Patent Publication Number: US-11653733-B2

Title: Protective case for a computing device

Description:
CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS 
     This application is a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 15/335,379 filed on Oct. 26, 2016, the entire disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference. 
    
    
     FIELD 
     This disclosure relates generally to protective cases for computing devices and more particularly, protective cases for computing devices such as, tablets, laptops, and smart phones. 
     BACKGROUND 
     With increasing regularity, protective cases are being constructed for a variety of computing devices such as smart phones, tablets, laptops, and/or other portable computing devices. Their respective designs vary, ranging between degrees of protection as well as facilitating use of the computing device in a more protected environment. 
     Cases have been known to be constructed from molding using silicon or thermoplastic polyurethane rubber that provides some basic protection against drops and scratches. Other case designs have been constructed from relatively stiffer injected plastics such as polycarbonate. 
     The design and construction of the known cases therefore vary depending on the desired amount of protection, costs, and consideration for certain materials and mounting schemes balanced with features that facilitate performance of the computing device itself. For example, certain material may provide basic structural protection, be relatively cheap, but this material may induce too much friction (e.g. grip) to the user that interferes with easy attachment of the case with the device or grip with other articles such as parts of the user&#39;s body or other objects foreign to the case. 
     In addition to material selection, cases can suffer from being too bulky and difficult to stow away. It is also known that materials for certain cases can degrade over time thereby diminishing protective capabilities of the case as well as loosening its attachment with the computing device. Aesthetically, a worn case also diminishes the overall impression of the case and the attached computing device. Such cases can also have reduced bulk versus their rubber counterparts. Plastic injected mold cases can suffer from passing on relatively high material stresses to the computing device itself due to the differing elasticity and cushioning. For computing devices with sensitive displays or input devices, such protective devices may therefore may not be desirous. Certain cases also decrease the ability of a device positioned within them to expel heat by virtue of the materials chosen or the coverage over vents or other heated areas of the device. 
     Certain hybrid combinations have therefore been designed to combine each approach with the softer, cushion portions being placed in communication with the computing device whereas the exterior portion being constructed from the less bulky, injected plastic. 
     Yet, even with these hybrid solutions, stress tests to the computing devices caused by normal use through drops or collisions can lead to device damage and case separation. In turn, the user may have to fix the device, buy a new one, and/or re-assemble the case with the computing device. Furthermore, many cases fail to completely protect or envelope the associated computing device which unnecessarily risks structural harm to the computing device. Therefore, a need exists to resolve these and other problems in the art. 
     SUMMARY 
     The following simplified summary is provided in order to provide a basic understanding of some aspects of the claimed subject matter. This summary is not an extensive overview, and is not intended to identify key/critical elements or to delineate the scope of the claimed subject matter. Its purpose is to present some concepts in a simplified form as a prelude to the more detailed description that is presented later. 
     In some embodiments, a composite case for a computing device is disclosed having a first portion and second portion. The first portion is operable to protect and detachably connect to a display portion of the computing device, the first portion having one or more perimetral fasteners disposed on edges of the first portion. The second portion is operable to protect and detachably connect to an input device portion of the computing device. The second portion may have one or more perimetral fasteners disposed on edges of the second portion. The display and input device portions may be detachably connected to each other through a multi-pivot hinge unit. The multi-pivot hinge unit may be operable to rotate about one or more computing device axes defined between the display and input device portions to move the computing device between open and closed states. A hinge cover portion can be connected to the first portion to detachably receive and surround the multi-pivot hinge of the computing device. A protective shell may be formed between the first and second portions when the first and second portions are joined at the hinge cover portion. One or more perimetral fasteners of the first and second portions opposite the hinge cover portion can be secured with each other in a closed position. 
     In certain embodiments, the first portion includes a resilient portion dimensioned to detachably receive perimetral edges of the display portion and a rigid portion detachably connected to a rear surface of the display portion of the computing device, the rigid portion being impact resistant and dimensioned to shield the rear surface of the display portion. In certain embodiments, one or more impact resistant corners are formed with the perimetral edge and/or the rear surface. 
     Also in certain embodiments, the hinge cover portion can include an elongate hemispheric chamber for receiving the hinge cover of the computing device. A series of elongated channels can be extended along the chamber between lateral edges of the second portion. A plurality of fastener tabs can be extended from a lower edge of the chamber to upper and lower surfaces of the second portion. The second portion can be substantially rigid and the hinge cover can be resilient. The second portion can include a plurality of receivers spaced a predetermined distance apart and formed from cutouts of the second portion along a rear edge of the second portion. The cutouts associated with the receivers of the second portion can render flexible the rear edge of the second portion. 
     In other embodiments, the hinge cover portion can include a rigid elongate hemispheric chamber extended between lateral edges of the second portion of the case. The rigid elongate hemispheric chamber can be axially aligned with and receive the hinge cover of the computing device. A gap may be provided for moving between open and closed states between the multi-pivot hinge of the computing device and the chamber when the hinge cover portion is secured to the multi-pivot hinge. The gap may depend on the amount of rotation desired between opened and closed states, number, size, and/or shape of hinges of the multi-pivot hinge unit. A resilient fastener tab can be extended from a lower portion of the chamber for connecting the hinge cover portion to a recess on a lower surface of the second portion of the case. The tab can be extended between opposite lateral edges of the second portion and may be substantially planar to the recess on the lower surface of the second portion. The resilient fastener tab can include a first portion substantially surrounding an outer surface of the chamber and a second portion pivotally attached to the first portion along an edge axially aligned with the chamber. The second portion can be operable to be substantially planar and connected to the recess of the second portion of the case. The first and second portion of the tab can be formed from a shared outer grip inducing surface. 
     In some embodiments, a retention band can be extended from opposite ends of the chamber of the hinge cover portion. The retention band can be operable to securely retain the multi-pivot hinge of the computing device with the chamber. The retention band can be movable and/or flexible (e.g. be an elastic bungee, a band such as an elastic, an adjustable strap, a band containing linked or hinged subunits or portions, etc.). The hinge cover portion can include a plurality of bulkheads or structural members normal to the longitudinal axis of the rigid hemispheric chamber and extended along the chamber between lateral edges of the second portion. The second portion can be substantially rigid and the hinge cover can be substantially resilient. The recess of the second portion can render flexible the rear edge of the second portion. 
     In other embodiments, the hinge cover portion may be formed from multiple individual pieces and the retention band can be attached to both sides of portions of the case or attached onto either or both sides of the case or the hinge unit of the computing device. 
     In some embodiments, the perimetral fasteners of the first portion can include a forward edge fastener defined by an inwardly facing lip operable to detachably secure to an upper edge of the display portion opposite the hinge cover portion. A plurality of lateral edge fastener tabs can also be included that extend downward from opposing lateral edges of the first portion, each lateral edge fastener tab being operable to flex outwardly and securely engage with a corresponding receiver disposed on a lateral edge of the second portion. The corresponding receiver of the second portion can extend outwardly from the respective lateral edge of the second portion and may be capable of being received by a recess of the corresponding lateral edge fastener tab of the first portion. The lateral edge fastener tab can be resilient and the corresponding receiver of the second portion can be rigid. An axis of rotation of the hinge cover portion can be co-extensive to a hinge axis of the multi-pivot hinge unit. In certain embodiments, the multi-pivot hinge unit is an armadillo hinge assembly. Additionally, the first portion can provide impact resistance to the display portion regardless of whether the second portion is detachably connected to the input device portion or the first portion (e.g, if the display portion is a tablet and is not connected to the hinge of the computing device, the first portion, or the input device portion). Accordingly, the first and second portions may not be directly attached at all, they may be directly attached irrespective of whether input and display portions are connected, or the first and second portions may be attached to the other when the input device and display portions are connected via the multi-pivot hinge unit. 
     The first portion can include one or a plurality of impact resistant portions or resilient portions. Perimetral edges of the first portion can extend away from a rear support surface and terminate in a flexible inwardly extending lip operable to flex outwards and securely retain the display portion of the computing device. The lip can be thicker than the portion of the perimetral edge extending away from the rear support surface. 
     In other embodiments, a method of protecting a computing device is disclosed. The computing device can have a display portion and an input device portion detachably and pivotally connected through a multi-pivot hinge unit operable to rotate about one or more computing device axes defined between the display and input device portions to move the computing device between open and closed states. The method can include: attaching a leading edge and/or lateral edges of the display portion with one or more perimetral fasteners a first portion of a composite case; the first portion comprising a substantially rigid rear surface and resilient perimetral edges; aligning the display portion planar with the rear surface of the first portion of the composite case; attaching edges of the input device portion with one or more perimetral fasteners of a second portion of the composite case, the second portion comprising a substantially rigid rear surface: aligning the input device portion planar with a rear surface of the second portion; and positioning the multi-pivot hinge unit in a hinge cover portion of the composite case, the hinge cover portion having a rigid elongate hemispheric chamber in which the multi-pivot hinge is movable between opened and closed positions, the hinge cover portion being connected to a rear edge of the first portion of the composite case. 
     The method may also include forming a protective shell about the computing device between the first and second portions when the first and second portions are joined at the hinge cover portion and one or more of perimetral fasteners of the first and second portions opposite the hinge cover portion are secured with each other in a closed position. 
     The method can also include positioning the hinge cover of the computing device within an elongate hemispheric chamber the hinge cover portion, the hinge cover portion including a series of elongated channels extended along the chamber between lateral edges of the second portion; and a plurality of fastener tabs extended from a lower edge of the chamber to upper and lower surfaces of the second portion; the second portion being substantially rigid and the hinge cover being substantially resilient. 
     The method can also include positioning the hinge cover of the computing device within a rigid elongate hemispheric chamber extended between lateral edges of the second portion of the case, the rigid elongate hemispheric chamber being operably to axially align with and to receive the hinge cover of the computing device, the hinge cover portion comprising: a gap for moving between open and closed states between the multi-pivot hinge of the computing device and the chamber when the hinge cover portion is secured to the multi-pivot hinge; a resilient fastener tab extended from a lower portion of the chamber for connecting the hinge cover portion to a recess on a lower surface of the second portion of the case, the tab extended between opposite lateral edges of the second portion and being substantially planar to the recess on the lower surface of the second portion. 
     A variety of methods and systems of utilizing and assembling the disclosed case is also contemplated in a variety of situations and environments. To the accomplishment of the foregoing and related ends, certain illustrative aspects are described herein in connection with the following description and the annexed drawings. These aspects are indicative, however, of but a few of the various ways in which the principles of the claimed subject matter may be employed and the claimed subject matter is intended to include all such aspects and their equivalents. Other advantages and novel features may become apparent from the following detailed description when considered in conjunction with the drawings. 
    
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
         FIG.  1    is a rear perspective view of an exemplary view of the herein described protective case for a computing device, wherein the case and computing device are in an opened state. 
         FIG.  2    is a rear perspective view of the case of  FIG.  1   , wherein the case is being collapsed with an exemplary computing device. 
         FIG.  3    is forward perspective view the case of  FIG.  1    assembled with an exemplary computing device. 
         FIG.  4    is a forward perspective view of the case and device of  FIG.  3   , wherein the screen and keyboard portions are in an exploded state. 
         FIG.  5    is a forward perspective of the case and device of  FIG.  3    in an assembled state, wherein the case is closed around the computing device. 
         FIG.  6    is a rear perspective of the case and device of  FIG.  3    in an assembled state, wherein the case is closed around the computing device. 
         FIG.  7    is a side plan view of the case and computing device of  FIGS.  5 - 6   , wherein the case and device are in a closed state. 
         FIG.  8    is a side plan view of the case and computing device of  FIGS.  5 - 6   , wherein the case and device are in an opened state. 
         FIG.  9    is a top plan view of the case and computing device of  FIGS.  5 - 6   , wherein the case and device are in a closed state. 
         FIG.  10    is a bottom plan view of the case and computing device of  FIGS.  5 - 6   , wherein the case and device are in a closed state. 
         FIG.  11    is a close-up forward perspective view of section A of  FIG.  10   . 
         FIG.  12    is a close-up rear perspective view of section A of  FIG.  10   . 
         FIG.  13    is a forward perspective view of an exemplary view of another embodiment of the protective case for a computing device, wherein the case and computing device are in an opened state. 
         FIG.  14    is rear perspective view the case of  FIG.  13   . 
         FIG.  15    is a forward perspective of the case and device of  FIG.  13    in an assembled state, wherein the case is closed around the computing device. 
         FIG.  16    is a rear perspective of the case and device of  FIG.  15    in an assembled state, wherein the case is closed around the computing device. 
         FIG.  17    is a side plan view of the case and computing device of  FIGS.  15 - 16   , wherein the case and device are in a closed state. 
         FIG.  18    is a side perspective view of the case and computing device of  FIGS.  15 - 16   , wherein the case and device are in an opened state. 
         FIG.  19    is a side perspective view of the case of  FIGS.  15 - 16    without the computing device, wherein the case is in an opened state. 
         FIG.  20    is a close-up perspective view of section B of  FIG.  13   . 
         FIG.  21    is a close-up perspective view of section D of  FIG.  18   . 
         FIG.  22    is a close-up perspective view of section C of  FIG.  14   . 
         FIG.  23    is a close-up perspective view of section C of  FIG.  14   , wherein the computing device has been removed. 
         FIG.  24    is a top plan view of the case and computing device of  FIGS.  13 - 23   , wherein the case and device are in a closed state. 
         FIG.  25    is a bottom plan view of the case and computing device of  FIGS.  13 - 23   , wherein the case and device are in a closed state. 
         FIG.  26    is a close up side plan cross-sectional view along center line of the case in  FIG.  19   . 
         FIG.  27    depicts an exemplary method of installing one of the herein disclosed cases with an exemplary computing device. 
         FIG.  28    depicts an exemplary method of forming a protective shell for an exemplary computing device using one of the herein disclosed cases. 
     
    
    
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION 
     The features of the presently disclosed solution may be economically molded or assembled by using one or more distinct parts and associated components which, may be assembled together for removable or integral application with a known or to-be-designed computing device case in an economical manner, wherein the features of the present disclosure may form the herein disclosed servicing apparatus regardless of the particular form. Unless defined otherwise, all terms of art, notations and other scientific terms or terminology used herein have the same meaning as is commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which this disclosure belongs. 
     Terms with commonly understood meanings may be defined herein for clarity and/or for ready reference, and the inclusion of such definitions herein should not necessarily be construed to represent a substantial difference over what is generally understood in the art. All patents, applications, published applications and other publications referred to herein are incorporated by reference in their entirety. If a definition set forth in this section is contrary to or otherwise inconsistent with a definition set forth in the patents, application, published applications and other publications that are herein incorporated by reference, the definition set forth in this section prevails over the definition that is incorporated herein by reference. 
     As used herein, “a” or “an” means “at least one” or “one or more.” As used herein, the term “user”, “subject”, “end-user” or the like is not limited to a specific entity or person. For example, the term “user” may refer to a person who uses the systems and methods described herein, and frequently may be a technician. However, this term is not limited to end users or technicians and thus encompasses a variety of persons who can use the disclosed systems and methods. 
     The disclosed solution can now be better understood turning to the following detailed description. It is to be expressly understood that the illustrated embodiments are set forth as examples and not by way of limitations on the embodiments as ultimately defined in the claims. An embodiment in accordance with the present disclosure provides a cover for a computing device such as a laptop, a tablet or any other portable computing device. The cover can be made of multiple parts, integrally formed therewith or detachable. 
     It is understood that “computing device” can mean any computer such as a laptop, a tablet computing device, a mobile device such as a cellular phone, a mobile phone, a smart phone, or the like. 
     “Shield” as used herein with the disclosed case can mean to protect, wrap around, or envelope a corresponding computing device in a manner that conceals the computing device from injuries during a drop or accident such as by impact or collision. 
     “Impact resistant” or “impact resistance” as it relates to the herein disclosed case features can mean any feature designed to withstand relatively high applied forces or related shock. Accordingly, features or materials described herein as providing impact resistance or being impact resistant utilize material properties and/or structural design of the case directed towards mitigating the effects of expected events in the life-cycle of the case and corresponding computing device that incur impact (e.g. drops, collisions, accidents, etc). 
     The herein disclosed solution described a case capable of exhibiting the shock resistant benefits of a case with elastomeric edges or outer portions combined with the consumer usability benefits of a resilient outer case such as relatively stronger plastics. The herein described solution may also be a composite case with some combination of one or more elastic materials with one or more harder, resilient materials, such as injection molded plastic and/or rubber, in a way that forms a permanent bond therebetween resulting in a protective system that sufficiently securely retains and protects a computing device in most operating conditions including, but not limited to, the standards set forth by MIL-STD 810G, 506.6 VI. The herein disclosed solution also contemplates a composite case in which the geometric shape of the constituent components maximizes overall structural strength and impact resistance while minimizing material weight and size. 
     For simplicity and illustration purposes only, the presently disclosed cases  10 ,  110  are depicted for use with a laptop and/or tablet device though the solution is not so limited and could be used with other referenced computing devices as understood in the context of this disclosure and other numerous consumer electronic devices, wherein cases  10 ,  110  would employ similar details, features and benefits. 
     The herein disclosed case offers solutions to protect and shield computing devices employing multi-axis or multi-pivot hinges to rotatably secure input and display portions of said computing device. It is understood that multi-axis or multi-pivot hinges can incorporate a plurality of discrete hinge units, with respective rotational axes, and can move between a plurality of opened and closed positions. In certain embodiments, some or all of the discrete hinges of the multi-pivot hinge unit can include a rotational limiter to limit degree of rotation of the respective hinge relative to an adjoining discrete hinge. 
     Turning to the figures,  FIGS.  1 - 4    show forward and rear perspective views of the herein disclosed case  10  assembled with an exemplary computing device  50 . Computing device  50  includes an input portion  54  (e.g. a keyboard) and a display portion  58 . Portions  54  and  58  may be detachably interconnected through a multi-pivot hinge  59 . Preferably, hinge  59  is disposed at the trailing edge of portion  54  and is an armadillo hinge assembly. Multi-pivot hinges that can be used with device  50  are designed to rotatably secure separate portions of device  50 , such as input  54  and display  58  portions. 
       FIG.  1    specifically depicts a perspective view of a case  10  assembled with computing device  50  in an opened state.  FIG.  2    depicts a similar embodiment but instead case  10  is now in the process of being collapsed to form a shield around computing device  50  as discussed more particularly below.  FIG.  3    depicts a forward perspective view of case  10  assembled with device  50  in an opened state, wherein portions  54  and  58  can be seen assembled with the other through hinge  59 .  FIG.  4    depicts case  10  and device  50  of  FIG.  3    but in an exploded state, wherein portions  58  and  30  are assembled with each other but are exploded from hinge  59 . Case  10  may be operable to securely retain and shield computing device  50  and preferably may be constructed from a base portion  20  and an upright portion  30 . Portion  20  may be designed to receive and shield an input device  54  whereas portion  30  may be designed to receive and shield display portion  58 . 
     Portion  20  may also include a hinge cover portion  40  attached to a trailing edge of base portion  20 . Portion  40  may be designed to receive hinge  59  of device  50  when device  50  is in an assembled state (portions  54  and  58  connected to each other across hinge  59 ) or when portions  54  and  58  are mechanically disconnected from the other. 
     Portion  30  may be constructed from a relatively resilient material along its perimetral edge portion  32 . Edge portion  32  may be substantially or partially flexible in one or more predetermined areas. For example certain areas of portion  32  immediately adjacent or nearby corners  34  may be relatively resilient or stiff whereas areas  33  disposed in a central portion closer away from corners  34  may be more rigid so that portion  32  can conform to portion  58  as needed. Corners  34  in turn may be reinforced with one or more impact resistant materials and/or designs to withstand and shield portion  58  and device  50  during collision, drop or otherwise accidental conduct. Notably, when portion  30  is engaged with display portion  58 , in certain embodiments it provides impact resistance to display portion  58  regardless of whether display portion is engaged with input portion  54 . For example, display portion  58  may be removed and used as a tablet apart from the input portion  54 , while it maintains impact resistance while it is engaged with portion  30 . Often, both portions  54 ,  58  maintain impact resistance as portions  20  and  30  remain engaged with them even as the device is used in a tablet mode. Opposite corners  34  on the lower, trailing edge may be one or more perimetral fasteners  31  disposed on edge  32 . Fasteners  31  may be operable to flex and securely engage with corresponding perimetral edge portions of portion  58 . 
     Stylus receiver  37  may also be disposed on an upper edge of portion  30 . Receiver  37  may be designed to receive stylus  55 . Stylus  55  may be a digital stylus in the shape of an elongate member such as a pencil or pen. In this respect, receiver  37  is shown as substantially cylindrical with flexible, separate lips operable to slidably receive and retain mechanism  55 . However, receiver  37  may be in any shape or manner including a two-part bendable, flexible receiver operable to securely engage any other control mechanism of device  50  including a mouse, remote control, or the like. Receiver  37  may also be integrally formed with edge  32  or detachable therewith as needed or desired. 
     Preferably, edge  32  may be defined by extending substantially normal away from the rear support surface  33  and terminating in an inwardly extending lip. The Hp may be wider or thicker than the lower portion of edge  32  extending away from the rear support surface  33 . In this respect, perimetral edge  32  may be operable to flex outwards when receiving portion  58  while also being capable of securely retaining device  58  once assembled under the described lip and edge  32 . 
     Portion  30  may also include optional optical system cutout  31  and/or actuator surfaces or cutouts positioned with edge  32 . Cutout  31  may be formed by being trimmed or cut from edge  32  by the end-user according to particular device  50 . Edge  32  in turn may be formed with pre-etched portions operable to be trimmed or modified as needed by the end-user. Cutout  21  may also include corresponding hingeable covering surfaces or detachable covers that can be easily moved as needed or required to further shield corresponding optical system  56  of device  50  and/or related actuators positioned along the corresponding perimeter of device  50 . In this regard, portion  30  is a composite portion that advantageously includes a hybrid rigid rear surface  33  in combination with resilient protection of edges  32  to portion  58  across a range of operating environments. 
     Portion  20  may be constructed from substantially rigid material. Portion  20  may include a perimetral edge  22 . Portion  20  may include a plurality of corners  34  with reinforced material for protecting corners of portion  54 . Edge  22  may extend substantially normal away from the rear support surface  23  and terminating in an inwardly extending lip. The lip may be discontinuous along lateral edges and the leading edge so as to permit flexing of the rigid portion  20  as well securely fasten with corresponding fasteners of portion  30  in a closed position. For example, the leading edge  27  of portion  20  may include a recessed lip that is lower than the remaining lip of edge  22 . This is particularly advantageous in inducing a predetermined flex of case  10  when assembling with portion  54  while also maintaining a rigid outer shell of  20  for portion  54  across a plurality of operating environments. Some or all of lateral edges of edge  22  may also be recessed or completely removed adjacent the trailing edge of portion  20 . In this respect, perimetral edge  22  may be operable to flex outwards when receiving portion  54  while also being capable of securely retaining device  54  once assembled under the described lip and edge  22 . Lip of edge  22  may be wider or thicker than the lower portion of edge  22  extending away from the rear support surface  23 . 
     One or more lateral fastener tabs  36  may be positioned along edge  32  for releasable attachment with corresponding edge  22  of portion  20 . Tabs  36  may be constructed from substantially resilient material capable of flexing. Tab  36  may also include a receiver for fastening with corresponding fastener  26  of portion. However, tab  36  is not so limited and instead may include an outward extending fastener capable of securely engaging with tab  26  and/or edge  22  of portion  20 . 
     Turning to  FIG.  5   , case  10  is depicted in a closed state so that rear support surface  33  can be readily observed. Surface  33  may be defined by a structural backing plate and be structurally reinforced by one or more upraised portions defined by thicker material relative to non-upraised portions disposed adjacent thereto. Advantageously, the upraised portions with the less thick portions of surface  33  may provide additional rigidity, strength or stiffness to portion  30  of case  10  in a manner that optimizes overall case  10  weight and material costs.  FIG.  5    also depicts portions  30  and  20  assembled to each other so that tabs  36  are securely engaged with corresponding fasteners  26 . 
       FIG.  6    depicts a similar view of  FIG.  5   , wherein case  10  has been rotated to observe portion  40 . As can be seen, portion  40  extends between the lateral edges  22  and  32  of portions  20  and  30 , respectively. Portion  40  can attach to the trailing edge of portion  20  whereas portions  20  and  30  are connected to each other through hinge  59 . In other words, in certain embodiments, portion  20  may be the only feature of case directly attached to portion  40  while portion  30  is loosely assembled therewith only through hinge  59 . It is to be understood that case  10  is not so limited, however, and portions  20  and  30  may both directly attach to portion  40 . 
       FIG.  7    depicts a side plan view of the case  10  and device  50  of  FIGS.  5 - 6   . As shown, portion  40  can completely receive hinge  59 . Portion  40  may include one or more lower fasteners  42  that fasten to the trailing edge of portion  20 . Fasteners  42  may be planar and/or parallel with surface  23 . Portion  40  may also include an elongate hinge receiving chamber defined by an elongate contoured extruded surface  44 . Surface  44  may be substantially hemispherical with one or more grooves or channels of varying thickness. In this regard, surface  44  may be thicker than corresponding fasteners  42  and more resistant to bending. However, thinned out grooves or channels of surface  44  may permit the chamber defined by surface  44  to bend or conform with hinge  59  as hinge  59  rotates between opened and closed positions. 
       FIG.  8    depicts a side plan view of the device of  FIG.  7    in an opened position, wherein portions  20 ,  30 , and  40  are assembled with each other. As shown, a gap can be included in between an inner surface of portion  40  and hinge  59  that permits hinge  59  to rotate between opened and closed positions. As also shown, portion  30  may not directly attached to portion  20  but instead may be assembled therewith indirectly through hinge  59  being directly connected to portions  54  and  58  (each of which may be directly attached to or separate from respective portions  20  and  30 ). 
       FIG.  9    depicts a top plan view of case  10 . As shown, portion  40  is assembled with portion  20  which is positioned underneath portion  30  in this embodiment.  FIG.  10    depicts a bottom plan view of the case  10  in  FIG.  9   , wherein a plurality of fasteners  42  can be seen fastened to portion  20  along its trailing edge  25 . The attachment area of portion  40  associated with  42  may be completely removed or thinned out which renders portion  20  capable of additional flexing or twisting. Fasteners  42  may be separated by one or more spaces  28  along the trailing edge. 
       FIG.  11    is a close-up forward perspective view of section A of  FIG.  10    and  FIG.  12    is a close-up rear perspective view of section A of  FIG.  10   . As can be seen, at trailing edge  25  of portion  20  a recess or cutout has been positioned to receive fastener  42 . In some embodiments, fastener  42  may be fastened only to the outer surface of portion  20 , only the inner surface of portion  20 , or both the inner and outer surfaces of portion  20 . As can be seen, surface  44  can include a plurality of grooves or channels of varying thickness that collectively form a chamber for receiving hinge  59 . 
       FIG.  13    is a forward perspective view of another embodiment of the protective case  110  for computing device  50 . It is to be understood that features of case  110  with the same reference numerals as case  10  are intended to carry substantially similar function and structure as those previously described in case  10 . However, portion  40  differs from portion  140  as discussed more particularly below.  FIG.  14    is rear perspective view of case  110  and device  50  shown in  FIG.  13   . As shown in  FIG.  14   , portion  140  includes a fastener  142  that extends from surface  144  and attaches to trailing edge  125  of portion  30 . Portion  120  in this respect does not include spaces  28 . Instead, edge  125  may include a recessed portion that forms a flange onto which fastener  142  may be fastened. Fastener  142  may be a Wabash hinge formed from a plurality of or a single unitary surface that extends between lateral edges  122  or may be constructed from a plurality of separate layers or laminates. In one embodiment, an outer layer of fastener  142  may be grip inducing for enhanced handling by user and stability of case  110  and device  50  when seated and assembled onto a surface for use. 
       FIG.  15    is a forward perspective of case  110  and device  50  in an assembled state, wherein the case  110  is closed around the computing device.  FIG.  16    is a rear perspective of case  110  and device  50  of  FIG.  15    in an assembled state, wherein the case  110  is closed around the computing device  50 . As can be seen, surface  144  may include a hinge receiving chamber formed from a unitary contour as opposed to the plurality of grooves or channels of surface  44 . 
       FIG.  17    is a side plan view of case  110  and device  50  in a closed state. As can be seen, fastener  136  extends from edge  132  of portion  130  to fasten with portion  120 . On the opposite end, portion  140  completely houses hinge  59 . Fastener  142  may be substantially planar with outer surface  123  of portion  120 . As can be seen in  FIG.  17   , when portions  130  and/or  120  are securely engaged, a protective shell can be formed around device  50 . 
       FIG.  18    is a side perspective view of case  110  assembled with device  50  in an opened state. The leading edge of portion  120  may include recessed lip  127  that communicates with receiver  137  of portion  137 . Reinforced corner  124  may be disposed on edge  122  adjacent fastener  126 . As shown, fastener  126  may include an outwardly extended lip from edge  122  operable to securely engage with fastener  136  of portion  130 . Fastener  126  may be constructed from substantially rigid material and fastener  136  may be substantially resilient so as to flexibly engage with the other when securely engaging. 
     Portion  140  may include a retaining band  146  operably to securely and adjustably maintain hinge  59  engaged with portion  140 . This is seen more clearly in  FIG.  19    wherein a side perspective of case  110  in an opened state without device  50 . Band  146  can be seen extended from lateral ends of surface  144 . Band  146  may be substantially elastic and releasably attached at one or both ends of surface  144 . Band  146  may also be fixedly attached at both ends and include a predetermined elasticity so that it can move to a stretch point when hinge  59  is positioned therebelow within surface  144 . Optionally, adjacent trailing edge  125  may be a retaining groove  123  operable to engage with portion  54 . Adjacent leading edge of portion  120  may also be a groove  129  to engage with portion  54 . Grooves  123  and  129  facilitate proper positioning of portion  54  when being secured with portion  120 . Optionally, band  146  can be positioned anywhere along surface  144  and may further include a tension adjustment mechanism so that the end-user can, for example, adjust the corresponding tension and engagement between device  50  and band  146 . 
       FIG.  20    is a close-up perspective view of section B of  FIG.  13   . As shown, portion  140  includes surface  144  and fastener  142 . Fastener  142  is oriented planar with trailing edge  125 . Fastener  142  may be fastened thereon by any number of techniques include use of one or more mechanical fasteners, an adhesive, sonic welding, or the like. Portion  140  may also include a rotational axis  147  consistent with a Wabash hinge that is defined between fastener  142  and a shared edge of surface  144 . In this respect, fastener  142  may be operable to pivot between opened and closed states. Each lateral end  149  of surface  144  may include a bend or contoured portion to receive respective ends of band  146 . Fastener  131  of portion  130  can also be seen securely engaged with corresponding corner of portion  58  while portion  58  in turn is securely engaged with hinge  59 .  FIG.  21    is a close-up perspective view of section D of  FIG.  19   , wherein device  50  has been removed to observe constituent features of case  110 . Portion  140  can be seen including one or more support structures  148  such as bulkheads that run laterally or normal relative to band  146 . 
       FIG.  22    is a close-up perspective view of section C of  FIG.  14   . In particular, fastener  142  can be seen being substantially planar with and fastened to leading edge  125  of portion  120 . In this embodiment, leading edge  125  may include a recessed lip  125 ′ so that when fastened, fastener  142  and outer surface  123  are substantially planar with each other. Lateral end  149  can also be seen outwardly extended to provide a space or gap into which band  146  may be positioned for secure engagement with surface  144  and hinge  59  during use.  FIG.  23    is a close-up perspective view of section C of  FIG.  14   , wherein device  50  has been removed to more clearly show constituent features of case  110 . 
       FIG.  24    is a top plan view of case  110  and device  50  and  FIG.  25    is a bottom plan view of case  110  and device  50 , each view being in a closed state whereby a protective shell has been formed by case  110  about device  50 . 
       FIG.  26    is a close up side plan cross-sectional view along center line of case  110  in  FIG.  19   . Surface  144  may be generally hemispherical or semi-cylindrical to form a chamber into which hinge  59  may be positioned. Surface  144  may also include an outer laminate that is grip inducing and/or softer relative to the inner, substantially rigid material of structures  148 . Between the outer laminate and the inner rigid material, a void  141  may be provided for receiving band  146 . Band  146  may therefore be detachably inserted through void  141  between lateral ends  149  while extending over hinge  59  when device  50  is securely assembled therewith. 
     In certain embodiments, the outer laminate of surface  144  may be formed with fastener  142 . Because the outer laminate may be substantially flexible, a natural pivot may be formed along axis  147  when fastener  142  and outer laminate of surface  144  are fastened and properly positioned with portions  120  and  140 . As can also be seen, lip  125 ′ does not have to be recessed. Instead, lip  125 ′ can be raised from surface  123  to coincide with the corresponding thickness of fastener  142 . 
     In other embodiments, an exemplary method of installing one of the herein disclosed cases  10 / 110  with device  50  is disclosed, as depicted in  FIG.  27   . In step (a), the leading edge of portion  54  can be attached with one or more perimetral fasteners  22 / 122 . The leading edge of portion  54  may first be attached and then the lateral edges of portion  54  may then be fastened with corresponding fasteners  22 / 122 . In step (b), the upper edge of portion  58  can be attached with one or more perimetral fasteners  32 / 132  along the corresponding upper edge of portion  30 / 130 . The upper edge of portion  58  may first be attached and then the lateral edges of portion  58  may then be fastened with corresponding fasteners  32 / 132 . Portions  54  and  58  may each be aligned substantially planar with respective rear surfaces  22 / 122  and  33 / 133  upon being attached therewith respective inwardly extended lips and/or fasteners. In step (c), hinge  59  may be positioned in hinge cover portion  40 / 140  that is attached to portion  20 / 120  and then portions  54  and  58  may be assembled with each other through hinge  59 . As previously discussed, portion  40 / 140  may have a rigid elongate hemispheric chamber in which hinge  59  can be movable between a plurality of opened and closed positions. In a closed state, a protective shell can be formed about device  50  between portions  20 / 120  and  30 / 130  when joined at portion  40 / 140  and one or more of perimetral fasteners of the portions  20 / 120  and  30 / 130  opposite portion  40 / 140  in the closed position. 
       FIG.  28    depicts another exemplary method of forming a protective shell about device  50  using one of the herein disclosed cases. As can be seen, in step (a), fastener  37  and/or  27  of respective portions  30  and  20  can be moved towards the other to form the protective shell around device  50 . For example, fastener  37  may include a flexible, inwardly extended lip that can securely engaged with fastener  27  and/or a bottom surface of portion  54 , when portion  54  is securely engaged with portion  20 . Separately, or additionally, fasteners  36  may be securely engaged with corresponding fasteners  26  of portion  20  to securely engage portions  20  and  30  with the other to form the protective shell about device  50 . In step (b), case  10  may be moved to one of a plurality of opened states by moving fastener  37  away from portion  20 . Separately, or additionally, fasteners  36  may be disengaged with corresponding fasteners  26  of portion  20  by being moved away therefrom so that portions  20  and  30  can freely rotate about hinge  59  to one of a plurality of opened states. 
     The definitions of the words or elements of the following claims are, therefore, defined in this specification to not only include the combination of elements which are literally set forth. It is also contemplated that an equivalent substitution of two or more elements may be made for any one of the elements in the claims below or that a single element may be substituted for two or more elements in a claim. Although elements may be described above as acting in certain combinations and even initially claimed as such, it is to be expressly understood that one or more elements from a claimed combination can in some cases be excised from the combination and that the claimed combination may be directed to a subcombination or variation of a subcombination(s). 
     Insubstantial changes from the claimed subject matter as viewed by a person with ordinary skill in the art, now known or later devised, are expressly contemplated as being equivalently within the scope of the claims. Therefore, obvious substitutions now or later known to one with ordinary skill in the art are defined to be within the scope of the defined elements. The claims are thus to be understood to include what is specifically illustrated and described above, what is conceptually equivalent, what can be obviously substituted and also what incorporates the essential idea of the embodiments. 
     What has been described above includes examples of one or more embodiments. It is, of course, not possible to describe every conceivable combination of components or methodologies for purposes of describing the aforementioned embodiments, but one of ordinary skill in the art may recognize that many further combinations and permutations of various embodiments are possible. Accordingly, the described embodiments are intended to embrace all such alterations, modifications and variations that fall within the spirit and scope of the appended claims. Furthermore, to the extent that the term “includes” is used in either the detailed description or the claims, such term is intended to be inclusive in a manner similar to the term “comprising” as “comprising” is interpreted when employed as a transitional word in a claim.