Abstract:
A protective storage device includes a front protective component that is configured to receive an electronic device. A back protective component is employed to interface with the front protective component and to form an enclosure that encloses the electronic device when the back protective component interfaces with a front of the front protective component. The case may also include a multi-directional hinge that couples the front protective component to the back protective component at a single location such that the front protective component is movable in multiple directions relative to the back protective component.

Description:
CROSS-REFERENCES TO RELATED APPLICATIONS 
       [0001]    The present application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Application No. 61/719,751, which was filed Oct. 29, 2012, the complete disclosure of which is herein incorporated by reference. 
     
    
     BACKGROUND 
       [0002]    Smartphones and tablets have become ubiquitous. The need for protective cases for smart phones and tablets has grown with this popularity. Embodiments of the invention are directed toward protective cases for smartphones and tablets. 
       BRIEF SUMMARY 
       [0003]    The terms “invention,” “the invention,” “this invention” and “the present invention” used in this patent are intended to refer broadly to all of the subject matter of this patent and the patent claims below. Statements containing these terms should not be understood to limit the subject matter described herein or to limit the meaning or scope of the patent claims below. Embodiments of the invention covered by this patent are defined by the claims below, not this summary. This summary is a high-level overview of various aspects of the invention and introduces some of the concepts that are further described in the Detailed Description section below. This summary is not intended to identify key or essential features of the claimed subject matter, nor is it intended to be used in isolation to determine the scope of the claimed subject matter. The subject matter should be understood by reference to the entire specification of this patent, all drawings and each claim. 
         [0004]    One particular embodiment provides a protective storage device that includes a front protective component that is configured to receive an electronic device. A back protective component is employed to interface with the front protective component and to form an enclosure that encloses the electronic device when the back protective component interfaces with a front of the front protective component. Such a configuration may be referred to as a closed position where the electronic device is enclosed by the front and back protective components. Conveniently, the case may also include a multi-directional hinge that couples the front protective component to the back protective component at a single location such that the front protective component is movable in multiple directions relative to the back protective component. In this way, the protective device may be moved to an open position where the electronic device is exposed. By using the multi-directional hinge, the back protective component may be moved behind and interfaced with the front protective component, among other possible positions. 
         [0005]    In one particular aspect, the multi-directional hinge comprises an arm and a ball, and a socket into which the arm and ball are received. In some arrangements, the arm may be coupled to either the back protective component or the front protective component. Also, the socket may be coupled to either the back protective component or the front protective component such that it may interface with ball that is coupled to the other component. 
         [0006]    In another aspect, the front protective component comprises a generally rectangular back, a top end, and two sides. In an optional arrangement, the two sides may each include a resilient jaw that is configured to flex to permit the electronic device to be inserted into the front protective component, then released to bias against the electronic device to secure the electronic device within the front protective component. In other arrangements, the electronic component may simply be press fit into the front protective component. 
         [0007]    In some aspects, the back protective component may further comprise a biased latch that serves to latch the back protective component to the front protective component when moved to the closed position. The latch may be located on the back end, one of the sides, or the top end, so long as it does not interfere with the hinge. Also, the back protective component may optionally be configured so that it defines a storage compartment. This may be accomplished, for example, by sizing the sides, top and bottom ends so that the back of the back protective component is spaced apart from the electronic device when placed in the closed position, thereby defining a storage space for holding small items. Examples of items that may be stored include, credit cards, debit cards, hotel cards, money clips, cash in the form of bills, coins, business cards, papers, and the like. One or more features may be used to interface with such items to help secure them within the storage compartment. 
         [0008]    In one particular arrangement, the multi-directional hinge is located near the top end of the front protective component. In other cases, the multi-directional hinge may be located near one of the sides of the front protective component. 
         [0009]    The invention also provides an exemplary method that utilizes a protective device that comprises a back protective component, a front protective component that is configured to interface with the back protective component and to form an enclosure, and a multi-directional hinge that couples the front protective component to the back protective component at a single location such that the back protective component is movable in multiple directions relative to the front protective component. In one step of the method, an electronic device is inserted into the front protective component. Also, the back protective component is manipulated about the multi-directional hinge to place the back protective component against the front protective component, thereby enclosing the electronic device within the protective device. 
         [0010]    In one aspect, the back protective component comprises a back, a top end, a bottom end and two sides. With this arrangement, a latch at the bottom end or on one of the sides of the back protective component is operated to latch the back protective component to the front protective component. 
         [0011]    In some cases, a pair of jaws at the sides may be flexed prior to inserting the electronic device to permit the electronic device to be slid into the back protective component. In another step, the case may be placed in a closed position where the electronic device is enclosed by the front protective component and the back protective component. At least a portion of the front protective component may be separated from the back protective component, and the front protective component rotated relative to the back protective component to provide access to the electronic device. In one arrangement, the front protective component may be placed on a support surface, with the back protective component propping the electronic case at an elevated angle relative to the support surface. 
         [0012]    In one aspect, the back protective component defines a storage compartment between the electronic device and the back. A variety of items, such as a plastic card, money, papers, or the like, may be inserted into the storage compartment. 
         [0013]    In yet another embodiment, the invention provides a system that comprises a protective storage device that may be constructed of a front protective component defining a cavity and a back protective component that is configured to interface with the front protective component and to form an enclosure that encloses the cavity when the back protective component interfaces with a front of the front protective component. A multi-directional hinge may be used to couple the front protective component to the back protective component at a single location such that the front protective component is movable in multiple directions relative to the back protective component. The system further includes an electronic device that is held within the cavity of the front protective component. 
         [0014]    Examples of electronic devices that may be stored in the front protective component include mobile phones, electronic tablets, electronic readers, electronic media players, and the like. In one particular arrangement, the multi-directional hinge comprises an arm and a ball, and a socket into which the arm and ball are received. 
     
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
         [0015]    Illustrative embodiments of the present invention are described in detail below with reference to the following drawing figures: 
           [0016]      FIG. 1  shows an isometric view of a closed case according to one embodiment of the invention. 
           [0017]      FIG. 2  shows a front view of the case of  FIG. 1 . 
           [0018]      FIG. 2A  shows a cross-section along line A of  FIG. 2 . 
           [0019]      FIG. 2B  shows the multi-directional hinge of the cross-section in  FIG. 2A . 
           [0020]      FIG. 2C  shows the latching interface of the cross-section in  FIG. 2A . 
           [0021]      FIG. 3  shows a rear view of the case of  FIG. 1 . 
           [0022]      FIG. 4  shows a side view of the case of  FIG. 1 . 
           [0023]      FIG. 5  shows a side view of the case of  FIG. 1   
           [0024]      FIG. 5A  shows a cross-section along line A in  FIG. 5   
           [0025]      FIG. 6  shows an isometric view of an open case according to one embodiment of the invention. 
           [0026]      FIG. 7  shows a front view of the case of  FIG. 6 . 
           [0027]      FIG. 7A  shows a cross-section along line A in  FIG. 7 . 
           [0028]      FIG. 7B  shows the multi-directional hinge of the cross-section in  FIG. 7A . 
           [0029]      FIG. 7C  shows the latching interface of the cross-section of  FIG. 7A . 
           [0030]      FIG. 8  shows a rear view of the case of  FIG. 6 . 
           [0031]      FIG. 9  shows a side view of the case of  FIG. 6 . 
           [0032]      FIG. 10  shows a side view of the case of  FIG. 6 . 
           [0033]      FIG. 11  shows a front view of an open case according to one embodiment of the invention. 
           [0034]      FIG. 11A  shows a cross-section along line A in  FIG. 11 . 
           [0035]      FIG. 11B  shows a beveled arm of the cross-section in  FIG. 11A . 
           [0036]      FIG. 12  shows an exploded view of a case according to one embodiment of the invention. 
           [0037]      FIG. 13  shows an isometric view of one embodiment of a case. 
           [0038]      FIG. 14  shows a side view of the case of  FIG. 13 . 
           [0039]      FIG. 15  shows an isometric view of an open case according to one embodiment of the invention. 
           [0040]      FIG. 16  shows the case of  FIG. 15  pivoted at a right angle. 
           [0041]      FIG. 17  shows the case of  FIG. 15  pivoted at a right angle and front protective component rotated 45 degrees relative to back protective component. 
           [0042]      FIG. 18  shows a back protective component according to one embodiment of the invention. 
           [0043]      FIG. 18A  shows a latch attached to a straight appendage. 
           [0044]      FIG. 19  shows a back protective component according to one embodiment of the invention. 
           [0045]      FIG. 19A  shows a latch attached to a pre-flexed appendage. 
           [0046]      FIG. 20  shows a front view of a case according to one embodiment of the invention. 
           [0047]      FIG. 20A  shows a cross-section along line A in  FIG. 20 . 
           [0048]      FIG. 20B  shows an O-ring as in the cross-section of  FIG. 20A . 
           [0049]      FIG. 21  shows an isometric view of an open case according to one embodiment of the invention. 
           [0050]      FIG. 21A  shows the multi-directional hinge of  FIG. 21 . 
           [0051]      FIG. 22  shows a front view of a front protective component. 
           [0052]      FIG. 22A  shows a socket of  FIG. 22  housing a compression device. 
           [0053]      FIG. 23  depicts an isometric view of a compression device. 
           [0054]      FIG. 24  depicts a front view of a compression device. 
           [0055]      FIG. 25  shows an isometric view of a back protective component according to one embodiment of the invention. 
           [0056]      FIG. 25A  shows the arms of  FIG. 25 . 
           [0057]      FIG. 26  shows the beveled shape of arms. 
           [0058]      FIG. 27  shows a front view of the back protective component of  FIG. 25 . 
           [0059]      FIG. 28  shows an electronic device being inserted into a front protective component. 
           [0060]      FIG. 29  shows an isometric view of a back protective cover. 
           [0061]      FIG. 30  shows a front view of the back protective cover of  FIG. 29 . 
           [0062]      FIG. 31  shows a side view of the back protective cover of  FIG. 29 . 
           [0063]      FIG. 31A  shows the ball and arm of back protective cover of  FIG. 30A . 
           [0064]      FIG. 32  shows an isometric view of one embodiment of a closed case. 
           [0065]      FIG. 33  depicts a front view of the case of  FIG. 32 . 
           [0066]      FIG. 33A  shows a cross-section along line A in  FIG. 33 . 
           [0067]      FIG. 33B  shows the multi-directional hinge of  FIG. 33A . 
           [0068]      FIG. 34  shows a back view of the case of  FIG. 32 . 
           [0069]      FIG. 35  shows a side view of the case of  FIG. 32 . 
           [0070]      FIG. 36  shows a side view of the case of  FIG. 32 . 
           [0071]      FIG. 37  shows an isometric view of an open case according to one embodiment of the invention. 
           [0072]      FIG. 38  shows a front view of the case of  FIG. 37 . 
           [0073]      FIG. 38A  shows a cross-section along line A in  FIG. 38 . 
           [0074]      FIG. 38B  shows the multi-directional hinge of  FIG. 38A . 
           [0075]      FIG. 39  shows a rear view of the case of  FIG. 37 . 
           [0076]      FIG. 40  shows a side view of the case of  FIG. 37 . 
           [0077]      FIG. 41  shows a side view of the case of  FIG. 37 . 
           [0078]      FIG. 42  shows one example of an open case holding an electronic device. 
           [0079]      FIG. 43  shows the case of  FIG. 42  in an unlatched, slightly pivoted position. 
           [0080]      FIG. 44  shows the case of  FIG. 42  in a right angle pivot position. 
           [0081]      FIG. 45  shows the case of  FIG. 42  in a fully-rotated position. 
           [0082]      FIG. 46  shows a top view of the case of  FIG. 42  in a fully-rotated position. 
           [0083]      FIG. 47  shows the case of  FIG. 42  in a closed position. 
           [0084]      FIG. 48  shows a case holding an electronic device according to one embodiment of the invention. 
           [0085]      FIG. 48A  shows the multi-directional hinge of  FIG. 48 . 
           [0086]      FIG. 49  shows a case holding an electronic device according to one embodiment of the invention. 
           [0087]      FIG. 49A  shows the multi-directional hinge of  FIG. 49 . 
           [0088]      FIG. 50  shows a side view of a front protective component according to one embodiment of the invention. 
           [0089]      FIG. 50A  shows a cross-section along line A of  FIG. 50 . 
           [0090]      FIG. 51  depicts one embodiment of a front protective component having a latch mating surface. 
           [0091]      FIG. 52  shows one example of a back protective component. 
           [0092]      FIG. 53  is an exploded view of an electronic device and case according to one embodiment of the invention. 
       
    
    
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION 
       [0093]    Embodiments of the invention are directed toward a two-piece protective case for mobile digital devices, such as mobile phones, tablets, e-reader devices, or any other electronic device. For example, the case can be configured to hold electronic devices such as the Apple iPhone, iPad, iPad mini, Samsung Galaxy S, Motorola Droid, Samsung Galaxy Note, Amazon Kindle Fire, and the like. 
         [0094]    The cases described herein may generally be described in terms of two major pieces or components that interact with each other, although it will be appreciated that each piece or component may include sub-components, and the case may include other pieces or elements that interact with the two main pieces or components. 
         [0095]    The function of one of the main pieces or components of the case may be to hold the electronic device, providing some degree of protection to the electronic device. For example, the back and sides of the electronic device may be encompassed by the piece of the case to help provide some degree of protection against impact, scratches, moisture and the like. At the same time, the front of the electronic device is easily accessible. One or more openings may be employed to provide access to various buttons or features of the electronic device, such as an on/off switch, volume buttons, and the like. 
         [0096]    The other main piece or component of the case provides a variety of functions and features, including fully enclosing the electronic device, storing items and propping the case at a desired orientation when resting on a support surface or being held by a user. This main piece is configured to cooperate or interact with other component in order to accomplish such features. 
         [0097]    For example, the case may be described in terms of being placed in an open position or a closed position. In the closed position, the electronic device is fully enclosed by the case. This is the most protective position for the electronic device. In some cases, appropriate seals may be provided so that the case is waterproof as well. When access is needed to the electronic device, the case may be manipulated and placed in the open position, where one of the main surfaces of the electronic device is viewable and fully accessible, while the rest of the electronic device remains protected by one of the main components of the case. 
         [0098]    One exemplary way to couple to two main pieces of the case together is by using a multi-directional hinge. This allows the pieces to be moved relative to each other in a wide variety of orientations. For example, one of the pieces (when in the closed position) may be rotated and flipped about so that it may be placed against the back of the piece that holds the electronic device (in one of the open positions). The hinge may be placed at the top, bottom, or one of the sides of the components to allow for such movement and manipulation. It will be appreciated that other types of hinges could also be used. Optionally, a latch may be employed to hold the two pieces in the closed (or open) position. This latch may be placed on one of the sides, the top or the bottom of the main component. 
         [0099]    A variety of techniques may be used to insert the electronic device into one of the main pieces. For example, one of the main pieces could define a cavity that the electronic device is inserted into. The tolerances could be such that the electronic device is snap fit within the cavity or held in place by friction. As another option, one of the sides, the top or the bottom could be bendable, be resilient, have jaws, have a hinge, or the like. This allows the sides, top and/or bottom to be moved in order to allow the electronic device to be inserted. 
         [0100]    Also, one of the components may be configured to store a variety of items (other than the electronic device). These items could be stored in the same main piece that holds the electronic device or the other main piece that does not hold the electronic device. This may be accomplished, for example, by configuring one of the pieces to have a storage compartment to hold the items. Also, detents, arms, latches, or the like could be used to help hold the items within the storage compartment. Examples of items that could be stored include, but are not limited to, credit cards, debit cards, gift cards, bills, currency, business cards, papers, and the like. 
         [0101]    In some situations, no extra storage space may be needed. In these situations, the main component that does not hold the electronic device may be configured as a flat, thin piece of material that rests on a front of the piece that holds the electronic device. This permits the case to be constructed with thinner dimension. As such, this main piece could be a simple cover, with optional joints or flexibility to allow it to roll up or collapse. 
         [0102]    In some cases, the main pieces or components of the case may include one or more openings to provide access to features on electronic device. The openings may be useful when in both the open and closed positions. For example, openings may be used to provide access to features such as volume controls, on/off switches, cameras, microphones, heat vents, and the like. Also, one or more features may be included on the main components to facilitate holding and manipulation of the case. For example, part of one of the latches may be used to help hold the case in one orientation, then spin the case around to another orientation using the thumb and one of the fingers. 
       Mobile Phone Case 
       [0103]    Referring now to  FIGS. 1-12 , one embodiment of a protective case  100  will be described. Case  100  may be formed by coupling a front protective component  102  to a back protective component  114 . In this way, case  100  can protect an electronic device  152  from accidental damage while also allowing access to and functioning of all features of electronic device  152 . 
         [0104]    Front protective component  102  may be defined in terms of sides  104  and  106 , a top  108 , a bottom  110 , and a back  112 . Front protective component  102  may be appropriately sized and shaped to tightly conform to the outer shape of electronic device  152 . Electronic device  152  may be secured in front protective component  102  using a variety of techniques including, but not limited to, a snap fit or construction by using flexible materials that constrict about electronic device  152 . Front protective component  102  can be configured to be approximately as thick as electronic device  152 . For example, front protective component  102  may have a thickness in the range from about 11 mm to about 16 mm, although other sizes can be used depending on the thickness of electronic device  152 . Front protective component  102  can further include holes  136  on sides  104  and/or  106 , top  108 , and/or bottom  110 , and can include a transparent window  138  on back  112  to provide functional access to features of electronic device  152 , such as power and volume buttons, cameras, flash devices, speakers, and lights. Both front protective component  102  and back protective component  114  can be made of plastic, rubber, a rubberized material, leather, carbon fiber, or the like. 
         [0105]    Back protective component  114  can be configured to have sides  116  and  118 , a top  120 , a bottom  122 , and a back  124 . Transparent window  138  may be positioned and sized such that features on electronic device  152 , such as a camera, light, or flash, can continue to function when a user is operating electronic device  152  while it is housed in case  100 . 
         [0106]    Front protective component  102  and back protective component  114  are movably coupled via a multi-directional hinge  126 . In some embodiments, multi-directional hinge  126  can be formed from the interconnection of a socket  130  with a ball  128  and an arm  127 . One of either socket  130  and ball  128  and arm  127  can be positioned on one of side  104  (as shown in this embodiment), side  106 , top  108 , or bottom  110  of front protective component  102  with the other being positioned on the corresponding side  116 , side  118 , top  120 , or bottom  222  of back protective component  114 . Socket  130  can be specially shaped to provide positional stability and precise, repeatable orientation in the multi-directional hinge  126 . In some embodiments, ball  128  and/or socket  130  can include detents, teeth, gears, or have a three-dimensional polygon shape to allow for rotation and positioning that will hold when released, and to keep the plastic, or other socket material, from permanent deformation. In some embodiments, ball  128  and arm  127  can be friction fit, resistively fit, and or press fit within socket  130 . 
         [0107]    Multi-directional hinge  126  can be configured to allow back protective component  114  to be pivoted and rotated relative to a front protective component  102 . In this manner, case  100  can be positioned in an open state or a closed state. Case  100  is open, or in an open state, when electronic device  152  is readily visible and operable by a user (see  FIGS. 6-10 ). Case  100  is closed, or in a closed state, when back protective component  114  is positioned to cover and protect electronic device  152  (see  FIGS. 1-5 ). Opening and closing case  100  can be achieved through steps described in the electronic device case embodiment section. 
         [0108]    Multi-directional hinge  126  can be actuated to provide access to electronic device  152  and any other contents stored within case  100 . Multi-directional hinge  126  can allow back protective component  114  to be positioned against back  110  of front protective component  102  or opposite back  110  of front protective component  102  so that the user may open, close, and adjust back protective component  114  against front protective component  102  to cover, protect, and/or seal electronic device  152  and any stored contents fully. Multi-directional hinge  126  may be configured to allow back protective component  114  to be positioned open and/or rotated at any angle to create a stand or handle by which to display or view electronic device  152  or to film or record using a camera included in electronic device  152 . 
         [0109]    Multi-directional hinge  126  may optionally be configured to have a symmetrical relationship. This symmetry enables case  100  to fully flip and rotate, allowing case  100  to be positioned in completely open and closed states. As shown in  FIGS. 7A and 7B , the symmetric chamfer feature of front protective component  102  enables front protective component  102  to have a minimal thickness, thereby reducing the overall thickness of electronic device  152  when held in case  100 . 
         [0110]    In some embodiments multi-directional hinge  126  can be used as a thumb catch feature, serving as a handhold for the user. When case  100  is open, the user can place a thumb on the front of multi-directional hinge  126  and place one or more fingers on back  124  of back protective component  114 . In this manner, a user can avoid touching a screen or button of electronic device  152  while manipulating the orientation of electronic device  152 . 
         [0111]    Some embodiments may include a latch  132  on back protective component  114  that interfaces with a latch mating surface  134  on front protective component  102 . The interface between latch  132  and latch mating surface  134  allows back protective component  114  and front protective component  102  to be fastened together in either the open or closed state. Case  100  may optionally include a symmetrical interface  154  between latch mating surface  134  and a latch  132 . This allows latch  132  to fasten case  100  in both an open and closed state. The symmetric chamfer feature of front protective component  102  allows for front protective component  102  to be thicker at the edges, providing strength, while allowing the middle of front protective component  102  to be thin so that a case adds minimum thickness to an electronic device. Embodiments of latch  132  and latch mating surface  134  can allow greater and/or easier access and/or greater security to electronic device  152  secured in front protective component  102  and to any contents stored in back protective component  114 . Although shown on side  118 , it will be appreciated that latch  132  could also be located on side  116 . Also, other types of latches could also be used to fasten case  100 . Also, latches similar to latch  132  and latch mating surface  134  may be optionally included in any other cases described herein. 
         [0112]    Back protective component  114  may optionally include a storage space  142  that is defined by sides  116  and  118 , top  120 , and bottom  122 . More specifically, storage space  142  is defined by the volume created by the distance from back  112  of front protective component  102  to back  124  of back protective component  114 , and the area between sides  116  and  118  and between top  120  and bottom  122 . Storage space  142  can be configured to store various items, including but not limited to credit cards, IDs, debit cards, paper bills, etc. In some embodiments, sides  116  and  118 , top  120 , and bottom  122  may have a height in the range from about 1-4 mm, and in some cases about 2 mm, creating a frame that provides stiffness/strength/rigidity while allowing back  124  to remain thin to minimally increase overall thickness of case  100 . In this manner, storage space  142  can provide 3 mm of storage depth while only adding 4 mm of thickness to the case. 
         [0113]    Storage space  142  can optionally include one or more arms  146  (as seen in  FIG. 12 ) to grasp and secure contents against back  124  of back protective component  114 . Arms  146  can be integral to back protective component  114 , inserted into storage space  142 , affixed via heat stakes  140 , and/or attached using any other method, to back protective component  114 , and can be made of any sufficiently rigid material. Arms  146  can be shaped to allow stored contents to be slid in and out of storage space  142 , but prevent contents from falling out accidentally. 
         [0114]    One or more ramped or sloped ribs  144  may optionally be included in storage space  142  to facilitate the extraction of stored contents. Ribs  144  can further allow storage space  142  to be sealed against front protective component  102  and allow sides  116  and  118 , top  120 , and bottom  122  of back protective component  114  to surround and protect the full perimeter. Without ribs  144 , stored contents of storage space  142  would be trapped inside storage space  142  by bottom  122  of back protective component  114 . Stored contents of storage space  142  can be released from securing arms  146  by sliding on ribs  144 , which direct contents up and over bottom  122 . Storage space  142  can further include a lens protecting sliding door  148  and a lens protecting sliding door trap  150 , which can also be affixed using heat stakes  140 . Other means of fixing these elements can be utilized as well. Other structures not described herein can be included to secure contents within storage space  142 . 
         [0115]    Referring now to  FIGS. 13-28 , one embodiment of a protective case  200  will be described. Case  200  may be formed by coupling a front protective component  202  to a back protective component  214 . Front protective component  202  may be defined in terms of sides  204  and  206 , a top  208 , a bottom  210 , and a back  212 . Front protective component  202  may be appropriately sized and shaped to hold an electronic device  262 . Electronic device  262  may be secured in front protective component  202  using one or more flexible jaws  258  (as best shown in  FIG. 28 ) included at the bottom, top, or sides of front protective component  202 . Jaws  258  protect electronic device  262  and flex to accommodate installation and extraction of electronic device  262 . Jaws  258  can be shaped specifically to securely hold and protect electronic device  258 , and allow electronic device  258  to be installed or removed from front protective component  202 . Other means of inserting and extracting an electronic device into and from front protective component  202  include, but are not limited to, a snap fit, flexible materials that constrict about electronic device  262 , and the like. Jaws  258  may optionally be included in any other embodiments described herein. 
         [0116]    Front protective component  202  may have approximately the same thickness as electronic device  262 . For example, front protective component  202  may have a thickness in the range from about 11 mm to about 16 mm, although other sizes can be used depending on the thickness of electronic device  262 . Front protective component  202  can further include holes  236  and/or buttons  234  on sides  204  and/or  206 , top  208 , and/or bottom  210 , and can include a transparent window  238  on back  212 . Holes  236 , buttons  234 , and transparent window  238  can be sized and positioned to provide functional access to features of electronic device  262 , such as power and volume buttons, cameras, flash devices, speakers, and lights. Both front protective component  202  and back protective component  214  can be made of plastic, rubber, a rubberized material, leather, carbon fiber, or the like. 
         [0117]    Back protective component  214  includes sides  216  and  218 , a top  220 , a bottom  222 , and a back  224 . Transparent window  238  may be positioned and sized on back  224  of back protective component  214  such that features on electronic device  152 , such as a camera, light, or flash, can continue to function when a user is operating electronic device  262  while it is housed in case  200 . 
         [0118]    Front protective component  202  and back protective component  214  are movably coupled via a multi-directional hinge  226 . In some embodiments, multi-directional hinge  226  can be formed from the interconnection of a socket  230  with a ball  228  and an arm  227 . One of either socket  230  and ball  228  and arm  227  can be positioned on one of side  204 , side  206 , top  208  (as shown in this embodiment), or bottom  210  of front protective component  202  with the other being positioned on the corresponding side  216 , side  218 , top  220 , or bottom  222  of back protective component  214 . Socket  230  can be specially shaped to provide positional stability and precise, repeatable orientation in the multi-directional hinge  226 . In some embodiments, ball  228  and/or socket  230  can include detents, teeth, gears, or have a three-dimensional polygon shape to allow for rotation and positioning that will hold when released, and to keep the plastic, or other socket material, from permanent deformation. In some embodiments, ball  228  and arm  227  can be friction fit, resistively fit, and or press fit within socket  230 . 
         [0119]    Case  200  may optionally include a compression device  260  (as best shown in  FIG. 22A ) housed within a socket  230 . Compression device  260  can be made of spring steel, or other suitable material, to squeeze ball  228  and create a frictional fit with multi-directional hinge  226 . This provides positional stability, and keeps the plastic, or other socket material, from permanent deformation. Compression device  260  may be optionally included in any other embodiments described herein. 
         [0120]    Multi-directional hinge  226  can be configured to allow back protective component  214  to be pivoted and rotated relative to a front protective component  202 . In this manner, case  200  can be positioned in an open state (see  FIG. 21 ) or a closed state (see  FIGS. 13 ) as previously described in connection with other embodiments. Opening and closing case  200  can be achieved through steps previously described. 
         [0121]    Multi-directional hinge  226  can be operated to provide access to electronic device  262  and any other contents stored within case  200 . Multi-directional hinge  226  can allow back protective component  214  to be positioned against back  210  of front protective component  202  or opposite back  210  of front protective component  202  so that the user may open, close, and adjust back protective component  214  against front protective component  202  to cover, protect, and/or seal electronic device  262  and any stored contents  254  (as shown in  FIG. 26 ). Multi-directional hinge  226  may be configured to allow back protective component  214  to be positioned open and/or rotated at any angle to create a stand or handle by which to display or view electronic device  262  or to film or record using a camera included in electronic device  262 . 
         [0122]    In some embodiments multi-directional hinge  226  can be used as a thumb catch feature, serving as a handhold for the user. When case  200  is open, the user can place a thumb on the front of multi-directional hinge  226  and place one or more fingers on back  224  of back protective component  214 . In this manner, a user can avoid touching a screen or button of electronic device  262  while manipulating the orientation of electronic device  262 . 
         [0123]    Some embodiments include a latch  232  on back protective component  214  that can interface with front protective component  202  to close, seal, and/or protect electronic device  262  and/or stored contents  254 . Latch  232  can be created by extending one or more of sides  216  and  218 , top  220 , and bottom  222  of back protective component  214 . Latch  232  can clasp bottom  212  of front protective case  202  to fasten case  200  either the open or closed state. In some embodiments, latch  232  can be attached to a straight appendage  252  (as shown best in  FIG. 18A ). Where latch  232  is attached to straight appendage  252 , latch  232  is biased towards front protective component  202  and latch  232  can be flexible to allow user to manipulate latch  232  over a portion of front protective component  202  to fasten case  200  in an open or closed state. 
         [0124]    In some embodiments, latch  232  can be attached to a pre-flexed appendage  250  (as shown best in  FIG. 19A ). Where latch  232  is attached to pre-flexed appendage  250 , latch  232  remains open until actively closed, which can indicate to the user that stored contents  254  have not been safely replaced. In some embodiments, pre-flexed appendage  250  can be biased to require physical latching by a user. In this way, the user can be reminded that stored contents  254  have not been safely replaced. In some embodiments, a latch can be attached to an angled appendage. 
         [0125]    Although shown on bottom  222 , it will be appreciated that latch  232  could also be located on top  220 . Also, other types of latches could also be used to fasten the two components of case  100 . Also, latches similar to latch  132  may optionally be included in any other cases described herein. 
         [0126]    Back protective component  214  may optionally include a storage space  242  that is defined by sides  216  and  218 , top  220 , and bottom  222 . More specifically, storage space  242  is defined by the volume created by the distance from back  212  of front protective component  202  to back  224  of back protective component  214 , and the area between sides  216  and  218  and between top  220  and bottom  222 . Storage space  242  can be configured to hold stored contents  254 , including but not limited to credit cards, IDs, debit cards, paper bills, etc. In some embodiments, sides  216  and  218 , top  220 , and bottom  222  may have a height in the range from about 1-4 mm, and in some cases 2 mm, creating a frame that provides stiffness/strength/rigidity while allowing back  224  to remain thin to minimally increase overall thickness of case  200 . In this manner, storage space  242  can provide 3 mm of storage depth while only adding 4 mm of thickness to the case. 
         [0127]    Storage space  242  can optionally include one or more arms  246  (as best seen in  FIG. 25A ) to grasp and secure stored contents  254  against back  224  of back protective component  214 . Arms  246  can be integral to back protective component  214 , inserted into storage space  242 , affixed via heat stakes  240 , and/or attached using any other method, to back protective component  214 , and can be made of any sufficiently rigid material. Arms  246  can be shaped to allow stored contents  254  to be slid in and out of storage space  242 , but prevent stored contents  254  from falling out accidentally. Two or more arms  246  can be included, with one on top of another, and with a slit or slits in between them as shown in  FIG. 25A . The top of arms  246  can have a small edge. Arms  246  can have a beveled interior edge (as shown in  FIG. 26 ) to hold stored contents  254  such as ID cards or credit cards. Arms  246  can optionally be configured to be flexible and have an inward bias as best shown in  FIG. 27 . 
         [0128]    One or more ramped or sloped ribs  244  (as best shown in  FIG. 25 ) may optionally be included in storage space  242  to facilitate the extraction of stored contents  254 . Ribs  244  can further allow storage space  242  to be sealed against front protective component  202  and allow sides  216  and  218 , top  220 , and bottom  222  of back protective component  214  to surround and protect the full perimeter. Without ribs  244 , stored contents  254  of storage space  242  would be trapped inside storage space  242  by bottom  222  of back protective component  214 . Stored contents  254  of storage space  242  can be released from securing arms  246  by sliding on ribs  244 , which direct stored contents  254  up and over bottom  222 . One or more bars  248  can optionally be included to prevent stored contents  254  in storage space  242  from interfering with any features of electronic device  262 . For example, bar  248  can keep stored contents  254  from blocking a camera or flash device. Other structures not described herein can be included to retain stored contents  254  within a storage space  242 . 
         [0129]    Back protective component  214  can optionally include an O-ring  256 . O-ring  256  can be positioned to create a seal to achieve dust and waterproofing when front protective component  202  and back protective component  214  interface to form a flush joint. Other methods of sealing case  200  for dust and waterproofing, such as inserting gaskets, can also be utilized. Rubberized or flexible buttons could be used to transfer physical button clicks through a waterproof case. Waterproofing elements such as O-rings, gaskets, seals, and rubberized and flexible buttons may be optionally included in any other embodiments described herein. 
         [0130]    Referring now to  FIGS. 29-31 , one embodiment of a back protective component  314  configured as a protective cover flap will be described. Back protective component  314  can be defined by sides  316  and  318 , a top  320 , a bottom  322 , and a back  324 . When serving as a protective cover flap, back protective component  314  can add as little as 2 mm to the overall thickness of a case while providing rigid protection to an electronic device. By raising an edge of back protective component  314  by 2 mm, rigidity is provided to the back protective component  314 , while only increasing the overall case thickness by 0.5 mm. Some embodiments of back protective component  314  can optionally include a transparent window sized and positioned on back  324  as described in the sections above. Back protective component  314  can include a ball  327  and an arm  328  that is configured to interface with a socket on a front protective component as described in the sections above. As such, back protective component  314  may be used with any of the case embodiments described herein. Ball  327  and arm  328  can be positioned on one of sides  316  and  318 , top  320 , or bottom  322 . Back protective component  314  can further include a latch  332  configured to clasp a front protective component as described in other embodiments. In this manner, back protective component  314  can be attached and fastened either front protective component as described in the preceding sections. 
       Electronic Device Case 
       [0131]    Referring now to  FIGS. 32-53 , one embodiment of a protective case  400  will be described. Case  400  is particularly useful in holding larger electronic devices, such as electronic tablets and e-readers. Case  400  may be formed by coupling a front protective component  402  to a back protective component  414 . In this way, case  400  can protect an electronic device  442  from accidental damage while also allowing access to and functioning of all features of electronic device  442 . 
         [0132]    Front protective component  402  may defined in terms of sides  404  and  406 , a top  408 , a bottom  410 , and a back  412 . Front protective component  402  may be appropriately sized and shaped to tightly conform to the outer shape of electronic device  442 . Electronic device  442  may be secured in front protective component  402  using a variety of techniques including, but not limited to, a snap fit or construction by using flexible materials that constrict about electronic device  442 . Front protective component  402  can be configured to be approximately as thick as electronic device  442 . For example, front protective component  402  may have a thickness in the range from about 11 mm to about 16 mm, although other sizes can be used depending on the thickness of electronic device  442 . Front protective component  402  can further include holes  436  on sides  404  and/or  406 , top  408 , and/or bottom  410 , buttons  440 , and a transparent window  438 . Holes  436 , buttons  440 , and transparent window  438  can be sized and positioned to provide functional access to features of electronic device  442 , such as power and volume buttons, cameras, flash devices, speakers, and lights. Both front protective component  402  and back protective component  414  can be made of plastic, rubber, a rubberized material, leather, carbon fiber, or the like. 
         [0133]    Back protective component  414  can be configured to have sides  416  and  418 , a top  420 , a bottom  422 , and a back  424 . Transparent window  438  may be positioned and sized such that features on electronic device  452 , such as a camera, light, or flash, can continue to function when a user is operating electronic device  442  while it is housed in case  400 . 
         [0134]    Front protective component  402  and back protective component  414  are movably coupled via a multi-directional hinge  426 . In some embodiments, multi-directional hinge  426  can be formed from the interconnection of a socket  430  with a ball  428  and an arm  427 . One of either socket  430  and ball  428  and arm  427  can be positioned on one of side  404  (as shown in this embodiment), side  406 , top  408 , or bottom  410  of front protective component  402  with the other being positioned on the corresponding side  416 , side  418 , top  420 , or bottom  422  of back protective component  414 . Arm  427  can be mated to, and extend from, a surface of one of side  416 , side  418 , top  420 , or bottom  422  of back protective component  414 . Arm  427  may have an extended member  446  that can be mated to back  424  of back protective component  414 , adding strength and rigidity to arm  247 . Socket  430  can be specially shaped to provide positional stability and precise, repeatable orientation in the multi-directional hinge  426 . In some embodiments, ball  428  and/or socket  430  can include detents, teeth, gears, or have a three-dimensional polygon shape to allow for rotation and positioning that will hold when released, and to keep the plastic, or other socket material, from permanent deformation. In some embodiments, ball  428  and arm  427  can be friction fit, resistively fit, and or press fit within socket  430 . 
         [0135]    Multi-directional hinge  426  can be configured to allow back protective component  414  to be pivoted and rotated relative to a front protective component  402 . In this manner, case  400  can be positioned in an open state or a closed state. Case  400  is open, or in an open state, when electronic device  442  is readily visible and operable by a user (see  FIGS. 37-41 ). Case  400  is closed, or in a closed state, when back protective component  414  is positioned to cover and protect electronic device  442  (see  FIGS. 32-36 ). 
         [0136]    Referring to  FIGS. 42-47 , one embodiment of various steps that may be performed when closing case  400  will be described, it will be appreciated that these steps may be used with any of the embodiments described herein. The steps are reversible, so opening case  400  can be achieved in the same manner. In  FIG. 42 , case  400  is shown in a closed state. Case  400  is fastened by the interface between latch  432  and a latch mating surface  434  on front protective component  402 . Latch  432  is disengaged from a latch mating surface  434  and back protective component  414  is pivoted away from front protective component  402  via multi-directional hinge  426  as shown in  FIG. 43 . Case  400  is then pivoted into a fully-rotatable position as shown in  FIG. 44 . A fully-rotatable position is one where back protective component  414  can be rotated relative to front protective component  402 . This includes any position where the smaller angle formed between the two components is greater than or equal to 90 degrees. Here, back protective component  414  is pivoted at a right angle relative to front protective component  402 . Next back protective component  2404  is rotated 180 degrees to flip the component as shown in  FIGS. 45-46 . After the rotation, back protective component  414  can be pivoted towards front protective cover. Latch  432  engages a latch mating surface  434  to fasten case  400  as shown in  FIG. 47 . 
         [0137]    Multi-directional hinge  426  can be operated to provide access to electronic device  442  and any other contents stored within case  400 . Multi-directional hinge  426  can allow back protective component  414  to be positioned against back  410  of front protective component  402  or opposite back  410  of front protective component  402  so that the user may open, close, and adjust back protective component  414  against front protective component  402  to cover, protect, and/or seal electronic device  442  and any stored contents fully. Multi-directional hinge  426  may be configured to allow back protective component  414  to be positioned open and/or rotated at any angle to create a stand or handle by which to display or view electronic device  442  or to film or record using a camera included in electronic device  442 . 
         [0138]    Multi-directional hinge  426  may optionally be configured to have a symmetrical relationship. This symmetry enables case  400  to fully flip and rotate, allowing case  400  to be positioned in completely open and closed states. As shown in  FIGS. 33B and 38B  the symmetric chamfer feature of front protective component  402  enables front protective component  402  to have a minimal thickness, thereby reducing the overall thickness of electronic device  442  when held in case  400 . 
         [0139]    In some embodiments multi-directional hinge  426  can be used as a thumb catch feature, serving as a handhold for the user. When case  400  is open, the user can place a thumb on the front of multi-directional hinge  426  and place one or more fingers on back  424  of back protective component  414 . In this manner, a user can avoid touching a screen or button of electronic device  442  while manipulating the orientation of electronic device  442 . 
         [0140]    Some embodiments may include a latch  432  on back protective component  414  that interfaces with a latch mating surface  434  on front protective component  402 . The interface between latch  432  and latch mating surface  434  allows back protective component  414  and front protective component  402  to be fastened together in either the open or closed state. Case  400  may optionally include a symmetrical interface  444  between latch mating surface  434  and a latch  432 . This allows latch  432  to fasten case  400  in both an open and closed state. The symmetric chamfer feature of front protective component  402  allows for front protective component  402  to be thicker at the edges, providing strength, while allowing the middle of front protective component  402  to be thin so that a case adds minimum thickness to an electronic device. Embodiments of latch  432  and latch mating surface  434  can allow greater and/or easier access and/or greater security to electronic device  442  secured in front protective component  402  and to any contents stored in back protective component  414 . Although shown on side  418 , it will be appreciated that latch  432  could also be located on side  416 . Also, other types of latches could also be used to fasten case  400 . 
       Other Embodiments 
       [0141]    Other embodiments include a front protective component configured with a chamber behind the stored electronic device for securing contents. A front protective component can have a flexible or latching top, bottom, or side to allow access to contents without extracting the electronic device. A bar or bars which prevent stored contents in the chamber from interfering with any features of the electronic device. For example, bars can keep stored contents from blocking a camera or flash device. 
         [0142]    Some embodiments of the invention include coupling a socket to an existing electronic device case so that a back protective component with an arm and ball can be coupled thereto. In effect, the coupling of the socket turns the existing case into a front protective component. Moreover, some embodiments of the invention include coupling an arm and ball to an existing case so that a back protective component with a socket can be coupled thereto. In effect, the coupling of the arm and ball turns the existing case into a front protective component. In this manner, any size, shape, or style of electronic device case can be converted into a case. Any size, bilaterally symmetrical shape, or style of electronic device that is capable of being protected by an electronic device case can be encased in a case. 
         [0143]    The subject matter of embodiments of the present invention is described here with specificity to meet statutory requirements, but this description is not necessarily intended to limit the scope of the claims. The claimed subject matter may be embodied in other ways, may include different elements or steps, and may be used in conjunction with other existing or future technologies. This description should not be interpreted as implying any particular order or arrangement among or between various steps or elements except when the order of individual steps or arrangement of elements is explicitly described. 
         [0144]    Different arrangements of the components depicted in the drawings or described above, as well as components and steps not shown or described are possible. Similarly, some features and subcombinations are useful and may be employed without reference to other features and subcombinations. Embodiments of the invention have been described for illustrative and not restrictive purposes, and alternative embodiments will become apparent to readers of this patent. Accordingly, the present invention is not limited to the embodiments described above or depicted in the drawings, and various embodiments and modifications can be made without departing from the scope of the claims below.