US 6,043,626 · Granted 2000-03-28

The 2000 Patent That Turned Phone Cases Into Charging Stations

Imagine a protective case for your phone that doesn't just hold it—it also charges it and recharges itself. This patent describes a clever cradle that wraps around your device, packs its own battery inside, and includes a built-in charger so you're never stuck with a dead phone.

Curated and verified by the IsItPatented Editorial team

The plain-English version

What it protects

The claim covers a portable holder with an integrated battery that charges your electronic device when you place it inside, plus a charging system built right into the holder itself to recharge that battery. It also protects the mechanical cradle design that securely holds the device, the power connections between the battery and your phone, and optional attachments like belt clips. Anyone making an unauthorized product with this exact combination—holder plus internal battery plus internal charger—would be infringing.

Why it matters

In 2000, when phones still needed charging every few hours and wall outlets weren't everywhere, this invention offered a practical solution: your protective case becomes your backup power bank. Ericsson, a major mobile phone maker at the time, locked down this concept before competitors could. The patent combines three functions into one product, which made it valuable for devices that were increasingly mobile and increasingly power-hungry.

Real-world use

Picture slipping your flip phone or early smartphone into a thick, boxy case with a clip, and knowing you've got extra battery life built in—no need to carry a separate charger or cable.

Original USPTO abstract

A portable electronic device holder having a housing defining a cradle for holding an electronic device, a battery integrally connected with the housing for powering the electronic device in response to placement of the electronic device within the cradle of the housing, and a connection for interconnecting power circuitry of the electronic device with the battery. The housing further includes a charger for charging the battery incorporated therewithin. The holder may also include an attachment for attaching the housing to a user, such as, for example, a belt clip.

Patent details

Publication number: US 6,043,626
Filing date: 1997-08-01
Grant date: 2000-03-28
Assignee: Ericsson Inc.
Inventor(s): SNYDER; THOMAS D., BANYAS; TIMOTHY
CPC class: A45F5/02

View original record on Google Patents →

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