some alternatives include leather, vinyl, fabric, wood, plastic and metal.   Panel  18   b  can be made of stretchable material allowing it to be stretched to fit varying sizes of devices. Alternatively, panel  18   b  may be made of a flexible convex form which would allow it to be applied convex to fit a smaller area or flattened to fit a larger area. Riser apparatuses can be placed under and around panel  18   b  to raise the center of the panel thereby making its edges attachable to a smaller area   Panel  18   b  and panel  24  could have openings to allow parts of device  17   b  or  17   c  surface to show through. For example the brand name that usually appears in the rear center of a device could be left unobstructed. Panel could be made to cover only part of device  17   b  or  17   c  and remaining case components. For example, the corners of panel  18   b  could be cut away and decorative versions of clasps  34   a ,  34   b ,  34   c , and  34   d  or clips  35   a ,  35   b ,  35   c , and  35   d  could be exposed in the final assembly.   Instead of hook-and-loop fasteners, any component may use other existing or future means of attaching components. Some possible means include, static-cling, friction, magnetism (if adapted to prevent interference with device and accessories), etc.   For devices with a plurality of body enclosure members, a coordinated case body can be attached to the additional members. The additional case body would have the same or similar attachment and functional properties as the primary case body. For example, as laptop notebook computer devices become lighter in weight, a lower case body connected to the lower base compartment may be required to balance the additional weight added by the attachment of a case body to the upper compartment. The clasp, clip, or other joining means may be adapted to conform to the size and shape of the additional case body member.   A handle or strap may be attached to case  10  to enable easier conventional transport.   Case  10  could be designed to close around device  17   b  or  17   c  like a portfolio. Additionally, case  10  could be sealable by some means like a zipper.   A coordinated pouch with openings for enclosures  28   a  and  28   b  of case  10  can be made to fit device  17   b  or  17   c  with attached case  10 . This pouch could have handles, straps and/or any other feature to suit the needs of conventional transport.   A coordinated conventional case can be made with interior moldings to fit the contours of device  17   b  or  17   c  with attached case  10  and compartments enclosures  28   a  and  28   b  or device  17   b  or  17   c  with attached case  10  and enclosures  28   a  and  28   b  inside the coordinated pouch mentioned previously. This coordinated conventional case could be made to accommodate additional devices already in their respective enclosures  28   a  and  28   b  ready to be interchanged as needed. The coordinated conventional case could have handles, straps, wheels or any other feature to suit the needs of conventional transport.   The interchangeable features of this case can also be applied to a conventional carrying case and to various other types of cases, handbags, etc.   Instead of sheet metal, clasps  34   a ,  34   b    34   c  and  34   d  and clips  35   a ,  35   b ,  35   c , and  35   d  can also be made from molded plastic or blocks of metal drilled to allow the insertion of clasp spring bar  40  or clip hinge pin  41 .   When the clasp embodiment is implemented on device body enclosure members having rounded corners which do not provide a straight edge to support clasp inner arm  38 , then inner arm  38 , panel  24 , or any other applicable case component could be adapted or redesigned to compensate for the void between inner arm  38  and the edge of device  17   b.      For devices with curved tops, panel  18   a  or  18   b  and panel  24  can be fabricated to curve more closely to the surface of device  17   b  or  17   c  thereby closing any gaps. Additionally, clasps  34   a ,  34   b ,  34   c  and  34   d  could also be curved.   If device  17   b  body enclosure member is shaped such that it does not have a side wall against which an object could securely rest, clasps  34   a ,  34   b ,  34   c  and  34   d  could be forked with prongs that extend forward beyond the front surface of device  17   b  body enclosure member to add stability while allowing straps  26   a  and  26   b  to pass through for wrapping.   Panel  24  can be made in multiple parts which are connected by some adjustable mechanism (e.g. straps with hook-and-loop or buckles) which would enable panel  24  to be sized to fit devices of various sizes.   Instead of straps  26   a  and  26   b , various methods can be used to fasten case  10  to device  17   b  including, hook-and-loop, adhesives, hooks or clamps, elastic or rubber bands.   Straps  26   a  and  26   b  can be made of any material which can fit the surface features device  17   b  and allow it to close completely and is also sufficiently strong to hold case  10  to device  17   b  including rubber, leather, nylon, thin flexible or rigid materials, etc.   Clasps  34   a ,  34   b    34   c  and  34   d  can be designed and attached in any manner that would accomplish the necessary stretch and wrap required for a secure fit. An example is instead of the preferred hinged lever style clasp, a “rolling pin” apparatus that rests on side of device  17   b  to aid with wrapping straps  26   a  and  26   b  around the edges of device  17   b  display panel and a ratcheting sprocket wheel on panel  24  for stretching and pulling straps  26   a  and  26   b  tight much like the apparatus that winds film inside a 35 mm camera. Additionally, instead of hook-and-loop fasteners other temporary or permanent fastening means may be used including rivets, grommets, straps, snaps, screws, adhesives, etc.   When necessary and device  17   b  implementation allows, straps  26   a  and  26   b  can be designed to span device  17   b  vertically instead of horizontally.   Instead of a clasp spring bar  40  or clip hinge pin  41 , screws, bolts, pins or other similar components could be used.   For devices like convertible notebook computers (where the upper enclosure pivots upwards, swivels 180 degrees, and then is pivoted back down to the base enclosure), tablet style computers (having only one enclosure member), or other similarly configured devices, a variation of the clip embodiment may be employed. Instead of the two hinged arms, the clip would comprise two (or more if necessary) separate parts. The outer arm would be inserted into device fittings  50   a ,  50   b ,  50   c , and  50   d  and lock into place. The inner arm would attach to panel  24  (or some other part of the case body) and lock into place. The inner arm and the outer arm would join using some quick-release mechanism enabling the case body to be easily removed from and reattached to device  17   c . Additionally, the case body could be designed such that it would stand upright to allow deployment or use of its contents when detached. Depending on the configuration of the case body and device  17   c , the case body may be reattached to device  17   c  in an alternate position for continued use of the device. Furthermore, the stand and reposition facilities could be combined allowing device  17   c  and the repositioned case  10  assembly to stand in some usable position.   Instead of friction-fit joining, clips  35   a ,  35   b ,  35   c , and  35   d  could be fastened to device  17   c  and held in place by other means including manual or electronic latches, magnets (if adapted to prevent interference with device and accessories), hooks, turn locks, screws, etc.   The quantity, size, and configuration of any containment features can be varied to suit the desired size, functionality, or aesthetic appeal of case  10 .   Exterior components which would typically hide the contents of case  10  can instead be clear or translucent enabling visual contact with case  10  contents thereby providing informational, novelty, or promotional benefit.   Enclosures  28   a  and  28   b  can have additional openings to accommodate access to devices and articles contained within without opening enclosures  28   a  and  28   b.      The containment features of case  10  could be a combination of various means. For example, instead of two interchangeable enclosures, panel  18   b  could have one opening for a compartment enclosure and a fixed containment feature like a pocket in the space the second opening would normally occupy   In addition to panels  32   a  and  32   b , panel  18   b  and enclosures  28   a  and  28   b  could have utility features like pockets, loops and straps to support additional devices/articles.   Device panels  32   a  and  32   b  may have front sides made entirely of hook-and-loop material to which additional fastening implements may be subsequently attached.   Panel  18   b  could be made convex having device/article panels  32   a  and  32   b  device/article panels attached underneath without enclosures  28   a  and  28   b  and panels  30   a  and  30   b.      Panel  18   b  can be purely ornamental and used for aesthetic or promotional benefits. It can be made in one continuous piece without openings or containment features. Alternatively, ornamental apparatuses could be attached in the spaces compartments  28   a  and  28   b  would normally occupy.   Instead of a panel  18   b , larger devices and articles can be connected directly to panel  24 . These devices would themselves become the presentation layer (or part thereof). Some examples are keyboards, speakers, LCD screens, digitizing tablets, mouse pads, copyholders, portfolios (including those which may enclose device  17   b  or  17   c ), etc. Panel  24  may require specific adaptation to accommodate the secure attachment of these objects.   Panels  32   a  and  32   b  may be configured to carry any number of devices and articles. Since one of the primary advantages of this case design is its ability to accommodate a wide variety of items using the interchangeable components, the variations are virtually limitless. However, some configurations could include hook-and-loop fastener strips or straps, elastic loops, solid material straps or pockets, clear vinyl straps or pockets, device specific clips and cradles, snaps and hooks. One expected common application would be a device panel with three pairs of hook-and-loop strips that accommodate power adapter of device  17   b  or  17   c  which generally consists of an oblong block and cords attached to both ends. One hook-and-loop strip pair would secure the block and one each for the cords allowing independent deployment of each part of the adapter as needed.   The features previously permanently attached to panels  32   a  and  32   b  can be fitted with fasteners so they can also be interchangeable. For example, instead of sewing or gluing loops that might hold a pencil or pen directly onto panels  32   a  and  32   b , hook-and-loop fitted loops can be placed in any configuration to suit specific needs.   Many of the device implementations that could be attached to or contained within case  10  have a variety of cases or cradles designed for them. The containment features of case  10  could be designed to mate specifically with implementations of these case/cradle designs or even with the device itself. The device, case/cradle, and case containment feature would have integrated corresponding connectors for attachment and for power and/or communication where applicable. The device or the device in its case/cradle could be directly attached to the specially adapted containment feature (e.g. panels  30   a  and  30   b ). If the embodiment of case  10  implements the power or communicative connectivity means, the contained device could be supplied with power and/or communication simultaneously with the attachment without additional cabling.   Panels  30   a  and  30   b  could have special connectors that allow corresponding devices to be connecting with both power and communication when being attached to panels  30   a  and  30   b  eliminating the need for separate attachment and connection.   Hub  22  and connected cables can instead be one prefabricated cable with all of the desired male and female connectors.   Instead of a standard Hub  22  and cables, the connectivity could be integrated into case  10 . For example, instead of attaching a standard Hub  22  to panel  24 , panel  24  could have ports to connect USB or other devices. Wiring would be integrated into panel  24  and panels  32   a  and  32   b  replacing the cables. Panels  32   a  and  32   b  would have connectors which mate with connectors on panel  24 . To connect a device, you would connect it to a port on panel  32   a  or  32   b  and then attach panel  32   a  or  32   b  to panel  24 .   Hub  22  and any necessary connectors could be integrated into panel  24     In addition to USB, Hub  22  or cable can be enhanced or be replaced with an alternative device to enable the accommodation of other kinds of connectivity including (but not limited to) those which use RCA, S-Video, 3.5 mm, DB, DIN, DVI, IEEE 1394, various media card types, etc. Additionally, Hub  22  could employ means of connectivity which are entirely proprietary.   Clip  34   d  and/or other clip implementations can include or be replaced with alternative wiring configurations to enable the accommodation of other kinds or future versions of connectivity   Components of case  10  can be fabricated with heat-dissipating features like ventilated compartments, fans and heatsinks for use with heat producing devices.   Instead of power derived from device  17   b  or  17   c , the powered case features of case  10  and/or the accessory devices contained could be powered by a variety of self-contained or externally connected sources including batteries, power tapped from device  17   b  or  17   c  power adapter, or connection to other devices contained within case  10 .   Case  10  could contain any manner of powered or communication enabled features including clocks, dioramas, music boxes, digital picture frames, video screens, LED arrays, fiber optic lighting, etc.   Panel  18   b  and/or panel  24  could contain powered locks, latches, motorized trays or other components that would help secure and/or deploy the accessory devices and items case  10  contains. When communicative connectivity means is implemented, these features could be activated from device  17   b  or  17   c . For example, if implemented, the repositionable illumination can be extended and retracted with a mechanism powered and controlled by device.   Microchips or other electronic means can be used to control the illumination and other powered features of case  10  as well as devices attached thereto.   Case  10  could include antennas, sensors, or other forms of human or environmental interfaces that would enable or enhance the performance of device  17   b  or  17   c  to which case  10  is attached or of the accessory devices contained or attached to case  10 . Some examples are wireless network, television, or radio antennas; motion, heat, light (including infra-red), or humidity sensors; and externally or internally accessible, switches, buttons, connectors, or displays. Additionally, case  10  could be equipped with active or passive sensing members which enable case  10 , device  17   b  or  17   c , or enabled accessories to sense proximity to one another. For example, if case  10  contains an active sensor, facilities could be enabled whereby the user would receive a reminder notification (via light, sound, etc.) when an accessory with a corresponding passive sensing member is not placed back in case  10  after use. Conversely, a powered accessory device with an active sensor could be enabled such that when it is placed inside case  10  and senses the passive sensing member therein, the accessory device would automatically power off.   The connectivity means could also include connections that allow illuminated indicators to be placed on case  10  that could indicate statuses of device  17   b  or  17   c  like power, battery level, battery charging, hard disk activity, etc.   Instead of LEDs in emblem  12 , the illumination can be implemented as OLEDs, backlit liquid crystal displays, laser, any low-power low-heat electrical lighting source, or any source of illumination that is adaptable for use with device and case  10 .   Illumination may be incorporated into any component of case  10  including functional and decorative features like clasps, clips, cables, zippers, snaps, buttons, tassels, charms, tags, studs, grommets, etc.   In addition to the illumination assembly being interchangeable, the actual illumination source may be interchangeable. For example, when the LED assembly is implemented, the assembly could use a modular bulb assembly which could be user replaceable on demand.   Instead of a detachable LED assembly  60   a , emblem  12  may be fastened to panel  18   b  (or whatever panel embodiment is implemented) and the remaining components of assembly  60   a  may be detachable.   The illumination means in the flexible and repositionable housing could be combined with other devices such as a camera or microphone.   When the integrated joining means is implemented, device  17   c  could be designed to withstand the additional forces to which it may be exposed as a result of the attachment of case  10     Any component can be fabricated or treated using existing or future techniques to improve or enhance the properties and characteristics of any component or the assembly as a whole. Some properties and characteristics include weight, size, cost, durability, ease of use, energy consumption, security, safety, stability, compatibility, flexibility, and aesthetic appeal.   Any component may be fabricated using environmentally friendly or socially conscious resources Examples include faux animal hides, recycled materials, conflict-free diamonds, etc.   Any component can be omitted, repeated or combined with other components.   Any component can be attached, secured, or fastened by various means to other components (including but not limited to adhesive, friction, magnets, hook-and-loop, button-and-hole, latches, clips, snaps, screws, rivets, eyelets, etc.).   Any component can be made of any suitable material in any color, texture, or style.   Any component can be resized, reshaped or reconfigured as needed.
 
Accordingly, the scope of the embodiment should be determined by the appended claims and their legal equivalents, rather than by the examples given.