WO2015022675A1

WO2015022675A1 - Mobile device cover and feature module

Info

Publication number: WO2015022675A1
Application number: PCT/IB2014/063937
Authority: WO
Inventors: Anton Wayne BERGSTROM
Original assignee: Bergstrom Anton Wayne
Priority date: 2013-08-15
Filing date: 2014-08-15
Publication date: 2015-02-19

Abstract

A cradle (1001) and feature modules (1101) for a mobile device (1201) is provided. The cradle (1001) provides protection to the mobile device and is configured to removably receive to the mobile device (1201) therein. The cradle (1001) defines attachment formations configured to cooperate with complementary attachment formations on interchangeable feature modules. Feature modules (1101) may be releasably attached to the cradle (1001) such that the feature module is attached adjacent a major surface of the mobile device (1201). A number of feature modules, each providing different functions or features may be selectively attached to a single protective cradle (1001).

Description

MOBILE DEVICE COVER AND FEATURE MODULE

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS This application claims priority to South African provisional patent application number 2013/06160, which is incorporated by reference herein.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION This invention relates to protective, functional and/or decorative covers for mobile devices.

BACKGROUND TO THE INVENTION Users of mobile devices often affix a cover of some sort to their mobile devices. These covers are used to protect the mobile device against accidental impact, falls, water or other liquid damage, scratches and the like. Some covers are also used to improve the aesthetic quality of a user's mobile device. Covers for mobile devices are, however, often limited in their usefulness. Applicant is aware of mobile device covers that include pockets or other compartments that may be used to store credit cards, cash, notes or the like, but the uses of these compartments are generally limited. The compartments are also generally permanent features or fixtures of the cover, which implies that they are present even when they are not being used. This may make the devices to which these covers are attached unnecessarily bulky and unwieldy.

In the remainder of the specification, the term "mobile device" should be widely construed to include mobile phones, tablet PCs, personal digital assistants, mobile Global Positioning Systems (GPS), and the like. SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

In accordance with the invention there is provided a cradle shaped and dimensioned to removably secure a mobile device therein, the cradle defining attachment formations configured to cooperate with complementary attachment formations on interchangeable feature modules, and to releasably secure at least one feature module adjacent a major surface of the mobile device so that the mobile device and feature module may be handled as a unit. Further features provide for the cradle to be manufactured from a material capable of protecting the mobile device against impact, liquid or other damage; for the attachment formations to be magnetic attachment formations or clip-on attachment formations spaced apart on or near a periphery of the cradle; and for at least some dimensions of the feature modules to substantially correspond to dimensions of the mobile device and the cradle.

A still further feature provides for the cradle and/or the feature module to include at least one access opening which operatively provides access to a functional component of the mobile device, the functional component any one or more of: buttons, ports, sensors, connection points, camera lenses, flashes, speakers, notification lights and the like.

Yet further features provide for the feature module to be a container; for the container to be configured to store specific articles; and for the specific articles to be any one or more selected from the list of: cigarettes, cigarette lighters, payment cards, store loyalty cards, identification cards, business cards, bank notes, pharmaceuticals, makeup and/or a mirror, personal hygiene products, keys, tools, and the like. Still further features provide for the feature module to be a toolkit containing at least one tool such as a knife, a bottle opener, or the like; or a multi-tool, such as a Swiss Army knife, a cyclist's toolkit, a miniature spanner set, and the like. A yet further feature provides for the feature module to contain a number of related components commonly packaged together such as basic survival components, adventure components, camping components, picnic components, fishing components, and the like.

Further features provide for the feature module to be an auxiliary power module; for the auxiliary power module to be configured to provide backup power to the mobile device or to charge a battery of the mobile device; for the feature module to be a solar panel configured to provide power to the mobile device or charge the battery thereof; and for the feature module to be an additional battery in electrical contact with the battery of the mobile device.

A still further feature provides for the feature module to be a personal safety device such as a pepper spray canister, an electroshock weapon, or the like.

A yet further feature provides for the feature module to include an attachment module configured to attach the mobile device to another article, for example a dashboard or window of a car, a handlebar of a motorcycle or a bicycle, a person's limb, or the like.

A further feature provides for the feature module to include an at least partially waterproof cover configured to expand and enclose the mobile device, thereby at least partially waterproofing the mobile device.

A still further feature provides for the feature module to be a wallet having a section which is configured to fold around a side of the mobile device and to be operable to cover the front screen of the mobile device when folded around the side of the mobile device.

A yet further feature provides for the feature module to be a mechanical or electronic key which provides access to a specific location, such as a normal mechanical key, a radio frequency identification device, a remote control access device or the like.

Further features provide for the feature module to be a communications expansion module including communications capabilities enabling it to communicate with other electronic devices on its own, or in cooperation with the mobile device; for the cradle and feature module to include complementary electronic communication interfaces by means of which electronic communication between communication modules of the mobile device and feature module may be conducted; for the communication interfaces to be wired or wireless; for the feature module to include a Near Field Communication module; and for the feature module to be a cryptographic expansion module, preferably including a hardware security module, by means of which communications to and from the mobile device may be encrypted and decrypted as required.

The invention also provides a feature module comprising at least one attachment formation configured to releasably secure the feature module to a cradle of a mobile device so as to, in use, be positioned adjacent a major surfaces of the mobile device so that the mobile device and feature module may be handled as a unit.

Further features provide for the feature module to include a storage compartment accessible through an access door which is operable to be selectively opened and closed; and for the feature module to have at least some dimensions that correspond substantially to dimensions of the mobile device and the cradle.

The invention still further provides a mobile phone cradle and feature module combination as described above, each having attachment formations configured to allow the feature module to be releasably secured to the cradle so as to, in use, be positioned adjacent a major surfaces of the mobile device when it is received in the cradle, and interchanged with other, differently featured feature modules.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The invention will now be described, by way of example only with reference to the accompanying representations in which:

Figure 1 is a three-dimensional view of a protective cradle in accordance with an embodiment of the invention;

Figure 2 is a three-dimensional view of a feature module configured to be secured to the cradle of Figure 1 ; Figure 3 is a three-dimensional view of a feature module which is a container, the container having an access door which is in an open position;

Figure 4 is a three-dimensional view of the cradle of Figure 1 secured to a mobile device, with the feature module of Figure 2 ready to be secured to the cradle; and

Figure 5 is a three-dimensional view of the feature module of Figure 2 secured to the cradle of Figure 1 , the cradle in turn being secured to a mobile device.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION WITH REFERENCE TO THE DRAWINGS

An embodiment of a cradle (1001 ) is shown in Figure 1 . The cradle (1001 ) is shaped and dimensioned to removably receive a mobile device, in the present embodiment a mobile phone, and retain it therein. It will be apparent to a person skilled in the art that the specific dimensions of the cradle may to a significant extent depend on the specific model of mobile phone it is to be used with. Similarly, the way the cradle retains the mobile phone therein may differ depending on the mobile phone's make, model, shape and dimensions. The embodiment of the cradle (1001 ) shown in Figure 1 is shaped and dimensioned to be used with an iPhone^®. To receive and retain the phone therein, the cradle has a collar (1003) dimensioned to snugly engage an outer peripheral surface of the phone. The collar (1003) defines an inwardly projecting rim (1005) extending from an operatively front edge (1007) thereof, and inwardly projecting retaining flanges (1009) extending from an operatively rear edge (101 1 ) thereof. To secure the mobile phone within the cradle (1001 ), the collar (1003), or at least the rim (1005), is resiliently flexible so that the phone may be pressed past the rim (1005), which will expand under the pressure, and clip into the cradle (1001 ) in a snap fit, after which it will be retained therein by the retaining flanges (1009) and rim (1005).

The cradle (1001 ) also defines access openings (1012) and/or buttons in register with functional components such as function keys and/or connection ports on the periphery of the phone so as to allow access to and operability of these keys and connection ports through the cradle. Additional functional components may include sensors, connection points, camera lenses, flashes, speakers, notification lights and the like.

The cradle includes a plurality of attachment formations, in the present embodiment small magnets (1013), spaced apart and positioned in a recessed slot (1015) on the inside of the retaining flange (1009). As shown in more detail in Figure 4, the magnets may not be visible from an outer surface (1017) of the retaining flanges (1009). The attachment formations on the cradle are configured to cooperate with complementary attachment formations, in the present embodiment small magnets (not shown), on interchangeable feature modules (1 101 ), as shown in more detail in Figure 2, so as to releasably secure a feature module (1 101 ) adjacent a major surface, in the current embodiment the rear, of the mobile phone. Obviously the major surface could be either the front or the rear of the phone, but in the majority of cases it will be the rear as most commonly used smartphones have touch-operated interfaces that make up essentially the entire front of the phone and therefore cannot be obscured. The feature module may be shaped and dimensioned, depending on its purpose, to correspond as far as possible to that of the mobile phone, so as to create the impression that the feature module is an extension of the phone. Once secured to one another by means of the attachment formations (1013) on the cradle (1001 ) and complementary attachment formations on the feature module (1 101 ), the feature module (1 101 ) and phone may therefore be handled as a unit. The combination of the feature module (1 101 ), cradle (1001 ) and phone may significantly improve the utility of the phone and alleviate the need for the owner to carry two separate items with him or her.

The interchangeability of the feature modules (1 101 ) make it possible for a user to acquire a variety of different feature modules (1 101 ), each of which may be specifically adapted and customised for a specific purpose. The user may then remove and attach specific feature modules depending on his or her requirements at the time.

It will be apparent to a person skilled in the art that attachment formations other than magnets may be utilized. For example, the complementary attachment formations on a feature module may be little more than metal tabs with sufficient magnetic properties to be attracted by the magnets in the cradle (1001 ).

In other embodiments the formations may be clip-on, friction fit or snap on fasteners, hook-and-pile fasteners, reusable adhesive layers, so-called Gecko-Tape or other fastening formations. Such fasteners, especially clip-on fasteners, may be less expensive to manufacture, and may prevent unwanted metallic objects from attaching themselves to magnetic attachment formations. The necessary attachment formations should however be spaced about the periphery or over the rear surface of the cradle (1001 ) so as to secure the feature module to the cradle (1001 ) in a way that does not obstruct or inhibit normal use of the device. Additionally, dimensions of feature modules should preferably correspond to dimensions of the cradle (1001 ) as far as possible so that the feature module can be attached to the cradle (1001 ) while not adding significantly to the major dimensions of the device. Figures 2 and 3 show a feature module (1 101 ), in the present embodiment a container (1 103), which is configured to be secured to the cradle (1001 ) by means of its attachment formations. The container (1 103) is shown on its own in Figure 2 and secured to the cradle (1001 ) in Figure 3. The container includes an opening (1 105), in the present embodiment configured to allow a camera lens of a mobile device secured in the cradle (1001 ) to have an unobstructed lens and flash when the feature module (1 101 ) is secured to the cradle (1001 ). The container (1 103) also has an access door (1 107) which is able to open around a hinge (1 109) located at an edge of the module (1 101 ). Figure 3 shows the container (1 103) with the access door (1 107) in an open position. The hinge (1 109) allows the access door (1 107) to be opened to provide access to storage space inside the container. The container further has a closing mechanism (1 1 1 1 a) at an edge thereof opposite the hinge (1 109) to cooperate with a complementary closing mechanism (1 1 1 1 b) on an edge of the access door (1 107) to keep the access door (1 107) closed when so required.

Figure 4 shows the cradle (1001 ) with a mobile phone (1201 ) secured therein. The feature module (1 101 ) is shown in a position orientation suitable for it to be secured to the cradle (1001 ). Figure 5 shows the feature module (1 101 ) when secured to the cradle (1001 ). The feature module (1 101 ) is attached to the cradle (1001 ) so that it covers a back surface of the mobile phone (1201 ). The cradle (1001 ) and body of the feature module (1 101 ) may be manufactured from any suitable material being used for protective phone cases such as rigid or semi-rigid materials, for example hard synthetic resins, polycarbonate, thermoplastic polyurethane, or flexible polymer materials such as silicone skin material, other plastics, rubbers or even metal. The cradle (1001 ) and/or feature module may also be integrally or modularly constructed by a suitable industrial process.

In use, the cradle (1001 ) remains secured to the mobile phone (1201 ), while the phone is capable of being used in a normal manner. The phone may therefore be used while secured in the cradle, but without a feature module attached to it, for example when the user has no specific need for a feature module, but would still like their phone to be at least partially protected, or would like the phone to be carried around whilst not having the additional bulk of the feature module. As the cradle (1001 ) substantially covers the outer edges of the phone (1201 ), it will at least partially protect the phone from accidental impact, falls, water or other liquid damage, scratches and other damage associated with normal use. It is, however, foreseen that the operatively back surface of the cradle may be entirely closed, so as to entirely cover the back surface of the mobile phone while the phone is secured therein. This will clearly provide additional protection to the phone. Alternatively, a specific feature module may be provided that comprises a planar, flat cover that can be secured to the cradle, over the back of the phone, to serve simply as a protective cover without adding significantly to the thickness of the cradle/phone assembly. This protective cover can then be used if the user has no need for a purpose specific feature module.

If required, the user of the mobile device may attach a feature module to the cradle by means of the cooperating attachment formations on the cradle and feature module, as per their need at the time. For example, the user may wish to have a feature module attached to the cradle which is configured to store payment cards and/or currency when the user is going shopping. Similarly, the user may remove the card or cash module and replace it with a module configured to carry business cards when he or she is working or attending meetings. It will be apparent to a person skilled in the art that although only a mobile phone is used for illustrative purposes in the representations, any mobile device may benefit from the present invention. In particular, the mobile device may also be a tablet PC, a personal digital assistant, a mobile Global Positioning Systems (GPS), a portable gaming system, or the like.

As mentioned above, it is envisaged that a large variety of feature modules may be provided, with each module being at least partially customised for a particular function or purpose. By way of further example, the feature module may be a general container such as that described above with reference to Figures 2 to 5. However, it is envisaged that the container may be customised to store specific articles such as cigarettes and a cigarette lighter or matches. This will allow the user to carry cigarettes in the feature module without the need to carry an additional, bulky packet of cigarettes. Similarly, the container may be configured to carry payment cards, store loyalty cards, identification cards, business cards, currency, medication or other pharmaceuticals, makeup and/or a mirror, personal hygiene products, keys, or tools, to name but a few. It should immediately be apparent that the interchangeability of the feature modules allows the user to quickly and conveniently detach a current feature module and attach a different one which already contains the articles he or she wishes to carry with them.

The feature module may also be a multi-tool, and may contain tools typically associated with multi-tools, a toolkit for a cyclist, a miniature spanner or screwdriver set, or the like. The feature module may also be a toolkit containing at least one tool, such as a bottle opener or a knife. The feature module may also be configured to contain a personal safety device, such as a can of pepper spray, an electroshock self-defence weapon or the like. The feature module may also contain a number of related articles typically contained in a basic survival kit, an adventure kit, a camping kit, a picnicking kit, a fishing kit, or the like. Examples of articles typically present in an adventurer's kit include a torch, a length or cord, a flint, a bottle opener, a knife, and the like.

In a specific embodiment, the feature module may be configured to be an auxiliary power module configured to provide backup power to the mobile device or to charge a battery of the mobile device. This may be particularly useful when the user will be out of reach of an electrical outlet or other auxiliary power source that can be used to charge the battery of the mobile device, for any length of time. Accordingly, the feature module may include a solar panel configured to charge the battery of the mobile device, an additional battery provided with the feature module, or the feature module may be an additional battery in electrical contact with the battery of the mobile device, providing auxiliary or replacement power to the mobile device.

The feature module may further be an attachment module configured to attach or mount the mobile device to another article, such as a dashboard or window of a car, a handlebar of a motorcycle or a bicycle, a person's limb, and the like. Such modules may be particularly useful when the mobile device is a GPS or other mobile device used for navigational purposes while the user requires the use of both hands, for example while driving.

The feature module may include an at least partially waterproof cover configured to expand or fold open from a stowed position and enclose the mobile device, thereby at least partially waterproofing the device. The feature module may be a wallet which has a section which is configured to fold around an edge of the mobile device and to cover the front screen of the mobile device when not in use. The feature module may also be or may include a mechanical or electronic key which provides access to a specific location. Examples of such articles may include a mechanical key, a radio frequency identification device, a remote control for a gate or a house, and the like.

The feature module may also be a lens or filter which is able to impact or improve the photographic capabilities of a mobile device. The lens or filter will typically be located directly over the camera lens of a mobile device when the feature module is attached to the cradle. Such an embodiment may include a storage component to allow the feature module not only to improve the photographing capabilities of the mobile device, but also to increase the storage capabilities of the mobile device so that more captured pictures may be stored at the mobile device.

The present invention provides a cradle for a mobile device, as well as a multitude of purpose-specific feature modules that are interchangeably attachable to the cradle. The feature modules can be individually attached to the cradle, and thereby provide alternating functions required by the user. The cradle acts as a protective cover, protecting the mobile device. The attachment of the feature module to the cradle provides additional protection, at least to the major surface of the mobile device to which it is secured.

In an alternative embodiment of the invention the feature modules may themselves be provided with additional attachment formations on an operatively outer surface thereof so as to allow securing of additional feature modules in a stacked configuration. In this way, a user may attach more than one feature module to the cradle, one on top of the other, at the same time. This will allow the user to have the functionality provided by more than one different feature module available to him or her at any given time. In the case of feature modules that have storage compartments or are otherwise accessible through closable doors or flaps, the attachment capabilities of the modules will enable a user to easily remove and reattach outer modules to access inner ones as and when required.

The embodiments described above are by way of example only and should not be construed as limiting the scope of the invention. It is envisaged that many further embodiments of the cradle and feature modules are possible that do not depart from the scope of the invention.

Although only one type (brand) of mobile device is shown in the representations, cradles and accompanying feature modules may be manufactured so as to operate with any type of mobile device. Additionally, cradles and feature modules may be provided in any colour, texture, or the like that may be preferred by a user. This may allow a user to choose a cradle and/or feature module for decorative or aesthetic reasons as well as for protective and functional reasons.

It should also be appreciated that access openings may not need to be provided, but protrusions may be provided on the cradle adjacent the area of, for example, a button of the mobile device, so that a user can still feel or see where on the cradle they should press in order to press the button underneath the cradle. A variety of access openings or buttons may be provided on both the cradle and the feature module to allow a phone to operate in an intended manner. It should also be noted that many feature modules other than the ones specifically mentioned in this specification may be provided.

It is also envisaged that a feature module may be adapted to function as a communications expansion module. The feature module may accordingly be provided with its own communication capabilities including, for example, Near Field Communication (NFC) capabilities, Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, GSM, and the like. In these embodiments the feature modules may be configured to communicate with the mobile device and serve in expanding the communication capabilities of the mobile device. So, for example, a mobile device that did not previously have NFC or infra-red capabilities may be given such capabilities with a feature module that incorporates corresponding functionality. It is also foreseen that a feature module configured in such a way may have a communications interface by means of which it may be able to communicate with the mobile device. The mobile device and/or cradle may be provided with a complementary communication interface for this purpose. The communication interface between the mobile device and feature module may of course be either wired or wireless. This may allow a user to communicate using a type of communication not present on their mobile device.

The feature module may also be adapted to specifically communicate with other electronic devices, be it by way of proximity or remote communications capabilities.

In a specific embodiment, the feature module may serve as a cryptographic expansion module which may include a dedicated hardware security module. The mobile device may then be configured to use the cryptographic expansion module to conduct encrypted communications with other devices. It should be appreciated that such a cryptographic expansion device may be particularly useful in areas that require increased security such as, for example, mobile commerce and banking. Properly configured, it is foreseen that a feature module may be secured to the cradle which could allow the mobile phone to conduct secure payments and other encrypted transaction which it could otherwise not be able to do. It is, however, essential in these embodiments that a secure communication channel of sorts is established between the mobile device and feature module. In a still further embodiment of the invention it is foreseen that the feature module may include, or be adapted to receive, a separate electronic media player or storage device, which could then be accessed and utilised through the standard mobile device interface.

Claims

CLAIMS:

1 . A cradle (1001 ) shaped and dimensioned to removably secure a mobile device (1201 ) therein and defining attachment formations (1013) configured to cooperate with complementary attachment formations on interchangeable feature modules, and to releasably secure at least one feature module (1 101 ) adjacent a major surface of the mobile device (1201 ) so that the mobile device (1201 ) and feature module (1 101 ) may be handled as a unit.

2. A cradle (1001 ) as claimed in claim 1 comprising a collar (1003) dimensioned to snugly engage an outer peripheral surface of the mobile device, the collar (1003) defining an inwardly projecting rim (1005) extending from an operatively front edge (1007) thereof, and inwardly projecting retaining flanges (1009) extending from an operatively rear edge (101 1 ) thereof.

3. A cradle as claimed in claim 1 or claim 2, where in the attachment formations include one or more formations shaped and dimensioned to clip onto the complementary attachment formations on the interchangeable feature modules.

4. A cradle (1001 ) as claimed in claim 1 or claim 2, wherein the attachment formations are magnetic attachment formations (1013) provided on or near a periphery of the cradle (1001 ) and are configured to engage with complementary magnetic attachment formations on the feature modules (1 101 ) when brought it close proximity thereto.

5. A cradle (1001 ) as claimed in any one of the preceding claims, which includes at least one opening (1 105) providing access to a functional component of the mobile device when the mobile device is secured therein.

6. A cradle (1001 ) as claimed in any one of the preceding claims, wherein the feature module (1 101 ) is a container.

7. A cradle (1001 ) as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein the feature module (1 101 ) is a toolkit containing at least one tool, or a multi-tool.

8. A cradle (1001 ) as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein the feature module (1 101 ) contains a number of related components commonly packaged together.

9. A cradle (1001 ) as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein the feature module (1 101 ) is an auxiliary power module.

10. A cradle (1001 ) as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein the feature module (1 101 ) is a personal safety device.

1 1 . A cradle (1001 ) as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein the feature module (1 101 ) provides an attachment module configured to attach the mobile device to another article or surface.

12. A cradle (1001 ) as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein the feature module (1 101 ) includes an at least partially waterproof cover configured to enclose the mobile device.

13. A cradle (1001 ) as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein the feature module (1 101 ) is a wallet having a section which is configured to fold around a side of the mobile device and is operable to cover a front screen of the mobile device when folded around the side of the mobile device

14. A cradle (1001 ) as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein the feature module (1 101 ) includes a mechanical or electronic key that is configured to provide access to a specific location.

15. A cradle (1001 ) as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein the feature module (1 101 ) is a communication expansion module including communications capabilities enabling it to communicate with other electronic devices on its own or in cooperation with the mobile device.

16. A feature module (1 101 ) comprising at least one attachment formation configured to releasably secure the feature module to a cradle (1001 ) of a mobile device (1201 ) so as to, in use, be positioned adjacent a major surfaces of the mobile device so that the mobile device and feature module may be handled as a unit.

17. A feature module (1 101 ) as claimed in claim 16, which includes a storage compartment accessible through an access door (1 107) which is operable to be selectively opened and closed.

18. A feature module (1 101 ) as claimed in claim 16 or claim 17, of which at least some dimensions correspond to dimensions of the mobile device and the cradle.