DEVICE AND SYSTEM FOR INDUCTIVE. CHARGING OF PORTABLE ELECTRONIC DEVICES

TECHNICAL FIELD

[0001 j The present invention relates to inductive charging of portable electronic devices and particularly to an alternative device and system for providing a inductive charger in an integrated manner.

B ACKGROUND ART

[0002] Induction charging systems for portable electronic devices are currently available, all of which work according to qui te conventional and wel l understood principl es,

[0003] However, there i s increasing need for the provi sion of inducti on charge an d system s for portable electronic devices which are easy to use, charge the portable electronic device easil and efficiently and which ca be integrated- into accessories for the portable electronic device in order to minimi se their influence o the aesthetic appeal of the portable electronic device.

[0004J It will be clearly understood that, if a prior art publication is referred to herein, this reference does not constitute an admission that the publicatio forms part of the common general knowledge in the art in Australia or in arty other country.

SUMMARY OF INVENTION

[0005] The present invention is directed to a device and system for inductive charging of portable electronic devices, which may at least partially overcome at least one of the

abovementi-oned disadvantages or provide the consumer with a useful or commercial choice.

[0006] With the foregoing in view, the present invention in one form, resides broadly in a device for inductive charging of a portable electronic device, the portable electronic device having at least one power charging port, the device including a substantially L-shaped body having a. a foot portion with a tongue projecting therefrom to be received in at least one power charging port of the portable electronic device, the tongue provided with one or more electrical contacts and

b. a induction portion extending substantially perpendicularl to the foot portion to overlie a portion of the portable el ectronic device, the induction portion including at l east one induction coil linked to the one or more electrical contacts on the tongue to pass electrical current,

[0007] The portable electronic device with which the device and system for inductive charging of the present invention i used, may be of any type but the present invention wil l be particularly directed towards inductive charging of devices such as mobile telephones, smart phones, computer tablets and the like. Devices of this nature are normally portable devices, usually maintained on or about a user's person,

[0008] All of these types of devices typically have a port to allow attachment of a cable in order to charge an on-board battery. The port provided ma be a multiple use port such as a USB port which also allows other functionality such as data transfer or alternati ely, a stand-alone power charging port may be provided. Regardless of the type of port provided, it is preferred that the tongue projecting from the foot portion of the device for inductive charging be adapted to be at least partially received within a port provided in the portable electronic device for power charging.

[0009] All of these types of electronic devices are normally generally rectangular and three- dimensional having a front surface which typically is or includes touchscreen functionality, a rear surface and side edges at the top, bottom and lateral sides linking the front surface and a. rear surface.

[0010] Further, all of the portable electronic devices referred to above are generally aesthetically pleasing having clean lines and an appealing appearance as this is one driver for purchasing such as device. It is therefore preferred that the inductive charging device (and/or any cover or housing provided) of the present invention be as minimally visually disruptive of the appearance of the portable electronic device as possible. This minimisation of the visual disruption of the appearance of the portable electronic device may be provided by the inductive charging device itself or alternatively, a case or housing may be provided in combination with the inductive charging device to provide an aestheticall pleasing appearance.

[0011] The power charging port into the portable electronic device is normally into a side edge of the portable electronic device or a top or bottom edge. The power charging port is rarely provided o the front or rear face of the portable electronic device as this affects the positioning of the device whe the power cord normally used to charge the device is attached,

[0012] The power charging port, may be provided adjacent other componentry such as the microphone or speakers or the like on the portable electronic device. The power charging port is not generally provided adjacent action buttons provided on the portable electronic device but this type of positioning i s possible and therefore, the inductive charging device of the present inventi on will take into account the location of the power charging port relative to other componentry.

[0013] The inducti ve charging device of the present invention has an L-shaped body . The L- shaped body includes a foot portion and an induction portion. Normally, the foot portion of the inductive charging device will overlie a side edge of the portable electronic device at least partially. The foot portion may overlie the side edge and a return portion may he provided to give an overall square C-shape to the foot portio although this is the less preferred as the return portion will also at least partially obstruct the front face of the portable electronic device which is preferably avoided according to the present invention,

[0014] Typically, the induction portion will overlie a part, and preferably a art only of the rear surface of the portable electronic device. It i s preferred that the induction portion does not extend laterally to the side edge(s) of the portable electronic device. Therefore, in its preferred configuration, the induction charging device extends partially over one edge of the portable electronic device, nomially a lower edge and parallel and abutting the rear surface of the portable electronic device extending toward, but not to each of the side edges of the portable electronic device,

[0015] The foot portion of the inductive charging device of the present invention includes a tongue projecting therefrom to be received, in the at least one power charging port of the portable electronic device, the tongue provided with one or more electrical contacts. As mentioned above, ^■ the foot portion will preferabl overlie a side edge of the portable electronic device in order to position the tongue to be recei ved withi the at least one power charging port of the portable electronic device.

[0016] The width of the foot portion may be such that it extends laterally along the side edge but again, preferably not to the extremity of the portable electronic device to which it is attached.

[0017] The foot portion may cover or partially cover other componentry which is provided on a particular site edge adj acent the at least one power chargin port. If so, appropriate provision is made in the foot portion depending upon the type of componentry that may be covered. For example, an opening may be provided through the foot portion for speakers or microphones or moving portions may be provided to allow movement of the underlying button if the foot portion also covers one or more buttons. Where one or more buttons are covered, it i preferred that the moving portion provided in the induction charging device moves in the same manner in which the underlying button moves

[0018] The tongue preferably extends from an inner surface of the foot portion. Generally, the tongue will extend substantially parallel to the induction portion and will be spaced from the induction portion by an appropriate distance such that when the tongue is received within the at least one power charging port, the induction portion will be closely received against the rear surface of the portable electronic device.

[0019 J An outer surface of the foot portion may be provided with a port that mimics the power charging port of the portable electronic device and communicates with the at least one electrical contact provided on the tongue in order to allow the normal power charging cable provided with the portable electronic device to be plugged directly into the induction charging device. Identification markings may be provided to identify the port provided in the foot portion by type.

[0020 j It is preferred that the foot portion has arcuate or bevelled edges in order to increase the aestheti cally pleasing appearance of the foot portion. Indeed, it is preferred that the appearance of the device as a whole be aesthetically pleasing.

[0021] The side edges of the foot portio may be di vergent, the dimension of the foot portion being broader closer to the portable eleetronic device as this may facilitate attachment or a seal being created with the housing, if one is provided. Divergent edges may all ow- the housing to apply force to the induction charging device to hold the induction charging device more securely to the portable electronic device.

[0022] The foot portion, and indeed the device as a whole may be provided with a resilient cover or be manufactured from resilient material in order to form a better seal with the housing or cover if provided and/or provide cushioning for the inductive charging device.

[0023] The tongue of the inductive charging device of the present invention is shaped to be received within the power charging port of the portable electronic device to which the induction charging device is attached. The induction charging device of the present invention i s likely to be sold in embodiments in which the tongue is specifically designed to be received in particular types or brands of portable electronic devices with the tongue specifically shaped and configured for each portable electronic device.

[0024] The tongue therefore may be provided in one of a variety of configurations, each configuration adapted to engage with a particular portable electronic device port. The tongue could therefore be male with external electrical contacts or the tongue may be hollow with the electronic contacts on an interior surface thereof. The shape of the induction charging device, particularly the internal comer of the L-shaped body will also normally be shaped according to the particular electronic device to which it is to be attached,

[0025] One or more additional locking or latching tabs may be provided on the tongue in order to more securely engage the tongue, and thereby the inductive charging device, with the power charging port of the portable electronic device. If locking or latching tabs are provided, one or more release buttons or switches will also typically be provided to at least temporarily withdraw the locking or latching tabs to facilitate removal of the tongue from the power charge port without damaging the port.

[0026] In all preferred embodiments, the tongue preferably mimics the end of the cable normally used to charge the on-board battery of the portable electronic device.

[0027] The electrical contacts provided on the tongue may be provided in any number or configuration to correspond to the one or more portable electronic devices. It is preferred that the electrical contact provided on the tongue are connected to the at least one induction coil provided with the inducti on portion of the i nduction chargi ng devi ce in order to provide a output for the current produced, through the contacts. Normally, the communication is provided internally of the induction charging device with the contacts being externally available portions to facilitate current transfer once the device is attached to art electronic device.

[0028] The inducti on charging device of the present iftve.ntio.rt also i ncludes an induction portion extending substantially perpendicularly to the foot portion to overlie a portion of the electronic device, the induction portion includi g at least one induction coil linked to the one or more electrical contacts of the tongue in order to pass electrical current,

[0029] Preferably, an arcuate outer corner is provided between the foot portion and the i duction portion giving the inductio charging device of the present invention and aesthetically pleasing shape. It is preferred that a surface of the induction portion abuts the rear of the portable electroni c device over the length of the induction porti on.

[0030] The induction portion may be attached to the portable electronic device. I one preferred form, an adhesive or similar may be provided over at least a portion of the induction portion in order to facilitate attachment of the induction portion to the portable electronic device. [0031 j As with the foot portion, the induction portion may include divergent, bevelled or angl ed edges with the dimension of the inductio portion being larger adj acent the portable electronic device, again to provide a more secure attachment if a housing or cover is provided.

[0032] The induction portion will typicall have a substantially planar outer surface. The outer surface may be coloured or patterned or provided with ornamentation. This is particularly preferred to allow a user to customise the appearance of their portable electronic device through the appearance of the i nduction charging device and/or a surrounding housing or cover.

[0033] The induction portion may be provided with a part of a locating structure. The purpose of the locating structure is typically to al low fast and simple location of the inductio charging device relative to an induction charging base station. In a preferred form, the locating structure provided on the induction portion will include a depression or rib or the like in order to engage with corresponding rib or depression provided on the base station.

10034 j The induction portion includes at least one induction coil in order to convert energy from an electromagnetic field produced by the base station, back to electrical current in order to provide the electrical current to the power charger port of the portable electronic device via the electrical contact on the tongue. Any number and/or type of inductio coil may be used but an ultra-thin coil is preferred i order to make the induction charging devi ce of the present invention as low profile as possible.

[0035] The induction coil(s) will typically be surrounded and protected by the induction portion. The induction portion, and indeed, the induction charging device of the present invention will normally be formed of a plastic material. The plastic may be resilient or a resilient layer may be provided for additional sealing with a cover or housing and/or for protection of components, such as by providing some form of cushioning.

[0036] An indicator such as a light for example may be provided on the induction charging device in order to indicate that the inductio charging device is functioning correctly and/or the operational status of the induction charging device,

[0037] In a alternative form, the present invention resides broadly in a system for inductive charging of a portable electronic device having at least one power charging port, the system including an induction charging device attachable to a portable electronic device, the induction chargin device including a substantially L-shaped body having a foot portion with a tongue projecting therefrom to be received in the portable electronic device at least one power charging port, the tongue provided with one or more electrical contacts and an induction portion extending substantially perpendicularly to the foot portion to overlie a portion of the portable electronic device, the induction portion including at least one induction coil linked to the one or more electrical contacts on the tongue to pass electrical current and attachable to the portable electronic device at least by insertio of the tongue into the at least one charging port of the portable electronic device and an induction charging base station which creates an alternating electromagnetic field, the at least one induction coil in the induction charging device taking power from the electromagnetic fields created by the base station to convert back to electric current to pass to one or more electrical contacts of the inducti on charging device.

[0038] The base station provided is typically planar and is also preferably aesthetically pleasing in appearance. One or more location structures can be provided on the base station, typically upper surface of the base station in order to engage with corresponding location structures provided o the induction charging device, portable electronic device and/or any cover or housing which is provided. This may assist with the proper positioning of the portable electronic device relative to the base station such that the induction charging device, and particularly the at least one induction charging coil, is positioned optimally within the electromagnetic field produced by the base station.

[0039] Typically, the location -structure includes a rib, at or towards one end of the base station. An additional raised plateau may b provided at or towards the opposite end of the base station in order to provide the portable electronic device in a level configuration whilst charging. Preferably, the raised plateau may simulate the thi ckness of the induction chargin device provided in order to ensure that the portable electronic device is level while charging. The locatio structures will typically engage one another to provide tactile feedback of the correct positioning.

[0040) The base station will typically be powered, that is, the base station is typically connected to a mains power supply and an appropriate cord of cable may be provided,

[0041] One or more induction coils are preferably provided within the base station in order to generate an el ectromagnetic fi eld. Typically, the field wi ll be produced in an upward direction only as energy would be wasted if the field will is produced and directed downwardly beneath the base station. It is preferred that the electromagnetic field be an alternating field. Further, it is preferred that the electromagnetic field will have a particular frequency which is optimised to produce an electrical current in. a related at least one induction coil of an induction charging device. Higher frequencies are typically preferred for efficiency and to reduce losses during the generatio of the electromagnetic field. [0042] Additional componentry can may be provided on the base station such as a speaker or microphone which may allow use of the portable electronic device whilst the portable electronic device is in the charging mode.

[0043] Alternate power sources may also be provided in the base station such as by providing one or m ore batteries to power the base stati on during periods of disconnection from the mains power supply or alternatively, renewable energy sources such as solar charging panels may be provided. Typically, these are provided in addition to the mains power supply.

[0044J The base station preferably protects the at least one induction coil which generates the electromagnetic field. Normally, the base station is provided in a plastic material which surrounds the at least one induction coil and protects it from damage. The material used may be resilient or resilient portions may be provided to further increase the protection provided.

[0045] It is preferred that the base station be substantially planar and shaped according to the portable el ectronic device in relation to which the induction charging device of the present inventio is to be used, Normally, the base station will be sized to be similar in size to the portable electronic device. One or more nonslip lower surfaces or portions may be provided in order to minimise movement of the base station once placed on a particular surface.

[0046] In an alternative form, the present invention resides broadl in an induction charging assembly for a portable electronic device having at least one power charging port, the assembly including an induction charging device attachable to a portable electronic device the induction charging device including a substantially L-shaped body having a foot portion, with a tongue projecting therefrom to be received in the portable electronic device at least one power charging port, the tongue provided with one or more electrical contacts and an induction portion extending substantially perpendicularly to the foot portion to overlie a portion of the portable electronic device, the induction portion including at least one induction coil linked to the one or more electrical contacts on the tongue to pass electrical current and attachable to the portable

electronic devic at least by insertion of the tongue into the at least one charging port of the portable electronic device and a housing to at least partially enclosed the portable electronic device and provided with a shaped opening therein to receive the induction charging device when attached to the portable electronic device.

[0047] A cover or housing may be provided in association with the induction charging device described above in order to provide an aesthetically pleasing appearance for the portable electronic device with the induction charging device attached rather than having an unbalanced appearance.

[0048] Normally, any cover or housing which is provided, is provided with an opening in the cover or housing which is specifically shaped and positioned to allow for the induction charging device, allowing it to be both visible, and accessible whilst the cover or housing is applied to the portable el ectronic device.

[0049] The cover or housing will, be appropriately shaped to at least partially received the portable electronic device and the opening provided a to allow for the induction charging device will preferably have a shaped periphery in the cover or housing which is provided in order to force the induction charging device onto the portable electronic device. Therefore, the edges of the opening provided in the cover or housing will typically di verge, being smaller in dimension further from the portable electronic device at larger in dimension closer to the electronic device in order to correspond with the preferred edges of the induction charging device.

10050 j A particularly preferred cover or housing is provided with a closed rear surface except for the induction charging device opening, as well as closed side edges except for the foot portion opening and a return lip over an outer portion of the front face of the portable electroni c device in order to hold the cover or housing onto the portable electronic device.

[0051] Appropriate openings will typically be provided through the cover or housing i order to allow a user to engage componentry or operational buttons for example on the portable electronic device.

[0052] A particularly preferred embodiment of the cover or housing i to provi de a rigid substrate with an outer skin of thermoplastic elastomer or TPE or similar material. Slots or openings may be provided o the substrate in order to allow the rigid substrate to flex. The openings or slots ma also allow flow-through of the thermoplastic elastomer in order to attach the thermoplastic elastomer to the substrate.

[0053] Outer portions of the housing or cover may be coloured or patterned or textured to provide the user with the ability to customise the appearance of the cover or housing as well as the induction charging device.

[0054] The cover o housing and/or the induction charging device may be provided with antenna reception boosting technology in order to boost the ability of the portable electronic device to send and receive information over a wireless network. [0055] It is particularly preferred that the induction charging device of the present invention stand proud of the surface of the portable electronic device and that the housing provided forms a substantially continuous housing about the portable electronic device and the inductio charging device. In particular, it is preferred that the thi ckness of the housing is approximately equal to the thickness of the induction charging device to provide the portable electronic device with a substantially uninterrupted housing which partially incorporates and is formed by the induction charging device.

[00561 The housing of the preferred embodiment may be a unitary sleeve or part sleeve for example or may include a first housing membe and a second housing member adapted for complementary engagement and whereby a moisture resistant seal i provided o engagement of the first and second housing members about the portable electronic device.

[0057] Suitably the first housing member may be provided with a membrane layer disposed on interior face to permit interaction with the portable electronic device. Preferably the sealing relation between the first and second housing members is via the use of an O-ring or grommet. In such cases the O-ring or grommet may be positioned within a channel disposed bailout the periphery of one of the shells with the opposing shell being provided wi th a flange for complementar with the channel such that when the shells are engaged the flange is forces agai nst the O-ring or grommet to create a water tight seal.

[0058] In a different configuration, the housing may include a first housing member adapted for complementary engagement with a second housing member a sleeve for at least partial encapsulation of the portable electronic device; and whereby a moisture resistant seal is provided on engagement of the first and second housing members about the sleeve and said portable electronic device.

[0059] Suitably the moisture resistant seal does not impact upon normal operation of the portable electronic device.

[0060) Preferably the first and second housing members are constRicted form a suitabl durable material such as any suitable polymer, metals, fibre composites or the like. Suitably the first and second housing members are formed from a polyvinyl material.

[0061] The housing may include one or more cut out sections to accommodate various function buttons and auxiliary components of the device and particularly for the induction charging device when attached to the personal electronic device. Preferably the first and second housing members include one or more scalloped sections which on engagement of the housing members form one or more of the cut out sections. Suitably one or the housing members includes a cut out section for receipt of an insert, it i s preferred that the housing sections seal to or about the induction charging device when attached to the personal electronic device.

[0062] Portions of more rigid materi al may be provi ded in the sleeve to correspond to components of the portable device. For example, I/O ports, a camera, microphone or speaker locations may be provided with a more rigid insert in the sleeve. Components which are less likely to be damaged such as function, buttons may not require a more rigid insert. The more rigid inserts may be provided with additional resilient sealing portions,

[0063] The sleeve may partially or fully encapsulate the portable electronic device. The sleeve is preferably formed form any suitable flexible water resistant material. The sleeve may be formed from any suitable polymer such as a polyvinyl or polyurethane based polymers. Alternately the sleeve could be formed from a translucent or opaque material such as silicone or the like.

[0064] In such cases the sleeve may include a cut out to accommodate the screen of the portable electronic device which would have a suitable protective film applied prior to insertion of the device within the sleeve. In some instances where the screen protective material and the remainder of the membrane are compatible the screen protector could be welded or adhered to the sleeve prior to insertion of the device. Suitably where the portable electronic device utilises a capacitive screen the portion of the sleeve covering the screen is of sufficient transmissihility to enable registration of a screen tap or other such gesture.

[0065] In. a most preferred form, the sleeve in combination with the housing may provide a suffici ent seal against the electronic device or a portion thereof about a screen of the device, that the protective film is not required and the screen of the device i s completely unobstaicted. In this case, a seal i s formed by the sl eeve and housing in combination, about the screen of the device or a portion thereof.

[0066] In the case where the sleeve partially encapsulates the portable electronic device the insert may be utilised in conjunction with the sleeve to provide the moisture resistant. Suitably the insert may be constructed from a moisture resi stant material . Preferably the insert is provided within the housing member which encapsulates the rear of the portable electronic device. Suitabl the insert finishes substantially flush with the interior and exterior faces of the housing member in which it i s installed. Preferably the portion of the insert which finishes substantially flush with the exterior face of the housing member includes one or more surface effects.

10067 j In another embodiment, the insert may stand proud of the exterior face of the housing member in which it is installed. In this embodiment, the insert may be of a material of a relatively high co-efficient of friction to limit or prevent slippage when the housing is placed on the insert o a surface, The insert may be integrally formed with the sleeve or separate therefrom.

[0068] Preferably the housing may be provided with one or more plug and/or doors for capping the various ports of the portable electronic device. The plugs or doors may be provided with additional sealing mechanism as these portions are likely to be points of weakness for the ingress of liquid or dust or similar and therefore warrant additional protection.

[0069] Typically, the sleeve will be provided to located at least partially about the personal electronic device and the induction charging device whe attached to the personal electronic device and the housing portions will abut and force the sleeve into contact with the personal electronic device and the induction charging device to form a seal.

[0070] Any of the features described herei ca be combined in any combination wi th any one or more of the other features described herein withi the scope of the invention,

[00711 The reference to any prior art in this specification is not, and should not be taken as an acknowledgement or any form of suggestion that the prior art forms part of the common general knowl dge.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

[0072] Various embodiments of the invention will be described with reference to the following drawings, in which:

[0073] Figure 1 is a view f om the rear of a portable electronic device with an induction charging device according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention attached thereto.

[0074] Figure 2 is a view from the rear of a portable electronic device with an induction charging device and cover according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention attached thereto.

[0075] Figure 3 is a view from the front of the configuration illustrated in Figure 2. [0076] Figure 4 is a view from the rear of the configurati on illustrated in Figure 2 juxtaposed relati ve to an induction charging base station according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention,

[0077] Figure 5 is an axonometric view of the foot portio of an induction charging device accordi ng to a preferred embodiment of the present invention .

[0078] Figure 6 is an axonometric view of an abutment surface of the inductio portion of an induction charging device according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention.

[0079] Figure 7 is an exploded view of a cover or housing provided according to a preferred embodiment of the present i nvention.

[0080] Figure 8 is a. sectional view of a lower portion of the cover or housing illustrated in Figure 7,

[0081] Figure 9 is an isometric view of an induction charging base station according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention.

[0082] Figure 10 is an exploded isometric schematic view of a water resistant housing, forms of which may be used according to the present invention,

[0083] Figure 1 1 is a view from the rear of a portable electronic device with an induction charging device and cover according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention attached thereto.

[0084] Figure 12 is a view from the rear of a portable electronic device with an induction charging device and coloured cover according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention attached thereto.

[0085] Figure 13 is a view from the rear of a portable electronic device with an induction charging device and patterned cover according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention attached thereto.

[0086] Figure 14 is a view from the rear of a portable electronic device with an induction charging device and patterned cover according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention attached thereto.

DESCRIPTION OF EMBODIMENTS

[0087] According to a particularly preferred embodiment of the present invention, an induction charging device 10, housing assembly and charging system for inductive charging of a portable electronic device are provided.

[0088] The device 10 for inductive charging of a portable electronic device of the preferred embodiment includes a substantially L-shaped bod having a foot portion 1 1 with a tongue 13 projecting therefrom to be received in the portable electronic device power charging port, the tongue 13 provided with electrical contacts 14 and an induction portion 12 extending

substantially perpendicularly to the foot portion 1 1 to overlie a portion of the portable electronic device, the induction portion 12 includes at least one induction coil linked to the electrical contacts 14 on the tongue 13 to pass electrical current from the induction charging device to the portable electronic device.

[0089] The portable electronic device with which the device and system for inducti ve charging of the present invention is used according to the illustrated embodiment is a smart phone 15 as illustrated particularly in Figures 2 and 3. Ail smartphones have a port to allow attachment of a cable in order to charge an on-board battery- The port provi ded may be a multiple use port such as a USB port which also allows other functionality such as data transfer. Regardless of the type of port provided, it is preferred that the tongue 13· projecting from the foot portion 1 1 of the device for inductive charging is adapted to be at least partially received within the port provided in the smartphone 15 for power charging.

[0090] All of these types of device are normally generally rectangular and three- dimensional having a front surface which typically is or includes touchscreen functionality, a rear surface and side edges at the top, bottom and lateral sides linking the front surface and a rear surface.

[0091] The power charging port of the smart phone 15 may be provided adjacent other componentry such as the microphone or speakers or the like on the smart phone 15, The power charging port is not generall provided adjacent action buttons provided on the portable electroni c device but this type of position it is possible and therefore, the inductive charging device of the present invention -will take into account the locati on of the power charging port relative to other componentry.

[0092] The inductive charging device of the present invention has an L- shaped body. The L- shaped body includes a foot portion 11 and an induction portion 12. Normally, the foot portion 11 of the inductive charging device overlies a side edge of the smart phone 15 at least partially as illustrated in Figure 1. [0093] Typically, the induction portion 12 overlies a part only of the rear surface .of the smart phone 15 as illustrated in Figure 1. It is preferred that the inductio portion 12 does not extending laterally to the side edge(s) of the smart phone 15. Therefore, in its preferred configuration, the induction charging device 10 extends partially over one edge of the smart phone 15 and parallel and abutting the rear surface of the smart phone ! 5 extending toward, but not to, each of the si de edges of the smart ph one 5.

[0094] The foot portion 1 1 of the inductive charging device 10 of the illustrated embodiment includes a tongue 13 projecting therefrom to be received in the power charging port of the smart phone 15, the tongue provided with electrical contact 14 as illustrated in Figure 5 in particular. As mentioned above, the foot portion 1 3 overlies a side edge of the smart phone 15 in order to position the tongue 13 to be received within the power charging port of the port smart phone 15.

[0095] The foot portion 11 may cover or partially cover other componentry which is provided o a particular side edge adj acent the power charging port. If so, appropriate provision is made in the foot portion 1 1 depending upon the type of componentry that may be covered. For example as illustrated in Figure 5, an opening 17 can be provided through the foot portion 11 for a speaker or microphone and a second opening 18 provided to allow a user to access the headphone port on the smart phone 15.

[0100 J As illustrated, the tongue 13 extends from an inner surface of the foot portion 11 , Generally, the tongue 13 extends substantially paraliel to the induction portio 12 and is spaced from the induction portion 12 by an appropriate distance such that when the tongue 13 is received within the power charging port, the induction portion 12 will be closely received against the rear surface of the smart phone 15 .

[0.101 j An outer surface of the foot porti on 1 1 can be provided with a port 19 that mimics the power charging port of the smart phone 15 and communicates with the electrical contacts 14 provided on the tongue 13 in order to allow the normal power charging cable provided with the smart phone 15 to be plugged directly into the induction charging device 1.0. Identification markings 20 may be provided to identit the port provided in the foot portion 1 1 by type.

[01 2] It is preferred that the foot portion 11 has arcuate or bevelled edges in order to increase the aesthetically pleasing appearance of the foot portion 1 i. Indeed, it is preferred that the appearance of the device 10 as a whole be aesthetically pleasing.

[ 0103] The side edges of the foot porti on ill ustrate are divergent, the dimensi on of the foot portion 1 1 being broader closer to the smart phone 1 5 as this may facilitate attachment or a seal being created with the housing if one is provided. Divergent edges may allow of the housing appl force to the induction charging device 10 to hold the induction charging device .10 more securely to the smart phone 15,

[0104] The foot portion 1 1 , and indeed the device 10 as a whole may be provided with a resilient cover or be manufactured from resilient, material in order to form a better seal with the housing or cover is provided and/or provide cushioning for the inductive chargin device 10,

[0105] The tongue 13 of the inductive charging device 10 is shaped to be received within the power charging port of the smart phone 15 to which the induction charging device 10 is attached. The induction charging device 10 is likely to he sold in embodiments in which the tongue 13 is specifically designed to be recei ved in particul ar types or brands of smart phone 15 with the tongue 13 specifically shaped and configured for each smart phone 15.

[0.106] Additional locking or .latching tabs 21 can be provided o the tongue in order to more securely engage the tongue 13, and thereby the inductive charging device 10 with the power charging port of the smart phone 15. If locking or latching tabs are provided, released buttons or switches will also typically be provided to at least temporarily withdraw the locking or latching tabs to facilitate removal of the tongue from the power charge port wi thout damaging the port.

[0107] The electrical contacts 1.4 provided on the tongue 13 may be provided in any number or configuration to correspond to the one or more portable electronic devices. It is preferred that the electrical contacts provided on the tongue are connected to the at least one induction coil provided with the induction portio of the induction charging device in order to provide an output for the current produced through the contacts. Normally, the communication is provided internally of the induction charging device with contacts being externally available portions to facilitate current transfer.

[0108] The induction charging device of the present invention also includes an induction portion 12 extending substantially perpendicularly to the foot portion to overlie a portion of the electronic device, the inductio portion 12 including at least one induction coil linked to the electrical contacts 14 of the tongue 13 in order to pass electrical current.

[01 9] Preferably, an arcuate corner i provided between the foot portion and the induction portion giving the induction chargi ng device of the present i nvention and aesthetically pleasing shape as il lustrate, in Figure 5. It is preferred that a surface of the induction portion abuts the rear of the portable electronic device over its length. [0110] The induction portion may be attached to the portable electronic device and in one preferred form illustrated in Figure 7, an adhesive strip 22 may be provided over at least a portion of the induction portion in order to facilitate attachment of the inducti on portion to the smart phone 15.

[01.11] As with the foot portion, the induction portion may include divergent, bevelled or angled edges with the dimension of the induction portion larger adjacent the portable electronic device, again to provide a more secure attachment if a housing or cover is provided.

[0112] The induction portion will typically have a substantially planar outer surface. The outer surface may be coloured or patterned or provided with some other ornamentation. This is particularly preferred to allow a user to customise the appearance of their portable electronic device through the appearance of the induction charging device and/or a surrounding housing o cover.

[0113] The induction portion is provided with a groove 23 to allow fast and simple location of the inducti on charging device 10 relative to an induction charging base station 24 one form of which is illustrated in Figure 4. The depression preferably engages with a corresponding rib provided on the base stati on 24.

[0.114] The induction portion includes at least one inducti n coil in order to convert energy from an electromagnetic fields produced by the base station, back to electrical cunent in order to provide the electrical current to the power charger port of the portable electronic device via the electri cal contacts on the tongue. Any number and/or type of induction coil(s) may be used but an interesting coil is preferred in order to make the induction charging device of the present invention as low profile as possible.

[0115] The induction coil(s) will typically be surrounded and protected by the induction portion. The induction portion, and indeed, the induction charging device of the present invention will normally be formed of a plastic material. The plastic may be resilient or a resilient layer may be provided for additional sealing with a cover or housing and/or for protection, of components, such as by providing some form of cushioning,

[0116] The preferred base station 24 provided is typically planar and i also preferably aesthetically pleasing in appearance. A rib 25 is provided on an upper surface of the base station 24 i order to engage with corresponding groove provided on the induction charging device 10. This may assist with the proper positioning of the portable electronic device relative to the base station such that the induction charging device, and particularly the at least one induction charging coil is positioned optimally within the electromagnetic fields produced by the base station.

[0117] A additional raised plateau 26 is also provided at or towards the opposite end of the base station 24 in order to provide the smart phone 15 in a level configuration whilst charging. The rib 25 and groove 23 will typically engage one another as will the plateau 26 and a portion of the cover or housing of a preferred embodiment to provide tactile feedback of the correct positioning of the smart phone 1 5 relative to the base statio 24.

[01 IS] The base station 24 is typically connected to a mains power supply and an appropriate cord or cable 27 is provided.

[0119 j One or more induction coils are preferably provided within the base statioii24 in order to generate an electromagnetic field. Typically, the field will be produced in an upward direction only as energy would be wasted if the field will is produced and directed downwardly beneath the base station, it is preferred that the electromagnetic field be an alternating field. Further, it is preferred that the electromagnetic field will have a particular frequency which is optimised to produce an electrical current in a related at least one inductio coil of an induction charging device. Higher frequencies are typically preferred for efficiency and to reduce losses during the generation of the electromagnetic field.

[0120] The base station preferabl protects the at least one induction coil which generates the electromagnetic field. Normally, the base station is provided in a plastic material which surrounds the at least one induction coil and protects it from damage. The material used may be resilient or resilient portions may be provided to further increase the protection provided

[0121 ) it is preferred that the base station be substantially planar and shaped according to the portable electronic device in relatio to which the induction charging device of the present invention is to be used. Normally, the base station will be sized to be simil r in size to the portable electronic device. One or more nonslip lower surfaces or portions may be provided in order to minimise movement of the base station once placed on a particular surface.

[0122] A cover is illustrated in Figure 7 and 8. Any cover or housing which is provided, is provided with an opening in the cover or housing which is specifically shaped and positioned to allow for the induction charging device, allowing it to be both visible, and accessible whilst the cover or housing is applied to the portable electronic device. The cover illustrated in Figure 7 and 8 is a cover designed to provide shock protection but not necessarily protection against water or dust or the like. [0123] The cover illustrated in Figure 7 and 8 is appropriately shaped to at least partially receive the smart phone 15 and an opening 28 provided to allow for the induction charging device 10 will preferably have a shaped periphery in the cover or housing which is provided in order to force the induction charging device onto the smart phone 1.5. Therefore, the edges 29 of the opening provided in the cover diverge, being smaller in dimension further from the smart phone 15 at larger in dimension closer to the electronic device in order to correspond- with the preferred edges of the induction charging device 10.

[0.124} A particularly preferred cover or housing is provided with a closed rear surface except for the induction charging device opening 28, as well as closed side edges except for the foot portion opening 30 and a return Lip 31. over an outer portion of the front face of the smart phone 15 in order to hold the cover or housing onto the smart phone 15.

[01253 Appropriate openings will typically he provided through the cover or housing in order to allow a user to engage componentry or operational buttons for example on the portable electronic device.

[0126] A particularly preferred embodiment of the cover or housing is to provide a rigid substrate 32 with an outer skin of thermoplastic elastomer 33 or TPE or similar material. Slots or openings 34 may be provided on the substrate in order to allo the rigid substrate to ilex. The openings or slots 34 may also allow flow-through of the thermoplastic elastomer in order to attach the thermoplastic elastomer to the substrate.

[0127] Outer portions of the housing or cover may be coloured or patterned or textured to provide the user with the ability to customise the appearance of the cover or housing as illustrated in Figures 1 1 to 14 as well as the induction charging device 10.

[0128] It is particularly preferred that the induction charging device 10 of the present invention stand proud of the surface of the smart phone ISand that the cover or housing provided forms a substantially continuous housing about the smart phone 15 and the induction charging device 10, I particular, it is preferred that the thickness of the housing is approximately equal to the thickness of the induction charging device to provide the smart phone 1 S with a substantially uninterrupted housing which partially incorporates and is formed by the induction charging device as illustrated in Figures 2 and 3 in particular.

[0129] The housing of the preferred embodiment may be a unitary sleeve or part sl eeve as illustrated in Figures 2, 3 and 8 or may include a first housing member and a second housing member adapted for complementary engagement and whereby a moisture resistant seal is provided on engagement of the first and second housing members about the portable electronic device such as that illustrated in Figure 10.

[0130] Figure 10 shows a preferred embodiment of a housing that includes a front shell 601 and a rear shell 602. This housing is a generic housing and does not include an opening for the induction charging device although providing an opening for the induction charging device would be relatively straightforward in the housing illustrated. If an opening is provided, the housing may lack the door 603. although some form or door o seal will need to be provided fo seali g purposes.

[0131] The rear shell has a door 603 associated therewith mounted on a hinge pin 604 for rotation about the hinge pin relative to the rear shell 602. A sleeve 605 is also provided to be sandwiched and at least partially compressed between the front shell 601 and a rear shell 602 during assembly and in use.

[0132] The front shell 601 of the embodiment il lustrated in Figure 10 i s approximately half the height of the device 606 illustrated in Figure 10. A central opening 607 is provided t surround the scree of the device 606 such that the screen is unobstaicted in this embodiment. There is also a secondary opening 608 in the front surface of the front shell to be located rel ative to a camera and speaker of the device 606.

[0133] There are also openings 610 il lustrated in the side wall s of the front shell 601 which correspond to openings in the rear shell 602, This will allow for other components of the device 606 to be accessible whe the case is properly assembled surrounding device 606. The openings 610 are typically openings surrounded by a depression or located within a depression.

[0134) A button 61 1 is provided in the front shell 601. The button 1 1 is movable or depressible in order to actuate the button on the front surface of the device 606, The button 61 1 is provided with a rear portion that overlies and depresses the button on the device 606. The button is located above a portion of the sleeve 605 which surrounds the device 606 (that is a portion of the sleeve 605 is located between the rear portion of button 61 1 and the button of the device 606) and depression of the button 611 therefore depresses the sleeve which depresses the button of the device 606.

[0135] A depression is provided on the front surface 609 of the front shell 601 illustrated in Figure 10. The depression 612 is located below the button 61 1 on the front shell 601 and is provided in order to receive a tongue provided on the door 603. Although not shown in Figure 10, an opening i s provided in the sidewall located at the bottom of the front shell 601 to allow the door 603 to close into the sidewall of the front shell 601 , in effect so that the door 603 farms the sidewall or at least a portio thereof. A corner protector 613 is provided at each comer of the front shell 601 and it is preferred that the corner protectors are at least slightly resilient to provide cushioning for the device 606.

[0136] Although not clearly visible in the embodiment illustrated in. Figure 10, an inner surface of at least one of the sidewalls of the front shell 601 is provided with a plurality of abutment configurations, each including an abutment shoulder located adjacent a sloped portion. The abutment configurations will typically be triangular shaped and the provi sion of the sloped portion will result in the abutment configurations converging towards the front face of the front shell 601. The abutment shoulder of each abutment configuration is therefore closer to the front surface 609 of the front shell 601 than to the open rear of the front shell.

[0137] Located adj acent to the abutment configurations are a series of guide legs which are provided between the abutment configurations in an alternating pattern. The guide legs are spaced from the internal surface of the sidewall relative to which they are located to define a receiving gap therebetween. A series of abutment configurations and guide legs are located on and adj cent at least the lateral side walls and a top sidewall (remembering that in this preferred configuration the majority of the bottom sidewall is absent to allow for the door 603.

[0138] The internal corners of the front shell are also provided with abutment configurations similar to those provided on the side walls but arcuate rather than being straight, in order to be located in the arcuate corners of the front shell 601. There is preferably one abutment configuration located in each corner of the front, shell 601.

[0139] The rear shell 602 illustrated in. Figure 10 is similar to the front shell 601 in that the rear shell 602 also includes sidewalls which are approximately half the height of the device 606, However, in the rear ^" shell 602, the sidewalls are provided with an inner extension portion 614 which extends further toward the front shell 601 than the sidewall does, normally integrall formed with the sidewall. The inner extensio 614 functions as both a location extension and also assi sts with attachment of the front, shell 601 to the rear shell 602, The inner exten si on is preferably provided with a series of openings 615 spaced from a free edge thereof, the location of the series of openings corresponding to the locations of the abutment configurations on. the front shell 601. The receiving gap provided on the front shell 601 between the guide legs and the sidewall preferably receives the inner extension between the guide leg and an inner surface of the sidewall of the front shell 601, between the openings 615, [0140] There are also typically openings are provided in the corners of the rear shell 602 to correspond to the abutment configuratio s provided in the corners of the front shell 601. , A central opening is provided in the rear surface of the rear shell 602 in order to all ow the i nsert portion of the sleeve 605 to extend into or through . An upper opening is provided in a rear surface of the rear shell 602 to allow for location of a . camera of the device 606. Sidewall openings 61.8 are provided in the sidewall s of the rear shell 602 corresponding in posi tion to the openings 610 provided on front shell 601,

[0.141 ] As mentioned previously, the door 603 is provided at a lower end of the rear shell

602 attached by the hinge pin 604, The door of the embodiment illustrated in Figure 10 is substantially L-shaped. The L-shaped door 603 includes a first portion 619 to cover the lower end edge of the device 606 and a second portion 622 extends partially over the front surface 60 of the front shell 601 to maintain the door 603 in the closed condition. A tongue is preferably provided on the second portion 620 in order to be located within the depression 612 to close the door 603. A raised portion 621 i provided on a outer surface of the second portion of the door

603 in order to allow manual unlatching of the door.

[0142] The second portion 620 of the door is shaped to be received in a shaped depression on the face of the front shell 601,

[0143] The first portion 619 of the door 603 is provided with one or more openings therethrough in order to correspond with the location of the speaker or microphone on the device 606. The first portion 619 of the door 603 as illustrated in Figure 10 also includes a number of tubular extensions 622 in order to be at least partially received in a portion of the sleeve 605 overlying the power charger cable port and headphone port of the device 606 illustrated in Figure 10 but clearly the location and type of these extensions wilt be device-specific and different cases provided for different devices will have different configurations of extension 622. The extensions 622 illustrated in Figure 10 may surround openings through the first portion 619 of the door 603 and typically, are at least partially received in openings in the sleeve corresponding to at least the ports in the device 606. The rear shell 602 also includes corner protectors 613 which are preferably resilient,

[0144] The sleeve 605 illustrated i Figure 10 is a resilient sleeve with one or more rigid portions or inserts provided therein to overlie specific portions of the device 606 when, located i the sleeve 605, A number of shaped buttons 623 are provided on the sidewalls of this sleeve 605 corresponding in shape and position to the shape and position of the buttons provided on. the device 606. The buttons 623 on the sleeve 605 may also be provided with identification indicia to identify the function of the buttons of the device 606, Each of the buttons 623 provided is also solid in order to convey force to the buttons of the devi ce 606 when buttons 623 are manipulated.

[0145] As illustrated in Figure 10, the sleeve 605 extends across the rear of the device 606, over the side edges of the device and up over at least a portion of the front surface of the device 606. The sleeve 60S ma extend further over the device at the upper and lower portions than at the sides.

10146 j The portions of the front face of the sleeve illustrated in Figure 10 are coplanar with one another such that the force applied by the front shell 601 is evenly spread across the face of the device 606 to create a seal. Another way to look at the configuration of the sleeve 605 is that the sleeve 605 is a closed sleeve designed to encapsulate the device 606 buty with a substantially rectangular cutout 624 in the front wall of the sleeve. An enlarged portion 625 is provided on the rear wall of the sleeve 605 (which is better illustrated in Figure 7) in order to act as an insert through the central opening 616 in the rear shell 602, The size, shape and location of the enlarged portion 625 corresponds with the size, shape and location of the central opening 616 i the rear shell 602.

[0147] A window insert 626 is provided in the enlarged portion 625 of the sleeve 605 illustrated in Figure 10. In this embodiment, the window insert 626 is transparent to allow brand placement for the device 606.

[0148] An insert 627 is provided in a rear surface of the sleeve 605 to allow for the lens of the camera in the rear of the device 606. This insert 627 will typically be provided with an enlarged periphery on the rear side thereof in order to be received within the opening 617 in the rear of the rear shell 602.

[0149] An insert 628 is provided in a front surface of the sleeve 605 to allow for a lens of the camera in the front of the device 606. This insert 628 will typically be provided with an enlarged periphery on the front side thereof in order to be received within the opening 608 in the front of the front shell 601.

[0150] A further insert 629 i s provided in a bottom edge surface of the sleeve 605 to allow for the microphone, speaker, power charger port and headphone port in the bottom edge of the device 606. This insert. 62 will typicall be provided with an enlarged peripher on an outer side thereof in order to be engage with the configurations provided on the first portion 619 of the door 603. [01511 The .embodiment of the case illustrated in Figure 7 is similar in many respects to that illustrated in Figure 10 but with some additional components such as the microphone membrane 630 located in the lower insert 629 and retained there by the microphone frame 631.

[0152] As with previous embodiments, the device 606 is received within the sleeve 605 by deforming the sleeve 605 to encompass the device 606, The sleeve 605 is the compressed during assembly and closing of the front and rear shells due to the fact that it is slightly larger externally then the internal dimension of the front shell 601 and rear shell 602 when assembled, The assembled case compresses the shel l between portions of the case to seal the device therein but leave the screen or display of the device 606 unobstructed and provide access (indirectly) to the operating components of the device.

[0153] In the present specification and claims (if any), the word 'comprising' and its derivatives including 'comprises' and 'comprise' include each of the stated integers but does not exclude the inclusion of one or more further integers.

[0154] Reference throughout this specification to 'one embodiment' or 'an embodiment' means that a particular feature, structure, or characteristic ^' described in connection with the embodiment is included in at l east one embodiment of the present invention. Thus, the appearance of the phrases 'in one embodiment' or '.in an embodiment' in various places throughout this specification are not necessarily all referring to the same embodiment.

Furthermore, the particular features, structures, or characteristics may be combined in any suitable manner in one or more combinations.

[0155] In compliance with the statute, the invention has been described in language more or less specific to structural or methodical features. It is to be understood that the invention is not limited to specific features shown or described since the means herein described comprises preferred forms of putting the invention into effect. The invention is, therefore, claimed in any of its forms or modifications within the proper scope of the appended claims (if any)

appropriately interpreted by those skilled i the art.