Stretchable Notebook Computer Case

Abstract

A stretchable storage case is provided that is adapted to receive an electronic device. More specifically, a stretchable storage case comprising resiliently deflectable panels is provided that is adapted to selectively deflect to receive various electronic devices and conform thereto.

Description

[0001]This application is a Continuation-In-Part of U.S. Design patent application Ser. No. 29 / 297,025, filed Nov. 1, 2007, the entire disclosure of which being incorporated be reference herein.FIELD OF THE INVENTION[0002]Embodiments of the present invention are generally related to protective storage devices. More specifically, one embodiment of the present invention is a storage case for a notebook computer.BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION[0003]Often, it is desirable to protect delicate electronic devices due to their fragile nature. Thus it is common to provide protective storage cases comprised of rigid or compliant material. The cases of the prior art are of a fixed size, however. Storage cases is of the prior art are designed to prevent shock loads from damaging the stored device. It is also desirable to protect stored electronic devices from debris, water, etc. Further, it is often desirable to construct cases in a manner to make them less bulky and conforming, thereby facilitatin...

AI Technical Summary

Benefits of technology

[0007]It is still yet another aspect of the present invention to provide a case made of a compliant material, that conforms to the shape of and size of the items stored. Materials of this type by their very nature are often shock resistant, thereby helping to protect the stored item. It is further contemplated that additional shock absorption or cushioning materials be added to the case to enhance the protection provided by the storage case. As will be appreciated, compliant materials are water resistant, which enhance the protective nature of the storage case.

[0009]It is another aspect of the present invention to provide a storage case that is aesthetically pleasing. More specifically, embodiments of the present invention are, due to their material of manufacture, well suited for the addition of indicia or company logos, for example. Further, embodiments of the present invention include a slot or other means that accept pictures, photographs, business cards or other items to allow user to selectively customize the storage case.

[0010]It is yet another aspect of the present invention to provide a storage case that has a selectively openable flap that may be configured to various shapes. It is preferred that the flap be suited to prevent fluid and / or debris from entering into the storage area. However, one skilled in the art will appreciate that other shapes may be used. For example, one embodiment of the present invention employs a flap that includes representations of teeth. The remainder of the storage case may be fashioned as an animal, wherein items such as ears or simulated fur may be added to the case thereby making it appeal to children.

[0011]It is another aspect of the present invention to provide a storage case that is water resistant or water proof. More specifically, as briefly mentioned above, the flap may be fastened to the body of a case via a ziploc, buttons, snaps or other members that will maintain the flap closed and prevent water and / or debris from entering into the storage area of the case.

[0014]It is another aspect of the present invention to provide a storage case that is adapted to receive various electronic devices. More specifically, one embodiment of the present invention is adapted to lie generally flat when no items are stored therein, wherein an inner surface of the front panel and an inner surface of the back panel are operatively engaged. A storage device is provided that possesses a thickness less than the item being stored. In order to store an item within the case, the front panel and the back panel are deflected to provide a storage area for the receipt of an electronic device, for example. The front panel and rear panel are then released to conform to the items being stored. This embodiment of the present invention has the advantage of being relatively thin when no items are stored therein, thereby facilitating storage and packaging of the storage case.

[0015]It is yet another aspect of the present invention to provide at least one handle or strap interconnected to the storage case to allow users to easily carry the case.

Problems solved by technology

Jackson, however, requires that a portion of the case be shaped similar to the articles to be stored, thus limiting the type of device to be stored within the case.

In addition, Jackson discloses a storage case that remains opened after the item is stored, which exposes the stored electronic device.

Another drawback of Jackson is that portions of the case are permanently shaped as the item to be stored, which makes packaging and storage difficult.

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