PATENT DOCUMENT

Publication Number: US-9762278-B2
Application Number: US-201514836903-A
Country: US
Kind Code: B2

Title: Accessory device having a retaining feature

Abstract:
An accessory device for use with an electronic device is disclosed. The accessory device may include multiple layers. One layer may be formed from a plastic. Other layers may include a fabric layer and a silicone layer. The accessory device may further include a retaining feature designed to hold or carry an object, such as a stylus for use with the electronic device. The accessory device may include a recessed region suited to receive the retaining feature. This allows the retaining feature to be stored in the accessory device when the retaining feature is not in use. Further, the retaining feature may be co-planar with an interior region of the accessory device such that the electronic device is not disturbed when positioned in the accessory device. In this manner, the retaining feature may be hidden. Also, the retaining feature may be deployed from the recessed region and receive the object.

Claims:
What is claimed is: 
     
       1. An accessory device suitable for carrying an electronic device, the accessory device comprising:
 a shell that defines an internal cavity having a size and a shape to receive the electronic device, the shell including:
 a bottom wall, 
 a sidewall extending from the bottom wall and 
 a recessed region disposed along the bottom wall and the sidewall; 
 
 a layer disposed along the shell and the recessed region, the layer comprising an opening; and 
 a retaining feature extending through the opening, the retaining feature configured to move from a stored configuration, in which the retaining feature is disposed in the recessed region, to a deployed configuration, in which the retaining feature extends away from the shell, wherein the retaining feature, in the deployed configuration, is capable of carrying an object. 
 
     
     
       2. The accessory device of  claim 1 , wherein the retaining feature includes a material comprising a woven configuration. 
     
     
       3. The accessory device of  claim 2 , wherein the material further comprises a polymeric material that creates an appearance of similar to an appearance of an exterior region of the accessory device. 
     
     
       4. The accessory device of  claim 3 , wherein the woven configuration is configured to stretch in response to a force exerted on the woven configuration. 
     
     
       5. The accessory device of  claim 1 , further comprising a first sidewall, a second sidewall, and an interior region between the first sidewall and the second sidewall, wherein the recessed region is disposed in the first sidewall and the interior region. 
     
     
       6. The accessory device of  claim 5 , wherein the retaining feature includes a material that forms a first tail feature disposed on the first sidewall and the interior region, and wherein the material of the retaining feature further forms a second tail feature disposed on the first sidewall. 
     
     
       7. The accessory device of  claim 6 , wherein the retaining feature comprises:
 a first adhesive that reinforces a loop portion of the retaining feature; 
 a second adhesive that bonds the material together; and 
 a third adhesive disposed on the first tail feature and the second tail feature to secure the material with the shell, and 
 the loop portion is configured to carry the object. 
 
     
     
       8. The accessory device of  claim 5 , wherein when the electronic device is positioned between the first sidewall and the second sidewall and the retaining feature is in the stored configuration, the retaining feature is hidden from view. 
     
     
       9. An accessory device suitable for use with an electronic device, the accessory device comprising:
 an enclosure that includes an interior region having a size and a shape to receive and carry the electronic device, the enclosure having a sidewall and a recessed region positioned along the sidewall; and 
 a retaining feature attached with the enclosure at the sidewall, the retaining feature extending at least partially into the interior region, the retaining feature having a size and a shape to receive and carry an object, wherein when the electronic device is positioned in the interior region and the retaining feature is positioned in the recessed region, the retaining feature is hidden from view by the electronic device and the enclosure. 
 
     
     
       10. The accessory device of  claim 9 , wherein the enclosure comprises a bottom wall, and wherein the recessed region extends at least partially along the bottom wall. 
     
     
       11. The accessory device of  claim 10 , further comprising a fabric layer that overlays the interior region and is positioned in the recessed region, the fabric layer comprising an opening through which the retaining feature passes. 
     
     
       12. The accessory device of  claim 9 , wherein the retaining feature comprises a material having a woven configuration capable of stretching in response to a pulling force. 
     
     
       13. The accessory device of  claim 9 , wherein the sidewall comprises a flattened portion designed to receive an additional accessory device. 
     
     
       14. A system, comprising:
 an electronic device; and 
 an accessory device capable of receiving the electronic device, the accessory device comprising:
 a bottom wall, 
 a sidewall extending from the bottom wall, 
 a retaining feature attached with the sidewall, and 
 a layer disposed on the sidewall and the bottom wall, the layer comprising an opening, wherein the retaining feature extends through the layer at the opening, and wherein the retaining feature is configured to move from a stored configuration, in which the retaining feature is disposed between the electronic device and the bottom wall and hidden from view, to a deployed configuration, in which the retaining feature extends away from the sidewall. 
 
 
     
     
       15. The system of  claim 14 , further comprising a stylus suitable for use with a touch screen of the electronic device, wherein the retaining feature, in the deployed configuration, is configured to receive the stylus. 
     
     
       16. The system of  claim 15 , wherein the accessory device comprises a recessed region that receives the retaining feature in the stored configuration, the recessed region located along the bottom wall and the sidewall. 
     
     
       17. The system of  claim 16 , wherein the retaining feature comprises a woven fabric that stretches in responses to a force exerted on the woven fabric. 
     
     
       18. The system of  claim 17 , wherein the layer comprises a fabric layer. 
     
     
       19. The system of  claim 18 , wherein the retaining feature, in the stored configuration, is capable of being fully disposed in the recessed region. 
     
     
       20. The accessory device of  claim 9 , wherein the retaining feature extends from the sidewall and includes a loop that opens to receive the object.

Description:
FIELD 
     The described embodiments relate to an accessory device. In particular, the described embodiments relate to an accessory device having a retaining feature designed to retain an object. The retaining feature may be stored either fully or partially within the accessory device or deployed to retain the object. The retaining feature may also be a detachable retaining feature designed to disengage from the accessory device. 
     BACKGROUND 
     Accessory devices used in conjunction with electronic devices are known. In some cases, the electronic device includes a display having touch screen capability that includes one or more sensors designed to receive a gesture in response to a touch input to the display. This may be performed by a finger of a user or by an object. Regarding the latter, accessory devices generally do not include a means for receiving the object. This may result in losing the object. 
     SUMMARY 
     In one aspect, an accessory device suitable for carrying an electronic device is described. The accessory device may include a shell that defines a size and a shape corresponding to the electronic device. Also, the shell may include a recessed region. The accessory device may further include an outer layer covering an exterior region of the shell. The accessory device may further include an inner layer covering an interior region of the shell and disposed in the recessed region, the inner layer comprising an opening in a location corresponding to the recessed region. The accessory device may further include a retaining feature comprising a material extending through the opening. In some embodiments, the retaining feature is configured to move from a stored configuration, in which the retaining feature is disposed in the recessed region, to a deployed position, in which the retaining feature extends away from the shell to receive an object. 
     In another aspect, an accessory device suitable for carrying an electronic device is described. The accessory device may include a first layer that defines a size and a shape of the electronic device. The accessory device may further include a second layer disposed over the first layer. The second layer may engage the electronic device when the electronic device is installed in the accessory device. The accessory device may further include a retaining feature capable of receiving an object. The retaining feature may extend through an opening of the second layer and may be partially disposed between the first layer and the second layer. 
     In another aspect, a system is described. The system may include a tablet device. The system may further include an accessory device capable of receiving the tablet device between a first sidewall and a second sidewall. The accessory device may include a retaining feature that includes a material that extends along the first sidewall and an interior region of the accessory device. In some embodiments, the retaining feature is configured to move from a stored configuration, in which the retaining feature is disposed between the tablet device and the interior region and hidden from view, to a deployed configuration, in which the retaining feature extends away from the first sidewall. 
     Other systems, methods, features and advantages of the embodiments will be, or will become, apparent to one of ordinary skill in the art upon examination of the following figures and detailed description. It is intended that all such additional systems, methods, features and advantages be included within this description and this summary, be within the scope of the embodiments, and be protected by the following claims. 
    
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
       The disclosure will be readily understood by the following detailed description in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, wherein like reference numerals designate like structural elements, and in which: 
         FIG. 1  illustrates an isometric view of an embodiment of an accessory device, in accordance with the described embodiments; 
         FIG. 2  illustrates an isometric view of the accessory device shown in  FIG. 1 , with the accessory device having an electronic device disposed in the accessory device; 
         FIG. 3  illustrates a cross sectional view of the accessory device shown in  FIG. 1  taken along line A-A; 
         FIG. 4  illustrates a cross sectional view of the accessory device shown in  FIG. 2  taken along line B-B; 
         FIG. 5  illustrates an exploded view of the accessory device shown in  FIG. 1 , with the accessory device enlarged to show the retaining feature, the recessed region, and additional features; 
         FIG. 6  illustrates an isometric view of the accessory device shown  FIG. 5 , with the second layer disposed on the first layer including the recessed region; 
         FIG. 7  illustrates an isometric view of an alternate embodiment of an accessory device, in accordance with the described embodiments; 
         FIG. 8  illustrates an isometric view of a retaining feature having a ring feature used to secure an object with the retaining feature; 
         FIG. 9  illustrates a plan view of an embodiment of an accessory device used with an electronic device, in accordance with the described embodiments; 
         FIG. 10  illustrates a plan view the accessory device shown in  FIG. 9 , with the retaining feature in a stored configuration; 
         FIG. 11  illustrates a plan view of the accessory device shown in  FIG. 9 , with the retaining feature in a deployed configuration; 
         FIG. 12  illustrates a plan view of an alternate embodiments of an accessory device having multiple panels or segments, in accordance with the described embodiments; 
         FIG. 13  illustrates a plan view showing an alternate embodiment of a retaining feature suitable for use with an accessory device, in accordance with the described embodiments; 
         FIG. 14  illustrates a plan view of the retaining feature shown in  FIG. 13 , with the retaining feature detached from the accessory device; 
         FIG. 15  illustrates a front plan view of an alternate embodiment of an accessory device used with an electronic device, in accordance with the described embodiments; 
         FIG. 16  illustrates the accessory device shown in  FIG. 15 , with the retaining feature expanding and extending from the accessory device in response to a force exerted on the retaining feature; 
         FIG. 17  illustrates a rear plan view of the accessory device shown in  FIG. 15 , with the retaining feature wrapping around an edge of the accessory device to secure with the accessory device; 
         FIG. 18  illustrates a partial isometric view of the accessory device and the retaining feature; 
         FIG. 19  illustrates an isometric view of an alternate embodiment of a first accessory device designed to couple with a second accessory device, in accordance with the described embodiments; 
         FIG. 20  illustrates an isometric view of an alternate embodiment of a first accessory device designed to couple with a second accessory device, in accordance with the described embodiments; and 
         FIG. 21  illustrates a plan view of the first accessory device and second accessory device shown in  FIG. 20 , with the first accessory device coupled with the second accessory device. 
     
    
    
     Those skilled in the art will appreciate and understand that, according to common practice, various features of the drawings discussed below are not necessarily drawn to scale, and that dimensions of various features and elements of the drawings may be expanded or reduced to more clearly illustrate the embodiments of the present invention described herein. 
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION 
     Reference will now be made in detail to representative embodiments illustrated in the accompanying drawings. It should be understood that the following descriptions are not intended to limit the embodiments to one preferred embodiment. To the contrary, it is intended to cover alternatives, modifications, and equivalents as can be included within the spirit and scope of the described embodiments as defined by the appended claims. 
     In the following detailed description, references are made to the accompanying drawings, which form a part of the description and in which are shown, by way of illustration, specific embodiments in accordance with the described embodiments. Although these embodiments are described in sufficient detail to enable one skilled in the art to practice the described embodiments, it is understood that these examples are not limiting such that other embodiments may be used, and changes may be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the described embodiments. 
     The described embodiments relate to an accessory device suitable for use with an electronic device, such as a smart phone or a tablet computing device. The accessory device may include several features not only designed to provide a protective cover to the electronic device, but also to store an object that may be used with the electronic device. 
     As an example, in some embodiments in this detailed description, the accessory device includes a retaining feature arranged to retain an object that can be used to interact with the electronic device. For example, the retaining feature can take the form of a loop feature secured with the accessory device. The loop feature can further take the form of a closed loop feature formed of a material that defines an interior volume with a cross section having an approximate size and shape of the object. In some cases, the material can be “stretchable” such that the cross section is somewhat smaller than that of the object. In this situation, insertion of the object into the interior volume defined by the loop causes the stretchable material to grasp the object with a retaining force that depends upon the size and shape of the object and elastic properties of the stretchable material. An advantage of this arrangement is that objects of varying sizes and shapes can be accommodated by the closed loop feature limited only the by the elasticity of the stretchable material. Accordingly, the retaining feature may be formed from one or more materials, some of which are stretchable or elastic, or include other materials that may be more rigid in nature giving the closed loop a fixed size and shape (however, the rigid nature of the material may preclude the closed loop feature from being fully stored within accessory device). For example, the loop feature may be formed of a woven fabric designed to minimize or prevent tearing up to an elastic limit of the woven fabric. The woven fabric may be coated or laminated with a material, such as a polymeric material including polyurethane, designed to enhance an appearance of the retaining feature. Further, the material may not only provide a particular color to the retaining feature but may also simulate or mimic a look and feel of the accessory device. In addition, the woven fabric may be a stretch woven fabric designed stretch in response to a force applied to the woven fabric (and the polymeric material) to increase a dimension of the retaining feature. Also, the retaining feature may conform to receive an object, such as a stylus. 
     When the retaining feature is not in use, the retaining feature is designed to tuck away in the accessory device. Further, when the electronic device is disposed in the accessory device, the retaining feature may be stored in a manner such that the retaining feature is hidden from view. Also, the accessory device may include a recessed region that receives the retaining feature such that when the electronic device is disposed in the accessory device, the retaining feature does not cause the electronic device to protrude from the accessory device in an undesired manner. 
     Also, the accessory device may include a layer, such as a fabric layer, that provides a soft layer that will not damage the electronic device. Further, the layer may cover the retaining feature in a location of the retaining feature associated with material of the retaining feature secured with the accessory device. Also, the material forming the retaining feature may extend through an opening, or slit, in the layer. This allows for a smooth interior of the accessory device that covers, for example, one or more adhesive layers that adhesive secure the retaining feature with the accessory device. 
     Other configurations of the accessory device are shown and described. For example, in some cases, the accessory device may be designed to cover a display of the electronic device rather than an enclosure. In these embodiments, the accessory device may still include a retaining feature. However, the retaining feature may include one or more variations. For example, the retaining feature may be magnetically coupled with the accessory device. Also, the retaining feature may be stored or deployed in the accessory device. In other embodiments, the retaining feature may not only be magnetically coupled with the accessory device, but may also be designed to completely decouple, or detach, from the accessory device. The retaining feature may, at a later time, magnetically recouple with the accessory device. 
     Other accessory devices are shown and described. For example, the accessory device may be a keyboard designed to communicate with an electronic device and input a control to the electronic device. Also, the accessory device may further couple with other accessory devices. 
     These and other embodiments are discussed below with reference to  FIGS. 1-21 . However, those skilled in the art will readily appreciate that the detailed description given herein with respect to these Figures is for explanatory purposes only and should not be construed as limiting. 
       FIG. 1  illustrates an isometric view of an embodiment of an accessory device  100 , in accordance with the described embodiments. The accessory device  100  may be suitable for use with an electronic device (not shown), such as a smart phone or a tablet device generally known in the art. For example, the accessory device  100  may include a rear portion  102  designed to receive an enclosure of the electronic device of a suitable size and shape. The rear portion  102  may be formed from one or more layers (described below). Several sidewalls, including a first sidewall  104  and a second sidewall  106  opposite the first sidewall  104 , may extend from the rear portion  102  and provide a retaining force to secured an electronic device within the accessory device  100 . In particular, the first sidewall  104  and the second sidewall  106  may be designed to include a curved, or folded, configuration corresponding to a curved region of an enclosure of an electronic device. Also, as shown in  FIG. 1 , the second sidewall  106  may include a cut out region  108  defined as a region free of the material forming the second sidewall  106 . The cut out region  108  may be used to receive part of another accessory device (for example, a cover) described later. Further, the cut out region  108  may allow the accessory device  100  to bend or flex in a region proximate to the cut out region  108  and to facilitate extraction of an electronic device disposed in the accessory device  100 . Also, although not shown, in some embodiments, the second sidewall  106  does not include a cut out region  108 , and the second sidewall  106  extends lengthwise to opposing sidewalls. 
     In some cases, the electronic device may include a display arranged to display visual content. Generally speaking, the display includes a display layer or panel that presents the visual content overlaid by an outer protective layer. The outer protective layer is generally transparent so as to not impede viewing of the visual content and affords protection against events (such as an impact, scratch, moisture intrusion). In some cases, the display can be touch capable. In other words, a touch event at or near the outer protective layer can be used as to control certain aspects of the electronic device thereby allowing a user to interact with the electronic device by, for example, touching or near touching the outer protective layer of the display to activate one or more capacitive touch sensors integrated with the display. The means for interacting with the display may include touching (or near touching) the touch screen with a finger or using an object, such as a stylus that can be detected by the touch screen. 
     Regarding the latter, the accessory device  100  may include a retaining feature  110  designed to receive and carry the object. In some embodiments, the retaining feature  110  includes a loop feature, as shown in  FIG. 1 . Further, the retaining feature  110  in  FIG. 1  is a closed loop feature. The retaining feature  110  may be formed from one or more materials. For example, the enlarged view shows the retaining feature including a material in a woven configuration  112 . The material may include polyester, rayon, spandex, cotton, or a combination thereof. In this manner, the retaining feature  110  may include stretchable and/or elastic properties allowing the retaining feature  110  to expand to receive an object as well as contract to conform around the object. Also, the material may include an additional material laminated with the material in the woven configuration  112 . For example, the additional material may include a polymeric material, such as a polyurethane, designed to include an appearance similar to that of the accessory device  100 , and in particular, an outermost layer of the accessory device  100 . This will be described below. 
     As shown in  FIG. 1 , the retaining feature  110  is in a deployed configuration defined as a configuration that allows an object to slide through the retaining feature  110 . However, in some cases, the retaining feature  110  may not be used. In this regard, the accessory device  100  may further include a recessed region  114  designed to receive the retaining feature  110  to define a stored configuration of the retaining feature  110 . This will be described below. In some embodiments, the recessed region  114  extends along the rear portion  102 . In the embodiment shown in  FIG. 1 , the recessed region  114  extends into both the rear portion  102  and the first sidewall  104  of the accessory device  100 . 
       FIG. 2  illustrates an isometric view of the accessory device  100  shown in  FIG. 1 , with the accessory device  100  having an electronic device  150  disposed in the accessory device  100 . Accordingly, as shown, the accessory device  100  may have a size and a shape designed to receive the electronic device  150 . Also, the electronic device  150  may include a display assembly having a display panel suitable for presenting visual content. As shown in  FIG. 2 , the display assembly  152  is overlaid by outer protective layer  154  that is generally transparent in nature so as to not impede viewing of the visual content. In some embodiments, the outer protective layer  154  is a cover glass extends throughout a front face of the electronic device  150 . Also, in some embodiments, the display assembly  152  includes a touch sensitive layer capable of detecting a touch event or near the outer protective layer  154 . In this way, the electronic device  150  can interpret a touch event in any number of ways. For example, the electronic device  150  can interpret a touch event as a single or multipoint event (caused by one or more non-moving detectable objects such as a finger or stylus) or as a gesture when one or more of the detectable objects move with respect to the outer protective layer  154 . In any case, the electronic device  150  can interpret the touch event(s) as a command that can be used to alter a current or subsequent operation of the electronic device. 
     It should be noted that in  FIG. 2 , the retaining feature  110  (shown in  FIG. 1 ) can be hidden from view in a stored configuration defined by the retaining feature  110  positioned between the accessory device  100  and the electronic device  150 . The stored configuration may be used when, for example, an object is not used in conjunction with the electronic device  150 . Alternatively, the stored configuration is useful to prevent the retaining feature  110  for tangling with another object or structure near the accessory device  100 . In this regard, the retaining feature  110  may be referred to as a foldable loop feature, as the retaining feature  110  may fold into a stored configuration, and unfold to a deployed configuration. Alternatively, the retaining feature  110  may be in a deployed configuration, as shown in  FIG. 1 , when, for example, the electronic device  150  is positioned in the accessory device  100 . 
     Also, as shown in  FIG. 2 , the accessory device  100  may include an opening aligned with a feature of the electronic device  150 . For example, the accessory device  100  may include a third sidewall  116  having an opening  118  designed to receive an additional accessory, such as a cable accessory for charging of and/or data communication with the electronic device  150 . Although not shown, the third sidewall  116  may include several additional openings designed to facilitate use of the electronic device  150 . Also, although not shown, the accessory device  100  may further include several protruding features aligned with one or more control inputs (such as buttons) of the electronic device  150 . Also, the cut out region  108  of the second sidewall  106  may include a side and a shape to receive one or more features of an additional accessory device. This will be discussed below. 
       FIG. 3  illustrates a cross sectional view of the accessory device  100  shown in  FIG. 1  taken along line A-A. For purposes of illustration, the electronic device  150  is shown and disposed in the accessory device  100 . As shown, the retaining feature  110  is in the deployed configuration and capable of receiving an object. The retaining feature  110  may include material that loops around and is adhesively joined in several locations. For example, the enlarged view shows a retaining feature  110  that includes a first adhesive layer  122  designed to join together two portion of the material that forms the retaining feature  110  at a bottom portion of a loop portion of the retaining feature  110 . To further bond the retaining feature  110  together, the retaining feature  110  may include a second adhesive layer  124 . Also, the recessed region  114  is shown as an indented or sub-flush region with respect to the rear portion  102  of the accessory device  100 . Further, the recessed region  114  is sub-flush with respect to the first sidewall  104 . In this manner, the retaining feature  110  may be stored in the recessed region  114  and hidden from view. For example,  FIG. 4  illustrates a cross sectional view of the accessory device shown in  FIG. 2  taken along line B-B. As shown, the retaining feature  110  is in the stored configuration and disposed in the recessed region  114  (shown in  FIG. 3 ). With the retaining feature  110  stored between the accessory device  100  and the electronic device  150 , the retaining feature  110  is hidden from view. 
     The cross sectional views of  FIGS. 3 and 4  further illustrate the various layers used to form the accessory device  100 . For example, as shown in  FIG. 4 , the accessory device  100  may include a first layer  132 . The first layer  132  may include a rigid plastic molded to define a size and a shape of the accessory device  100 . The first layer  132  may be referred to as a shell. The recessed region  114  may be formed during a molding operation of the first layer  132 . Also, the accessory device  100  further includes a second layer  134  disposed on an interior region of the accessory device  100 , and in particular the first layer  132  and the recessed region  114 . In this regard, the second layer  134  may be referred to as an inner layer. In some embodiments, the second layer  134  includes a fabric layer, such as a microfiber fabric layer. Also, the recessed region  114  is designed such that the retaining feature  110  may be co-planar, or flush, with respect to the rear portion  102  even with the second layer  134  disposed in the recessed region  114 . Also, the second layer  134  may extend into the sidewalls, including the first sidewall  104 . The accessory device  100  may further include a third layer  136  disposed on an outer region of the first layer  132 . In this regard, the third layer  136  may be referred to as an outer layer. The third layer  136  may include a silicone, polyurethane, and/or another polymeric layer. In this manner, the retaining feature  110  may include an appearance similar to that of the third layer  136 , with the similar appearance including color, texture, reflectivity, or a combination thereof. 
       FIG. 5  illustrates an exploded view of the accessory device  100  shown in  FIG. 1 , with the accessory device  100  enlarged to show the retaining feature  110 , the recessed region  114 , and other additional features. For purposes of illustration, the second layer  134  (shown in  FIG. 4 ) is removed. As shown, the first layer  132  may be formed in a manner that defines a recessed region  114  used to receive the retaining feature  110  in a stored configuration. The first layer  132  is formed with a size and a shape to accommodate both the second layer  134  as well as the retaining feature  110  such that the retaining feature  110  may be substantially disposed in the recessed region  114 . Also, as shown in  FIG. 5 , the recessed region  114  extends from the rear portion  102  to the first sidewall  104 . This allows the recessed region  114  to accommodate the retaining feature  110 . 
     In order for the retaining feature  110  to remain secured with the accessory device  100 , the retaining feature  110  may include several feature designed to resist forces pulling the retaining feature  110  away from the accessory device  100 . For example, as shown in  FIG. 5 , the material forming the retaining feature  110  extend beyond a loop feature  202  of the retaining feature  110  to define a first tail feature  204  positioned in the recessed region  114  along the first sidewall  104 . The retaining feature  110  may further include a second tail feature  206  extending along the first sidewall  104  in a direction opposite the first tail feature  204 . The first tail feature  204  and the second tail feature  206  may be secured in the recessed region  114  by an adhesive (not shown). Also, to provide additional surface area used to further reinforce the retaining feature  110  against tearing or decoupling from the accessory device  100 , the material forming the retaining feature  110  may be cur or designed such that both the first tail feature  204  and the second tail feature  206  extend an additional length to define several wing features. For example, the first tail feature  204  may include a first wing feature  208  and a second wing feature  210 , and the second tail feature  206  may include a first wing feature  212  and a second wing feature  214 . Generally, the first wing features shown and described in  FIG. 5  may be defined as material of the first tail feature  204  and the second tail feature  206  that extend beyond the dotted lines  218  and dotted lines  220 . With the wing features adhesively secured in the recessed region  114 , the retaining feature  110  may further resist against pulling forces applied to, for example, the loop feature  202 . 
     In addition, an adhesive layer  222  may be applied to the retaining feature  110 . As shown in  FIG. 5 , the adhesive layer  222  may be disposed on a portion of the first tail feature  204  and the second tail feature  206  as well as their respective wing features. The adhesive layer  222  may include a polymeric and fiber material designed to provide additional reinforcement against a force that pulls the retaining feature  110  in a direction away from the accessory device  100 . 
       FIG. 6  illustrates an isometric view of the accessory device  100  shown  FIG. 5 , with the second layer  134  disposed on the first layer  132  including the recessed region  114 .  FIG. 6  also represents the retaining feature  110  assembled with the accessory device  100 . As shown, the second layer  134  may include an opening  224 , or slit, to allow the loop feature  202  of the retaining feature  110  to extend through the second layer  134 . Also, this allows the second layer  134  to cover several features of the retaining feature  110  shown in  FIG. 5 , such as the first tail features, the wing features, and the adhesive. The second layer  134  provides an appearance of a smooth and continuous finish as the second layer  134  may substantially cover the interior region of the accessory device  100 . 
       FIG. 6  further shows the loop feature  202  of the retaining feature  110  carrying an object  226 . In some embodiments, the object  226  is a pen or other generally known writing utensil. In the embodiment shown in  FIG. 5 , the object  226  is a stylus suitable for use with a capacitive touch screen of an electronic device that may be used with the accessory device  100 . The stretchable properties of the retaining feature  110  allow the loop feature  202  to expand to receive the object  226 . Also, the elastic properties of the retaining feature  110  allow the loop feature  202  to generally conform to a size and a shape of the object  226  to further secure the object with the retaining feature  110 . 
     In some instances, the sidewalls of an accessory device may be modified to receive an additional accessory device, such as a cover (shown and described below). For example,  FIG. 7  illustrate a variation of an accessory device  300  having flatten sidewalls disposed around the accessory device  300 . As shown, the accessory device  300  includes several flattened sidewalls, including a first flattened sidewall  304  and a second flattened sidewall  306 . The flattened sidewalls may be well suited to receive, for example, an additional accessory device, such as a cover or a keyboard (shown below). In some embodiments, the second flattened sidewall  306  includes a cut out region previously described. In the embodiment shown in  FIG. 7 , the second flattened sidewall  306  does not include a cut out region. This allows the second flattened sidewall  306  to continuously cover an edge of an electronic device disposed near the second flattened sidewall  306 . Also, similar to a previous embodiment, the accessory device  300  may include a retaining feature  310  and a recessed region  314  designed to receive the retaining feature  310 . 
     While the retaining feature in previous embodiments includes stretchable and/or elastic features, other embodiments of a retaining feature may include additional features. For example,  FIG. 8  illustrates an isometric view of a retaining feature  410  having a ring feature  412  used to secure an object  510  with the retaining feature  410 . As shown, the ring feature  412  is embedded in the retaining feature  410 . In some embodiments, the ring feature  412  is a ferrous material attracted to a magnet. In this regard, the object  510  may include a clip  512  having a magnet  522 . In some embodiments, the magnet  522  includes a first portion  524  having a first polarity and a second portion  526  having a second polarity opposite the first polarity. For example, the first portion  524  may include a “North” facing polarity and, accordingly, the second portion  526  may include a “South” facing polarity. When the clip  512  is inserted into the retaining feature  410 , the ring feature  412  may magnetically couple with one of the first portion  524  and the second portion  526 . Also, in other embodiments, the polarities may be part of a “key” feature. In this manner, the ring feature  412  may determine whether the object  510  should be used with an accessory device that includes the retaining feature  410 . For example, the ring feature  412  may be a magnet that magnetically attracts the magnet  522  in the clip  512  when the object  510  may be used with an accessory device having the retaining feature  410 . Alternatively, the ring feature  412  may be a magnet that magnetically repels the magnet  522  in the clip  512  when the object  510  may not be used with an accessory device having the retaining feature  410 . Accordingly, an accessory device having the retaining feature  410  may be an interactive accessory device, as the accessory device may provide information to the electronic device regarding the object  510 . In other embodiments, the object  510  includes a magnet and the clip  512  is removed. In these embodiments, the object  510  may magnetically couple directly with the retaining feature  410 . Also, the retaining feature  410  may replace embodiments of a retaining feature throughout this detailed description, such as the retaining feature  110  shown in  FIG. 1 . 
     The prior embodiments of an accessory device designed to receive and carry an electronic device. These embodiments offer a protective cover to an enclosure of the device. However, other embodiments of an accessory device may be designed to overlay and protect the display assembly as well as an outer protective layer disposed over the display assembly. In this manner, the accessory device may be a protective cover disposed over the outer protective layer. 
     For example,  FIG. 9  illustrates an isometric top view of an electronic device  650  presented in terms of tablet device and an accessory device  600  shown as protective cover. The electronic device  650  may include features previously described for an electronic device, such as a display assembly and an outer protective layer overlaying the display assembly (as shown in  FIG. 1 ). The accessory device  600  is positioned over the electronic device  650  such that the accessory device  600  overlays an outer protective layer (not shown) of the electronic device  650 . The electronic device  650  can include a housing  652  that can enclose and support several internal components (including integrated circuit chips and other circuitry) to provide computing operations for the electronic device  650 . In order to not interfere with the magnetic field generated the magnet used to couple the accessory device  600 , at least that portion of the housing  652  nearest the magnet can be formed of any number of non-magnetic materials such as plastic or non-magnetic metal such as aluminum. 
     The accessory device  600  may include an appearance (for example, a look and feel) that complements that of the electronic device  650  adding to overall look and feel of the electronic device  650 . The accessory device  600  may include a flap  602 . In some embodiments, the flap  602  includes a size and shape in accordance with the outer protective layer (not shown) of the electronic device  650 . Also, the flap  602  can be pivotally connected with the electronic device  650  way of a hinge assembly  604  shown in  FIG. 9 . Further, the connection means between the hinge assembly  604  and the electronic device  650  may include a metal (not shown) such as steel, or other ferrous material embedded in an attachment feature  606  of the hinge assembly  604 . In this manner, the electronic device  650  may include a magnet disposed in the electronic device  650  that allows the accessory device  600  to magnetically couple with the electronic device by way of the attachment feature  606 . 
     The magnetic attachment force between the attachment feature  606  and magnet can maintain the accessory device  600  and electronic device  650  in a proper orientation and placement vis-a-vis the flap  602 . By “proper orientation” it is meant that the accessory device  600  can only properly attach with the electronic device  650  with the flap  602  and outer protective layer aligned in a mating engagement defined by the flap  602  covering substantially all of outer protective layer when the flap  602  is placed in contact with the cover glass of the electronic device  650 . 
     The flap  602  can be formed of various materials such as plastic, cloth, and so forth. In some embodiments (not shown), the flap  602  can be segmented in such a way that a segment of the flap  602  can be lifted to expose a corresponding portion of the display assembly of the electronic device  650 . However, the flap  602  is designed to bend or fold without segmented regions. Also, the flap  602  can also include a functional element that can cooperate with a corresponding functional element in electronic device  650 . In this way, manipulating the flap  602  can result in an alteration in the operation of electronic device  650 . 
     The flap  602  can include magnetic material. For example, as shown in  FIG. 9 , the flap  602  includes a first magnetic element  608 , which can be used to magnetically attach to a corresponding magnetic attachment (feature not shown) in the electronic device  650 . Also, the flap may further include a second magnetic element  614  that can be used to activate Hall Effect sensor (not shown) disposed in the electronic device  650 . In this manner, when the flap  602  is positioned above the Hall Effect sensor, the Hall Effect sensor can respond by generating a signal that can, in turn, be used to alter an operating state of electronic device  650 . Since the outer protective cover can be easily attached directly to the housing of the tablet device without fasteners, the flap  602  can essentially conform to the shape of electronic device  650 . In this way, the accessory device  600  will not detract or otherwise obscure the look and feel of electronic device  650 . The flap  602  can also include capacitive elements  616  arranged in a defined pattern. The capacitive elements  616  can be detected by a multi-touch (MT) sensitive layer (not shown) incorporated in the display assembly. When the flap  602  is placed upon the cover glass, the MT sensitive layer can respond to the presence of the capacitive elements  616  by generating a touch pattern consistent with the defined pattern. The defined pattern can be used to convey information to the electronic device  650 . The information can include, for example, aspects and characteristics of accessory device  600  such as color, type, style, serial number, and so forth. 
     The accessory device  600  may include several additional features. For example,  FIGS. 10 and 11  illustrates the accessory device  600  having a retaining feature  610  designed to carry an object suitable for use with an electronic device, such as the electronic device  650  (shown in  FIG. 9 ). 
       FIG. 10  illustrates the accessory device  600  with a retaining feature  610  positioned in a stored configuration. The internal view  618  of the accessory device  600  shows the accessory device  600  including a retaining feature  610  designed to receive an object, such as a stylus. As shown, the retaining feature  610  may be secured with a bar  612 . Securing means between the retaining feature  610  and the bar  612  may include an adhesive. In some embodiments, the bar  612  is a magnet. In the embodiment shown in  FIGS. 10 and 11 , the bar  612  includes a ferrous material designed to magnetically attract to magnets. Generally, the bar  612  may be formed from any magnetically attractable material. The accessory device  600  may further include a first array  620  of magnets and a second array  630  of magnets, both of which are disposed in an opening of the accessory device  600  and may magnetically couple with the bar  612 . The first array  620  of magnets and the second array  630  of magnets may be simply referred to as a first array  620  and a second array  630 , respectively. The first array  620  and the second array  630  may be designed and positioned in the accessory device  600  such that each magnet in the respective arrays includes a magnetic field in an X-Y plane, that is, in the same or parallel plane as that of the accessory device  600  is lying. For example,  FIG. 10  shows the first array  620  including a first magnet  622  having a magnetic field and the second array  630  including a first magnet  632  having a magnetic field, with the magnetic fields of the magnets shown in the X-Y plane. It will be appreciated that the first magnet  622  in the first array  620  and the first magnet  632  in the second array  630  are representative of the remaining magnets in the respective arrays. Also, the bar  612  may be positioned between and in the same plane as the first array  620  and the second array  630 . 
     When the bar  612  is magnetically coupled with the first array  620 , the retaining feature  610  is in the stored configuration as shown in  FIG. 10 , and a portion of the retaining feature  610  protrudes from the accessory device  600  such that a user may engage the retaining feature  610 . However, as shown in  FIG. 11 , in response to the pulling force to the retaining feature  610  in a direction away from the accessory device  600  sufficient to overcome the magnetic circuit between the bar  612  and the first array  620 , the magnetic coupling between the bar  612  and the first array  620  ceases, and the bar  612  moves in a direction toward the second array  630  and magnetically couples with the second array  630 . In this configuration, the retaining feature  610  is positioned in a deployed configuration as shown in  FIG. 11 . The retaining feature  610  may return to the stored configuration by applying a force to the retaining feature  610  sufficient to overcome the magnetic circuit between the bar  612  and the second array  630 . 
     Also, the first array  620  and the second array  630  may be positioned such that the bar  612  is magnetically coupled with either the first array  620  or the second array  630 . For example, if the bar  612  is not magnetically coupled with the first array  620 , then the bar  612  will be magnetically coupled with the second array  630 , or vice versa. In this manner, the bar  612  will always be within a magnetic field generated by the first array  620  or a magnetic field generated by the second array  630 . Also, in some embodiments, a magnetic field generated by at least one magnet in the first array  620  may overlap with a magnetic field generated by at least one magnet in the second array  630 . 
     Also, as shown in  FIGS. 10 and 11 , the accessory device  600  may include an extension  642  that may include a size and a shape for positioning in another accessory device. In particular, the extension  642  may be designed to fit within, for example, the cut out region  108  of the second sidewall  106  of the accessory device  100  (shown in  FIG. 1 ). In this manner, the accessory device  600  may be used in conjunction with the accessory device  100 , with the accessory devices combining to cover and retain an electronic device. Further, in some embodiments, the extension  642  includes an electrical contact  644  designed to couple with an electronic device. As such, the electrical contact  644  may be disposed in a location of the extension  642  corresponding to a coupling feature of an electronic device. The coupling between the electrical contact  644  and the electronic device may allow for power distribution and/or data transmission between the electronic device and the accessory device  600 . Also, although not shown, the electrical contact  644  may be coupled with one or more wires disposed within and routed throughout the accessory device  600 . Also, the extension  642  and the electrical contact  644  may be included features in other embodiments of an accessory device described in this detailed description. Also, the retaining feature  610  may be referred as a retractable loop feature, as the retaining feature  610  forms a loop designed to retract into the accessory device  600  (as shown in  FIG. 10 ), and then at least partially extend from the accessory device  600  (as shown in  FIG. 11 ) to receive an object. 
     In some embodiments, the accessory device may include several panels, or segments, each of which is capable of bending or folding with respect to the remaining panels. For example,  FIG. 12  illustrates a plan view of an embodiment of an accessory device  700  used with an electronic device such as the electronic device  150  (shown in  FIG. 2 ), in accordance with the described embodiments. As shown, the accessory device  700  may include a first panel  702 , a second panel  704 , a third panel  706 , and a fourth panel  708 . However, other embodiments may include any number of panels. Also, the panels may fold with respect to other panels to define a support structure capable of supporting an electronic device and an accessory device that retains the electronic device, such as the accessory device  100  shown in  FIG. 1 . In some embodiments, the fourth panel  708  includes a retaining feature substantially similar to the retaining feature  610  shown in  FIGS. 10-11 . Also, the accessory device  700  may include an extension  742  that may include any feature or features previously described for an extension of an accessory device. 
     The retaining feature previously described includes a retaining feature permanently coupled with an accessory device. However, in some embodiments, a retaining feature may be designed to completely detach from an accessory device. For example,  FIG. 13  illustrates a plan view showing an alternate embodiment of a retaining feature  810  suitable for use with an accessory device  800 , in accordance with the described embodiments. Only a portion of the accessory device  800  is shown. However, the accessory device  800  may be substantially similar size and shape as the accessory devices shown in  FIGS. 9-12 . Also,  FIG. 13  represents a partial internal view of the accessory device  800 . The accessory device  800  may include an array  820  of magnets disposed in an opening of the accessory device  800 . Also, the retaining feature  810 , designed to carry an object suitable for use with an electronic device, may include an array  840  of magnets disposed or embedded in the retaining feature  810 , with the array  840  of magnets designed to magnetically couple with the array  820  of magnets in the accessory device  800  to define a stored configuration of the retaining feature  810 , as shown in  FIG. 13 . 
     However, in response to sufficient force to the retaining feature  810  in a direction away from the accessory device  800  to overcome the magnetic circuit between the array  820  and the array  840 , the magnetic coupling between the array  840  of magnets in the retaining feature  810  and the array  820  ceases. For example,  FIG. 14  illustrates a plan view of the retaining feature  810  shown in  FIG. 13 , with the retaining feature  810  detached from the accessory device  800 . In particular, the retaining feature  810  is completely detached from the accessory device  800 . The retaining feature  810  may again magnetically couple with the accessory device  800  by positioning the retaining feature  810  in or near the opening of the accessory device  800  to form a magnetic circuit between the array  820  of magnets in the accessory device  800  and the array  840  of magnetic in the retaining feature  810 . Also, the retaining feature  810  may be referred as a retractable loop feature, as the retaining feature  810  forms a loop designed to retract into the accessory device  800  (as shown in  FIG. 13 ), and then at least partially extend from the accessory device  800  (as shown in  FIG. 14 ) to receive an object. Also, in contrast to previous embodiments, the retaining feature  810  may further be referred to as a removable loop feature as the retaining feature  810  may be completed detached from, but later reattached with, the accessory device  800 . 
     In some cases, a material defining a retaining feature is in an “open” configuration and does not initially include a loop feature previously shown. This may allow the material to form a lower profile when disposed in an accessory device. However, the material may fold or deform to define a closed configuration such that the retaining feature may receive and carry an object. 
       FIGS. 15-18  illustrates a retaining feature  910  in an accessory device  900 , with the retaining feature  910  taking the form of an “open” configuration until the retaining feature  910  magnetically couples with the accessory device  900  to define a closed loop.  FIG. 15  illustrates a front plan view of an alternate embodiment of an accessory device  900  used with an electronic device, in accordance with the described embodiments. Although the accessory device  900  includes a number of panels, in other embodiments, the accessory device  900  is a single piece flap similar to the flap  602  (shown in  FIG. 9 ). The partial internal view of the accessory device  900  shows a panel  908  having a retaining feature  910  secured at one end with the panel  908 . As shown, the retaining feature  910  is in a stored configuration. Further, the retaining feature  910 , as shown in  FIG. 15 , may be in a retracted position as a majority of the retaining feature  910  is disposed in the accessory device  900 . Also, the retaining feature  910  may include an array  920  of magnets disposed or embedded in the retaining feature  910 . The array  920  of magnets is designed couple with one or more magnets or other metallic feature (or features) disposed in another location of the accessory device  900 . This will be shown and described below. 
       FIG. 16  illustrates the accessory device  900  shown in  FIG. 15 , with the retaining feature  910  expanding and extending from the accessory device  900  in response to a force exerted on the retaining feature  910 . The retaining feature  910  is designed to expand and extend in response to a force applied to the retaining feature  910  in a direction away from the accessory device  900 . In this regard, the retaining feature  910  may include a stretchable woven fabric designed to stretch in response to a pulling force and elastically return to its initial form once the pulling force is no longer applied. Also, as shown in  FIG. 16 , the retaining feature  910  may change from the retracted positioned to a deployed position in order to form a feature capable of holding an object (shown below). 
       FIGS. 15 and 16  show a front side of the accessory device  900  generally associated with an exterior region visible when the accessory device  900  is disposed over a display assembly of an electronic device.  FIG. 17  illustrates a rear plan view showing the back, or rear side, of the accessory device  900  opposite the front side, with the retaining feature  910  wrapping around an edge of the accessory device  900 . As shown, the retaining feature  910  is designed to bend or fold such that the array  920  of magnets in the retaining feature  910  magnetically couple with an attachment feature  930  of the accessory device  900 . The attachment feature  930  may be also be a magnet or a metal designed to magnetically couple with the array  920  of magnets in the retaining feature  910 . As shown, the attachment feature  930  is disposed in the panel  908  but could be disposed in other panels. Also, the attachment feature  930  may be embedded in the panel  908  and covered by the layers of the accessory device  900  such that the attachment feature  930  is hidden from view. When the array  920  of magnets magnetically couples with the attachment feature  930 , the retaining feature  910  defines a closed configuration capable of receive an object  940 . As shown, the object  940  is a stylus, but may be another object having a size and a shape that fits into the retaining feature  910 . 
       FIG. 18  illustrates a partial isometric view of the accessory device  900  and the retaining feature  910 , with the retaining feature  910  carrying the object  940 .  FIGS. 16-18  also illustrate the retaining feature  910  in a deployed configuration. However, when the array  920  of magnets is no longer magnetically coupled with the attachment feature  930 , the retaining feature  910  may return to the stored configuration (shown in  FIG. 15 ). Also, in other embodiments, the array  920  of magnets is replaced by a metal or an array of metal parts, and the attachment feature  930  is a magnet designed to magnetically couple with the metal replacing the array  920  of magnets. 
     The accessory device may yet take on other forms allowing the accessory device to include additional features. For example, the accessory device may include one or more features designed to input a control or command to an electronic device. Also, an accessory device may include mating features allowing the accessory device to couple with another accessory device. 
       FIG. 19  illustrates an isometric view of an alternate embodiment of a first accessory device  1000  designed to couple with a second accessory device  1100 , in accordance with the described embodiments. The first accessory device  1000  and the second accessory device  1100  may include features designed to couple the accessory devices together. Also, these features further allow the accessory devices to decouple with each other. In some embodiments, the first accessory device  1000  includes a keyboard  1002  designed for communication with an electronic device (such as the electronic device  150 , shown in  FIG. 1 ). The keyboard  1002  may be associated with a QWERTY configuration generally known in the art for a keyboard. Also, the keyboard  1002  may include a size and a shape that covers a display of the electronic device. The coupling features shown in  FIG. 19  may define a wired communication between the keyboard  1002  and an electronic device. However, alternatively, the keyboard  1002  may be in wireless communication with the electronic device via Bluetooth protocol, as an example. Also, the first accessory device  1000  may include a flexible panel  1012 . The flexible panel  1012  may include an extension  1018  having a first array  1020  of magnets, both of which are designed to enter an opening of the second accessory device  1100  and magnetically couple with a second array  1120  of magnets disposed in the second accessory device  1100 . In other embodiments, the second array  1120  of magnets is replaced by a metal magnetically attracted to the first array  1020  of magnets in the first accessory device  1000 . Also, the second accessory device  1100  may be a panel or portion of an additional accessory device (not shown). Also, the first accessory device  1000  and the second accessory device  1100  may be designed such that the keyboard  1002  is in communication with a device (not shown) coupled with the second accessory device  1100  when the first accessory device  1000  is magnetically coupled with the second accessory device  1100 . 
     The first accessory device  1000  may include additional features. For example, the first accessory device  1000  may include a retaining feature  1010  designed to carry an object, such as a stylus. The retaining feature  1010  may include any one or more feature previously described for a retaining feature. As shown in  FIG. 19 , the first accessory device  1000  includes a retaining feature  1010  that is detachable from the first accessory device  1000  in a manner similar to that shown in  FIGS. 10 and 11 , or  FIGS. 13 and 14 . Also, the retaining feature  1010  and accompanying features may be positioned in other side regions of the first accessory device  1000 . Also, the first accessory device  1000  may include a recessed region  1032  designed to receive the second accessory device  1100  for compact storage. 
       FIG. 20  illustrates an isometric view of an alternate embodiment of a first accessory device  1200  designed to couple with a second accessory device  1300 , in accordance with the described embodiments. The second accessory device  1300  may be a panel or another portion of an additional accessory device. As shown, the first accessory device  1200  includes a keyboard  1202  having a similar configuration to that of the keyboard  1002  (in  FIG. 19 ) and capable of wireless communication with an electronic device. Also, the first accessory device  1200  may further include a flexible panel  1212  having several pins. For example, the flexible panel  1212  may include a first pin  1214 , a second pin  1216 , and a third pin  1218 . The second accessory device  1300  may include a first opening  1314 , a second opening  1316 , and a third opening  1318  designed to receive the first pin  1214 , the second pin  1216 , and the third pin  1218 , respectively. This allows the first accessory device  1200  to couple with the second accessory device  1300  and resist decoupling forces in a lateral direction. For example,  FIG. 21  illustrates a plan view of the first accessory device  1200  and second accessory device  1300  shown in  FIG. 20 , with the first accessory device  1200  coupled with the second accessory device  1300 . As shown, the pins are disposed in the openings, and the first accessory device  1200  and second accessory device  1300  may remain coupled in response to a decoupling force in a lateral direction denoted by the arrows  1350 . Also, as illustrated in  FIGS. 20 and 21 , the flexible panel  1212  may be a foldable extension as the flexible panel  1212  is designed to pivot or rotate about a hinge feature between the keyboard  1202  and the flexible panel  1212 . 
     Returning to  FIG. 20 , the flexible panel  1212  may further include a first magnet  1222  and a second magnet  1224  disposed in the flexible panel  1212 . Also, the second accessory device  1300  may include a first magnet  1322  and a second magnet  1324  designed to magnetically couple with the first magnet  1222  and the second magnet  1224 , respectively. In this manner, the first accessory device  1200  may be further secured with the second accessory device  1300  by way of magnetic circuits. Also, the first magnet  1222  and the second magnet  1224  may be part of an array of magnets disposed in the flexible panel  1212 . 
       FIG. 21  further shows the magnets of the first accessory device  1200  magnetically coupled with the magnets of the second accessory device  1300 . For example, a first magnetic circuit may be formed between the first magnet  1222  in the flexible panel  1212  and the first magnet  1322  in the second accessory device  1300 , and a second magnetic circuit may be formed between the second magnet  1224  in the flexible panel  1212  and the second magnet  1324  in the second accessory device  1300 . By applying a force to the first accessory device  1200  in a direction perpendicular to the lateral direction denoted by the arrows  1350 , the first accessory device  1200  may decouple from the second accessory device  1300 . Alternatively, either the magnets in the flexible panel  1212  or the magnets in the second accessory device  1300  may be replaced by a metal having a magnetically attractable material, such as steel. 
     Also, referring again to  FIG. 20 , one or more of the pins of the flexible panel  1212  may be metal pins coupled with wires in electrical communication with the keyboard  1202 . Further, the openings of the second accessory device  1300  include a terminal or connector that receive the metal pins. For example, as shown, a first wire  1234  is electrically coupled with the first pin  1214 , and the first wire  1234  may extend into the first accessory device  1200  including the keyboard  1202 . Also, the first opening  1314  of the second accessory device  1300  includes a first connector designed to receive the first pin  1214 , with the first connector electrically coupled with a first wire  1334  disposed in the second accessory device  1300 . These terminals or connectors may also be coupled with wires electrically coupled with another device, such as another electronic device and/or a charging device. In this manner, the first accessory device  1200  may be in electrical communication with an additional electronic device, such as a tablet device or other electronic device, with the first accessory device  1200  capable of sending and and/or receiving data transmission as well as receiving electrical power to charge a battery (not shown) in the first accessory device  1200 . 
     In addition, the first accessory device  1200  may include a retaining feature having one or more features of a retaining feature previously described. For example, the first accessory device  1200  may include a retaining feature (not shown) disposed in a side region near the keyboard  1202 , similar to the retaining feature  1010  shown in  FIG. 19 . 
     The foregoing description, for purposes of explanation, used specific nomenclature to provide a thorough understanding of the described embodiments. However, it will be apparent to one skilled in the art that the specific details are not required in order to practice the described embodiments. Thus, the foregoing descriptions of the specific embodiments described herein are presented for purposes of illustration and description. They are not targeted to be exhaustive or to limit the embodiments to the precise forms disclosed. It will be apparent to one of ordinary skill in the art that many modifications and variations are possible in view of the above teachings.

Metadata:
Filing Date: 20150826
Publication Date: 20170912
Grant Date: 20170912
Priority Date: 20150826
Inventors: GRIFFIN, II James G.
COSTER DANIEL J.
SMITH SAMUEL GILKISON
JO YOONHOO
Assignee: APPLE INC
CPC Classifications: [{"code": "A45C11/00", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "A45C2011/003", "inventive": false, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "G06F1/1656", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "H04B1/3888", "inventive": true, "first": true, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "A45C11/34", "inventive": false, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "A45C11/003", "inventive": false, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "G06F2200/1633", "inventive": false, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "A45C11/003", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "G06F2200/1633", "inventive": false, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "G06F2200/1634", "inventive": false, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "G06F2200/1632", "inventive": false, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "G06F1/1626", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "A45C11/34", "inventive": false, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "G06F2200/1634", "inventive": false, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "G06F2200/1632", "inventive": false, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "G06F1/1626", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "A45C11/34", "inventive": false, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "H04B1/3888", "inventive": true, "first": true, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "A45C11/00", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "H04B1/3888", "inventive": true, "first": true, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "A45C11/00", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}]
Family ID: 58096938