Abstract: Male plug connectors including an insert configured to insert into a complimentarily configured receptacle, the insert defining a recess and including one or more insert electrical contacts mounted within the recess in a position to contact one or more corresponding receptacle electrical contacts, and a retraction mechanism operatively connected to the insert and configured to urge the insert out of the receptacle when a user desires to withdraw the insert from the receptacle. In some examples, the retraction mechanism includes a first wedge member adjacent the insert on a first lateral side of the insert, and a second wedge member adjacent the insert on a second lateral side of the insert, wherein the first wedge member and the second wedge member are each configured to move between a rest position distal the insert and a loaded position proximate the insert.

Abstract: Base stations for supporting a device, including a base member defining a cavity and a recess to receive and support the device, the recess including a floor and a back wall, a male plug connector mounted in the cavity in a position extending into the floor of the recess to selectively engage the device when the device is supported in the recess, and an adjustable support system configured to selectively extend to multiple positions in the recess to support the device from one of the multiple positions within the recess. In some examples, the base station includes a track system moveably supporting the male plug connector at multiple distances from the back wall of the recess to support the device in cooperation with the back wall from different positions within the recess.

Abstract: The present invention relates generally to an apparatus which provides protection for percussion instruments and more specifically to device that protects the underlying musical drum instrument and its components, such as drum head and drum rim or hoop and parts of individual drums, when the drums are stacked one upon the other. In providing such protection, the invention is placed between stacked drum sets and supplies a cushion between the stacked drum and the drumhead of the drum thus prolonging the life of the drumhead and drum rim or hoop, protecting them from damage. The invention works by providing protection both during storage and playing of the instrument.