Mobile device cases and case systems with embedded sidewall shock absorber

Abstract

Protective cases and case systems for a mobile device are disclosed herein. The cases include a multi component structure that defines a compartment dimensioned to receive a mobile device and includes one or more shock absorber elements embedded within its side walls. The multi-component construct may be configured as a standalone case or as a sleeve that reversibly fits within another external component or shell. The shock absorber element may be formed in multiple segments and may be formed of a softer material than adjacent regions of the case and co-molded into a channel in a supporting wall component that is formed of a more rigid material. The shock absorber component may have one or more channels formed in its outer surface and may extend internally into the device compartment to form relatively soft corner pads or cushions. Some embodiments may further include an optional screen protector lid.

What is claimed is: 
     
         1 . A protective case configured to reversibly receive and retain a mobile device, said protective case comprising:
 a first component configured to receive a mobile device and comprising side walls having external channels thereon; and   a second component co-molded within said external channels, said second component including one or more channels on its outer facing surface;   wherein said first component is composed of a first polymer material and said second component is made of a second polymer material that is different than said first polymer material, and   wherein said second polymer material is softer than said first polymer material.   
     
     
         2 . The protective case of  claim 1 , wherein said first component defines a compartment configured to receive said mobile device and said compartment includes internal corner regions configured to be in contact with corner regions of said mobile device. 
     
     
         3 . The protective case of  claim 2 , wherein said second component extends through apertures in said first component to form cushion pads located at one or more internal corner regions, wherein said cushion pads are configured to be in contact with said mobile device when said mobile device is inserted into the first component of the case. 
     
     
         4 . The protective case of  claim 1  further comprising a shell component configured to reversibly receive said first and second components, said shell component comprising transparent sidewalls and formed of a material that is more rigid than either said first or second polymer material. 
     
     
         5 . The protective case of  claim 1  further comprising a transparent screen protective lid configured to reversibly snap into and out of a channel that is formed on said first component.