PATENT DOCUMENT

Publication Number: US-11962162-B2
Application Number: US-202117147315-A
Country: US
Kind Code: B2

Title: Accessory device for electronic devices

Abstract:
An accessory device is disclosed. The accessory device may include multiple pockets, or sleeves, designed to carry items, such as an electronic device and a user&#39;s personal items (e.g., credits cards, cash, etc.). The accessory device also includes a magnet embedded in a back section, with the magnet designed to align an inductive charging mechanism that can charge the electronic device&#39;s battery when the electronic device is positioned within the accessory device. To improve charging efficiency, the back section also includes a structural layer designed to keep the back section flat when the electronic device is positioned within the accessory device. The structural layer can hide/obscure the magnet and other structures. Also, the accessory device includes a wireless communication circuit that can communicate with a corresponding wireless communication circuit in the electronic device, and provide information (e.g., openings and dimensional information of the accessory device) to the electronic device.

Claims:
What is claimed is: 
     
       1. An accessory device for a portable electronic device, the accessory device comprising:
 a first section comprising an opening; 
 a second section coupled with the first section, the first section and the second section defining a first pocket; 
 a third section coupled with the second section, the second section and the third section defining a second pocket configured to receive the portable electronic device; and 
 a wireless communication circuit configured to send information corresponding to the opening to the portable electronic device, wherein: 
 in response to the portable electronic device being disposed in the second pocket, the first section covers a portion of a display of the portable electronic device and the opening defines an uncovered portion of the display. 
 
     
     
       2. The accessory device of  claim 1 , wherein the information further corresponds to a thickness of the third section. 
     
     
       3. The accessory device of  claim 1 , wherein the third section comprises a magnet configured to magnetically couple with an inductive charging mechanism. 
     
     
       4. The accessory device of  claim 3 , further comprising a structural layer disposed in the third section, wherein the magnet is embedded in the structural layer. 
     
     
       5. The accessory device of  claim 4 , wherein the third section maintains a planar surface, based on the structural layer, when the portable electronic device is disposed in the second pocket. 
     
     
       6. The accessory device of  claim 1 , wherein the first pocket is separate from the second pocket. 
     
     
       7. The accessory device of  claim 1 , further comprising:
 a first stitch; 
 a second stitch; and 
 an adhesive layer that secures the first section with the second section, wherein the first stitch, the second stitch, and the adhesive layer define the first pocket. 
 
     
     
       8. The accessory device of  claim 1 , further comprising a collar disposed between the second section and the third section, the collar configured to align the portable electronic device such that visual information from the portable electronic device is presented through the opening. 
     
     
       9. An accessory device for a portable electronic device, the accessory device comprising:
 a first section comprising an opening; 
 a second section covered by the first section, the first section and the second section defining a first pocket; and 
 a third section covered by the second section, the second section and the third section defining a second pocket configured to receive the portable electronic device, the second pocket separate from and the first pocket, the third section comprising:
 a magnet configured to magnetically couple with and align an inductive charging unit that charges the portable electronic device in response to the portable electronic device being disposed in the second pocket, and 
 a wireless communication circuit configured to send information to the portable electronic device, the information comprising a characteristic of the third section. 
 
 
     
     
       10. The accessory device of  claim 9 , wherein the third section comprises a structural layer, and the magnet is embedded in the structural layer. 
     
     
       11. The accessory device of  claim 10 , wherein the structural layer comprises:
 a first material that defines a first hardness; and 
 a second material that defines a second hardness that is less than the first hardness. 
 
     
     
       12. The accessory device of  claim 11 , wherein:
 the first material defines a first diagonal border, 
 the second material defines a second diagonal border, and 
 the first diagonal border engages the second diagonal border. 
 
     
     
       13. The accessory device of  claim 12 , wherein the first material comprises a first thickness, and the second material comprises a second thickness that is equal to the first thickness. 
     
     
       14. The accessory device of  claim 9 , wherein the third section comprises a protrusion configured to receive a camera of the portable electronic device. 
     
     
       15. An accessory device for a portable electronic device, the accessory device comprising:
 a first section comprising a first opening; 
 an adhesive layer; 
 a second section coupled with the first section by the adhesive layer, the first section, the second section, and the adhesive layer defining a first pocket; 
 a third section covered by the second section, the second section and the third section defining a second pocket covered by the first pocket and configured to receive the portable electronic device, the third section comprising:
 a capping layer, and 
 a structural layer coupled with the capping layer, wherein the third section maintains a planar section, based on the capping layer and the structural layer, when the portable electronic device is located in the second pocket, and 
 a second opening; and 
 
 a strap passing through the second opening. 
 
     
     
       16. The accessory device of  claim 15 , wherein the structural layer comprising:
 a first material that defines a first hardness; and 
 a second material that defines a second hardness that is less than the first hardness. 
 
     
     
       17. The accessory device of  claim 16 , wherein the second material surrounds the first material. 
     
     
       18. The accessory device of  claim 16 , wherein the first material is separated from the second material by a gap. 
     
     
       19. The accessory device of  claim 15 , further comprising a magnet embedded in the structural layer. 
     
     
       20. The accessory device of  claim 19 , wherein the magnet comprises a flexible magnet.

Description:
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS 
     The present application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Application No. 63/081,842, entitled “ACCESSORY DEVICE FOR ELECTRONIC DEVICES,” filed Sep. 22, 2020, the content of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety for all purposes. 
    
    
     FIELD 
     The following description relates to accessory devices. In particular, the following description relates to an accessory for carrying a portable electronic device as well as other personal items (e.g., credit cards). When the accessory device carries the electronic device, the accessory device can communicate with the electronic device, allowing the electronic device to adjust display features in accordance with features of the accessory device. The accessory device can also promote wireless charging of the electronic device, while hiding/obscuring the structural features (e.g., magnets, structural layers) used to enhance wireless charging efficiency. 
     BACKGROUND 
     Accessory devices can be used to hold/carry electronic devices. Accessory devices can come in a variety of colors and materials to suit user preferences. 
     SUMMARY 
     In one aspect, an accessory device for a portable electronic device is described. The accessory device may include a first section that includes an opening. The accessory device may further include a second section coupled with the first section. The first section and the second section may define a first pocket. The accessory device may further include a third section coupled with the second section. The second section and the third section may define a second pocket configured to receive the portable electronic device. The accessory device may further include a wireless communication circuit configured to send information to the portable electronic device when the portable electronic device is disposed in the second pocket. The information may correspond to the opening, such as a size, shape, and/or location of the opening in the first section. 
     In another aspect, an accessory device for a portable electronic device is described. The accessory device may include a first section that includes an opening. The accessory device may further include a second section covered by the first section. The first section and the second section may define a first pocket. The accessory device may further include a third section covered by the second section. The second section and the third section may define a second pocket configured to receive the portable electronic device. The second pocket can be separate from the first pocket. The third section may include a magnet configured to magnetically couple with and align an inductive charging unit that charges the portable electronic device when the portable electronic device is disposed in the second pocket. The third section may further include a wireless communication circuit configured to send information to the portable electronic device. The information may include a location of the opening. 
     In another aspect, an accessory device for a portable electronic device is described. The accessory device may include a first section that includes an opening. The accessory device may further include an adhesive layer. The accessory device may further include a second section coupled with the first section by the adhesive layer. The first section, the second section, and the adhesive layer may define a first pocket. The accessory device may further include a third section covered by the second section. The second section and the third section may define a second pocket configured to receive the portable electronic device. The third section may include a capping layer. The third section may further include a structural layer coupled with the capping layer. In some embodiments, the third section maintains a planar section, based on the capping layer and the structural layer, when the portable electronic device is located in the second pocket. 
     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 a front isometric view of an embodiment of an accessory device; 
         FIG.  2    illustrates a rear isometric view of the accessory device shown in  FIG.  1   , showing additional features of the accessory device; 
         FIG.  3    illustrates an exploded view of the accessory device, showing the sections of the accessory device as well as additional features of the accessory device; 
         FIG.  4    illustrates an exploded view of the section (i.e., top section) of the accessory device, showing several features of the section; 
         FIG.  5    illustrates an exploded view of the section (i.e., middle section) of the accessory device, showing several features of the section; 
         FIG.  6    illustrates an exploded view of the section (i.e., bottom section) of the accessory device, showing several features of the section; 
         FIG.  7    illustrates a plan view of the accessory device, showing a reinforcement feature surrounding the opening; 
         FIG.  8    illustrates a plan view of an electronic device suitable for use with accessory devices described herein; 
         FIG.  9    illustrates an alternate plan view of an electronic device shown in  FIG.  8   , showing additional features of the electronic device; 
         FIG.  10    illustrates a schematic view of the accessory device and the electronic device, in accordance with some described embodiments; 
         FIG.  11    illustrates a plan view of the electronic device positioned within the accessory device; 
         FIG.  12    illustrates a side view of the accessory device; 
         FIG.  13    illustrates a side view of the accessory device shown in  FIG.  12   , showing the accessory device carrying several objects; 
         FIG.  14    illustrates an isometric view of an alternate embodiment of a structural layer, showing the structural layer having multiple materials; 
         FIG.  15    illustrates a cross sectional view of the structural layer shown in  FIG.  14   , taken along line  15 - 15 , showing additional features of the structural layer; 
         FIG.  16    illustrates an isometric view of an alternate embodiment of a structural layer, showing the structural layer having multiple embedded materials; 
         FIG.  17    illustrates an isometric view of an alternate embodiment of a structural layer, showing the structural layer having several modular sections; and 
         FIG.  18    illustrates a side view of an alternate embodiment of an accessory device, showing the accessory device integrating the structural layer shown in  FIG.  17   . 
     
    
    
     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 following disclosure relates to accessory devices for use with portable electronic devices, including mobile wireless communication devices (e.g., smartphones, tablet computing devices). Accessory devices described herein include multiple pockets, or openings, one of which is designed to receive a portable electronic device, while another is designed to receive, for example, a user&#39;s personal items such as credit cards and cash. Accessory devices described herein may come in a variety of sizes, with pockets having sizes and shapes corresponding to those of the portable electronic device and the personal items. 
     Additionally, accessory devices described herein are designed to communicate information to the portable electronic device. In this regard, the accessory device includes wireless communication circuitry (e.g., near-field communication, or NFC, circuitry) that can communicate with similar circuitry in the portable electronic device. The communication may occur when the portable electronic device and the accessory device are in relatively close proximity to each other, including when the portable electronic device is positioned in the accessory device. In some exemplary embodiments, the wireless communication circuitry of the accessory device can provide information related to the accessory device. The information can be used by the portable electronic device to identify the accessory device and some of its features, such as a location of an opening (or openings) in a section of the accessory device. As a result, the portable electronic device can present, on a display, visual information on the display at a location corresponding to the opening such that the visual information is viewable through the opening. In addition, once the accessory device is known, the portable electronic device may also receive information related to the thickness and material makeup of the accessory device. In this manner, a portable electronic device having wireless (inductive) charging capabilities can more accurately and reliably determining charging characteristics, such as the time required to charge an internal battery of the portable electronic device, as the portable electronic device can account for the thickness and material makeup through which a magnetic field from an (external) inductive charging mechanism will pass to induce a current and charge the internal battery. 
     Traditional accessory devices are generally not modified to enable, or at least promote, efficient wireless charging when a portable electronic device is positioned therein. However, accessory devices described herein may include a structural layer, or stiffening layer, that includes one or more relatively rigid layers designed to promote a flat, or planar, back section of the accessory device. As a result, a portable electronic device disposed in the accessory device can be more efficiently charged by an external wireless charging mechanism through the back section of the accessory device, as opposed to an accessory device with that back section that is bowed or otherwise curved (i.e., not flat) due to the insertion of the portable electronic device. In order to further promote/enable wireless charging, the back section of the accessory device may include a magnet designed to magnetically couple with the external wireless charging mechanism. The magnet not only provides an alignment between an inductive transmitting coil of the external wireless charging mechanism and an inductive transmitting coil of the portable electronic device, but also maintains the external wireless charging mechanism against the back section of the accessory device, thereby increasing the charging efficiency. Moreover, in order to hide or obscure the magnet, the magnet may be embedded in the structural layer. As a result, at least some of the features and complexities are not viewable by the user of the accessory device, which can enhance the overall aesthetic appearance of the accessory device. 
     These and other embodiments are discussed below with reference to  FIGS.  1 - 18   . 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 a front isometric view of an embodiment of an accessory device  100 . Accessory device  100  is designed to carry and support portable electronic devices, including smartphones and tablet computing devices, as non-limiting examples. Additionally, accessory device  100  is designed to carry/hold a user&#39;s personal items, such as credit cards, hotel cards, cash, etc., as non-limiting examples. In this regard, accessory device  100  may include multiple sections coupled together. For example, as shown in the enlarged view, accessory device  100  includes a section  102   a , a section  102   b , and a section  102   c . Sections  102   a ,  102   b , and  102   c  may be referred to as a first section, a second section, and a third section, respectively. Additionally, sections  102   a  and  102   c  may be referred to as a front (or top) section and back (or rear or bottom) section, respectively, while section  102   b  may be referred to as a middle section. Sections  102   a ,  102   b , and  102   c  define pockets (or sleeves or cavities) for a user&#39;s personal items. For example, sections  102   a  and  102   b  define a pocket  104   a  for a user&#39;s credit cards, cash, etc., while sections  102   b  and  102   c  define a pocket  104   b  for a portable electronic device. Pockets  104   a  and  104   b  are shown as dotted lines, and will be further shown and described below. The defined areas for pockets  104   a  and  104   b  may be at least partially obscured. However, as shown, pocket  104   a  may be defined in part by stitching  106   a  and stitching  106   b , which may couple sections  102   a  and  102   b  together, and pocket  104   b  may be defined in part by stitching  106   c , which may couple sections  102   a  and  102   c  together. Several adhesive layers (not shown in  FIG.  1   ) may also define the size and shape of pockets  104   a  and  104   b.    
     Although a portable electronic device (not shown in  FIG.  1   ) may be substantially covered by accessory device  100  when the portable electronic device is inserted into pocket  104   b , accessory device  100  is nonetheless designed to promote user interaction with the portable electronic device. For example, section  102   a  may include an opening  108   a  and an opening  108   b . In some embodiments, opening  108   a  renders a region of a display of the portable electronic device at least partially visible, and as a result, the display can present visual information viewable through opening  108   a . This will be shown and described in further detail below. In some embodiments, opening  108   b  renders input and output mechanisms (e.g., camera(s), sensor(s), and/or audio speaker(s)) of the portable electronic device unobscured/unobstructed, and as a result, the portable electronic device can use the input and output mechanisms based on the opening  108   b  while being positioned in accessory device  100 . 
     Also, a strap  110  may extend from accessory device  100 . Strap  110  is sized and shaped to fit around a user&#39;s appendage (e.g., wrist or forearm) thus providing another means for carrying accessory device  100  by the user. In some embodiments, strap  110  is permanently coupled with accessory device  100 . In the embodiment shown in  FIG.  1   , strap  110  passes through an opening  111  in section  102   c , and can be removed from accessory device  100  by interacting with a button  112 . Although not shown, section  102   a  may further include cosmetic enhancements, such as paint or ink (as non-limiting examples), located around openings  108   a  and  108   b , as well as other locations. These cosmetic enhancements may also be applied to a perimeter of sections  102   b  and  102   c.    
       FIG.  2    illustrates a rear isometric view of accessory device  100  shown in  FIG.  1   , showing additional features of accessory device  100 . As shown, section  102   c  may include a protrusion  114  (or recess when viewed, for example, in  FIG.  1   ) that extends from a surface of section  102   c . Protrusion  114  is designed to accommodate a camera assembly of the portable electronic device. In this manner, section  102   c  may remain flat or planar (or at least substantially flat or planar) when accessory device  100  receives the portable electronic device. Additional features in section  102   c  may also promote a flat/planar surface of section  102   c , thereby maintaining the section  102   c  as a planar section. This will be discussed below. 
     Section  102   c  may further include a magnet  116 . In some embodiments, magnet  116  can magnetically couple with an external accessory suitable for use with the portable electronic device (when the portable electronic device is disposed in accessory device  100 ). For example, magnet  116  can be designed to magnetically couple with a wireless (inductive) charging mechanism that can inductively charge a battery of the portable electronic device, even when the portable electronic device is disposed in accessory device  100 . Moreover, magnet  116  is positioned in section  102   c  in a location corresponding to that of the wireless (inductive) receiving coil of the portable electronic device (when the portable electronic device is disposed in accessory device  100 ). As shown, magnet  116  includes a circular magnet. However, other shapes are possible. 
     Also, in some embodiments, magnet  116  is a flexible magnet formed from a relatively thin magnetic element, or a combination of several (modular) magnetic elements. 
       FIG.  3    illustrates an exploded view of accessory device  100 , showing sections  102   a ,  102   b , and  102   c , as well as additional features of accessory device  100 . When accessory device  100  is assembled, section  102   a  is stacked over section  102   b , and section  102   b  is stacked over section  102   c . In addition to stitching (shown in  FIG.  1   ), sections  102   a ,  102   b , and  102   c  are held together by additional materials. For example, accessory device  100  includes an adhesive layer  118   a  that adhesively secures regions of sections  102   a  and  102   b  together. Adhesive layer  118   a  may include openings (not fully shown) that include a size, shape, and corresponding location as those of openings  108   a  and  108   b  such that adhesive layer  118   a  does not obstruct openings  108   a  and  108   b . Moreover, adhesive layer  118   a  may define in part pocket  104   a  (shown in  FIG.  1   ). Additionally, accessory device  100  includes an adhesive layer  118   b  that adhesively secures regions of sections  102   a  and  102   c  together. 
     While sections  102   b  and  102   c  define a pocket (not shown in  FIG.  3   ) for a portable electronic device, accessory device  100  may include additional structural elements designed to align the portable electronic device. For example, accessory device  100  may include a collar  120 , or alignment structure, designed to align the portable electronic device. Collar  120  defines a three-dimensional structure designed to wrap around and engage multiple sides of the portable electronic device. In this regard, collar  120  is designed to align the portable electronic device such that the aforementioned visual information presented on the display of the portable electronic device is consistently aligned with opening  108   a  in section  102   a , and also the input and output mechanisms of the portable electronic device are consistently aligned with opening  108   b  in section  102   a . Collar  120  may include a polymer material (as a non-limiting example). Generally, collar  120  may include any material that is durable enough to resist some compression forces provided by the portable electronic device, while also not damaging the portable electronic device. 
     In order to secure collar  120 , accessory device  100  may include an adhesive layer  118   c  designed to adhesively secure collar  120  with section  102   b . Accessory device  100  may further include an adhesive layer  118   d  designed to adhesively secure collar  120  with a structural layer  122 . Structural layer  122  may include a woven fabric, such as taffeta (as a non-limiting example). 
       FIG.  4    illustrates an exploded view of section  102   a  of accessory device  100 , showing several features of section  102   a . As shown, section  102   a  includes a layer  124   a , a layer  124   b , and a layer  124   c . Layers  124   a ,  124   b , and  124   c  generally define the exterior of section  102   a . Layers  124   a ,  124   b ,  124   c  may include aesthetic materials, such as leather, synthetic leather, or microfiber (as non-limiting layers). In some embodiments, layers  124   a  and  124   c  include leather and layer  124   b  includes microfiber. 
     Section  102   a  may also include relatively rigid layers, as compared to layers  124   a ,  124   c , and  124   c . For example, section  102   a  may include a structural layer  126 , or filler, designed to provide structural support. Structural layer  126  may include a flexible but durable material, such as thermoplastic polyurethane (“TPU”), as a non-limiting example. Further, section  102   a  may include a shunt  128  formed from a metal or other material designed to absorb a magnetic field generated from, for example, a magnet external to accessory device  100  (shown in  FIG.  1   ). As a result, shunt  128  can protect personal items, such as credit cards and hotel cards, from damage. As shown, structural layer  126  includes a cut out (not labeled) with a size and shape corresponding to that of shunt  128 . In this manner, structural layer  126  and shunt  128  may be co-planar when assembled. In order to secure structural layer  126  and shunt  128 , section  102   a  includes an adhesive layer  130   a  to secure structural layer  126  and shunt  128  to layer  124   a , and an adhesive layer  130   b  to secure structural layer  126  and shunt  128  to layers  124   b  and  124   c . It should be noted that several layers include openings, and thus define, in part, openings  108   a  and  108   b  (shown in  FIG.  1   ). 
       FIG.  5    illustrates an exploded view of section  102   b  of accessory device  100 , showing several features of section  102   b . As shown, section  102   b  includes a layer  132   a , a layer  132   b , a layer  132   c , and a layer  132   d . Layers  132   a ,  132   b ,  132   c , and  132   d  generally define the exterior of section  102   b . Layers  132   a ,  132   b ,  132   c , and  132   d  may include aesthetic materials, such as leather, synthetic leather, or microfiber (as non-limiting layers). In some embodiments, layers  132   a  and  132   c  include microfiber, and layers  132   b  and  132   d  include leather. 
     Section  102   b  may also include relatively rigid layers, as compared to layers  132   a ,  132   b ,  132   c  and  132   d . For example, section  102   b  may include a structural layer  134 , or filler, designed to provide structural support. Structural layer  134  may include a flexible but durable material, such as TPU, as a non-limiting example. Further, section  102   b  may include a shunt  136  formed from a metal or other material designed to absorb a magnetic field from, for example, a portable electronic device or magnet  116  (shown in  FIG.  2   ). As a result, shunt  136  can protect personal items, such as credit cards and hotel cards, from damage. As shown, structural layer  134  includes a cut out (not labeled) with a size and shape corresponding to a region of shunt  136 . In this manner, structural layer  134  and shunt  136  may be co-planar when assembled. In order to secure structural layer  134  and shunt  136 , section  102   b  includes an adhesive layer  130   c  to secure structural layer  134  and shunt  136  to layers  132   a  and  132   b , and an adhesive layer  130   d  to secure structural layer  134  and shunt  136  to layers  132   c  and  132   d . It should be noted that several layers include openings, and thus define, in part, openings  108   a  and  108   b  (shown in  FIG.  1   ). 
       FIG.  6    illustrates an exploded view of section  102   c  of accessory device  100 , showing several features of section  102   c . As shown, section  102   b  includes a layer  138   a , a layer  138   b , a layer  138   c , and a layer  138   d . Layers  138   a ,  138   b ,  138   c , and  138   d  generally define the exterior of section  102   c . Layers  138   a ,  138   b ,  138   c , and  138   d  may include aesthetic materials, such as leather, synthetic leather, or microfiber (as non-limiting layers). In some embodiments, layers  138   a  and  138   c  include microfiber, and layers  138   b  and  138   d  include leather. 
     Section  102   c  may also include relatively rigid layers, as compared to layers  138   a ,  138   b ,  138   c  and  138   d . For example, section  102   c  may include a structural layer  140  (also referred to as a stiffening layer or a filler) designed to provide structural support. Structural layer  140  may include a flexible but durable material, such as TPU, as a non-limiting example. Further, structural layer  140  may include several variations, which will be shown and described below. Moreover, structural layer  140  may represent an assembly of two or more layers. As shown, structural layer  140  may include several openings, such as an opening  142   a . Opening  142   a  is designed to receive magnet  116  as well as a wireless communication circuit  144 . Structural layer  140  may include a thickness equal to or greater than that of the combination of magnet  116 , and may include a thickness equal to or greater than that of wireless communication circuit  144 . 
     In additional to magnetically coupling with, and aligning, an external inductive charging mechanism, magnet  116  can be used as a triggering magnet that initiates an information transfer, or read, event of wireless communication circuit  144  by the portable electronic device. In this regard, magnet  116  can generate a unique magnetic field vector that can be detected by a portable electronic device (not shown in  FIG.  6   ). Moreover, the unique magnetic field vector can be distinguished, by the portable electronic device, from other magnets. As a result, accessory device  100 , which carries magnet  116 , can be uniquely identified by a portable electronic device. As an optional alternative, structural layer  140  may include an opening  142   b  that receives a magnet  145  used as a triggering magnet. 
     Wireless communication circuit  144  may include a near-field communication (“NFC”) circuit, as a non-limiting exemplary circuit. Wireless communication circuit  144  is designed to transmit information to the portable electronic device. For example, wireless communication circuit  144  may transmit information related to accessory device  100 , such as a serial number or a code used by the electronic device to identify accessory device  100  and subsequently obtain information related to accessory device  100 , such as the size, shape, and/or location of openings  108   a  and  108   b  (shown in  FIG.  1   ). In this manner, when the portable electronic device is positioned in accessory device  100 , the portable electronic device can present visual information on the display in a location corresponding the location of opening  108   a . Furthermore, due in part to the portable electronic device having information related to the size, shape and location of opening  108   a , the portable electronic device can present visual information on the display that is within a perimeter defined by opening  108   a . Also, the portable electronic device, having information related to the size, shape, and location of opening  108   b , can determine which input and output mechanisms (e.g., camera(s), sensor(s), and/or audio speaker(s)) can be used while the portable electronic device is positioned in accessory device  100 . In other words, the portable electronic device can determine whether any input and output mechanisms are covered by accessory device  100 . 
     Section  102   c  may further include a capping layer  146 , or cap, designed to provide additional support and rigidity to structural layer  140 . Further, section  102   c  may include a reinforcement layer  148  designed to provide additional support to protrusion  114  (shown in  FIG.  2   ). Further, in order to secure structural layer  140  (and features positioned with openings  142   a  and  142   b  of structural layer  140 ), section  102   b  includes an adhesive layer  130   e  to secure structural layer  140  to layers  138   a  and  138   b . Also, an adhesive layer  130   f  can secure structural layer  140  to capping layer  146 . Further, an adhesive layer  130   g  can secure capping layer  146  to layers  138   c  and  138   d , as well as to reinforcement layer  148 . It should be noted that several layers include openings and protruding features, and thus define opening  111  (shown in  FIG.  1   ) and protrusion  114  (shown in  FIG.  2   ), respectively. 
       FIG.  7    illustrates a plan view of accessory device  100 , showing a reinforcement feature  150  surrounding opening  111 . As shown in the enlarged view, reinforcement feature  150  is embedded in section  102   c  and is positioned around a perimeter of opening  111 . Reinforcement feature  150  is designed to protect section  102   c  against breaking or ripping at, or near, opening  111  when a force is applied to opening  111 . For example, when strap  110  is secured with accessory device  100  using opening  111 , a user may pull on strap  110 , thereby causing a force to opening  111  capable of tearing section  102   c . However, reinforcement feature  150  can protect the integrity of opening  111  against such a force. 
     In some embodiments, reinforcement feature  150  includes a strand of material wrapped/looped several times around opening  111 . Further, in some embodiments, reinforcement feature  150  is integrated with section  102   c . For example, reinforcement feature  150  may be integrated with structural layer  140  (shown in  FIG.  6   ) by a lamination process. Also, in some embodiments, reinforcement feature  150  is formed from a synthetic fiber spun from liquid-crystal polymer. Other materials are possible. For instance, in some embodiments, reinforcement feature  150  is formed from a metal ring. 
     Accessory device  100 , and other accessory devices described herein, are designed for use with portable electronic devices.  FIGS.  8  and  9    show and describe an electronic device  160  with which accessory device  100  can be used. 
       FIG.  8    illustrates a plan view of electronic device  160  suitable for use with accessory devices described herein. Electronic device  160  may include a smartphone or a tablet computing device, as non-limiting examples. As shown, electronic device  160  includes a housing  162 , or enclosure, and a display  164  coupled with housing  162 . Display  164 , which may include a display commonly known in the art for mobile device displays, is designed to present visual information  166 . As shown, visual information  166  includes date and time information. However, visual information  166  may include a variety of other textual information, as well as still images and/or motion (video) images. 
     Additionally, electronic device  160  may include a camera  168  designed to capture images that are external to electronic device  160 . Electronic device  160  may further include a light sensor  170  designed to detect and determine light intensity, and provide light intensity to processing circuitry (not shown in  FIG.  8   ) of electronic device  160 , which can be used to, for example, determine whether display  164  is covered and subsequently whether to deactivate display  164 . Also, electronic device  160  may include an audio speaker  172  designed to emit acoustical energy in the form of audible sound. Camera  168 , light sensor  170 , and audio speaker  172  are exemplary input and output mechanisms of electronic device, and the number (and order/position) of these mechanisms may vary in other embodiments. 
       FIG.  9    illustrates an alternate plan view of electronic device  160  shown in  FIG.  8   , showing additional features of electronic device  160 . The back/rear side of electronic device  160  is shown. At this location, electronic device  160  may include a protruding feature  174  in which several features are located. For instance, at protruding feature  174 , electronic device  160  may include a camera  176   a  and camera  176   b . Although cameras  176   a  and  176   b  are shown, the number of cameras may vary. Additionally, electronic device  160  may include light source  178 , which may include a flash light source, that provides additional light during an image capturing event by camera  176   a  or camera  176   b.    
       FIG.  10    illustrates a schematic view of accessory device  100  and electronic device  160 , in accordance with some described embodiments. Accessory device  100 , as well as other accessory devices described herein, includes features designed to communicate and provide information to electronic device  160 . For example, accessory device  100  includes wireless communication circuit  144  that can transmit information to electronic device  160 . The information transmitted by wireless communication circuit  144  may include, for example, a serial number or model number that defines a unique identifier of accessory device  100 . As a result, electronic device  160  can determine the size, shape, and location of the openings (e.g., openings  108   a  and  108   b , shown in  FIG.  1   ) of accessory device  100 , as well as the thickness and material makeup of section  102   c  (shown in  FIG.  1   ) of accessory device  100 . Alternatively, the information transmitted by wireless communication circuit  144  may include the information related to the size, shape, and location of the openings (e.g., openings  108   a  and  108   b ) of accessory device  100 , as well as the thickness and material makeup of section  102   c  of accessory device  100 . In other words, the identifier information may not be required when the characteristics of accessory device  100  are directly transmitted. 
     The information transmitted by wireless communication circuit  144  can be received by wireless communication circuit  184  located in electronic device  160 . In some embodiments, wireless communication circuit  144  and wireless communication circuit  184  each include NFC circuitry, which includes memory and an antenna for transmission/receiving capabilities of information stored on the memory. In some embodiments (not shown in  FIG.  10   ), accessory device  100  includes a memory circuit that stores the aforementioned information, and is accessible by wireless communication circuit  144 . Wireless communication circuit  144  and wireless communication circuit  184  may each represent other forms of communication circuitry, such as BLUETOOTH® circuitry. 
     When accessory device  100  and electronic device  160  are within sufficient proximity to each other (e.g., when electronic device  160  is positioned/disposed within accessory device  100 ), wireless communication circuit  144  and wireless communication circuit  184  can exchange information through an authentication protocol, or “handshake,” to determine whether accessory device  100  can transmit information to electronic device  160 . Subsequent confirming authentication, wireless communication circuit  144  can transmit the aforementioned information related to accessory device  100 . Wireless communication circuit  184  can provide the information to processing circuitry  186  (representing at central processing unit, or CPU, and graphics processing unit, or GPU) of electronic device  160 . 
     Processing circuitry  186  can access memory  188  of electronic device  160  and find the identification information on a look-up table, for example, associated with various accessory devices. Once the identification is matched with accessory device  100 , processing circuitry  186  can subsequently receive characteristics and features (stored on memory  188 ) of accessory device  100 . Alternatively, processing circuitry  186  can send the identification information to a remote location, such as a server (including a cloud-based storage network) to retrieve information related to accessory device  100 . Also, in some embodiments, wireless communication circuit  184  of electronic device  160  receives, directly from wireless communication circuit  144 , information related to the size, shape, and location of the openings (e.g., openings  108   a  and  108   b , shown in  FIG.  1   ), and the thickness and material makeup of section  102   c  (shown in  FIG.  1   ) of accessory device  100 , and accordingly. 
     When processing circuitry  186  determines the characteristics and features of accessory device  100 , electronic device  160  can operate in a manner consistent with the characteristics and features of accessory device  100 . For example, processing circuitry  186  can receive information related to opening  108   a  (shown in  FIG.  1   ), including the size, shape, and location of opening  108   a . As a result, processing circuitry  186  can instruct display  164  to present visual information  166  in a location corresponding to opening  108   a , as the remaining region of display  164  may be covered by accessory device  100 . Moreover, the instructions provided by processing circuitry  186  can prompt display  164  to change the size of visual information  166  (e.g., smaller font size) to ensure visual information  166  is fully viewable through opening  108   a  and not obstructed by accessory device  100 . This will be exemplified below. 
     Electronic device  160  can modify additional operations when electronic device  160  determines/identifies accessory device  100 , including characteristics and features of accessory device  100 . For example, once accessory device  100  is identified by electronic device  160 , electronic device  160  receives information that accessory device  100  includes magnet  116 . Moreover, electronic device  160  receives information related to thickness and material(s) that define section  102   c  (shown in  FIG.  2   ) of accessory device  100 . In this manner, during a wireless (inductive) charging event, processing circuitry  186  can more reliably and accurately estimate the charging time for an inductive charging module  192  (that includes an inductive receiving coil) of electronic device  160  to complete a charge of a battery  190  of electronic device  160 . As a result, the user does not need to remove electronic device  160  from accessory device  100  to perform a wireless charge of battery  190 , and can receive, from electronic device  160 , reliable estimated time to charge battery  190 . 
     Additionally, electronic device  160  can also determine/identify opening  108   b  (shown in  FIG.  1   ), including the size, shape, and location of opening  108   b . As a result, processing circuitry  186  can determine whether camera  168 , light sensor  170 , and/or audio speaker  172  are uncovered/unobstructed by accessory device  100 , based characteristics of opening  108   b , and subsequently maintain camera  168 , light sensor  170 , and/or audio speaker  172  in an active/operational mode (when uncovered by accessory device  100 ) or in an inactive mode (when covered by accessory device  100 ). Accordingly, the transmission of information by accessory device  100  to electronic device  160  allows for considerable functionality of electronic device  160  even when electronic device  160  is positioned/disposed in accessory device  100 . 
       FIG.  11    illustrates a plan view of electronic device  160  positioned within accessory device  100 . In this exemplary illustration, it should be noted that electronic device  160  and accessory device  100  have completed authentication and transmitted/received information through their respective wireless communication circuitry, shown and described in  FIG.  10   . In this regard, electronic device  160  can operate in accordance with information related to accessory device  100 . For example, visual information  166  presented on display  164  can be adjusted, i.e., relocated (i.e., presented via different pixels of display  164 ) from an original position on display  164 , shown in  FIG.  8    (represented by a box  155  in  FIG.  11   ), to a location corresponding to opening  108   a  of accessory device  100 . Moreover, if needed, visual information  166  can further adjusted to fit within a perimeter defined by opening  108   a . For example, when visual information  166  includes textual information, the font size of the textual information can be reduced such that visual information  166  is fully within the perimeter of opening  108   a . Additionally, electronic device  160  can maintain camera  168 , light sensor  170 , and audio speaker  172  in an active/operational mode, as these devices are rendered uncovered by accessory device  100  based on opening  108   b.    
     While electronic device  160  obtains information related to openings  108   a  and  108   b , electronic device  160  should be positioned/disposed in accessory device  100  in a consistent manner to ensure, for example, visual information  166  is consistently within the perimeter of opening  108   a . In this regard, accessory device  100  can rely upon additional structural components to ensure alignment consistency. For example, accessory device  100  includes collar  120  (also shown in  FIG.  3   ) that wraps around multiple sides of electronic device  160 . When electronic device  160  is inserted into accessory device  100  and engaged with collar  120  (or at least aligned within accessory device  100  based on collar  120 ), electronic device  160  can consistently and reliably present visual information  166  within the perimeter of opening  108   a , while camera  168 , light sensor  170 , and audio speaker  172  are also positioned consistently and reliably within the perimeter of opening  108   b.    
       FIG.  12    illustrates a side view of accessory device  100 . As shown, accessory device  100  is oriented upside down. Sections  102   a  and  102   b  combine to define pocket  104   a , while sections  102   b  and  102   c  combine to define pocket  104   b . Also, structural layer  140  is shown embedded in section  102   c , with magnet  116  (shown as a cross section) embedded in structural layer  140 . 
     Accessory device  100  is designed to receive multiple items. For example,  FIG.  13    illustrates a side view of accessory device  100  shown in  FIG.  12   , showing accessory device  100  carrying several objects. For example, accessory device  100  can carry an object  157  (representing one or more items, such as credit cards, hotel cards, cash, etc.) in pocket  104   a , as well as electronic device  160  in pocket  104   b . Also, in order to receive object  157 , sections  102   a  and  102   b  can be moved apart to increase the volume defined by pocket  104   a , and sections  102   b  and  102   c  can be moved apart to increase the volume defined by pocket  104   b . Regarding the latter, when section  102   c  is stretched, expanded, or otherwise displaced by the insertion of electronic device  160  into pocket  104   b , structural layer  140  is designed to maintain section  102   c  in a flat/planar manner. For example, as shown, section  102   c  is flat, having an inner and outer surfaces that are generally parallel with respect to a back surface of electronic device  160 , with the “back surface” referring to a surface opposite display  164  of electronic device  160 . Also, the inner surface of section  102   c  can engage the back surface of electronic device  160 . Moreover, both structural layer  140  and capping layer  146  (shown in  FIG.  6   ) can be parallel with respect to section  102   b  when electronic device  160  is positioned in pocket  104   b.    
     By maintaining section  102   c  in a flat/planar configuration, the likelihood of gaps or spaces between section  102   c  and electronic device  160  is significantly decreased. For example, as shown in  FIG.  13   , the back surface of electronic device  160  engages an inner surface section  102   c  such that virtually no space or gap exists between electronic device  160  and section  102   c . As a result, when an inductive charging mechanism  159  (used to charge battery  190  of electronic device  160 ) is placed on section  102   c , inductive charging mechanism  159  is separated from electronic device  160  only by a dimension  345 , related to a thickness of section  102   c , and the charging efficiency increases as relatively little or no air gaps exist between inductive charging mechanism  159  and electronic device  160 . Also, the desired flat/planar configuration of section  102   c  is further supported by protrusion  114  that extends from section  102   c , as protrusion  114  can receive protruding feature  174  (shown in  FIG.  9   ) of electronic device  160 . 
     To further increase charging efficiency, magnet  116  is embedded in structural layer  140  in a location corresponding to the location of inductive charging module  192  of electronic device  160 . In this manner, an inductive transmitting coil of inductive charging mechanism  159  is positioned directly over, or aligned along the Z-axis (of Cartesian coordinates), with respect to an inductive receiving coil of inductive charging module  192 . As a result, the induced magnetic field provided by inductive charging mechanism  159  is received by inductive charging module  192  as directly as possible while electronic device  160  is positioned in accessory device  100 . 
       FIGS.  14 - 17    show and describe additional modifications and/or alternate features of a structural layer can be embedded in section  102   c  of accessory device  100 . In other words, the structural layers shown and described in  FIGS.  14 - 17    can substitute or modify structural layer  140  and capping layer  146  (both shown in  FIG.  6   ), while also providing similar or enhanced benefits to accessory device  100 . 
       FIG.  14    illustrates an isometric view of an alternate embodiment of a structural layer  340 , showing structural layer  340  having multiple materials. As shown, structural layer  340  includes a material  342   a  and a material  342   b  that surrounds material  342   a . Material  342   a  may include a relatively rigid material, as compared to the rigidity of material  342   b . In other words, material  342   a  may include a hardness that is greater than the hardness of material  342   b . For example, in some embodiments, material  342   a  includes a polycarbonate (“PC”) or PC-TPU combination, and material  342   b  includes TPU, including a relatively soft TPU. As a result, material  342   a  can provide sufficient rigidity, thereby maintain section  102   c  (shown in  FIG.  3   ) in a flat/planar configuration when electronic device  160  is positioned in accessory device  100  (as shown in  FIG.  13   ), while material  342   b , representing the sides or perimeter of structural layer  340 , can flex or bend to some degree and still maintain some integrity of section  102   c  along the perimeter of section  102   c . Also, material  342   b  can include a protruding feature  314  that defines in part protrusion  114  (shown in  FIG.  2   ). 
       FIG.  15    illustrates a cross sectional view of the structural layer  340  shown in  FIG.  14   , taken along line  15 - 15 , showing additional features of structural layer  340 . As material  342   a  transitions to material  342   b  (or vice versa), structural layer  340  maintains a dimension  345 , or thickness, that is consistent, despite the diagonal border defined by each of materials  342   a  and  342   b . In some embodiments, dimension  345  is approximately in the range of 0.3 to 0.5 millimeters (“mm”). However, as material  342   b  extends toward an edge (and away from material  342   a ), material  342   b  decreases, based on a tapered edge  343 , to a point that may be approximately in the range of 0.05 to 0.15 mm. Tapered edge  343  of material  342   b  may increase the overall flexibility of structural layer  340  (at a location corresponding to material  342   b ). 
       FIG.  16    illustrates an isometric view of an alternate embodiment of a structural layer  440 , showing structural layer  440  having multiple embedded materials. As shown, structural layer  440  includes a material  442  that generally defines a base layer of structural layer  440 . Material  442  may include a synthetic rubber, such as nitrile rubber (“NBR”), as a non-limiting example. In some embodiments, material  442  is formed from a moldable material. In this manner, one or more materials can be molded into material  442  by a molding operation, including compression molding. For example, structural layer  440  may include a magnet  416 , a wireless communication circuit  444 , and a reinforcement feature  450  molded to material  442 . As a result, structural layer  440  may form a sub-assembly that reduces manufacturing times of an accessory device (not shown in  FIG.  15   ) that integrates structural layer  440 , as magnet  416  and reinforcement feature  450  are already assembled in structural layer  440 . Also, in some embodiments, reinforcement feature  450  is a metal ring that surrounds an opening  411  of structural layer  440 , and provides support against tearing/ripping of structural layer  440  along opening  411 . Also, material  442  can include a protruding feature  414  that defines in part protrusion  114  (shown in  FIG.  2   ). 
       FIG.  17    illustrates an isometric view of an alternate embodiment of a structural layer  540 , showing the structural layer  540  having several modular sections. As shown, structural layer  540  includes an assembly  544  and a border  546  surrounding assembly  544 . As shown in the enlarged view, assembly  544  may include multiple layers. For example, assembly  544  may include a central layer  548  formed from a relative rigid material, such as PC. Assembly  544  may further include a capping layer  550   a  and a capping layer  550   b  surrounding central layer  548 . Border  546  may include a less rigid layer, such as TPU (as a non-limiting example). Accordingly, assembly  544  may include a hardness that is greater than the hardness of border  546 . Also, structural layer  540  can include a protruding feature  514  that defines in part protrusion  114  (shown in  FIG.  2   ). Also, although not shown, assembly  544  may include a magnet similar to prior embodiments. 
       FIG.  18    illustrates a side view of an alternate embodiment of an accessory device  500 , showing accessory device  500  integrating structural layer  540  shown in  FIG.  17   . Accessory device  500  may include several features shown and described for accessory device  100  (shown in  FIG.  1   ). In this regard, accessory device  500  may include a section  502   a , a section  502   b , and a section  502   c , with sections  502   a ,  502   b , and  502   c  defining pockets (not labeled) of accessory device  500 . Sections  502   a  and  502   c  may define a front section and a back section, respectively, of accessory device  500 . As shown in the enlarged view, a partial cross sectional view of section  502   c  reveals several elements of structural layer  540  integrated with section  502   c . As shown, assembly  544  (including central layer  548  and capping layers  550   a  and  550   b ) is integrated with section  502   c . Further, border  546  is also integrated with section  502   c  and separated from assembly  544  by a gap  554 . As a result, gap  554  further promotes relative movement between assembly  544  and border  546 . 
     The various aspects, embodiments, implementations or features of the described embodiments can be used separately or in any combination. Various aspects of the described embodiments can be implemented by software, hardware or a combination of hardware and software. The described embodiments can also be embodied as computer readable code on a computer readable medium for controlling manufacturing operations or as computer readable code on a computer readable medium for controlling a manufacturing line. The computer readable medium is any data storage device that can store data which can thereafter be read by a computer system. Examples of the computer readable medium include read-only memory, random-access memory, CD-ROMs, HDDs, DVDs, magnetic tape, and optical data storage devices. The computer readable medium can also be distributed over network-coupled computer systems so that the computer readable code is stored and executed in a distributed fashion. 
     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. 
     It is well understood that the use of personally identifiable information should follow privacy policies and practices that are generally recognized as meeting or exceeding industry or governmental requirements for maintaining the privacy of users. In particular, personally identifiable information data should be managed and handled so as to minimize risks of unintentional or unauthorized access or use, and the nature of authorized use should be clearly indicated to users.

Metadata:
Filing Date: 20210112
Publication Date: 20240416
Grant Date: 20240416
Priority Date: 20200922
Inventors: CLOYD, BRYAN A.
Benavente-Notaro, Linda D.
ZHANG, CHENGRUI
RUSIGNUOLO, SARA
Assignee: APPLE INC
CPC Classifications: [{"code": "A45F5/1525", "inventive": false, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "A45F5/1516", "inventive": false, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "H02J50/10", "inventive": true, "first": true, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "A45C11/182", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "A45C13/30", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "A45C2013/306", "inventive": false, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "A45F2200/0516", "inventive": false, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "A45F2200/0525", "inventive": false, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "A45C11/182", "inventive": true, "first": true, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "H02J50/10", "inventive": true, "first": true, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "A45C15/00", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "A45F2005/008", "inventive": false, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "H02J50/10", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "H02J7/00034", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "A45C13/30", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "A45C2013/306", "inventive": false, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "A45C11/182", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}]
Family ID: 80740967