Laptop sleeve and locking mechanism

Abstract

A system for securing an electronic device includes a sleeve and a locking mechanism. The sleeve defines a pocket having a front wall, a back wall, side walls, and a bottom wall, and includes attachment areas on the front and back walls. The locking mechanism includes first and second locking members configured to interlock with one another to define a channel that receives an edge of the electronic device. The locking members include complementary interlocking geometries and connection features arranged to retain the locking members in an engaged configuration. The locking members are removably attachable to the sleeve by corresponding attachment areas to secure the electronic device between the locking mechanism and the sleeve. The sleeve may be used as a stand-alone component, selectively installed within a bag, or integrally formed with a bag.

Description

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0001] This application claims priority to and the benefit of U.S. Patent Application No. 63 / 716,882, filed November 6, 2024, and entitled LAPTOP SLEEVE, the entire content of which is incorporated herein by reference.BACKGROUND1. Technical Field

[0002] The present disclosure relates generally to protective sleeves for electronic devices.2. The Relevant Technology

[0003] Protective sleeves are commonly used to store and transport electronic devices such as laptop computers, tablets, and e-readers. Existing sleeves typically rely on zippers, flaps, or magnetic closures to contain the device within the sleeve. While effective, these solutions can restrict device access, add bulk, or fail to adequately secure devices of different sizes.

[0004] There is a need for a sleeve system that allows for quick insertion and removal of electronic devices, accommodates a range of device sizes and thicknesses, and provides reliable retention through a locking mechanism that can be repositioned or adapted to various sleeve configurations. The present disclosure satisfies these needs and provides additional benefits.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0005] To further clarify the above and other advantages and features of the present invention, a more particular description of the invention will be rendered by reference to specific embodiments thereof which are illustrated in the appended drawings. It is appreciated that these drawings depict only illustrated embodiments of the invention and are therefore not to be considered limiting of its scope. The invention will be described and explained with additional specificity and detail through the use of the accompanying drawings in which:

[0006] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of an electronic device sleeve.

[0007] FIG. 2 is a side view of the sleeve.

[0008] FIG. 3 shows perspective views of a first and second locking members disconnected from one another.

[0009] FIG. 4 shows a perspective view of the first and second locking members secured to one another.

[0010] FIG. 5A shows a side view of the first locking member.

[0011] FIG. 5B shows a side view of the second locking member.

[0012] FIG. 5C shows a side view of the first and second locking members connected together and forming a channel.

[0013] FIG. 6A shows the connected first and second locking members being positioned on an edge of an electronic device.

[0014] FIG. 6B shows the electronic device and the connected first and second locking members being positioned within the sleeve.

[0015] FIG. 6C shows attachment areas on the sleeve being attached to the first and second locking members.

[0016] FIG. 7 shows a perspective view of the sleeve with the first and second locking members attached to the attachment areas.

[0017] FIG. 8 shows a side view of the sleeve with the first and second locking members being disconnected from each other and the electronic device being removed from the sleeve between the locking members.DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0018] The present disclosure relates to a protective sleeve system designed to securely hold an electronic device in place while still allowing quick and easy removal of the device. In general, the system combines a protective sleeve with a unique two-part locking mechanism that grips the device and anchors it inside the sleeve. This locking feature prevents the device from slipping out or falling, even if the sleeve is jostled or inverted, yet a user can readily release the lock to remove the device when needed. The sleeve provides a durable enclosure around the device for physical protection, and the locking mechanism ensures the device remains held at a desired position within the sleeve until intentionally removed.

[0019] FIGS. 1 and 2 illustrate an exemplary protective sleeve 100 for an electronic device. The sleeve 100 has a generally rectangular shape with a back wall 102 and a front wall 108, which are connected along their edges by side walls 114 and a bottom wall 116. Together, these walls define an interior compartment sized to receive an electronic device (such as a tablet, e-reader, or laptop). The top side of the sleeve is open, allowing the device to be inserted and removed. The various walls 102, 108, 114, 116 may be made of protective materials (for example, padded fabric or rigid plastic) to shield the device from scratches, bumps, and other impacts during transport.

[0020] On the interior surfaces of the sleeve’s back and front walls 102, 108, there are designated lock mechanism attachment areas. Specifically, the back wall 102 includes a lock mechanism attachment area 104, and the front wall 108 includes a corresponding lock mechanism attachment area 110. These areas 104, 110 are sections of the sleeve where the two-part locking mechanism will be secured. Each attachment area contains one or more securing features that facilitate attachment. For instance, the back wall’s attachment area 104 has securing features 106, and the front wall’s attachment area 110 has securing features 112. These securing features 106, 112 can be, for example, strips or patches of hook-and-loop fastener (such as Velcro®), magnets embedded in or attached to the wall material, snap fasteners, or other types of connectors. In the illustrated embodiment, the securing features are positioned such that the locking mechanism can adhere or latch onto both the front and back walls from the inside. By incorporating these attachment areas 104, 110 with compatible securing features 106, 112, the sleeve 100 is prepared to receive the locking mechanism and hold it firmly in place. The result is a sleeve that not only envelopes the device for protection but also includes built-in means to lock the device inside and prevent unintended removal.

[0021] Referring now to FIGS. 3 through 5B, the system further includes the lock mechanism 120 that secures the device within the sleeve. The lock mechanism 120 is a detachable two-part clamp that can attach to the sleeve’s interior via the aforementioned securing features. The lock mechanism 120 includes two complementary halves that interlock with each other around the edge of the electronic device. For clarity, these halves will be referred to as the first locking member or first half 122 and the second locking member or second half 142 of the lock mechanism.

[0022] The first half 122 of the lock mechanism 120 includes a generally flat substrate 124 (a base structure), which has a front face 126 and an opposite rear face 128. The substrate 124 may be a rigid or semi-rigid plate made of plastic, metal, or other sturdy material, optionally with a cushioned coating (e.g. foam or rubber) to protect the device’s surface. On the front face 126 of this first half, the lock mechanism is provided with one or more securing features 130. These securing features 130 are designed to engage with complementary features on the second half 142. In one embodiment, the securing features 130 on the front face include specialized locking geometry features 132 that help mechanically interlock the two halves. For example, the locking geometry features 132 may comprise a first projection 134 and a second projection 136 that protrude from the front face 126 of substrate 124. These two projections extend outward by different amounts (i.e., one extends farther than the other), and are arranged so that together they form a generally L-shaped profile or hook-like shape. The purpose of this configuration is to create a physical interlock. For instance, when the two halves of the lock come together, the projections 134 and 136 on the first half will fit into corresponding recesses or spaces on the second half, preventing the halves from sliding apart. In the illustrated design, at least one of these projections contains or carries a magnet 138. The magnet 138 is positioned so that it will attract a corresponding magnet or metal element on the second half 142, thereby helping to hold the two halves tightly together when the lock is closed. In alternative embodiments, both projections 134 and 136 could include magnets for an even stronger magnetic hold. In still other embodiments, magnets might be replaced or supplemented by other securing elements such as interlocking tabs, clips, or hook-and-loop material.

[0023] The rear face 128 of the first half 122 may include its own securing features 140. These rear-face securing features 140 are intended to attach to the sleeve’s front wall 108 (specifically to the securing features 112 on the sleeve’s front attachment area 110). For example, the rear face 128 might have a patch of hook-and-loop fastener that can attach to the hook-and-loop material of the attachment area 110. Alternatively, the rear face 128 may have a metallic plate that can magnetically stick to a magnetic in the front wall 108. Thus, the first half 122 is designed both to interlock with the second half 142 and to attach to the inside of the front wall of the sleeve.

[0024] The second half 142 of the locking mechanism is constructed in a complementary manner to the first half. It includes its own substrate 144 with a front face 146 and a rear face 148. Like the first half, the substrate 144 can be a plate or block made of durable material (optionally with cushioning) that aligns with the first half when the lock is closed. On the front face 146 of the second half, there are one or more securing features 150, which include corresponding locking geometry features 152. In particular, the front face 146 of second half 142 has a first projection 154 and a second projection 156 extending from it, arranged at different lengths much like the projections on the first half. These projections 154, 156 also form a generally L-shaped configuration or other interlocking shape and are positioned to complement the shape of projections 134, 136 on the first half. In other words, the protrusions on each half are designed so that when the two halves face each other, the projection(s) of one half can nest into the gap or notch created by the projection(s) of the other half. This complementary geometry 132, 152 ensures that the first and second halves 122, 142 will mate or nest together securely as shown in FIGS. 4 and 5C. At least one of the projections 154 or 156 on the second half contains a magnet 158 positioned to align with the magnet 138 of the first half when the lock is closed. The mutual attraction of magnets 138 and 158 (or a magnet to metal, depending on design) draws the halves together and helps keep them from separating unintentionally. As with the first half, both projections 154, 156 could include magnets in some designs for extra holding power, or alternative fastening means (such as a pair of interlocking snap-fit parts or hook-and-loop patches) could be used instead of magnets.

[0025] The rear face 148 of the second half 142 includes one or more securing features 160 for attaching to the sleeve’s back wall 102. For example, the rear face 148 may have a hook-and-loop fastener patch or a magnet that can connect to the corresponding securing features 106 on the sleeve’s back wall attachment area 104. The second half 142 is, thus, the counterpart to the first half and is designed to attach to the inside of the sleeve’s back wall while interlocking with the first half to clamp the device.

[0026] When the first half 122 and second half 142 of the locking mechanism are brought together in alignment, they can be selectively secured together to form a single assembled lock piece. FIGS. 4 and 5C show the two halves in their mated (interlocked) configuration. To close the lock, the halves 122, 142 are positioned with their front faces 126, 146 facing one another, and then pressed together. As noted above, the locking geometry features 132 on the first half and the locking geometry features 152 on the second half will engage each other during this action. In particular, the projection 134 of the first half slides into the space adjacent to projection 156 of the second half, and projection 154 of the second half fits next to projection 136 of the first half, creating an intertwined or nested L-shape configuration. This mechanical interlock prevents the halves from easily shifting out of alignment once joined. At the same time, magnet 138 on the first half and the magnet 158 on the second half attract each other, connecting the halves together with a secure hold. The combination of the magnetic attachment and the interlocking projection geometry holds the first half 122 and the second half 142 firmly together until a user deliberately pulls them apart. In essence, the two halves 122, 142 function as a clamp that can close around an object (the edge of the electronic device) and remain closed due to these securing features.

[0027] As the two halves come together, they cooperate to form a channel 162 therebetween, as shown in FIG. 5C. This channel 162 is essentially a slot or groove that runs along the interface of the two halves. It is bounded by the now-facing front face 126 of the first half and the front face 146 of the second half and by portions of the projections. The channel’s width and depth are configured to accommodate an edge of the electronic device 164. In other words, when the lock mechanism 120 is closed, it creates a clamping groove where you can insert one edge of the device 164. FIG. 6A depicts a side view of this arrangement. As shown, the electronic device 164 has one of its edges being inserted into the channel 162 of the assembled lock mechanism 120. The lock mechanism, in effect, grips the device’s edge. In use, a person would slide the lock mechanism 120 onto the device’s edge (for example, the top edge of a tablet or laptop) so that the edge is at least partially seated inside this channel 162. The design of the channel can ensure that the lock remains attached to the device’s edge and moves with the device as a single unit. The interior surfaces of the channel may be padded or textured (for example, with rubber or foam liners as mentioned) to both protect the device’s finish and increase friction, helping the lock mechanism stay in place on the device’s edge without slipping off. At this stage (as shown in FIG. 6A), the two halves 122 and 142 are clamped together on the device itself, effectively acting as a removable clip on the device’s edge.

[0028] Once the lock mechanism 120 is attached to the electronic device 164 (clamped onto its edge as described above), the device can be secured into the sleeve 100. FIG. 6B shows the device insertion step. With the top side of the protective sleeve 100 open, the user inserts the electronic device 164 (with the lock attached to it) into the interior compartment of the sleeve. The device is slid down between the front wall 108 and back wall 102 of the sleeve until it rests against the bottom wall 116. At this point, the device 164 is mostly inside the sleeve, with only the upper edge (to which the lock mechanism is affixed) remaining near the sleeve’s open top. Because the lock mechanism 120 is gripping the device’s top edge, it is now positioned adjacent to the attachments areas 104, 110 on the sleeve.

[0029] The next step is to anchor the lock mechanism 120 to the sleeve 100, thereby locking the device in place inside the sleeve. FIG. 6C illustrates this locking action. The user presses each half of the lock mechanism against the corresponding interior surfaces of the sleeve’s front and back walls. More specifically, the second half 142 (which is on the side of the device facing the sleeve’s back wall 102) is pressed into contact with the back wall’s lock attachment area 104. The securing features 160 on the rear face 148 of the second half engage with the mating securing features 106 on the sleeve’s back wall 102. For example, if these securing features are hook-and-loop fasteners, this pressing action causes them to connect (the hooks catch the loops, securing the lock to the wall). If magnets are used, the magnet on the lock’s rear face 148 will snap to a metal plate or a magnet embedded at the attachment area 104. On the opposite side, the first half 122 of the lock (on the side of the device facing the sleeve’s front wall 108) is pressed against the front wall’s attachment area 110. The securing features 140 on the rear face 128 of the first half engage with the corresponding securing features 112 on the sleeve’s front wall. In this manner, the lock mechanism 120 becomes affixed to both the front wall 108 and back wall 102 of the sleeve. Essentially, the two halves of the lock, already clamped around the device’s edge, now latch onto the interior of the sleeve’s walls, effectively bridging the gap between the front and back walls at the top of the sleeve.

[0030] By attaching the lock mechanism 120 at an appropriate position along the sleeve’s interior, the electronic device 164 is captured securely between the lock mechanism at the top and the bottom wall 116 of the sleeve. The position at which the lock is attached can be adjusted depending on the device’s size or thickness, but the goal may be to place it such that there is minimal slack (e.g., the device cannot shift vertically). The lock mechanism 120 holds the device down against the bottom wall 116, preventing it from bouncing or sliding out if the sleeve is turned upside down or shaken.

[0031] FIG. 7 shows a perspective view of the fully assembled system (without the electronic device 164 is inside the sleeve 100). As shown, the lock mechanism 120 is attached to both the front and back walls 110, 104 near the top opening of the sleeve. In this locked configuration, the device can be essentially immobilized within the sleeve. The front wall 108 and back wall 102 are held together by the lock mechanism at the top, acting like a clamp that closes the mouth of the sleeve. This ensures the device will not accidentally slip out of the sleeve during transport. At the same time, whenever the user wishes to access the device, they can do so by intentionally disengaging the lock mechanism as described next.

[0032] FIG. 8 illustrates how the user can remove the electronic device 164 from the protective sleeve 100 when the lock mechanism 120 is in place. The two halves 122 and 142 of the lock mechanism may be selectively disconnected from each other. The lock is designed so that a user can grasp the first half 122 and the second half 142 and pull them apart with a moderate amount of force. The magnets 138, 158 (or other securing features 130, 150 holding the halves together) are strong enough to keep the lock closed during normal use, but they will release when a user deliberately separates the halves. By pulling the halves apart, the user effectively opens the clamp, undoing the interlocking connection of projections and overcoming the magnetic attraction or hook-and-loop bond between the halves. Once the first half 122 and the second half 142 are separated, they no longer bridge the front and back walls of the sleeve. This allows the sleeve’s front wall 108 to flex or move away from the back wall 102, creating a wider gap at the top of the sleeve.

[0033] With the lock mechanism open and the front wall 108 no longer secured to the back wall, the user can easily lift the electronic device 164 out of the sleeve’s interior. As shown in FIG. 8, the device 164 can be pulled out between the now-separated halves 122 and 142. The securing features that held the lock closed (features 130 on the first half and 150 on the second half, including magnets or Velcro, etc.) are designed to hold firmly during normal handling yet yield when a user intentionally applies separating force. This way, the system achieves a balance between security and accessibility. The device will fall out on its own, but the owner can conveniently open the lock and retrieve the device without needing any special tools or excessive effort. Thereafter, the device may be reinserted into the sleeve and the lock may be secured around the device by securing the first half and the second half together again.

[0034] The protective sleeve system described above can be adapted or varied in a number of ways without departing from the core invention. For instance, while the figures depict a sleeve sized for a particular electronic device 164, the interior compartment defined by back wall 102, front wall 108, side walls 114, and bottom wall 116 can be dimensioned differently to accommodate various device sizes and types. A variety of electronics, such as tablets, e-readers, laptops of different dimensions, or even other items beyond electronic gadgets, can be secured using this system, provided the sleeve and lock mechanism are configured to that item’s size. The sleeve’s walls themselves add a layer of protection (cushioning and / or structural support) to the device, guarding it against impacts or scratches. The materials for the sleeve can range from padded fabrics and leathers to molded polymers, as long as they provide the needed strength and protection.

[0035] Regarding the securing features (106, 112 on the sleeve and 130, 140, 150, 160 on the lock mechanism), the examples given (hook-and-loop fasteners and magnets) are just one set of options. Any suitable fastening technology that allows two components to be reversibly attached could be used. For example, snaps (metal or plastic snap buttons) could be placed on the lock halves and sleeve walls to secure the lock in place. Buckles or straps could be used to cinch the front and back walls together. Button mechanisms, hooks, or latch clips could likewise serve to secure the lock to the sleeve or the halves to each other. The choice of securing features may depend on the desired balance of security vs. ease-of-use, the materials of construction, and manufacturing considerations. Importantly, whatever mechanism is used should allow the first and second halves 122, 142 to selectively connect and disconnect both from each other and from the sleeve’s attachment areas. Magnets and hook-and-loop materials are advantageous in that they allow very quick attachment and detachment without precise alignment, which can be very user-friendly. However, other mechanisms might provide stronger locks or more tactile feedback, and could be used in alternate embodiments.

[0036] The materials and construction of the lock mechanism 120 can also be varied. In some embodiments, the first and second halves 122, 142 may be made of a lightweight metal or a durable plastic. They could be solid or hollow, and they might include a foam or rubber coating or insert. For example, a thin layer of rubber on the inner surfaces of the channel 162 (where it contacts the electronic device 164) can improve grip and cushioning, protecting the device from any scratches and ensuring a snug fit. The outer surfaces of the lock halves (such as rear faces 128 and 148) could also have padding so as not to damage the sleeve’s interior or to provide additional friction. Moreover, while the illustrated locking geometry features 132, 152 use a generally L-shaped projection pair to create the interlocking interface, this shape is only one exemplary configuration. Any complementary shape or set of structures that cause the two halves to mechanically engage can be used. For instance, the projections could be T-shaped, dovetail-shaped, or have hook and groove profiles, as long as one half fits into the other in a way that resists shear (sliding) and tensile (pull-apart) forces when closed. The design could even employ multiple smaller interlocking pegs and sockets instead of a single L-shaped pair. The magnet(s) could be replaced with a spring latch, a twist-lock, or other quick-release mechanisms. All such variations are contemplated as part of the invention, so that the end result remains a sleeve system that securely holds an electronic device via an integrated locking feature but allows the user to easily unlock and access the device when desired.

[0037] In summary, this protective sleeve with a two-part locking mechanism provides a secure yet convenient way to carry electronic devices. The detailed embodiment described above, including the sleeve 100 with attachment areas 104 and 110 and the lock mechanism 120 with interlocking halves 122, 142, demonstrates how the device can be locked in place to prevent accidental removal. At the same time, the lock can be quickly released to retrieve the device, achieving a balance between protection and accessibility that is highly beneficial for device users on the go.

[0038] Following are some further example embodiments of the invention. These are presented only by way of example and are not intended to limit the scope of the invention in any way. Further, any example embodiment can be combined with one or more of the example embodiments.

[0039] Embodiment 1. A system for securing an electronic device, comprising: a sleeve having a back wall, a front wall, side walls, and a bottom wall collectively defining a pocket configured to receive the electronic device through an open end of the sleeve; a first attachment area disposed on the back wall; a second attachment area disposed on the front wall; and a locking mechanism comprising: a first locking member removably attachable to the first attachment area; and a second locking member removably attachable to the second attachment area, wherein the first and second locking members are configured to interlock with one another to define a channel sized to receive an edge portion of the electronic device, and wherein the locking members include complementary interlocking geometries and connection features arranged to retain the locking members in an engaged configuration so that the electronic device is held between the locking mechanism and the bottom wall of the sleeve.

[0040] Embodiment 2. The system of embodiment 1, wherein the first and second attachment areas each comprise a continuous panel of hook-and-loop fastener material.

[0041] Embodiment 3. The system of embodiment 1, wherein the connection features comprise magnets embedded within the locking members.

[0042] Embodiment 4. The system of embodiment 1, wherein the interlocking geometries are selected from the group consisting of L-shaped, dovetail, tongue-and-groove, stepped, and T-slot configurations.

[0043] Embodiment 5. The system of embodiment 1, wherein the locking mechanism is removably positionable along the sleeve to accommodate electronic devices of different sizes.

[0044] Embodiment 6. The system of embodiment 5, wherein the sleeve includes indexing features that cooperate with the locking mechanism to define discrete attachment positions along the sleeve.

[0045] Embodiment 7. The system of embodiment 1, wherein the locking mechanism is located adjacent a top edge of the sleeve when in use.

[0046] Embodiment 8. The system of embodiment 1, wherein the sleeve comprises a material that is at least one of fire-retardant, RFID-shielding, or cushioned to protect the electronic device.

[0047] Embodiment 9. The system of embodiment 1, wherein at least one of the locking members comprises a resilient polymer substrate, a rigid plastic substrate, or a layered composite of foam and plastic.

[0048] Embodiment 10. The system of embodiment 1, wherein the sleeve is (a) a stand-alone component, (b) selectively insertable into a carrying bag, or (c) integrally incorporated into a carrying bag.

[0049] Embodiment 11. A locking mechanism for securing an electronic device to a sleeve, comprising: a first locking member having a first locking geometry and a first connection feature; and a second locking member having a second locking geometry complementary to the first locking geometry and a second connection feature configured to cooperate with the first connection feature, wherein the first and second locking geometries interlock to define a channel configured to receive an edge portion of the electronic device; and wherein each of the first and second locking members includes an attachment surface configured for removable engagement with corresponding attachment areas on the sleeve.

[0050] Embodiment 12. The locking mechanism of embodiment 11, wherein the connection features comprise magnets.

[0051] Embodiment 13. The locking mechanism of embodiment 11, wherein the channel includes an inner surface having a compliant or low-friction layer.

[0052] Embodiment 14. The locking mechanism of embodiment 11, wherein the first and second connection features comprise complementary structures that align the locking members when engaged.

[0053] Embodiment 15. The locking mechanism of embodiment 11, wherein the first and second locking members are formed of rigid or semi-rigid molded material.

[0054] Embodiment 16. A method of securing an electronic device within a sleeve, comprising: positioning the electronic device within a pocket of the sleeve; interlocking a first locking member and a second locking member to define a channel sized to receive an edge of the electronic device; engaging the channel with the edge of the electronic device; and attaching the first and second locking members to corresponding attachment areas on opposite walls of the sleeve so that the electronic device is retained between the locking mechanism and a bottom wall of the sleeve.

[0055] Embodiment 17. The method of embodiment 16, wherein the step of interlocking comprises engaging complementary locking geometries and cooperating connection features.

[0056] Embodiment 18. The method of embodiment 16, further comprising repositioning the locking mechanism along the sleeve to accommodate electronic devices of different sizes.

[0057] Embodiment 19. The method of embodiment 16, wherein attaching the locking members comprises coupling hook-and-loop fasteners provided on the locking members and on the sleeve.

[0058] Embodiment 20. The method of embodiment 16, wherein the locking mechanism is positioned along a top, side, or bottom edge of the sleeve.

[0059] It will be understood that the present disclosure extends beyond the specific combinations of features illustrated and described in connection with the various particular embodiments disclosed herein. For instance, although a particular embodiment described herein may include a combination of multiple features, the present disclosure extends to embodiments that include one or more of the described features. Additionally, it will be understood that a feature described in connection with one embodiment may be incorporated into another embodiment without departing from the disclosure.

[0060] The terms “approximately,”“about,” and “substantially” as used herein represent an amount close to the stated amount that still performs a desired function or achieves a desired result. For example, the terms “approximately,”“about,” and “substantially” may refer to an amount that is within less than 10% of, within less than 5% of, within less than 1% of, within less than 0.1% of, and within less than 0.01% of a stated amount.

[0061] The present invention may be embodied in other specific forms without departing from its spirit or essential characteristics. The described embodiments are to be considered in all respects only as illustrative and not restrictive. The scope of the invention is, therefore, indicated by the appended claims rather than by the foregoing description. All changes which come within the meaning and range of equivalency of the claims are to be embraced within their scope.

Claims

1. A system for securing an electronic device, comprising: a sleeve having a back wall, a front wall, side walls, and a bottom wall collectively defining a pocket configured to receive the electronic device through an open end of the sleeve;a first attachment area disposed on the back wall;a second attachment area disposed on the front wall; anda locking mechanism comprising: a first locking member removably attachable to the first attachment area; anda second locking member removably attachable to the second attachment area,wherein the first and second locking members are configured to interlock with one another to define a channel sized to receive an edge portion of the electronic device, and wherein the locking members include complementary interlocking geometries and connection features arranged to retain the locking members in an engaged configuration so that the electronic device is held between the locking mechanism and the bottom wall of the sleeve.

2. The system of claim 1, wherein the first and second attachment areas each comprise a continuous panel of hook-and-loop fastener material.

3. The system of claim 1, wherein the connection features comprise magnets embedded within the locking members.

4. The system of claim 1, wherein the interlocking geometries are selected from the group consisting of L-shaped, dovetail, tongue-and-groove, stepped, and T-slot configurations.

5. The system of claim 1, wherein the locking mechanism is removably positionable along the sleeve to accommodate electronic devices of different sizes.

6. The system of claim 5, wherein the sleeve includes indexing features that cooperate with the locking mechanism to define discrete attachment positions along the sleeve.

7. The system of claim 1, wherein the locking mechanism is located adjacent a top edge of the sleeve when in use.

8. The system of claim 1, wherein the sleeve comprises a material that is at least one of fire-retardant, RFID-shielding, or cushioned to protect the electronic device.

9. The system of claim 1, wherein at least one of the locking members comprises a resilient polymer substrate, a rigid plastic substrate, or a layered composite of foam and plastic.

10. The system of claim 1, wherein the sleeve is (a) a stand-alone component, (b) selectively insertable into a carrying bag, or (c) integrally incorporated into a carrying bag.

11. A locking mechanism for securing an electronic device to a sleeve, comprising: a first locking member having a first locking geometry and a first connection feature; anda second locking member having a second locking geometry complementary to the first locking geometry and a second connection feature configured to cooperate with the first connection feature,wherein the first and second locking geometries interlock to define a channel configured to receive an edge portion of the electronic device; andwherein each of the first and second locking members includes an attachment surface configured for removable engagement with corresponding attachment areas on the sleeve.

12. The locking mechanism of claim 11, wherein the connection features comprise magnets.

13. The locking mechanism of claim 11, wherein the channel includes an inner surface having a compliant or low-friction layer.

14. The locking mechanism of claim 11, wherein the first and second connection features comprise complementary structures that align the locking members when engaged.

15. The locking mechanism of claim 11, wherein the first and second locking members are formed of rigid or semi-rigid molded material.

16. A method of securing an electronic device within a sleeve, comprising: positioning the electronic device within a pocket of the sleeve;interlocking a first locking member and a second locking member of a locking mechanism to define a channel sized to receive an edge of the electronic device;engaging the channel with the edge of the electronic device; andattaching the first and second locking members to corresponding attachment areas on opposite walls of the sleeve so that the electronic device is retained between the locking mechanism and a bottom wall of the sleeve.

17. The method of claim 16, wherein interlocking comprises engaging complementary locking geometries and cooperating connection features.

18. The method of claim 16, further comprising repositioning the locking mechanism along the sleeve to accommodate electronic devices of different sizes.

19. The method of claim 16, wherein attaching the locking members comprises coupling hook-and-loop fasteners provided on the locking members and on the sleeve.

20. The method of claim 16, wherein the locking mechanism is positioned along a top, side, or bottom edge of the sleeve.

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