Electronic device carrying sleeve

Abstract

An inflatable carrying case for sensitive electronic device and other delicate devices are described herewith. The inflatable carrying case is made by stitching an outer sleeve to an inner sleeve with a layer of open cell foam glued in between. Two rigid top and bottom surfaces or plates (as 2 examples) are attached to the outer sleeve. An inflating mechanism comprising of an air valve assembly is positioned where the latch hooks over it to secure the carrying case. The inflating mechanism is used to inflate the carrying case and thus increase fortification against movement, sudden jolts and direct impact to the enclosed sensitive electronic device. The inflating mechanism is easily accessible and simply operated. Detachable pockets to carry accessories and shoulder strap are included in this invention. Many embodiments, examples, and variations are given.

Description

RELATED INVENTION / APPLICATION[0001]The present invention is related to (and based on) a provisional application filed on Feb. 1, 2008 (priority date), application No. U.S. 61 / 063,326, with similar title, same assignee / owner, and common inventors.BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION[0002]The present invention relates generally to carrying cases that protect sensitive electronic items / devices during storage, handling and transport. More particularly, the present invention relates to an inflatable carrying case for extra fortification and improved weight reduction, and allows the user to choose when and where they have maximum or minimum protection, for the level of protection.[0003]Carrying cases are used for carrying various items such as luggage, electronic equipment of all types, sports equipment and all sorts of delicate and breakable items. In today's world, personal electronic devices have rapidly become necessities in people's lives. These items are reduced in size and weight (i.e., lap...

AI Technical Summary

Benefits of technology

[0008]An important advantage of the present invention is the ease by which the adjustment mechanism operates. Inflation of the carrying case occurs by simply pressing a button. When deflation of the carrying case is desired, the adjustment mechanism for deflation is operated by rotation of the valve.

[0009]In a preferred embodiment of the present invention, pockets of different size to enclose accessories (e.g., powering articles) for the electronic device in the carrying case are attached to the outer sleeve and / or the shoulder strap using Velcro, zipper, Ziploc or clasping mechanisms. The plurality of removable and interchangeable pockets and containers provides a higher degree of versatility for enclosing a sensitive electronic device and corresponding accessories.

[0010]Another advantage of the present invention is illustrated by placement of the air valve where the outer sleeve of the carrying case includes a locking mechanism. The outer sleeve of the carrying case is secured utilizing a latch / lock mechanism. The latch is placed over the air valve and secured in place using magnet and hook.

[0011]Another advantage of the present invention is the increased fortification of the enclosed sensitive items without noticeable increase in weight of the carrying case. The preferred embodiment of the present invention includes a shoulder strap that is connected to the outer sleeve of the carrying case, as an option.

Problems solved by technology

The reduction in size of these electronic devices leaves little to no room inside for any shock absorbing protective layers to protect the vulnerable and delicate parts of these sensitive electronic devices.

(The prior art are also relatively heavy.)

Rigid inserts do not always prevent the item from moving within the carrying case and do not protect the item from vibrations.

Soft inserts may not provide structural rigidity to a carrying case; cases with soft inserts can often crush and often permit enclosed items to move relative to the carrying case.

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