Protective case

Abstract

The present specification describes a capsule comprising a front cover having a front wall with an upper edge of the front wall, a first side wall having a first side wall extension, a second side wall having a second side wall extension, and a bottom wall, wherein both the first side wall extension and the second side wall extension extend beyond the upper edge of the front wall with respect to the bottom wall. The capsule further comprises a rear cover coupled to the front cover and having a rear wall and an upper wall, wherein the rear wall includes a concave hinge, a portion of the rear wall above the position of the hinge and the upper wall are configured as a rear flap, and the coupled front cover and rear cover further define an interior of the capsule.

Description

Background Art

[0001]

[0001] Protective devices for collectibles such as comic books are a preferred way to ensure the condition life and value. However, conventional protective devices suffer from an inappropriate balance between security and accessibility. That is, in conventional protection devices, when security is increased, the accessibility to the item being protected decreases correspondingly, and vice versa. Since many of these items being protected are intended to be viewed or enjoyed in other ways, conventional protective cases are inappropriate.

[0002]

[0002] Therefore, an improved protective case is needed.

Summary of the Invention

[0003]

[0003] A capsule comprising a front cover having a front wall with an upper front edge, a first side wall having a first side wall extension, a second side wall having a second side wall extension, and a bottom wall, wherein both the first side wall extension and the second side wall extension extend beyond the upper front edge with respect to the bottom wall, and the front wall is made of an uncolored material that is uniformly substantially transparent and not translucent. The capsule further comprises a rear cover coupled to the front cover and having a rear wall and an upper wall, the rear wall including a recess hinge, a portion of the rear wall above the position of the hinge and the upper wall being configured as a rear flap, and the coupled front cover and rear cover further comprising a rear cover that defines the interior of the capsule. The front cover and the rear cover below the hinge are configured to be coupled to each other using associated coupling tabs and coupling slots. Each front cover of the side wall extensions and the rear flap of the upper wall are configured to be coupled to each other using coupling nipples and associated nipple recesses. The capsule is configured such that when the rear flap of the upper wall is separated from the front cover of each side wall extension while the remaining portions of the front cover and the rear cover are coupled to each other below the hinge, the interior of the capsule becomes accessible.

[0004]

[0004] In another example, the capsule is a front cover having a front wall with an upper edge of the front wall, a first side wall having a first side wall extension, a second side wall having a second side wall extension, and a bottom wall, wherein both the first side wall extension and the second side wall extension extend beyond the upper edge of the front wall, a front cover, and a rear cover coupled to the front cover and having a rear wall and an upper wall, wherein the rear wall includes a concave hinge, a portion of the rear wall above the position of the hinge and the upper wall are configured as a rear flap, the coupled front cover and rear cover include a rear cover that defines the interior of the capsule, the rear cover below the front cover and the hinge is configured to be coupled to each other using associated coupling tabs and coupling slots, the front cover of each side wall extension and the rear flap of the upper wall are configured to be coupled to each other, and the capsule is configured such that when the rear flap of the upper wall is separated from the front cover of each side wall extension while the remaining portions of the front cover and the rear cover are coupled to each other below the hinge, the interior of the capsule becomes accessible.

[0005]

[0005] Embodiments of the principles briefly presented in the summary and described in more detail in the detailed description can be understood with reference to the exemplary embodiments of the principles shown in the accompanying drawings. However, the figures provided in the drawings illustrate only typical embodiments of the principles and thus do not limit the scope of the principles, and the principles can recognize other equivalent effective embodiments.

Brief Description of the Drawings

[0006]

Figure 1A

Figure 1B

Figure 2A

Figure 2B

Figure 3A

Figure 3B

Figure 4A

Figure 4B

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0007] [Detailed Description]

[0010] In both the drawings and the detailed description, the same or similar reference numerals are used to denote common identical elements throughout the figures, where possible, for ease of understanding. The figures are not drawn to scale and may be simplified for clarity. Elements and features of one embodiment may be beneficially incorporated into other embodiments without further recitation. When “’” is used, this may indicate that a change in state may have occurred between a first description and a second description, and in all other respects, all other attributes are as previously described. Examples of changes in state include, but are not limited to, being in a first position and then in a second position, being joined and then separated, a phase change from solid to liquid, etc., and vice versa. It will be understood by those skilled in the art that a comparison of the figures and the text of the drawings and the detailed description provides information regarding such changes. Unless otherwise stated, it will be understood by those skilled in the art that such changes in state are typically reversible, for example, items that were joined may become separated.

[0008]

[0011] In the present disclosure, terms such as "upper", "bottom", "side", "above", "below", "upward", "downward", "toward the top", "toward the bottom", "horizontally", "vertically", etc. do not indicate absolute directions. Instead, such terms indicate directions relative to an unspecified reference plane. This unspecified reference plane may be vertical, horizontal, or in other angular directions.

[0009]

[0012] In the following disclosure, one or more embodiments may be referred to. However, those skilled in the art will understand that the present disclosure is not limited to any specifically described embodiment. Rather, any combination of features and elements, whether or not related to different embodiments, is contemplated for implementing and practicing one or more embodiments provided by the present disclosure. Further, one or more embodiments shown in the present disclosure may achieve certain advantages over other possible solutions, prior art (if any), and combinations thereof, but whether a particular advantage is achieved by a given embodiment is not limited by the present disclosure. The provided aspects, features, embodiments, and advantages are merely illustrative and do not limit the scope of the present disclosure. The provided aspects, features, embodiments, and advantages are not considered elements or limitations of the appended claims, except when explicitly recited in one or more of the claims of the patent claims. Similarly, those skilled in the art should not interpret references to "the present disclosure" as generalizations of any disclosed subject matter.

[0010]

[0013] FIG. 1A is an exploded view schematically showing a configuration of a first capsule. The capsule 1000 consists of a front cover 1100 and a rear cover 1200 (partially obscured), which are two components coupled to each other. FIG. 1A shows the front cover 1100 including a front wall 1110. The front wall 1110 is connected to or integrally formed with several walls that protrude rearward toward the rear cover. There are two side walls 1120, 1130, one on each side of the front surface, and a bottom wall 1140 that is connected to all three. All four walls partially define the boundary of the capsule. Each of the two side walls 1120, 1130 and the bottom wall 1140 defines one or more voids called front cover coupling slots 1102. Each front cover coupling slot is configured to receive and hold an associated coupling tab disposed along the rear cover under frictional or tensile coupling. Given the unclear view of the side walls and the bottom wall 1140, it is conceivable that one or more front cover coupling slots can be disposed along either or both of the side walls, the bottom wall, or both. Each side wall 1120, 1130 has a topmost coupling slot 1103. In the upper part of the front cover 1100, the side walls 1120 and 1130 each extend upward beyond the height of the upper edge 1112 of the front wall. These side wall extensions 1122, 1132 each define a front cover nipple recess 1104. Each front cover nipple recess is configured to receive and hold an associated coupling nipple disposed along the rear flap of the rear cover under friction or tension.

[0011]

[0014] FIG. 1A shows a rear cover 1200 (partially obscured) including a rear wall 1210. As shown in FIG. 1A, the rear wall 1210 is not coupled to a side wall or a bottom wall, but is coupled to an upper wall 1250 disposed above the rear wall 1210. The rear wall defines one or more rear cover outward projecting coupling tabs 1202 along its edge. The cover outward projecting coupling tabs 1202 are present along both the side edge and the bottom edge of the rear cover 1200. Each rear cover outward projecting coupling tab 1202 is disposed along the rear wall such that the coupling tab 1202 mates with an associated cover coupling slot defined along the side wall or the bottom wall of the front cover 1100. The uppermost coupling tab 1203 of the coupling tabs 1202 of the rear cover 1200 mates with the uppermost coupling slot 1103 of the front cover 1100. The portion of the rear wall 1210 above the uppermost coupling tab 1203 is configured to include a recess for a hinge 1212. In FIG. 1A, the hinge 1212 is shown without deflecting the position of the rear flap 1214 as described below.

[0012]

[0015] The upper wall 1250 is connected to the upper portion of the rear wall 1210 and projects forward from the rear wall 1210 toward the front cover 1100. Several features are illustrated in relation to the upper wall 1250. The upper wall 1250 is configured such that coupling nipples 1252 are disposed under overhangs 1253 that project outward from the upper wall 1250. There are thumb grips 1258 along the upper wall front 1254 visible from a front perspective. In the case of the capsule 1000, there are two thumb grips 1258 disposed adjacent to the coupling nipples 1252. The depiction of the text label 1255 is brought about by being wound around a portion of the upper wall 1250 including the upper wall front 1254. The upper wall 1250 further has an upper wall bottom surface 1256 having an edge configured to conform to the front wall upper edge 1112 as described below.

[0013]

[0016] In one or more embodiments, which may be combined with other embodiments, the front cover 1100 defines a front cover nipple recess and the rear cover defines an associated coupling nipple.

[0014]

[0017] In one or more embodiments, which may be combined with other embodiments, the front cover 1100 defines a front cover coupling slot, and the rear cover defines an associated rear cover coupling tab 1202. In one or more embodiments, which may be combined with other embodiments, the coupling tab 120 projects outwardly and is planar with respect to the associated wall surface. For example, the coupling tab 1202 associated with the rear wall in FIGS. 1A and 1B is coplanar with the rear wall.

[0015]

[0018] In one or more embodiments, the coupling slot is defined by side walls. In one or more embodiments, the coupling slot is defined by side walls and a bottom wall.

[0016]

[0019] In one or more embodiments, the upper wall includes an overhang.

[0017]

[0020] [FIG. 1B] FIG. 1B is a second exploded view schematically showing a configuration of a first capsule. In FIG. 1B, the capsule 1000’ is shown in the same exploded state as in FIG. 1A, but several state changes indicating the characteristics of the capsule 1000’ have occurred. The hinge 1212’ is shown in a deflected state as indicated by the position of the rear flap 1214’ in FIG. 1B. As a result of the arrangement of the hinge 1212’, in FIG. 1B, the rear flap 1214’ is in a semi-open or “open” state, tilted rearward out of the plane from the rest of the rear wall 1210. The effect of the arrangement of the rear flap 1214’ and the function of the hinge 1212’ will be further described, but those skilled in the art will be able to understand and envision the non-exploded configuration of the capsule 1000’ having a semi-open rear flap.

[0018]

[0021] [Figure 2A] Figure 2A is several isometric views schematically showing a first capsule in a first state. Capsule 2000 is similar to capsule 1000 of Figure 1A and has several views shown in Figure 2A. Capsule 2000 is shown in a top view, a side view, a bottom view, and a front view of the assembled capsule (clockwise from the topmost view). Rear cover 2200 is shown coupled to front cover 2100 to form capsule 2000. The rear cover includes a front wall 2210. Rear cover 2200 is configured to be fitted into an internal boundary formed by both side walls 2120 and 2130 and bottom wall 2140. When rear cover 2200 is disposed on front cover 2100, the outwardly protruding coupling tabs of rear cover 2200 can engage with the front cover coupling slots to form capsule 2000.

[0019]

[0022] In the case of capsule 2000, front cover coupling slot 2102’ is shown engaging with outwardly protruding coupling tab 1202 (Figure 1A) of rear cover 2200, and front cover 2100 is coupled to rear cover 2200. The configuration and position of each of the defined front cover coupling slots 2102’ and each of the outwardly protruding coupling tabs 1202 of rear cover 2200 are such that they are associated with each other as a pair in which the outwardly protruding coupling tab 1202 and the coupling slot 2102’ are in alignment. Each rear cover outwardly protruding coupling tab 1202 protrudes into and is held by the associated cover coupling slot 2102’ of front cover 2100 until the protruding coupling tab is released, whereby the mutual coupling between front cover 2100 and rear cover 2200 is maintained.

[0020]

[0023] As shown in FIG. 2A, the capsule 2000 is in the "closed" state. Although not shown for clarity, in this figure, the front cover nipple recess 2104' engages with a coupling nipple disposed as part of the rear flap 2214, such as the coupling nipple 1252 of FIGS. 1A and 1B. With the coupling nipple 1252 engaged with their associated front cover nipple recesses 2104', the rear flap is fixed in the closed position. The interior of the capsule 2000 is inaccessible because all edges of the rear cover 2200, which are not part of the upper wall, align with the associated edges of the front cover 2100, such as the inner edges of the side walls 2120, 2130 including the side wall extensions 2132 and the inner edge of the bottom wall 2140. When the nipples 1252 are engaged, an upper wall such as the upper wall 2250 intersects the upper edge of the side wall extension 2132 by the overhang 2253.

[0021]

[0024] As shown in both the side view and the front view, when the front cover 2100 and the rear cover 2200 are coupled to each other and the rear flap is in the closed state, the configuration of the upper wall 2250 and the front wall 2110 is such that the bottom surface of the upper wall, such as the upper wall bottom surface 1256 (see FIG. 1B), aligns with and is adjacent to the upper edge of the front cover, such as the front cover upper edge 2112 from FIG. 2A. The front surface of the upper wall, such as the upper wall front surface 2254, and the front wall, such as the front wall 2110, are further coplanar at their positions as seen from the top view, side view, and bottom view of FIG. 2A, thereby forming a flat front surface in the same plane. Additionally, an overhang such as the overhang 2253 from the upper wall provides some directional protection from an unintentional downward force applied to the upper part of a side wall extension such as the side wall extension 2122. This not only protects these portions of the side walls but also protects nipple recesses such as the front cover nipple recess 2104', thereby preventing damage to the latch mechanism of the rear flap.

[0022]

[0025] [Figure 2B] Figure 2B is several isometric views schematically showing the first capsule in the second state. Capsule 2000’ is similar to capsule 1000’ in Figure 1B (exploded view) and capsule 2000 (combined view), and has several perspectives shown in Figure 2B. Capsule 2000’ is further shown by the top view, side view, bottom view, and front view of the assembled but different state from Figure 2A capsule (clockwise from the top view).

[0023]

[0026] In Figure 2B, capsule 2000’ is “open”, that is, the rear flap 2214’ is semi-open. The rear flap 2214’ can be in this state because the hinge (not shown) is in a deflected state and the coupling nipple 2252 is separated from the front cover nipple recess 2104. Since the hinge is located above the top coupling slot 2103’ and the front cover coupling slot 2102’ remains engaged, one side of the hinge is fixed by the coupled rear cover 2200, and the other side where the rear flap 2214’ is disposed can move freely. By a hinge such as hinge 1212 in Figure 1A and hinge 1212’ in Figure 1B, the rear flap 1214’ can rotate rearward downward (away from the front cover 2100) or forward upward (toward the front cover 2100) along the hinge 1212 rotation point (see double-headed arrow). When the rear flap 2214’ is separated at the front cover nipple recess 2104, the rear flap 2214’ can be moved partially rotationally about the hinge.

[0024]

[0027] In the case of capsule 2000’, there are two thumb grips 2258 disposed close to the coupling nipple 2252. Thus, when a weakly directional pressure (from the front cover to the rear) is applied to the thumb grips 2258, the coupling nipple 2252 slides out of the front cover nipple recess 2104, thereby slightly deforming the shape of the side wall extension 2122, and the rear flap 2214’ can be separated from the front cover 2100 along the upper wall. The side wall extensions have sufficient plasticity to withstand permanent deformation from such pressure but allow the passage of the coupling nipples and are configured to return to their shape and position later.

[0025]

[0028] After the rear flap 2214 is half-opened, the interior of the capsule 2000 becomes accessible, and articles can be inserted into or removed from the capsule 2000 without separating the front cover 2100 from the rear cover 2200. The access slot is defined by the half-opened rear flap 2214 at the hinge, the side wall extensions 2122, 2232, and the front wall 2110.

[0026]

[0029] To prevent access to the interior of the capsule 2000, the half-opened rear flap 2214 is moved forward toward the side wall extensions until the coupling nipple 2252 engages with the front cover nipple recess 2104. Each side wall extension is slightly distorted laterally when the coupling nipple 2252 rubs against the surface facing the inside of the side wall extension until the coupling nipple 2252 and the nipple recess 2104 engage. When the nipple 2252 and the associated nipple recess 2104 are coupled, the side wall extensions return to their normal non-disported positions. Securing the rear flap 2214 to close the access slot can be done with a weak pressure by hand, similar to opening the rear flap 2214 to access the access slot.

[0027]

[0030] FIG. 3A is a perspective view schematically showing a configuration of a front cover of a second capsule. The configuration of the front cover 3100 of the second capsule is similar to the configurations of the front covers 1100 and 2100 of the first capsule, but there are some modifications. In comparison, the front coupling slot 3102 of the front cover 3100 is defined not only by a part of the side walls 3120, 3130 but also by the front wall 3110, while in the case of the front covers 1100 and 2100, the front coupling slots are defined entirely by their respective side walls. Moreover, the coupling nipple 3152 is part of the side wall extension 3122, while in the front covers 1100 and 2100, there is no coupling nipple 3152 and there are front cover nipple recesses 1104 and 2104.

[0028]

[0031] In one or more embodiments, which may be combined with other embodiments, the rear cover defines a rear cover nipple recess 3204, and the front cover 3100 defines an associated coupling nipple 3152. In one or more embodiments, the coupling slot 3102 is defined by the side wall 3110 and the front wall 3120.

[0029]

[0032] [FIG. 3B] FIG. 3B is a perspective view schematically showing a configuration of the rear cover 3200 of the second capsule. The configuration of the rear cover 3200 of the second capsule is similar to the configurations of the front covers 1100 and 2100 of the first capsule, but there are some changes. The front covers 1100 and 2100 were configured with nipple recesses 1104, 2104, but in the case of the configuration of the rear cover 3200, the nipple recess 3204 is arranged along both side surfaces of the upper wall 3250. Other notable differences between the rear cover 3200 and the rear covers 2200 and 1200 include that there is a single thumb grip 3256 concentrated in the center along the upper wall 3250, the upper wall 3250 is configured without overhang, and the coupling tab of the rear cover 3200 protrudes forward like the rear cover front protruding coupling tab 3202. In the case of the front protruding coupling tab with respect to the laterally protruding coupling tab in the rear cover, depending on the configuration, this can accommodate a thicker article such as a graphic novel or a compendium / collection of articles such as a set of articles, etc., for a larger internal volume within one capsule.

[0030]

[0033] In one or more embodiments, which may be combined with other embodiments, the coupling tab 3202 has no outward protrusion and is not in the same plane as the associated wall surface.

[0031]

[0034] FIG. 4A is a perspective view schematically showing a configuration of a second capsule. The capsule 4000 is shown in a closed configuration. The drawing further shows the capsule 4000 having an article 5000 (relief) accommodated therein. The rear cover 4200 is engaged with the front cover 4100 by the upper wall 4250 being fixed to the side wall extension 4132 and the front cover coupling slot 4102' being engaged with their associated rear cover front protruding coupling tabs (not shown for clarity).

[0032]

[0035] An article such as the article 5000 can be fixed to a capsule such as the capsule 4000 by one of two methods. First, as described above with respect to the opening and closing of the rear flap 4214 (see FIG. 4B), the rear flap 4214 can be partially separated from the front cover 4100 by separating the coupling nipple from the associated coupling recess using a moderate pressure of the hand. After separating the rear flap 4214 at the coupling nipple, the rear flap 4214 can be rotated rearward and the article 5000 can be introduced into the formed access slot described above. Then, the rear flap 4214 can be re-coupled at the coupling nipple. The other method is to place the article 5000 between an uncoupled front cover such as the front cover 4100 and an uncoupled rear cover such as the rear cover 4200. The front cover 4100 and the rear cover 4200 can be coupled with the article 5000 disposed therebetween by engaging each of the rear cover coupling tabs 4202 with their respective front cover coupling slots 4102.

[0033]

[0036] In one or more embodiments, which may be combined with other embodiments, the rear cover 4200 defines a rear cover coupling slot and the front cover 4100 defines an associated front cover coupling tab. In one or more embodiments, the coupling slot is defined by a side wall, a front wall, and a bottom wall.

[0034]

[0037] Figure 4B is an exploded view schematically showing a configuration of a second capsule 4000'. The capsule 4000' shows, in this figure, a front cover 4100 separated from a rear cover 4200. However, in the exploded view, proper alignment of a coupling nipple 4122 and a rear cover nipple recess 4204, and a rear cover front protruding coupling tab 4202 aligned with a related front cover coupling slot 4102 are shown.

[0035]

[0038] In the coupling of the front cover 4100 to the rear cover 4200, a weak pressure by hand can be applied to each of the front cover 4100 and the rear cover 4200 so as to allow short-term distortion to the cover that supports the coupling slot such that the coupling tab can be pushed into the coupling slot and coupled to its edge. To separate the front cover from the rear cover, a weak pressure by hand (or using a small tool) can distort the position of the coupling tab 4202, enabling the release of the coupling tab 4202 from the coupling slot 4102. In one or more embodiments, which may be combined with other embodiments, the inner edges of the side wall and the bottom wall are configured to include a front cover coupling tab, and the rear cover is configured to include a related rear cover coupling slot such that the front cover and the rear cover can be coupled to each other.

[0036]

[0039] An article such as article 5000 can be secured to a capsule such as capsule 4000 in one of two ways. First, as previously described with respect to the opening and closing of the rear flap 4212, the rear flap 4212 can be partially separated from the front cover 4100 by using a moderate pressure of the hand to separate the coupling nipple 4152 from the associated coupling recess 4202. After separating the rear flap 4214 at the coupling nipple 4152, the rear flap 4214 can be rotated rearwardly and the article 5000 can be introduced into the formed access slot described above. The rear flap 4214 can then be re-coupled at the coupling nipple 4152. The other method is to place the article 5000 between an uncoupled front cover such as front cover 4100 and an uncoupled rear cover such as rear cover 4200. The front cover 4100 and the rear cover 4200 can be coupled with the article 5000 disposed therebetween by engaging each of the rear cover coupling tabs in their respective front cover coupling slots.

[0037]

[0040] The capsule 4000’ can be configured to receive, accommodate, and hold one or more articles for transport, storage, display, and preservation from the environment. For example, the configuration of the capsule can enable the accommodation of articles such as single-issue comic books. Typically, a comic book has dimensions within a range of approximately 257 millimeters (mm) (about 10-1 / 8 inches) in height, 168 mm (about 6-5 / 8 inches) in width (×), and about 1 to 5 mm in thickness. Articles that are graphic novels, individual issue listings, or “large paperbacks” may have, for example, heights within a range of about 6-5 / 8 to 6-3 / 4, widths within a range of about 10.25 to 10-3 / 8 inches, and thicknesses within a range of about 5 to 30 mm. Articles that are comic books in magazine format may have heights within a range of about 11 inches, widths within a range of about 8-1 / 2 to 8-3 / 4 inches, and thicknesses within a range of about 5 to 30 mm. Articles that are comic books from the Golden, Silver, or Bronze Age may have heights within a range of about 10-3 / 8 to 10-1 / 2 inches, widths within a range of about 6-3 / 4 to 7-3 / 4 inches, and thicknesses within a range of about 1 to 15 millimeters. Articles that are manga may have heights within a range of about 7.17 to 8.2 inches, widths within a range of about 5 to 5.83 inches, and thicknesses within a range of about 5 to 30 mm.

[0038]

[0041] In some examples, the capsule 4000’ is sized to accommodate articles up to 280 cm × 217 cm. The amount of space between the edge of the article and the inner edge of the capsule can be selected to limit movement of the article while still providing ease of retrieval or removal of the article. In some examples, each peripheral edge of the article can be spaced from the inner edge of the capsule by 1 mm to about 50 mm, such as about 1 mm to about 40 mm, such as about 1 mm to about 30 mm, such as about 1 mm to about 25 mm, such as about 1 mm to about 20 mm, such as about 1 mm to about 15 mm, such as about 1 mm to about 10 mm, such as about 1 mm to 5 mm, etc., or by about 5 mm to about 10 mm.

[0039]

[0042] The article may be in the form of other types of collectibles. For example, the article may be in the form of banknotes or "paper" currency. As another example, the article may be in the form of other types of collectibles such as bonds or stocks or magazines or photos. In another example, the article is a vinyl record. In the example of a vinyl record, the case may have dimensions of 12.375×12.375 inches and a thickness of 4 - 6 mm (for a 12” vinyl record). 10.375×10.375 inches and a thickness of 4 - 6 mm may similarly be used for a 10” vinyl record, and 7.375×7.375 inches and a thickness of 4 - 6 mm may similarly be used for a 7” vinyl record.

[0040]

[0043] The components of the capsule include one or more materials having several useful properties. The materials are lightweight and the capsule has a weight of only a few ounces. The materials are strong so that the capsule can withstand transportation, stacking, and general rough handling. The components of the capsule are rigid but have sufficient flexibility under weak forces such as those caused by hand, so as to sufficiently cause the frictional coupling and separation of the connectors without breaking the base components. The capsule is overall robust and long - lasting, and thus the capsule is intended for use (and the possibility of reuse) over several years. Materials useful for forming the components of the capsule may include, but are not limited to, polymers such as thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU), polycarbonate (PC), polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA), poly(vinyl chloride) (PVC), polystyrene (PS), polyethylene terephthalate glycol (PETG), polypropylene, and combinations thereof.

[0041]

[0044] In one or more embodiments, which may be combined with other embodiments, the front cover is made of a material that is uniformly substantially transparent. "Transparent" generally means that in a material through which an object on the opposite side of the material is being observed, all or substantially all of the light passes through the material and is uniformly distributed throughout the material in a single or narrow range of refractive index values toward the object being observed. For the purposes of this application, a "substantially transparent" material, such as the front cover, means that at least 90% of the light directed toward the object being viewed passes through the material, is not reflected, and passes through the material uniformly according to a single or narrow range of refractive indices, i.e., generally according to Snell's law. "Uniform" means that the single or narrow range of refractive index values is the same regardless of how the material is used. The transparency of the material results in the observer being able to view the sharp contrast of the lines and edges of an object located on the opposite side of the material and visible through the material without distorting it. In one or more embodiments, which may be combined with other embodiments, the substantially transparent material allows at least about 90% of the light, for example, in the range from at least about 90%, 91%, 92%, 93%, 94%, 95%, 96%, 97%, 98%, 99%, 99.9%, 99.99%, 99.999%, and 99.9999% to about 100% to pass through the material.

[0042]

[0045] Although the front cover herein has been described as being completely transparent, other alternatives are contemplated, such as surface texture, translucent (i.e., blurred) portions, or coloring.

[0043]

[0046] The front cover may be made of a material that is uniformly substantially transparent, but in one or more embodiments, which may be combined with other embodiments, the transparent material is colorless. That is, a colorless material further does not include a light absorption element that generates a hue, shade, tone, or coloration in response to exposure to broadband spectral light. A material that is uniformly substantially transparent is understood to be "optically transparent."

[0044]

[0047] The front cover may be made of a material that is uniformly substantially transparent and uncolored, but in one or more embodiments, which may be combined with other embodiments, the transparent material is not light transmissive. "Light transmissive" generally means that in a material through which an object on the opposite side of the material is being observed, all or substantially all of the light passes through the material towards the object being observed, but there are various refractive index values that are distributed throughout the material. There are variable and non-narrow ranges of refractive index values, whereby the observer obtains a blurred, unclear, and distorted view of the object located on the opposite side of the material and visible through the material. Since the light is scattered widely as it passes through the material and returns to the observer at an angle different from the angle of incidence of the light wave, the view formed by the object appears very different from the true configuration of the object. In one or more embodiments, which may be combined with other embodiments, a substantially light transmissive material enables at least about 90% of the light, for example, in the range from about 90%, 91%, 92%, 93%, 94%, 95%, 96%, 97%, 98%, 99%, 99.9%, 99.99%, 99.999%, and 99.9999% to about 100% to pass through the material.

[0045]

[0048] In one or more embodiments, which may be combined with other embodiments, the sidewalls of the front cover are light transmissive. In one or more embodiments, which may be combined with other embodiments, the rear wall of the front cover is light transmissive.

[0046]

[0049] In one or more embodiments, which may be combined with other embodiments, the back cover includes the same material as that included in the front cover. In one or more embodiments, which may be combined with other embodiments, the back cover includes a material different from that included in the front cover. The front cover can include materials that enhance optical quality, protection of the contained article, and rigidity, while the back cover withstands repeated use for securing the back cover to the front cover, including resilience in repeated but limited movement of the back flap and hinge, and allows deflection of the material when a weak force is applied by the user, such as the force applied by the user using a pair of thumbs to couple or separate the back flap.

[0047]

[0050] In one or more embodiments, which may be combined with other embodiments, the back cover includes a material that is uniformly substantially transparent. In one or more embodiments, which may be combined with other embodiments, the back cover includes a material that is substantially light-transmissive. In one or more embodiments, which may be combined with other embodiments, the back cover includes the same material as that included in the front cover.

[0048]

[0051] In one or more embodiments, which may be combined with other embodiments, the back cover is made of a colored material. In one or more embodiments, which may be combined with other embodiments, the back cover includes a single color. In one or more embodiments, which may be combined with other embodiments, the back flap is made of a colored material and the remainder of the back cover is made of an uncolored material. In some such examples, the back flap and the upper wall are made of the same material as the remainder of the back cover, but the back flap and the upper wall portion are dyed and the remainder of the back cover is not dyed.

[0049]

[0052] In some examples, optional additives, such as UV-A, UV-B, or UV-C filter compounds, or photo-activated tinting, etc., may be incorporated into the plastic to protect the article.

[0050]

[0053] In one or more embodiments, which may be combined with other embodiments, the back cover is made of a translucent material, i.e., a material that allows light to pass through the material in the range of about 10 to 90%. In one or more embodiments, which may be combined with other embodiments, the back cover is made of a semi-translucent material, i.e., a material that allows light to pass through the material in the range of about 10 to 90%. In one or more embodiments, which may be combined with other embodiments, the back cover is made of a substantially opaque material, i.e., a material that allows light to pass through the material of less than about 10%. As will be understood by those skilled in the art, one or more other components of the sensor tag can be configured to include a structure using one, some, or all of the various forms of unit pouches, protective barriers, and sensor units described. Moreover, alternative configurations of the sensor tag are further contemplated and considered.

[0051]

[0054] Although this specification contains many details of specific embodiments, these should not be construed as limitations on the scope of the claims, but rather as descriptions of features that are likely to be specific to particular embodiments. Some of the features described herein in the context of separate embodiments may also be implemented in combination in a single embodiment. Conversely, the various features described in the context of a single embodiment may be implemented separately in multiple embodiments or in any suitable sub-combination. Furthermore, the above features are described as acting in some combinations and may even be initially claimed as such, but one or more features from the claimed combination may in some cases be excluded from that combination, and the claimed combination may be directed to a sub-combination or a variant of a sub-combination.

[0052]

[0055] Particular embodiments of the subject matter have been described. As will be apparent to those skilled in the art, other embodiments, variations, and permutations of the described embodiments lie within the scope of the following claims. Operations are presented in a particular order in the drawings or claims, but this is not to be construed as requiring that such operations be performed in the particular order shown or in a sequential order, or that all of the illustrated operations be performed (some operations may be considered optional). In certain circumstances, multitasking or parallel processing (or a combination of multitasking and parallel processing) may be advantageous and may be performed as deemed appropriate.

[0053]

[0056] Accordingly, the foregoing exemplary embodiments do not define or limit the present disclosure. Other changes, substitutions, and modifications are possible without departing from the spirit and scope of the present disclosure.

[0054]

[0057] Although various steps have been presented and described in sequence in the methods and processes of the embodiments, it will be understood by those skilled in the art that some or all of the steps may be performed in a different order, combined, or omitted, and some or all of the steps may be performed in parallel. The steps may be performed actively or passively. The method or process may be repeated or extended to support multiple components or multiple users within a field environment. Accordingly, the scope should not be considered limited to the specific configuration of steps shown in a flowchart or diagram.

[0055]

[0058] Unless otherwise defined, all technical and scientific terms used have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which these systems, devices, methods, processes, and compositions belong.

[0056]

[0059] The singular forms "a", "an", and "the" include plural referents unless the context clearly dictates otherwise. In the claims, references to elements in the singular are not intended to mean "one and only one" unless specifically stated otherwise, but rather "one or more". Unless otherwise specified, the term "some" refers to one or more.

[0057]

[0060] Embodiments of the present disclosure can suitably "comprise", "consist of", or "consist essentially of" the limiting features of the disclosure and can be practiced without the limiting features not disclosed. As used in this specification and the appended claims, the terms "comprise", "have", and "include", and all grammatical variations thereof, are each intended to have an open, non - limiting meaning that does not exclude additional elements or steps.

[0058]

[0061] "Optional" or "optionally" means that the subsequently described material, event, or circumstance may or may not be present or occur. The description includes both the case where the material, event, or circumstance occurs and the case where it does not occur.

[0059]

[0062] When used, the term "determining" encompasses a wide variety of actions. For example, "determining" can include calculating, computing, processing, deriving, investigating, searching (e.g., searching in a table, database, or another data structure), and verifying. Further, "determining" can include receiving (e.g., receiving information), accessing (e.g., accessing data in a memory). Further, "determining" can include solving, selecting, choosing, establishing.

[0060]

[0063] When the terms "about" or "approximately" are used, such terms can mean that there can be variations in value of up to ±10%, up to 5%, up to 2%, up to 1%, up to 0.5%, up to 0.1%, or up to 0.01%.

[0061]

[0064] A range can be expressed from one particular value with an approximation to another particular value with an approximation, including both ends. When such a range is represented, it should be understood that other embodiments are from one particular value to another particular value, together with all particular values within said range and combinations thereof.

[0062]

[0065] When used, terms such as "first" and "second" are arbitrarily assigned and are intended merely to distinguish between two or more components of a system, apparatus, or composition. It should be understood that the terms "first" and "second" are not for other purposes and are not part of the name or description of the components, and they do not necessarily define the relative location or position of the components. Further, it should be understood that the mere use of the terms "first" and "second" does not require the presence of any "third" component, although the possibility is contemplated within the scope of the various embodiments described.

[0063]

[0066] Although only a few exemplary embodiments have been described in detail, it will be readily understood by those skilled in the art that many modifications are possible in the exemplary embodiments without departing substantially from the scope of the disclosure as described. Accordingly, all such modifications are intended to be included within the scope of the disclosure as defined by the following claims. In the claims, the means-plus-function clauses are intended to cover not only the described structure for performing the recited function and structural equivalents thereof, but also equivalent structures. For example, nails and screws may not be structural equivalents in that a nail uses a cylindrical surface to fasten wooden parts together, while a screw uses a helical surface in an environment where wooden parts are fastened, but nails and screws may be equivalent structures in some cases. The applicant disclaims reliance on 35 U.S.C. § 112(f) for any limitation of any of the claims, except where the term "means for" is specifically used in a claim with an associated function.

[0064]

[0067] The following claims are not intended to be limiting of the provided embodiments, and the claims should be given the broadest scope consistent with the claim language and not inconsistent therewith.

Claims

1. A capsule comprising: a front cover having a front wall having a front wall top edge, a first side wall having a first side wall extension, a second side wall having a second side wall extension, and a bottom wall, wherein both the first side wall extension and the second side wall extension extend beyond the front wall top edge, and the front wall is made of a uniformly substantially transparent, non-translucent, uncolored material; a back cover coupled to the front cover, the back cover having a back wall and a top wall, the back wall including a recessed hinge, a portion of the back wall above the hinge and the top wall configured as a back flap, the front cover and the back cover coupled together defining a capsule interior; and Equipped with the front cover and the rear cover below the hinge are configured to be coupled together using associated coupling tabs and coupling slots; the front cover of each of the side wall extensions and the rear flap of the top wall are configured to be coupled together using a coupling nipple and an associated nipple recess; the capsule is configured such that an interior of the capsule is accessible when the rear flap of the top wall is separated from the front cover of each of the side wall extensions while the remaining portions of the front cover and the rear cover are coupled to one another below the hinge. capsule.

2. The capsule of claim 1 , wherein the rear flap of the top wall defines the mating nipple and the front cover of each of the side wall extensions defines the associated nipple recess.

3. The capsule of claim 1 , wherein the front cover of each of the side wall extensions defines the mating nipple and the rear flap of the top wall defines the associated nipple recess.

4. The capsule of claim 1 , wherein the top wall further defines a bulge.

5. The capsule of claim 1 , wherein the front cover defines mating slots along the side walls and the bottom wall, and the rear cover defines associated mating tabs.

6. The capsule of claim 1 , wherein the front cover defines mating slots along the side walls and the front wall, and the rear cover defines associated mating tabs.

7. The capsule of claim 1 , wherein the sidewall is optically transparent.

8. 10. The capsule of claim 1, wherein the bottom wall is optically transparent.

9. The capsule of claim 1 , wherein the rear cover is translucent.

10. The capsule of claim 1 , wherein the rear cover is translucent.

11. The capsule of claim 1 , wherein the rear cover is opaque.

12. 2. The capsule of claim 1, wherein the rear flap is made of a colored material and the remaining portion of the rear cover is made of an uncolored material.

13. The capsule of claim 1 , wherein the front cover and the back cover are made of the same material.

14. A capsule comprising: a front cover having a front wall having a front wall top edge, a first side wall having a first side wall extension, a second side wall having a second side wall extension, and a bottom wall, both the first side wall extension and the second side wall extension extending beyond the front wall top edge; a back cover coupled to the front cover, the back cover having a back wall and a top wall, the back wall including a recessed hinge, a portion of the back wall above the hinge and the top wall configured as a back flap, the front cover and the back cover coupled together defining a capsule interior; and Equipped with the front cover and the rear cover below the hinge are configured to be coupled together using associated coupling tabs and coupling slots; the front cover of each of the side wall extensions and the rear flap of the top wall are configured to be coupled together; the capsule is configured such that an interior of the capsule is accessible when the rear flap of the top wall is separated from the front cover of each of the side wall extensions while the remaining portions of the front cover and the rear cover are coupled to one another below the hinge. capsule.

15. 15. The capsule of claim 14, wherein the sidewall is optically transmissive.

16. 15. The capsule of claim 14, wherein the bottom wall is optically transparent.

17. 15. The capsule of claim 14, wherein the rear cover is translucent.

18. 15. The capsule of claim 14, wherein the rear cover is translucent.

19. 15. The capsule of claim 14, wherein the rear cover is opaque.

20. 15. The capsule of claim 14, wherein the rear flap is made of a colored material and the remaining portion of the rear cover is made of an uncolored material.

Images