Patent Publication Number: US-2012043235-A1

Title: Protective case for portable electrical device

Description:
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS 
     This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Application No. 61/376,142, filed on Aug. 23, 2010, which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. 
    
    
     FIELD 
     Embodiments relate in general to portable electrical devices and, more particularly, to the protection of such devices. 
     BACKGROUND 
     In modern society, there has been a proliferation of electrical devices, particularly of the portable variety. There are many instances in which such portable electrical devices are carried and/or used outdoors. For instance, some portable electrical devices, such as tablet computers, have navigation applications operating thereon. Such navigation applications lend themselves to use by individuals participating in a wide range of outdoor activities, such as recreational boating and hiking. However, using a tablet computer or other electrical device during such activities can subject the device to harsh conditions of the environment. For example, the device may come into contact with water, such as incidental contact or by accidentally dropping the device into water. Water can potentially infiltrate and damage or completely ruin the device. Further, the device may be dropped on a hard surface when participating in such activities, which can cause damage to the exterior of the device as well as the internal components thereof. Thus, there is a need for a system that can minimize such concerns. 
     SUMMARY 
     In one respect, embodiments are directed to a protective case for a portable electrical device. The case includes a first case portion and a second case portion attached to the first case portion such that an inner chamber defined therebetween. The inner chamber is configured to receive a portable electrical device. 
     The first and second case portions are selectively movable between an open configuration in which insertion or removal of the portable electrical device is permitted and a closed configuration in which the first and second case portions engage each other to enclose the portable electrical device therein. The first case portion includes an opening providing visual access to the inner chamber. The opening is sealingly closed by a screen. The screen is configured to allow a user to manipulate at least a portion of a portable electrical device while enclosed in the inner chamber. 
     The case further includes a seal operatively positioned between the first and second case portions. The seal is configured to prevent the infiltration of at least water into the inner chamber. 
     The first case portion can include an access opening to permit access to a portion of the inner chamber. Thus, a user can bring an item into direct engagement with a portion of a portable electrical device from outside the case though the access opening. In one embodiment, the case can further include a plug for selectively sealingly closing the access opening. Thus, the infiltration of water into the inner chamber through the access opening is prevented. 
     The first and second case portions can be hingedly attached to each other on a side of the first and second case portions. The first and second case portions can be configured to lockingly engage each other. Thus, inadvertent opening of the case can be minimized. 
     The case can be salt water resistant. The case can be blood resistant. The case can be buoyant in fresh water or salt water. 
     In another respect, embodiments are directed to a system for protecting a portable electrical device. The system includes a protective case. The protective case includes a first case portion and a second case portion. The first and second case portions collectively define an inner chamber configured to receive a portable electrical device. The first and second case portions can be rigid. The system also includes a portable electrical device received in the inner chamber of the protective case. 
     The first case portion includes an opening providing visual access to at least a portion of the inner chamber of the portable electrical device. The opening is sealingly closed by a screen. The screen is configured to allow a user to manipulate at least a portion of a portable electrical device while enclosed in the inner chamber. The first and second case portions are selectively movable between an open configuration in which insertion or removal of the portable electrical device is permitted and a closed configuration in which the first and second case portions enclose the portable electrical device within the inner chamber. 
     A seal is operatively positioned between the first and second case portions. The seal is configured to prevent the infiltration of at least water into the inner chamber when the case is in the closed configuration. 
     The system can further include a bracket for supporting at least a portion of the case. The bracket can also include a cradle portion for supporting at least a portion of a side of the case. The system can also include a base. The base can be adapted for attachment to a support surface. The bracket can be attached to the base. In one embodiment, the bracket can be selectively pivotably attached to the bracket. 
     The system can further include a seal operatively positioned between the first and second case portions. The seal can be configured to prevent the infiltration of water into the inner chamber. The case can be blood resistant. 
     In one embodiment, the portable electrical device can be a tablet computer having a touchscreen. The touchscreen can be operable from outside the case through the screen. 
     In still another respect, embodiments are directed to a system for protecting a portable electrical device. The system includes a support surface and a protective case operatively attached to the support surface. The protective case includes a first case portion and a second case portion. The first and second case portions collectively define an inner chamber. The inner chamber is configured to receive a portable electrical device. The case includes an open configuration in which insertion or removal of the portable electrical device is permitted and a closed configuration in which the first and second case portions engage each other to sealingly enclose the portable electrical device in the inner chamber. 
     In one embodiment, the case can be indirectly attached to the support surface by a mount. The mount can be attached to the support surface. The mount engages the case. 
     In one embodiment, the support surface can be defined by a portion of a medical facility, an educational facility or a governmental building. In another embodiment, the support surface can be defined by a portion of a vehicle. 
     The system can further include a portable electrical device received in the inner chamber. 
    
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
         FIG. 1  is view of a protective case in a closed configuration. 
         FIG. 2  is a view of the protective case in an open configuration. 
         FIG. 3  is a view of the protective case in an open configuration, showing a portable electrical device received in a portion of the case. 
         FIG. 4  is a view of the protective case. 
         FIG. 5  is an exploded view of a first case portion of the protective case. 
         FIG. 6  is a view of a mount for the protective case. 
         FIG. 7  is a view of the protective case being supported by the mount. 
         FIG. 8  is a side view of the protective case being supported by the mount, wherein the mount is attached to a support surface. 
     
    
    
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION 
     Arrangements described herein relate to a protective case for a portable electrical device. Detailed embodiments are disclosed herein; however, it is to be understood that the disclosed embodiments are intended only as exemplary. Therefore, specific structural and functional details disclosed herein are not to be interpreted as limiting, but merely as a basis for the claims and as a representative basis for teaching one skilled in the art to variously employ the aspects herein in virtually any appropriately detailed structure. Further, the terms and phrases used herein are not intended to be limiting but rather to provide an understandable description of the invention. Arrangements are shown in  FIGS. 1-8 , but the embodiments are not limited to the illustrated structure or application. 
     It will be appreciated that for simplicity and clarity of illustration, where appropriate, reference numerals have been repeated among the different figures to indicate corresponding or analogous elements. In addition, numerous specific details are set forth in order to provide a thorough understanding of the embodiments described herein. However, it will be understood by those of ordinary skill in the art that the embodiments described herein can be practiced without these specific details. 
     Embodiments are directed to a protective case for a portable electrical device. Referring to  FIG. 1 , an example of a protective case  10  is shown. The case  10  includes a body  12 . The body  12  can be any suitable shape. In one implementation, the body  12  can be generally rectangular, as is shown in  FIG. 1 . However, embodiments are not limited to this shape. Indeed, the body  12  can be generally triangular, parallelogram, trapezoidal, circular, oval, polygonal or irregular, just to name a few possibilities. The body  12  can be generally shaped like the shape of the electrical device received therein. Alternatively, the body  12  can be shaped differently from the device received therein. 
     The case  10  can include a front side  14 , a rear side  16 , an upper side  18 , a lower side  20 , a first lateral side  22  and a second lateral side  24 . The terms “front,” “rear,” “upper,” “lower,” and “lateral” are used to facilitate the discussion and are not intended to be limiting. These terms are used to describe the position of the individual sides relative to the user when the device  10  is held in the position shown in  FIG. 1 . Naturally, a user may hold the device  10  in other orientations, such as about  90  degrees relative to the position shown in  FIG. 1 . 
     The case  10  can be openable to allow a portable electrical device to be selectively inserted therein or removed therefrom. The case  10  can include a closed configuration, an example of which is shown in  FIG. 1 . The case  10  can include one or more open configurations, examples of which are shown in  FIGS. 2-3 . When the case  10  is in an open configuration, a portable electrical device  26  can be received therein, as is shown in  FIG. 3 . The case  10  can be configured in any suitable manner to permit selective opening and closing thereof. For example, in one embodiment, the case  10  can be made of a plurality of case portions, including a first case portion  28  and a second case portion  30 . 
     The first and second case portions  28 ,  30  can define any suitable portions of the case  10 . As an example, the first case portion  28  can define at least a portion of the front side  14  of the case  10 , that is, the side of the case  10  that faces toward a user when the case  10  is held in its normal operational position. The second case portion  30  can define the rear side  16  of the case  10 , that is, the side of the case  10  that faces away from a user when the case  10  is held in its normal operational position. The first and second case portions  28 ,  30  can be made of any suitable material, including, for example, metals, polymers, resins or plastics. In one embodiment, the first and second case portions  28 ,  30  can be made of Noryl GTX830 Resin, which is available from SABIC Innovative Plastics, Pittsfield, Mass. The first and/or second case portions  28 ,  30  can be rigid. As a result, the case  10  can protect the device  26  when it is enclosed within the case  10 . The first and second case portions  28 ,  30  can be made of the same material. Alternatively, the first and second case portions  28 ,  30  can be made of different materials. The case  10  can include one or more ergonomic features (not shown), such as grips, to facilitate a user&#39;s engagement of the case  10 . 
     It should be noted that while the case is shown herein as having two case portions, it will be understood that embodiments are not limited to such an arrangement. Indeed, the case  10  can have more than two case portions. Further, the case  10  is generally shown as having case portions  28 ,  30  that are separated in a longitudinal plane (the X-Y plane using the coordinate axis shown in  FIG. 1 ) of the case  10 . However, in some embodiments, the first and second case portions  28 ,  30  can be separated in planes in other directions, such as in the thickness direction (the Y-Z plane using the coordinate axis shown in  FIG. 1 ) of the case  10  or in a plane defined by two or more of the X, Y and/or Z directions. Further, in embodiments with two case portions  28 ,  30 , the case portions  28 ,  30  may be substantially equal in size, or the case portions  28 ,  30  can be unequal in size. 
     As is shown in  FIG. 2 , an inner surface  31  of the second case portion  30  can include various features. For instance, the second case  30  can include a plurality of ribs  33  projecting from the inner surface  31 . The ribs  33  can have any suitable configuration.  FIG. 2  shows one possible arrangement of the ribs  33 , but embodiments are not limited to this configuration. The plurality of ribs  33  can be interconnected. However, one or more of the ribs  33  may not be connected to another one of the ribs  33 . The ribs  33  can provide structural strength to the case  10 . In addition, the ribs  33  can ensure that the portable electrical device  26  is spaced from the inner surface  31  of the second case portion  30 . Such spacing can create one or more air pockets between the portable electrical device  26  and the inner surface  31 . Such air pockets can promote buoyancy of the case  10  in fresh water, salt water and/or other liquids. 
     In some instances, there can be cutouts or passages (not shown) in the ribs  33  or even areas in which there are no ribs  33 . Such arrangements can facilitate the passage of a cable, cord or other structure associated with the portable electrical device  26 . In one embodiment, a portion of the second case portion  30  can be configured to facilitate the removal of the portable electrical device  26  from the case  10 . As an example, a portion of the second case portion  30  can include a recess  39 , as is shown in  FIGS. 2 and 3 . In this way, when the case  10  is in the open configuration, a user can insert a finger in the recess  39 , and thus between the portable electrical device  26  and the inner surface  31  of the second case portion  30 , thereby assisting the user in lifting the device  26  out of the second case portion  30 . 
     The second case portion  30  can have an outer rib  35  extending about the second case portion  30  proximate to the ends thereof. One example of an outer rib  35  is shown in  FIG. 2 . As is shown, the outer rib  35  can generally conform to the shape of the second case portion  30 . In the example shown in  FIG. 2 , the outer rib  35  is generally rectangular. The outer rib  35  can be a continuous structure. The outer rib  35  can have any suitable cross-sectional shape. In one embodiment, the outer rib  35  can be generally rectangular. As will be explained in more detail below, the outer rib  35  can facilitate sealing of the case  10 . The outer rib  35  may or may not have the same height as the plurality of ribs  33 . Further, at least some of the plurality of ribs  33  can be connected to the outer rib  35 . In some instances, the outer rib  35  may not be connected to any of the ribs  33 . 
     The case  10  can be configured to be selectively opened and closed in any suitable manner. For example, the first and second case portions  28 ,  30  can be hingedly connected. To that end, one or more hinges  32  can be provided. In the example shown in  FIGS. 1-4 , the first and second case portions  28 ,  30  can be hingedly connected at or near the lower side  20  of the case  10 . However, embodiments are not limited to this arrangement. Indeed, the case  10  can be adapted to provide a hinged connection one the first lateral side  22 , the second lateral side  24  or the upper side  18  of the case  10 . 
     The hinges  32  can be configured in any suitable manner. In one embodiment, the hinges  32  can by protrusions  34  of the first case portion  28  and by protrusions  36  of the second case portion  30 . The protrusions  34 ,  36  can that include passages  38 ,  40  respectively extending therein. The protrusions  34 ,  36  can be provided in an alternating arrangement. In such case, the passages  38 ,  40  can be substantially aligned to define a common passage to receive a fastener therein, such as a hinge pin  42 . The hinge pin  42  can be made of a corrosion resistant material, such as stainless steel. While embodiments are illustrated as having a hinged connection, it will be understood that other types of connection between the first and second case portions  28 ,  30  are possible. For instance, the first and second case portions  28 ,  30  can completely separate from each other when the case  10  is in an open configuration. 
     The first and second case portions  28 ,  30  can be configured to lockingly engage each other so that they remain engaged when the case is in the closed configuration. Accordingly, the first and second case portions  28 ,  30  can include cooperating structures and/or features to achieve such an end. As an example, the first case portion  28  can include tabs  44  with openings  46  that can lockingly engage respective shelves or protrusions  48  provided on the second case portion  30 , as is shown in  FIGS. 1-3 . In some instances, the protrusions  48  can be configured so that a portion of each protrusion  48  is received in respective one of the openings  46  of the tabs  44  to thereby provide further engagement. However, it will be understood that the opposite arrangement can be provided in which tabs are provided on the second case portion and the protrusions are provided on the first case portion. Alternatively, the tabs  44  can have ramps or claws (not shown) on their underside to facilitate locking engagement with the protrusion  48 . While  FIGS. 1-3  show the tabs  44  and protrusions  48  being provided at or near the upper side  18  of the case  10 , it will be understood that embodiments are not limited to such an arrangement. Indeed, such features can be provided, alternatively or in addition, on the first and second lateral sides  22 ,  24  of the case  10 . Still alternatively, such features can be provided on the lower side  20  of the case  10 . 
     The first and second case portions  28 ,  30  can collectively define an inner chamber  50  of the case  10  (a portion of which is shown in  FIG. 2 ). The inner chamber  50  can be sized to receive a portable electrical device therein, as is shown in  FIG. 3 . The inner chamber  50  can have any suitable shape. 
     The case  10  can receive any suitable portable electrical device  26 . “Electrical device” means any device that is at least partially powered by electrical energy. The electrical device  26  can be any suitable device including, for example, a smart phone, a personal digital assistant (“PDA”), a tablet computer, a digital reader, a handheld device having wireless connection capability, a computer (e.g., a laptop), a portable electrical device, a portable computing device, an entertainment device (e.g., a music or video device, or a satellite radio), or any other suitable device that is configured to communicate via a wireless or wired medium, a digital audio player (e.g., MP3 player), or an e-book reader. Embodiments described herein can be implemented to receive any suitable portable electrical device, including any of those listed above. The electrical device  26  may have a display, which can be any suitable type of display. In one embodiment, the display can be a touchscreen  52  ( FIG. 2 ). 
     The electrical device  26  can include a user interface with one or more inputs for receiving input from a user. Examples of suitable inputs can include, for example, a keypad, display, touch screen, button  67  ( FIG. 3 ), joystick, mouse, microphone or combinations thereof. The user interface of the electrical device  26  can include an output for presenting information to the user. The output can include one or more microphones, earphones and/or speakers. The output may present visual information to the user and, in such case, can include a display. It should be noted that one or more of the items noted above may serve dual purposes such that the item is part of the input as well as the output system. 
     The portable electrical device  26  may include a component interface (not shown). Additional elements can be operatively connected to the component interface, including, for example, a universal serial bus (USB) interface. The portable electrical device  26  may include an interface to allow the portable electrical device  10  to be charged by an external source of electrical energy. 
     The inner chamber  50  of the case  10  can be sized, shaped, and/or otherwise configured to receive a specific portable electrical device  26 . For example, the inner chamber  50  of the case  10  can be configured to receive a tablet computer. In such cases, other types of portable electrical devices  26  may not fit within the inner chamber  50 . In some embodiments, the inner chamber  50  of the case  10  may be configured to receive multiple types of portable electrical devices therein. More particularly, in some instances, the inner chamber  50  can be adapted to allow a user to alter the inner chamber  50  of the case  10  to accommodate a desired portable electrical device. 
     The case  10  can include an opening  54  to permit visual access to the inner chamber  50  and, more particularly, to at least a portion of the portable electrical device  26  received within the case  10 . “Visual access” means that, from the outside of the case  10 , a user can see the inner chamber  50  and/or at least a portion of a portable electrical device  26  enclosed therein using his or her sense of sight, either with or without the aid of sight facilitating device (i.e., glasses, magnifier, etc.). In one embodiment, the opening  54  can be provided on the front side  14  of the case  10 . The case  10  can include a screen  56  to close the opening  54  while still allowing the user to view and/or engage a user interface of the portable electrical device  26 , such as a touchscreen  52  or keyboard. The screen  56  can be transparent or translucent. The screen  56  may be made of any suitable material, including, for example, plastic. In one embodiment, the screen  56  can be made of a polyester film, such as MELINEX® 453 or MELINEX® ST505, both of which are available from DuPont Teijin Films, Chester, Va. The screen  56  can be configured to minimize or prevent glare. Thus, at least a portion of the screen  56  can be treated to reduce glare, or at least a portion of the screen  56  can be coated with an anti-glare material. The screen  56  can also be configured to minimize fogging. The screen  56  can be flexible. 
     The screen  56  can be attached to the first case portion  28  in any suitable manner. In one embodiment, the screen  56  can be sealingly attached to the first case portion  28  of the case  10  to close the opening  54 . For instance, the screen  56  can include a border  58  ( FIG. 5 ) that can engage the screen  56  on one side and an inner surface  60  of the first case portion  28  on the other side. Any suitable manner of engagement can be used, such as adhesion or bonding. The border  58  can be any suitable material or structure. In one embodiment, the border  58  can be double sided adhesive tape, such as TESA® 4965 available from Tesa Tape, Inc., Charlotte, N.C. The engagement can be such that a seal is formed between the screen  56  and the first case portion  28 , thereby preventing the infiltration of water or other liquids into the inner chamber  50  of the case  10 . 
     There can be any suitable amount of overlap between the screen  56  and the inner surface  60  of the first case portion  28  to ensure sufficient sealing. In one embodiment, the amount of overlap between the screen  56  and the first case portion  28  can be substantially identical about the opening  54 . In some instances, the amount of overlap between the screen  56  and the first case portion  28  may not be substantially identical about the opening  54 . 
     The case  10  can be configured to minimize or prevent the infiltration of water and/or other liquids, even when the case  10  is submerged in water (fresh and/or salt) and/or other liquid. To that end, one or more seals  62  can be operatively positioned between the first and second case portions  28 ,  30 . The seal  62  can be any suitable type of seal, such as a rope-like seal or gasket. The seal  62  can have any suitable cross-sectional shape. In one embodiment, the seal  62  can have a generally rectangular cross-sectional shape. The seal  62  can have any suitable thickness. The seal  62  can be made of any suitable material, such as rubber, neoprene or foam. As an example, the seal  62  can be made of PORON® 4701-41 available from Rogers Corporation, Woodstock, Conn. Alternatively, the seal  62  can be made of HyPUR-cel® SCE41B available from Rubberlite, Inc., Huntington W.V. 
     The seal  62  can be continuous. An example of a continuous seal  62  is shown in  FIG. 5 . Alternatively, the seal  62  may not be continuous. For instance, the seal can include a plurality of seal segments that can abut each other or that can be joined in some manner. The seal  62  can have any suitable overall shape. For instance, the seal  62  can generally correspond to the shape of the case  10 . In one embodiment, the seal  62  can be generally rectangular, as is shown in  FIG. 5 . 
     In one embodiment, the seal  62  can be provided generally around the entire interface between the first and second case portions  28 ,  30 . There can be a single seal  62 , as is shown in  FIG. 5 . Alternatively, there can be a plurality of seals (not shown). The seal  62  can be received in a channel  64  provided in one of the case portions  28 ,  30 . As an example,  FIG. 5  shows an embodiment in which the first case portion  28  provides a channel  64  for receiving at least a portion of the seal  62  therein. However, embodiments are not limited to such an arrangement. It will be understood that, alternatively or in addition, a channel can be provided in the second case portion. In one embodiment, the channel  64  can be formed in a generally U-shaped rib  65  that extends from an inner surface  60  of the first case portion  28 , as is shown in  FIGS. 2 and 3 . In another embodiment, the channel  64  can be formed by a recess in the inner surface  60  of the first case portion  28 . 
     The channel  64  can have any suitable cross-sectional shape, and can extend in any suitable manner about the interface between the first and second case portions  28 ,  30 . The channel  64  can be a single continuous channel, as is shown in  FIG. 5 . Alternatively, the seal can be collectively formed by a plurality of individual channels (not shown). In such case, the channels  64  can be selectively placed about the interface between the first and second case portions  28 ,  30 . In some instances, a channel may not be provided for the seal  62 . The seal  62  may be attached to one of the case portions  28 ,  30 , such as by adhesives, bonding or mechanical engagement. 
     In one embodiment, when the case  10  is in a closed configuration, at least a portion of the outer rib  35  of the second case portion  30  can be received in the channel  64  of the first case portion  28 . Thus, the interlocking engagement of these items can create a labyrinth type seal. Further, the seal  62  can be operatively positioned therebetween to further promote sealing of the inner chamber  50  of the case  10 . For instance, the outer rib  35  can directly engage and compress the seal  62  so as to fill in the space between the outer rib  35  and the channel  64 . In this way, the inner chamber  50  of the case  10  can be substantially sealed. The inner chamber  50  can remain dry even when immersed in water and/or other fluid. Thus, any portable electrical device  26  enclosed within the inner chamber  50  can be protected. 
     As noted previously, the case  10  can be adapted to be buoyant in freshwater and/or saltwater. The case  10  can be adapted to be buoyant with and/or without the portable electrical device  26  being contained therein. Thus, it will be appreciated that, if the case  10  is dropped into a body of water, such as a pond, lake, ocean, or swimming pool, the case  10  can float. As a result, the case  10  can be more readily located and retrieved from the surface of the body of water. Such buoyancy can be achieved in any suitable manner, including, as noted above, by creating one or more air pockets between the portable electrical device  26  and the inner surface  31  of the second case portion  30 . 
     The case  10  can be resistant to blood, water and/or saltwater. The case  10  can be chemically resistant. The case  10  can be sized so as to minimize the increase in the outer envelope of the portable electrical device  26  so as not to interfere with the user&#39;s use, enjoyment and/or transportation of the device  26 . Further, the case  10  can be configured to be as lightweight as possible. In one embodiment, the case  10  can weight about two pounds or less. In another embodiment, the case  10  can weight about one pound or less. 
     The case  10  can be configured to provide shock resistance to the portable electrical device housed within. Shock resistance can be provided in any suitable manner. For instance, the case  10  can include dampening structures and/or materials to minimize movement and vibration of the device within the inner chamber  50  of the case  10 . Such structures and materials can also minimize the transmission of the force of an impact to the portable electrical device  26  when it is housed within the case  10 . 
     As an example,  FIG. 2  shows an embodiment in which a plurality of pads  51  is provided on the second case portion  30 . The pads  51  can have any suitable size and/or shape. In one embodiment, the pads  51  can be substantially circular. The pads  51  can be substantially identical to each other or one or more of the pads  51  can be different from the other pads  51  in one or more respects. The pads  51  can be arranged in any suitable manner. There can be any suitable quantity of pads  51 . While  FIG. 2  shows an example in which there are four pads  51 , the number of pads  51  used can be fewer or greater than four. The pads  51  can be made of any suitable vibration dampening material. In one embodiment, the pads  51  can be made of foam or rubber. The pads  51  can be made of the same material, or at least one of the pads  51  can be made of a different material. The pads  51  can be attached to the second case portion  30  in any suitable manner, including, for example, by fasteners, adhesives and/or mechanical engagement, just to name a few possibilities. 
     In some instances, an insert pad (not shown) can be placed in the second case portion  30  such that it at least partially separates the portable electrical device  26  from the second case portion  30 . The insert pad can be generally rectangular or other suitable shape. The insert pad can be used to provide vibration dampening benefits. The insert pad can also help to maintain a user interface (i.e., the touch screen  52 ) of the portable electrical device substantially adjacent to the screen  56 . “Substantially adjacent” includes direct contact as well as slight spacing therebetween. In this way, a user can interact with the user interface of the portable electrical device  26  through the screen  56  with minimal or no hindrance. 
     As noted above, the portable electrical device  26  can include an input and/or an output. For instance, the portable electrical device  26  can include a button  27 , as is shown in  FIG. 3 . In such case, the case  10  can be adapted to permit a user to engage the button  27  from outside the case  10 . To that end, the case  10  can be adapted with an external button  67 . When the case  10  is in a closed configuration, the button  67  of the case  10  can be substantially aligned with the button  27  of the portable electrical device  26 . Thus, when depressed, the button  67  can directly or indirectly engage the button  27  on the portable electrical device  26  so that the button  27  is depressed or otherwise actuated. 
     The button  67  can be provided in any suitable manner. For instance, in one embodiment, the case  10  can include an opening  66  extending from the exterior of the case  10  to the inner chamber  50  of the case  10 . A corresponding opening  68  may or may not be provided in the screen  56 . 
     While  FIGS. 1-3  show there being a single button  67 , it will be understood that there can be a plurality of buttons  67 . It will be appreciated that the buttons  67  can be selectively placed on the case  10  to permit appropriate engagement with buttons  27  or other structure of the portable electrical device  26 . 
     Within the opening  66 , there can be a button element  72  (see  FIGS. 1 and 5 ) or other closure device can be received in and/or retainer in the opening  66 . The button element  72  can be adapted to substantially seal the opening  66  from the infiltration of water, salt water, chemicals, blood or other liquid. The button element  72  can be made of any suitable material, including plastic, polymer or metal. In one embodiment, the button element  72  can be made of polyethylene. In some instances, the button element  72  may have a seal provided thereon to sealingly engage the opening  66 . In addition, in some instances, the button element  72  may be covered on the inner surface  60  of the first case portion  28  by the screen  56 . 
     When the button  67  is pressed from outside the case  10 , a least a portion of the button element  72  can move toward the inner chamber  50  of the case and into engagement with the button  27  of the portable electrical device  26 , thereby operating the button  27 . In one embodiment, when a user pushes or presses the button  67  from the outside of the case  10 , a portion of the button element  72  may be urged toward the inner chamber  50  under the force of compression. Alternatively, the button element  72  can urged another structure (not shown) into engagement with the button  27  of the portable electrical device  26 . 
     Further, the case  10  can be adapted to permit a user to access one or more inputs and/or outputs of the portable electrical device  26 . For instance, in one embodiment, the case  10  can include an access port  70 . The access port  70  can extend from the exterior of the case  10  to the inner chamber  50  of the case  10 . The access port  70  can be formed by a hole  71  in the first case portion  28  and a hole (not shown) in the screen  56  of the case  10 . The access port  70  can be sized to allow passage of any suitable structure. For instance, the access port  70  can be sized to allow at least a portion of a USB cable (such as on a flash drive or an auxiliary device), a charging cable, headphones cable, or other cable and/or connector to be inserted therethrough to engage a component interface or other interface of the portable electrical device  26 . 
     While  FIGS. 1-3  show there being a single access port  70 , it will be understood that there can be a plurality of access ports  70 . It will be appreciated that the access ports  70  can be selectively placed on the case  10  to permit appropriate access to the input(s) and/or output(s) of the portable electrical device  26 . Further, while the access port  70  is shown on the front side  14  of the case  10 , the access port  70  can be provided in any suitable location on the case  10 , including on the rear side  16 , the upper side  18 , the lower side  20 , the first lateral side  22 , and/or the second lateral side  24 . 
     The access ports  70  can be closed in any suitable manner. For instance, a plug  73  (see  FIG. 1 ) or other closure device can be received in at least the hole  71 . The plug  73  can be adapted to substantially seal the hole  71  from the infiltration of water, salt water, chemicals, blood and/or other liquid. The plug  73  can be made of any suitable material, including plastic, polymer or metal. In one embodiment, the plug  73  can be made of polyethylene. In some instances, the plug  73  may have a seal provided thereon to sealingly engage the hole  71 . In some instances, the plug  73  can be made of a compressible material. In such case, the plug  73  can be sized larger than the hole  71  when in an uncompressed condition. Thus, when the plug  73  is compressed to fit within the hole  71 , the plug  73  can expand to sealingly engage the hole  71 . 
     In some instances, the protective case  10  can be configured to retain the plug  73  to minimize the likelihood of the plug  73  being misplaced or lost. To that end, the case  10  can include a retainer strap (not shown). The retainer strap can be connected to the plug  73  at one end and to the body  12  of the case  10  at a second end. The retainer strap can be made of any suitable material and can have any suitable form. 
     The case  10  can be configured to facilitate its transportation. For instance, the case  10  can include one or more carrying straps (not shown). For instance, the case  10  can include a strap (not shown) to assist a user in carrying the case by hand. In such case, the strap could be provided on any suitable portion of the case  20 , including the rear side  16 , the first lateral side  22 , the second lateral side  24 , the upper side  18  or the lower side  20 . In one embodiment, one or more straps (not shown) can be provided on the rear side  16  of the case  10  such that a user can hold the device  10  with one of his or her hands inserted between the case  10  and the one or more straps. Thus, the inside of the user&#39;s hand can engage the rear side  16  of the case  10  and outside of the user&#39;s hand can be engaged by the one or more straps. Thus, the user&#39;s other hand can remain free to interact with the device  26  within the case  10  or to perform some other activity. Alternatively or in addition, a shoulder strap (not shown) can be attached to the case  10 . Alternatively or in addition, the case  10  may come with a carry case (not shown) within which the protective case can be placed and carried. 
     The case  10  can be adapted for mounting to a support surface  74  ( FIG. 8 ). Such mounting can be achieved in any suitable manner. For instance, the case  10  can be configured to allow the case to be directly mounted to a support surface  74 . To that end, the case  10  can be equipped with features and/or structures to facilitate such mounting. As an example,  FIG. 4  shows an embodiment in which the rear side  16  of the case  10  can include spacers  76  which can receive and engage a fastener, such as a bolt  78 . In some instances, spacers may not be provided, but instead, sleeves (not shown) can be provided in the rear side  16  of the case  10 . Such sleeves can be substantially flush with the surface of the rear side  16  of the case  10 . The sleeves can be adapted to receive and engage a fastener therein, such as by threaded engagement. 
     Alternatively, the case  10  can be indirectly mounted to the support surface  74 , as is shown in  FIG. 8 . To that end, a mount  80  can be provided. One example of a suitable mount is shown in  FIG. 6 . However, it will be understood that embodiments are not limited to the mount structure shown. As an example, the mount  80  can include a base  82  and a bracket  84 . 
     The bracket  84  can have any suitable configuration and can have any suitable features. In one embodiment the bracket  84  can include a plurality of slots  85  therein. Such slots  85  may help to maintain the rigidity of the bracket  84 . Further, the bracket  84  can have rearward extending ears  87  to engage with the base  82 . However, in some embodiments, such as when the bracket  84  is mounted directly to a support surface, the bracket  84  may not include such ears  87  to allow the bracket  84  to be mounted substantially flat against a support surface. 
     The base  82  and the bracket  84  can be connected in any suitable manner. For instance, the bracket  84  can be selectively pivotably attached to the base  82 . The bracket  84  can pivot relative to the base  82  about an axis  88 . Any suitable range of pivoting motion can be permitted. To that end, a portion of the bracket  84  can be connected to a portion of the base  82  by a fastener, such as a bolt or pin (not shown), that extends along the axis  88 . A knob  90  can be provided on an end of the fastener to facilitate user interaction. In  FIG. 6 , only one area of pivotable attachment of the bracket  84  and base  82  is shown. However, the same or a similar pivotable attachment arrangement can be provided on the other side of the mount  80  (not visible in  FIG. 6 ). 
     The mount  80  can be configured to prevent or minimize pivoting motion of the base  84  and/or bracket  12  at undesired times. Any of a number of suitable anti-rotation features and/or structures can be implemented in this regard. In one embodiment, one or more anti-rotation pads (not shown) can be operatively positioned between the knob  90  and the bracket  84  and/or between the bracket  84  and the base  82 . The anti-rotation pads (not shown) can be any suitable structure, including for example, a piece of polyethylene material adapted to be attached to the bracket  84  and/or the base  82 . 
     The mount  80  can be mounted in fixed relation to the support surface  74  ( FIG. 8 ). For instance, one or more holes  92  ( FIG. 6 ) can be provided in the base  82  for allowing the passage of a fastener, such as a bolt (not shown), therethrough and into engagement with the support surface  74 . The support surface  74  may be adapted to provide suitable engagement, such as by providing holes. Alternatively or in addition, the bracket  84  can be mounted so that at least a portion of the bracket  84  can rotate relative to the support surface  74 , such as about an axis (not shown) that is substantially perpendicular to the support surface  74 . Any suitable range of rotation can be provided. 
     The mount  80  can be made of any suitable material, including, for example, plastic or metal. The mount  80  can be made of a corrosion resistant material. In one embodiment, the mount  80  can be made of aluminum, such as  6061  aluminum. The bracket  84  and the base  82  can be made of the same material. Alternatively, the bracket  82  and the base  82  can be made of different materials. 
     The bracket  84  can be configured to support the case  10  in any suitable manner. In one embodiment, the bracket  84  can be configured to engage at least the upper side  18  and/or the lower side  20  of the case  10 .  FIG. 8  shows an example in which at least a portion of the lower side  20  of the case  10  can be supported by a cradle portion  86  of the bracket  84 . Alternatively or in addition, the upper side  18  of the case  10  can engage an upper tab  94 . In some instances, the upper tab  94  can include a generally downwardly extending protrusion  96  for directly engaging the upper side  18  of the case  10 . Further engagement between the bracket  84  and the case  10  can be provided. For instance, fasteners, such as screws  96 , can be used to attach the bracket  84  to the case  10 . Such screws  96  can extend through holes  95  ( FIG. 6 ) provided in the bracket  84  and into receiving openings (not shown) in the rear side  16  of the case  10 . Such engagement can help to retain the case  10  in the bracket  84  under harsh or heavy vibration conditions. 
     Again, these are just a few examples of manners in which the bracket  84  can engage the case  10 . Embodiments are not limited to these arrangements. Indeed, there can be other engagement points, including, for example, between the bracket  84  and the first and/or second lateral sides of the case  10 . In some instances, a user may be able to open the case  10  while it is engaged by the mount  80 . In other instances, a user may have to remove the case  10  from the mount  80  to open the case  10 . 
     It should be noted that the support surface  74  to which the case  10  or the mount  80  is attached can be any suitable surface. For instance, the support surface  74  can be a portion of a motorized or non-motorized vehicle, including a car, a truck, a recreational vehicle (RV), a boat, a ship, an airplane, a kayak, a canoe, a military aircraft, a military vehicle, a submarine, a hovercraft, just to name a few possibilities. The support surface  74  can also be a structure such as a portion of a medical facility (i.e., a hospital, a clinic, a doctor&#39;s office, etc.), an educational facility (i.e., a school, trade school, tutoring center, university, etc.), a government facility (i.e., a city hall, a community center, a library, an agency, a court, a legislative building, etc.), a military building, a campground, a park, a gym, a factory, a business, a residential dwelling, a swimming pool area, an amusement park, a waterpark, a museum, a restaurant, a religious facility (i.e., a church, synagogue, temple, mosque, etc.), just to name a few possibilities. As an example, in the context of a hospital, the support surface  74  can be a portion of a table, a wall, a cabinet and/or a desk. In any setting, one or more mounts  80  can be provided. In some instances, a plurality of mounts  80  can be provided in different locations in an area. Thus, the case  10  can be placed into engagement with a mount  80  in one area. When ready to move to another area, the user can disengage the case  10  from the mount  80 . If the user moves to another location in which a mount is provided, the user can engage the case  10  and the mount  80  so that the user no longer has to hold the case  10 . 
     Now that the individual components of various embodiments have been described, one manner of the operation of the system will now be described. It will be understood that the following description is merely exemplary. Beginning with the case in the closed configuration ( FIG. 1 ), the case  10  can be brought into an open configuration ( FIG. 2 ) by disengaging the first and second case portions  28 ,  30 . A portable electrical device  26  can be placed into the case  10 , such as in the second case portion  30  as is shown in  FIG. 3 . The case  10  can be brought to the closed configuration as shown in  FIG. 1  with the device  26  therein. 
     With the portable electrical device  26  inside the case  10 , the user can still operate and manipulate the user interface of the portable electrical device  26 . For instance, the user can still engage the touchscreen  52  of the device  26  though the screen  56  of the case  10 . Again, the screen  56  is configured so as not to interfere with the user&#39;s operation of the touchscreen  52  or other user interface. Thus, the user can continue to use the device  26 . The case  10  can be configured so that the touch screen  52  or other user interface of the device  26  is substantially adjacent to the screen  56 . As a result, user engagement of a user interface of the portable electrical device  26  can be facilitated. 
     If the user wishes to connect a USB connector or other connector to the electrical device  26 , the user can remove a plug  72  that may be provided to permit access to an appropriate interface of the device  26 . With the plug  72  removed, the user can insert the cable, connector or other item through the access opening  66  and into engagement with the device  26 . 
     It will be appreciated that a protective case described herein can provide numerous advantages. For instance, the case  10  can provide protection to the electrical device  26  when dropped, struck by an object or coming into contact with water or other liquid. Thus, the case can allow a user to use their electrical device  26  in conditions that would otherwise subject the device to damage. Thus, the case  10  can expand the ways in which individuals may use an electrical device while reducing the likelihood that the device  26  will be damaged. Thus, if a person wishes to use an electrical device at, near or in water, then the device can be placed inside the case  10  and the person can use the device without fear that the device will be damaged by the water. Also the case can protect the portable electrical device housed within from dust, dirt, sand and/or other substances. 
     Further, the case is sufficiently small and lightweight so that it does not interfere with the portability of the electrical device. Moreover, the case  10  does not change or interfere with the typical user interface of the device  26 . For example, a touchscreen of the device  26  will still function as it would without the device being enclosed in the case  10 . Thus, a user can continue to listen to music, use application software, check emails, or watch videos on the device, just to name a few examples. 
     The terms “a” and “an,” as used herein, are defined as one or more than one. The term “plurality,” as used herein, is defined as two or more than two. The term “another,” as used herein, is defined as at least a second or more. The terms “including” and/or “having,” as used herein, are defined as comprising (i.e., open language). 
     Moreover, as used herein, ordinal terms (e.g. first, second, third, fourth, fifth, sixth, seventh, eighth, ninth, tenth, and so on) distinguish one message, signal, item, object, device, system, apparatus, step, process, or the like from another message, signal, item, object, device, system, apparatus, step, process, or the like. Thus, an ordinal term used herein need not indicate a specific position in an ordinal series. For example, a process identified as a “second process” may occur before a process identified as a “first process.” Further, one or more processes may occur between a first process and a second process. 
     Aspects described herein can be embodied in other forms and combinations without departing from the spirit or essential attributes thereof. Thus, it will of course be understood that embodiments are not limited to the specific details described herein, which are given by way of example only, and that various modifications and alterations are possible within the scope of the following claims.