Protective case configured to protect via flexural bending of layers

Abstract

A protective phone case is disclosed, comprising at least one inner layer and at least one outer layer, wherein the layers are separated by one or more gaps configured to absorb shock through controlled bending and sliding rather than material compression. The inner layer, composed of semi-rigid or rigid material, deforms temporarily into the gap upon impact, reducing transmitted forces. Variations include wavy or undulating structures in the inner layer, multi-piece or multi-layer configurations, and structures that allow flattening and frictional dissipation. The case may incorporate acoustic tunnels to redirect speaker output and structural lips to protect camera lenses. The protective design offers greater rigidity and thinner construction than conventional cases, allowing reduced size and weight while preserving or enhancing shock absorption.

Description

[0001] Specification

[0002] Title: Protective Case Configured to Protect via Flexural Bending of Layers

[0003] This non-provisional patent application claims the benefit of provisional application 63 / 572,384, filed on April 09, 2024.

[0004] Technical Field

[0005] The present invention relates to a protective phone case, specifically designed to absorb shock and protect an electronic device using structural elements such as double-layered walls, air gaps, wavy structures, and semi-rigid or rigid materials.

[0006] Summary of the Invention

[0007] The invention provides a protective case for a portable object, featuring an inner and outer layer separated by at least one gap. The inner layer, made from a semi-rigid material, bends temporarily into the gap under impact, absorbing shock and reducing damage to the enclosed object. In some embodiments, the inner layer protrudes to form a squeezable space, or includes a wavy structure that flattens and dissipates energy through deformation and friction. The invention applies to various devices, including phones, key fobs, smartwatches, tablets, VR headsets, and wearable protective gear, and may be manufactured using 3D printing from digital models.

[0008] Brief Description of the Drawings

[0009] Fig. 1: General structure of the protective phone case.

[0010] Figs. 2-3: Cross-sectional view showing a cavity between inner and outer layers for shock absorption via flexural bending.

[0011] Fig. 4: Variant with a cut in the inner edge surface to enhance flexibility.

[0012] Fig. 5: Cross-section with improved corner geometry for optimized shock absorption.

[0013] Fig. 6: Two-piece design with unattached or fused components; inner wavy layer provides springlike absorption.

[0014] Fig. 7: Variation of Fig. 3 with cavity partially filled by material of same or different density.

[0015] Figs. 8-9: Variations of Fig. 7 showing different extensions of the lip and base surface.

[0016] Fig. 10: Three-piece design with smooth inner and outer layers and a wavy intermediate layer for enhanced absorption.

[0017] Figs. 11-17: Configurations showing dynamic wavy layers that adapts to distribute impact forces. Fig. 18: Cross-section of a sound channel that redirects speaker output toward the user or screen. Fig. 19: Cross-section showing a protective lens lip extending at least 0.5 mm over the edge of the lens glass.

[0018] Figs. 20: Cross-sections showing a gap between the outer layer and the enclosed device.

[0019] Fig. 21: Embodiment combining elements of Figs. 7 and 8.

[0020] Fig. 22: Case design with an elevated secondary outer layer to protect raised surfaces like a camera module.

[0021] Detailed Description of the Invention

[0022] A portion or all of a inner layer is made of a semi-rigid or rigid material with a flexural strength typically ranging from 12 MPa to above 29 MPa, depending on material and thickness. This value may vary based on the structure and thickness of the layer. The inner layer is designed to dynamically adjust, bend, or momentarily flatten to absorb shock. Softer variants may use materials rated 7-12 MPa.

[0023] Any embodiments explored here can have two layers connected directly or indirectly to provide enhanced protection. They also can be connected to one another by having a medium between them in the at least one gap between them. The connection can be detachable or permanently glued. A part of or a feature of any embodiments discussed or illustrated in any of the figure can be combined with any other embodiments discussed in this application. These features may be combined for optimized protection. The gap in any of the embodiments discussed — whether located between the outer layer and the electronic device, between the inner layer and the outer layer, between the inner layer and the electronic device, or among multiple inner layers — may also be structurally optimized by incorporating variations in volume, density, geometric patterns, or reinforcement structures.

[0024] Similarly, a portion or all of a outer layer is composed of a semi-rigid or rigid material with a flexural strength ideally in the range of 12-17 MPa, 17—29 MPa, or greater than 29 MPa. This can also vary based on the structure and thickness. The outer layer may bend or momentarily flatten under impact. Softer versions may range from 7-12 MPa, while premium configurations may include outer layers with flexural strength from l- l MPa, 47-97 MPa, or above.

[0025] As shown in Embodiment 100, the protective case includes an outer layer (101) that protects the bottom of the electronic device. A secondary layer (103) protrudes from the outer layer, adding reinforcement and potentially improving grip. To ease insertion and removal of the device, a slit (111) can be positioned at one or more corners. The case may include a single slit or multiple slits in one, two, three, or all four corners. In Figure 2, the outer layer is labeled 201, the inner layer 203, and the gap between them 202. At least one slit is labeled 211, with two slits illustrated in this embodiment. These slits enhance flexibility to allow device insertion and removal without compromising structural integrity.

[0026] The embodiment illustrated in Figure 3 features an outer layer designated as 301, an inner layer designated as 303, and a space or gap between the outer and inner layers designated as 302. The first arrow, positioned at the top of region 302, indicates the space between the inner layer of the flap and the outer layer of the flap. The central arrow pointing to region 302 illustrates the gap between the outer layer 301 and the inner layer 303 in the edge area, where the edge area refers to the four sides and corners of the electronic device positioned between the top surface and the bottom surface, with the top surface generally including the display. The third arrow, located at the bottom and also pointing to region 302, identifies the gap between the outer layer of the base and the inner layer of the base, which serves to protect the bottom surface of the electronic device.

[0027] The embodiment depicted in Figure 4 includes an outer layer designated as 401 and an inner layer designated as 403. The gap between the inner and outer layers is identified as 402. A slit that facilitates easy installation and removal of the electronic device is marked as 411. Additionally, a horizontal slit located within the inner layer 403 is marked as 404, extending laterally across the structure. The horizontal slit 404 enhances flexibility, which may be desirable depending on the intended design characteristics of the case. In certain embodiments, the horizontal slit 404 also enables post- manufacturing processes, such as the removal of soluble materials used during fabrication.

[0028] The embodiment illustrated in Figure 5 features an outer layer designated as 501 at the base of the protective case. The outer layer 501 is also present along the middle section, designated as edge section, and continues to the top portion, where it is identified by a top arrow indicating its coverage around the top surface of the electronic device. In this region, the outer layer 501 provides protection to the area surrounding the display. The outer layer then transitions and forms the inner layer at the top, designated as 503. This inner layer 503 extends from the top flap area, down through the edge area, and continues to the bottom area of the electronic device. The gap between the inner layer 503 and the electronic device, which facilitates cushioning and secure fitting, is marked as 505. The gap between the inner layer 503 and the outer layer 501 is marked as 502. The electronic device itself is marked as 512.

[0029] Figure 6 illustrates a cross-sectional view of a phone case according to another embodiment. The case includes an outer layer 701, serving as the primary structural and impact-resistant shell. Protruding inward from the outer layer 701 is a inner layer 703, which extends toward the electronic device. A gap 702 is defined between the inner layer 703 and the outer layer 701, which may be filled with air or another material to enhance shock absorption. Additionally, a other gap 705 is present between the inner layer 703 and the surface of the cell phone device, offering further isolation and protection by accommodating shock, dimensional tolerances, or airflow between the case and the device.

[0030] Figure 7 illustrates various stresses that may be experienced by the inner layer of a phone case depending on the angle at which the phone is dropped. In Figure 821, the phone case is shown in an orientation where the force of impact is directed vertically downward, as indicated by the downward-pointing arrow. In this scenario, the inner layer 825, which is a inner layer disposed within the case, is compressed upon impact and deformed, as illustrated by the compressed configuration labeled 826. Figure 822 depicts a drop impact where the force is applied

[0031] Figure 8 illustrates cross-sectional view of bumper case with electronics device within, which illustrates 904 as gap, 906 as outer layer, 905 as a inner layer that protrudes from outer layer 906. 901 shows forces inner layer may experience when dropped sideways on side one of the four sides between display and bottom layer. 902 illustrate force with red arrow when phone is dropped downward with display upward on ground. 903 illustrate force's direction on a lip surrounding to the display when phone drops upside down with display facing downward.

[0032] Figure 9 illustrates cross-sectional view of two-piece bumper case design with electronics device within marked as 1012. Outer layer of protective case marked as 1001. Inner layer, second piece of two-piece design marked as 1003. Gap between outer layer and inner layer marked as 1002. Gap between electronic device and inner layer marked as 1005. During a drop, the inner and the outer layer both goes under flexural strength, bends, and absorb shocks, and soften the shock to the device within. In modified embodiment, the outer layer 1001 and the inner layer 1002 may be fused or glued or secured together directly or through an another medium in between. In fig. 10, the outer layer 1001 and the inner layer are marked 1075 where they may be connected to provide specific purpose or type of shock protection. The inner layer and the outer layer can also be connected by having a softer material in gap between them fusing both to one another.

[0033] Figure 10 illustrates slightly different embodiment of figure 10. In this figure, the outer layer 1001 does not protrude all the way touching the electronic device on its edges, but starts and ends on outer layer 1103. The inner layer is marked as 1103. The gap between inner layer and outer layer is marked as 1102. The gap between inner layer and electronic device 1112 is marked as 1105. The gap between inner layer 1103 and electronic device 1112 is marked as 1105. Both the inner layer and the outer layer may be fused with one another by any method as marked as 1175 and / or at any other point. The inner layer and the outer layer can also be connected by having a softer material in gap between them fusing both to one another.

[0034] Figure- 11 illustrates slightly different embodiment of Figure- 11 and Figure- 10. In this one, the inner layer 1203 starts from touching the electronic device 1212 on top, but ends without touching on bottom layer of the bottom surface of the electronic device. In contrast, the outer layer 1201 starts from bottom touching the electronic device surface on bottom, and ends without touching the top surface of electronic device. And it ends on inner layer at the top. Both the inner layer and the outer layer may be fused with one another by any method as marked as 1275 and / or at any other point. The inner layer and the outer layer can also be connected by having a softer material in gap between them fusing both to one another.

[0035] Figure 12 illustrates a full-case protective design designed to provide substantial coverage to all four sides and the bottom layer of the electronic device 1312. In this embodiment, the outermost layer of the case is marked as 1301, forming the rigid structural boundary. The first inner layer, marked as 1303, is inside the outer layer, while a secondary inner layer, marked as 1306, is situated between the first inner layer and the electronic device. A gap 1302 is defined between the outer layer 1301 and the first inner layer 1303, and a second gap 1305 is located between the first inner layer 1303 and the secondary inner layer 1306. An additional gap 1307 is defined between the secondary inner layer 1306 and the surface of the electronic device 1312, allowing for isolated movement and energy dissipation. Notably, the first inner layer 1303 features a wavy or undulating structure along the bottom region of the case. The distance between two adjacent bottom peaks of this wavy structure is marked as 13151, while the actual length of the wavy layer measured along its curvature between the vertical lines marked as 1351 exceeds the straight-line distance between those points. This excess length allows the wavy layer to undergo a flattening deformation when subjected to bending stress during a drop impact. As the structure flattens, the wavy portion compresses and slides laterally within the space defined between the outer layer 1301 and the secondary inner layer 1306. This lateral motion introduces frictional resistance between the contacting surfaces, which contributes to the dissipation of impact energy. Accordingly, the wavy configuration not only softens the shock transferred to the electronic device 1312 through geometric deformation but also absorbs additional energy through friction generated during the sideways sliding of the flattened inner layer. Both the inner layer and the outer layer may be fused with one another at any point. The inner layer and the outer layer can also be connected by having a softer material in gap between them fusing both to one another. Both the first inner layer and the second inner layer may be fused with one another at any point. The first inner layer and the second inner layer can also be connected by having a softer material in gap between them fusing both to one another. Two or more of the outer layer, the first inner layer and the second layer may be fused with one another at any point. They can also be connected by having a softer material in gap between them fusing both to one another.

[0036] Figure 13 shows another embodiment where configuration has only outer layer marked as 1401 and inner layer marked as 1403. Inner layer 1403 is wavy shaped creating gap between inner layer and outer layer marked as 1402 and gap between inner layer and electronic device 1412 marked as 1405. Inner layer 1403 flattens and slides between electronic device and outer layer during drop and absorbs energy from resistance during sliding and bending of inner layer. It softens the shock transferred to electronic device within. Both the inner layer and the outer layer may be fused with one another at any point. The inner layer and the outer layer can also be connected by having a softer material in gap between them fusing both to one another.

[0037] Figure 14 illustrates another slightly different embodiment compared to the configuration shown in Figure 14, with the wavy structure of the inner layer 1603 designed in a modified form to introduce additional structural and protective features. The inner layer 1603 may take on various configurations that result in different geometric air gaps between the inner layer and the outer layer or between the inner layer and the electronic device. In this embodiment, the outer layer is marked as 1601, while the inner layer is marked as 1603. A gap 1602 lies between the inner layer and the outer layer, allowing for displacement and shock absorption during impact. The inner layer 1603 is also spaced from the electronic device, defining a gap 1605 providing a cushioning buffer. A larger cavity, gap 1610, can be formed between the outer layer 1601 and the electronic device to enhance spatial isolation. Additionally, a gap 1609 is located at the corner region surrounding the top surface of the electronic device. In this region, the inner layer extends to form a lip structure, also marked as 1609, which projects upward to surround and protect the edge of the display area. This lip serves as an impact barrier during face-down drops, preventing direct contact between the display surface and the ground. The variations in the wavy inner layer geometry and the these air gaps contribute to a multi-directional energy-dissipation mechanism that enhances overall drop protection for the electronic device. Figure 15 illustrates an embodiment in which a wavy inner layer is positioned around the perimeter of the electronic device, which is indicated by a dashed outline. The inner layer forms a continuous or semi-continuous wavy structure that surrounds the device, enhancing shock absorption during impact. The wavy structure is defined by a thickness W, which represents the effective vertical dimension of the wave peaks relative to the base surface. The material thickness of the wavy layer itself is marked as S. In this configuration, W, the total thickness created by the wavy geometry, is greater than 1.5 times the thickness of the rigid surface or base layer to which the structure is attached. This dimensional relationship allows the wavy inner layer to compress and flatten under mechanical stress during a drop, absorbing energy through geometric deformation. As the wave pattern flattens, it dissipates impact forces and softens the shock transmitted to the electronic device enclosed within, thereby enhancing protective performance.

[0038] Figure 16 illustrates an embodiment of a protective case design incorporating a multi-layer structure for enhanced impact absorption. In this configuration, the inner layer is marked as 1703, and the outer layer is marked as 1701. Positioned between the inner and outer layers are at least two middle layers, collectively marked as 1702. These middle layers can be composed of the same or different materials and are designed to introduce multiple interfaces and deformable zones within the case structure. A gap 1705 lies between the inner layer 1703 and the electronic device 1712, offering an isolation space that reduces direct force transmission. The middle layers 1702 are further characterized by air gaps between themselves and adjacent layers — whether outer, inner, or between one another. These gaps serve as buffer zones that compress or collapse upon impact when the device is dropped. As the case experiences external force, the layered structure allows for staged deformation, where the middle layers compress and the enclosed gaps are squeezed, thereby absorbing and dissipating energy through both material compression and displacement. This layered configuration softens the shock transferred to the electronic device 1712, reducing the likelihood of internal damage.

[0039] Figure 17 illustrates an embodiment of a protective case design that features a multi-piece inner layer structure for enhanced adaptability and shock absorption. In this configuration, the outermost structural shell is marked as 1801 and serves as the primary impact-resistant outer layer. The inner layer is divided into at least two separate components: a top inner layer piece marked as 1823 and a bottom inner layer piece marked as 1833. These inner layer segments are positioned to they interface with distinct regions of the electronic device 1812. A gap 1802 lies between either or both of the inner layer pieces (1823 and 1833) and the outer layer 1801, forming a deformable space to accommodate material displacement under impact. Additionally, a gap 1805 lies between the top and / or bottom inner layer segments and the electronic device 1812, offering clearance that allows the inner layer to flex, compress, or slide under shock, thereby softening the impact transmitted to the device. The use of multiple inner layer segments enables the design to manage directional forces more efficiently and target specific areas of the device with varied structural responses depending on the angle and location of impact.

[0040] Figure 18 illustrates a cross-sectional view of a sound-bending tunnel integrated within a protective case to redirect audio output from the loudspeaker, enhancing projection toward the user. Sound propagation is shown via two paths, 1916 and 1922. In the first path, audio exits the speaker and travels along 1916, encountering a sloped deflector surface that redirects the wave outward through a tunnel formed in the case. In the second path (1922), sound strikes a primary deflector at angle 1923 and is then reflected by a secondary inner deflector at angle 1924, guiding it outward. Structural surface 1932, positioned at 10-80 degrees to the exiting sound, is tuned to the case geometry and redirection path. In one embodiment, surface 1932 is angled 35-50 degrees to redirect sound between 70-100 degrees relative to the original emission direction, aiming audio more directly at the user. Deflection angles 1931 and 1924 may be varied to optimize acoustic redirection. This tunnel shifts the natural sideways or downward speaker trajectory toward the user, improving clarity and loudness while protecting the speaker port from environmental exposure. The embodiment may function independently or in combination with other features described herein and can be constructed using multiple layers engineered to redirect sound.

[0041] Figure 19 illustrates a protective case design with extended coverage over the camera lenses of an electronic device. The protective layer extends inward from the lens perimeter, partially overlapping each glass to form an overhanging edge that shields high-contact regions while leaving the optical center unobstructed. This minimizes scratches and degradation, enhancing clarity and prolonging lens life. Reference numerals 2010 and 2021 denote the widths of the first and second lenses; the protective overlaps 2011 and 2022 may be 0.5 mm, 1.0 mm, 1.5 mm, or more. Frame widths are shown as 2008 and 2009. These may vary between lenses to create a pressure-absorbing buffer zone. Reference numeral 2005 identifies an inner layer protruding from outer layer 2001, forming gap 2050. This gap may be empty or filled with material of varying density or flexural strength. The camera protection can reside on the inner layer, outer layer, or another layer in a multi-piece design. The protective layer may include a transparent element over the central lens or leave it open, depending on optical needs. This structure can function alone or in conjunction with other features discussed herein.

[0042] Figure 20 shows electronic device 2201 enclosed in a case with an outer layer 2205 that includes an opening on the bottom surface. This layer covers all sides and corners of electronic device 2101. The case defines a gap 2211 between outer layer 2205 and the top display-edge region, and a gap 2221 between outer layer 2105 and the bottom edge of device 2201. These gaps allow outer layer 2205 to flex and let the device 2201 slide within the space.

[0043] Figure 21 illustrates an electronic device 2301, a outer layer 2305, a inner layer 2310, 2311, and 2312, and a thickness variation 2320 of the outer layer 2305. As shown in Fig. 23, the inner layers marked as 2312 in this illustration have a first gap marked in orange between the inner layers 2312 and the outer layer 2305, wherein the gap in this setup is located above the inner layer 2312. A second gap, also marked in orange, is present between the inner layers 2311 and the outer layer 2305, wherein the gap in this setup is located below the inner layers 2311. A third pair of gaps, marked in orange, is present between the inner layers 2310 and the outer layer 2305, wherein the first of the pair of gaps in this setup is located above the inner layer 2310, and the second of the pair is located below the inner layer 2310. The inner layer must have an overhang that creates a void horizontally, vertically, in depth, or in any other direction allowing space for the inner layer to bend and compress to absorb shock during a drop and soften the impact for the electronic device. Another gap is marked as 2351 between the outer layer 2305 and the electronic device, providing space for the outer layer to bend and allows the electronic device 2301 to move at least partially into that gap during a drop at certain angles. During this movement, the angle of the inner surfaces marked as 2351 increases momentarily to provide additional space for the electronic device within that gap. Another gap is marked as 2352 between the outer layer 2305 and the electronic device, which also provides space for the outer layer to bend and allows the electronic device 2301 to move at least partially into that gap during a drop at certain angles. During this movement, the angle of the inner surfaces marked as 2352 increases momentarily to provide additional space for the electronic device within that gap. The gaps, in combination with the variation in thickness of the a outer layer 2305 marked as 2320, can also be implemented to provide enhanced protection. Reference numeral 2328 indicates a gap between the inner layer and the electronic device enclosed within. This gap provides the necessary space for the electronic device to shift during impact and allows the inner layer to flex and deform, thereby absorbing shock. Reference numeral 2355 represents an additional gap located between the outer layer and the electronic device within. Fig. 22 illustrates an embodiment featuring an opening adjacent to the bottom surface of the electronic device enclosed within. The case includes a button designed to transfer motion for operating the electronic device. Reference numeral 2405 denotes a outer layer. Reference numeral 2431 represents a secondary outer layer that forms a first peripheral wall surrounding the electronic device, and further includes a stepped wall structure including a second, higher step designed to provide protection to elevated surfaces of the electronic device, such as a camera module. The elevated structure may extend peripherally around the edges of the device and / or surround raised regions located away from the edges, including camera modules positioned at or near the center of the device’s rear surface. The stepped wall configuration enables impact protection without obstructing the functional areas of the elevated component. Reference numeral 2481 indicates a layer that extends inward over the camera lenses, offering protection with an additional structure without placing any material directly over the central lens viewing surface. Reference numeral 2441 identifies an opening aligned with the speaker, charging port, or other functional interface.

[0044] In another variation, the protective structure may include one or more small protrusions, such as pins, configured to maintain separation between the outer layer and the electronic device enclosed within. These pins or equivalent structural elements are designed to flex or deform upon impact, thereby absorbing shock and reducing the force transmitted to the electronic device during a drop event. The flexural strengths of the at least one inner layer, the at least one outer layer, the at least one channel for a speaker, the at least one camera lens protector, the at least one first inner layer, the at least one secondary inner layer, or any other layer incorporated in the construction of the electronic device, may fall within the following ranges: 6-9 MPa, 12-18 MPa, 22-28 MPa, 32- 38 MPa, 42-48 MPa, 52-58 MPa, 62-68 MPa, 72-78 MPa, 82-88 MPa, 92-108 MPa, 112-128 MPa, 132-148 MPa, 152-174 MPa, 176-198 MPa, 200 MPa or greater. In various embodiments, the inner layer maintains a 0.5-1 mm separation from the device.

[0045] The flexural modulus of the at least one inner layer, the at least one outer layer, the at least one channel for a speaker, the at least one camera lens protector, the at least one first inner layer, the at least one secondary inner layer, or any other layer incorporated in the construction of the electronic device, may fall within the following ranges: 6-50 MPa, 50-100 MPa, 100-200 MPa, 200-400 MPa, 400-800 MPa, 8OO-15OOMPa, 1500-2500 MPa 2500-5000 MPa, 1000-10000 MPa, 10000- 20000 MPa, 20000-40000 MPa, 40000-80000 MPa, 80000-160000 MPa, 160000 MPa or greater. In various embodiments, the inner layer maintains a 0.5-1 mm separation from the device. Elongation at break % should be less than 175-200, 150-174, 125-149, 100-124, 60-99, 30-59, 2-29, 0-2.

[0046] Shock Absorption by Sliding and Bending, with Minimal Compression: Unlike conventional soft- material cases (e.g., silicone) that primarily rely on squeezing or compression to absorb impact, this design emphasizes shock absorption through sliding and bending of structured layers.

[0047] Minimal Squeezing of Material: Impact forces are managed through controlled flexure (bending) and layer displacement (sliding), significantly reducing the need for thick, compressible materials. Greater Rigidity with Thinner Layers: The combination of material selection and structural configuration allows for a more rigid construction that still provides effective shock absorption, enabling the use of thinner layers without sacrificing protection.

[0048] Reduced Size and Weight:The case delivers superior impact protection while remaining substantially thinner and lighter than traditional cases made from soft, bulky materials.

[0049] Functional Efficiency Through Structure, Not Just Material: The design achieves high performance not by relying on ultra-soft materials, but by engineering the mechanical behavior of the layers themselves — such as bending and sliding — to absorb shock. Unlike soft-material cases, this design maintains structure and rigidity while providing effective impact absorption. The case may be adapted for electronic devices of varying geometries. In further embodiments, the protective structure may be applied to rugged communication devices used by military or police personnel, including body-worn radios, encrypted communication modules, and tactical headsets. It may also suit rugged devices for field use, maintaining protection and function. Applications span portable and wearable devices including phones, smart watches, earbuds, trackers, and VR headsets. The structure is also suitable for ruggedized communication devices used in military and law enforcement, including body-worn radios, encrypted communication modules, and tactical headsets. It also applies to protective gear like helmets and body armor, offering impact resistance and mobility.

Claims

AMENDED CLAIMS received by the International Bureau on 10 September 2025 (10.09.2025)Claims1. (currently amended) A protective case for a protected object, the case comprising: at least one inner layer, at least one gap, and at least one outer layer; wherein the at least one inner layer is composed of a material having a yield strength greater than 12 MPa and an elongation at break below 511%; wherein the at least one inner layer protrudes from the at least one outer layer, thereby forming the at least one gap, the at least one gap being: a) between the at least one outer layer and the at least one inner layer, b) between the at least one inner layer and the protected object, or c) both a) and b); wherein the at least one gap provides space for the at least one inner layer to bend temporarily in response to an external force, thereby forming a squeezable space that provides sufficient room for the inner layer to bend into during deformation, such that the gap acts as a dynamic shock-absorbing volume and protects the protected object enclosed therein.

2. (original) The protective case of claim 1, wherein the at least one gap is structurally optimized, comprising variations in volume density, patterns, or reinforcements, and wherein the gap is optionally partially or fully filled with a material configured to influence shock absorption characteristics.

3. (original) The protective case of claim 1, wherein at least a portion of the at least one inner layer overhangs relative to the at least one outer layer, forming a void that extends horizontally, vertically, or diagonally, such that the void provides additional space for the inner layer to flex or compress during impact.

4. (original) The protective case of claim 1, wherein a maximum thickness of the at least one gap is greater than a minimum thickness of at least one of the at least one inner layer or the at least one outer layer, or wherein the protective case comprises a secondary material having a yield strength greater than 7 MPa.

5. (original) The protective case of claim 1, wherein the protective case comprises two or more of the at least one inner layer, wherein at least one of the inner layers is configured to bend elastically and to slide in at least one direction under mechanical stress, such that the combination of the two or more inner layers enhances the shock absorption performance of the protective case.

6. (original) The protective case of claim 1, wherein the protected object is selected from the group consisting of a smartphone, a vehicle key fob, a smartwatch, a wireless earbud charging case, a GPS tracking tag, a handheld medical monitoring device, a handheld gaming controller, a smart home remote control, a virtual reality headset, a tablet, a portable computer, a handheld scanning device, a helmet, a protective body gear article including a safety vest used in military or law enforcement applications, and a military or police communication electronic device.

7. (original) A non-transitory computer-readable medium having stored thereon executable instructions configured to be used by a digital distribution platform to facilitate the distribution, sharing, or sale of a non-transitory computer-readable three-dimensional model of at least the at least one inner layer of the protective case of claim 1.

8. (original) The protective case of claim 1, wherein at least the at least one inner layer is fabricated by a 3D printing apparatus based on a non-transitory computer-readable model of the protective case.

9. (currently amended) A protective case for a protected object, the case comprising: at least one inner layer, at least one outer layer, and at least one gap; wherein the at least one inner layer is composed of a material having a yield strength greater than 12 MPa and an elongation at break below 511%; wherein the at least one gap is: a) between the at least one outer layer and the at least one inner layer, b) between the at least one inner layer and the protected object, or c) both a) and b); wherein the at least one gap provides space for the at least one inner layer to bend temporarily in response to an external force, thereby forming a squeezable space that provides sufficient room for the inner layer to bend into during deformation, such that the gap acts as a dynamic shock-absorbing volume and protects the protected object enclosed therein.

10. (original) The protective case of claim 9, wherein the at least one gap is structurally optimized, comprising variations in volume density, patterns, or reinforcements, and wherein the gap is optionally partially or fully filled with a material configured to influence shock absorption characteristics.

11. (original) The protective case of claim 9, wherein the at least one inner layer includes a wavy structure comprising alternating peaks and valleys, the wavy structure being configured to flatten under impact, thereby enhancing shock absorption through geometric deformation.

12. (original) The protective case of claim 9, wherein a maximum thickness of the at least one gap is greater than a minimum thickness of at least one of the at least one inner layer or the at least one outer layer, or wherein the protective case comprises a secondary material having a yield strength greater than 7 MPa.

13. (original) The protective case of claim 9, wherein the protective case comprises two or more of the at least one inner layer, wherein at least one of the inner layers is configured to bend elastically and to slide in at least one direction under mechanical stress, such that the combination of the two or more inner layers enhances the shock absorption performance of the protective case.

14. (original) The protective case of claim 9, wherein the protected object is selected from the group consisting of a smartphone, a vehicle key fob, a smartwatch, a wireless earbud charging case, a GPS tracking tag, a handheld medical monitoring device, a handheld gaming controller, a smart home remote control, a virtual reality headset, a tablet, a portable computer, a handheld scanning device, a helmet, a protective body gear article including a safety vest used in military or law enforcement applications, and a military or police communication electronic device.

15. (original) A non- transitory computer-readable medium having stored thereon executable instructions configured to be used by a digital distribution platform to facilitate the distribution, sharing, or sale of a non-transitory computer-readable three-dimensional model of at least the at least one inner layer of the protective case of claim 9.

16. (original) The protective case of claim 9, wherein at least the at least one inner layer is fabricated by a 3D printing apparatus based on a non-transitory computer-readable model of the protective case.

17. (currently amended) A protective lens case for an electronic device having at least one camera lens, the case comprising: at least one outer layer and at least one gap;a gap disposed between the outer layer and a surface of the electronic device surrounding the camera lens, the gap dimensioned to permit flexural bending of the outer layer in response to external mechanical force; an outer layer defining at least one ring-like cutout portion configured to concentrically surround a visible circular boundary of a corresponding camera lens, wherein a portion of the outer layer extends at least 0.5 mm inward beyond a most outward visible circumferential boundary of a circular border encircling a transparent aperture of the camera lens, wherein the inwardly extending portion of the outer layer surrounds but does not obstruct a central optical axis of the transparent aperture; wherein the at least one gap provides space for the at least one outer layer to bend temporarily in response to an external force, thereby allowing the protected object to move at least partially into the at least one gap; wherein such movement contributes to shock absorption and protects the protected object from impact.

18. (original) The protective case of claim 17, wherein the at least one outer layer comprises regions of varying thickness to enhance localized flexibility near the at least one gap.

19. (original) The protective case of claim 17, wherein the at least one gap has a width of at least 0.5 millimeters.

20. (original) The protective case of claim 17, wherein the protected object is selected from the group consisting of a smartphone, a vehicle key fob, a smartwatch, a wireless earbud charging case, a GPS tracking tag, a handheld medical monitoring device, a handheld gaming controller, a smart home remote control, a virtual reality headset, a tablet, a portable computer, a handheld scanning device, a helmet, a protective body gear article including a safety vest used in military or law enforcement applications, and a military or police communication electronic device.[0001][0002]Statement under Article 19(1)[0003]The amendments under Article 19 clarify and strengthen the scope of the invention while remaining fully supported by the application as originally filed. Specifically, the amended claims highlight the structural and material features that enable the protective case to provide enhanced shock absorption through controlled flexural bending of an inner layer into a defined gap.[0004]In particular, Claim 1 now emphasizes the relationship between the material properties of the inner layer (yield strength greater than 12 MPa and elongation at break below 511%) and the functional result of forming a squeezable gap volume that contributes to dynamic impact resistance. This amendment distinguishes the invention from prior art cases that merely use multiple layers of elastomeric or rigid plastic without providing a dynamic shock-absorbing volume designed for flexural deformation.[0005]Amended Claim 9 clarifies the alternatives for positioning the gap between the outer and inner layers, between the inner layer and the protected object, or both. This structure provides practical flexibility in manufacturing and distinguishes over references that disclose only fixed cavities or filler layers that do not accommodate bending of an inner structural layer.[0006]Amended Claim 17 focuses on camera lens protection. The inward extension of the outer layer by at least 0.5 mm around the lens boundary provides a specific structural safeguard against direct impact without obstructing the optical axis. This distinguishes the present invention from prior art protective cases that provide generic raised rims without engineering the extension as a flexural protective element integrated with a shock-absorbing gap.[0007]Overall, the amendments clarify the invention’s contribution by defining (i) measurable material properties, (ii) structural configurations of gaps, and (iii) a novel lens protection arrangement.[0008]These amendments do not add new matter, remain fully supported in the description and drawings, and further demonstrate the novelty and inventive step of the claimed subject matter.

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