Abstract: This invention includes a stylus that employs a translucent material for conducting light to convey information from a portable electronic device to a user. In one preferred embodiment, the stylus provides a thermometer style fuel gauge. Inserting the stylus into a special stylus holder actuates the fuel gauge. A thermometer like fuel gauge reading then appears in the body of the stylus. Other embodiments include changing color, focal point of a lens and light intensity to convey information. The stylus may be used to convey any type of information, including receipt of e-mail by the portable electronic device.

Abstract: This invention includes a spacer for a rechargeable battery pack. The spacer is hermaphroditic in that it may be rotated by 180 degrees and attached to itself. The spacer sits between two rechargeable battery cells and includes means for accommodating a circuit board. The spacer facilitates connections between the cells and circuit board by way of welding flexible metal tabs. The spacer allows assembly of a battery pack without the need for hand soldering.

Abstract: A latching system for a battery housing for a portable electronic device comprises a housing with an orifice, a button projecting through the orifice in the housing; with a cam on the end of the button in the interior of the housing, and a springy metal sheet attached to the interior of the housing, wherein the springy metal sheet has an orifice. The movement of the button causes the cam on the end of the button to deflect the springy metal sheet, causing an orifice on the springy metal sheet to engage or disengage a projection on the electronic device to which the battery housing is attached.

Abstract: A contact retention system for a housing for a battery cell is described which comprises a springy L-shaped retention member, a battery housing with a wall and a floor, with a catchment on both the wall and the floor, and contacts disposed between the base of the L-shaped retention member and the floor of the housing. The vertex of the L-shaped retention member is pushed toward the corner of the wall and the floor of the housing, and the ends of the L are restrained by the catchments. Any force exerted on the upper portion of the L-shaped retention member, pushing the upper portion toward the wall, causes the base of the L-shaped retention member to push the contacts toward the floor of the housing. The battery cells themselves provide the force on the upper portion of the L-shaped retention member. The contact system provides low-cost, easily manufacturable way to secure push-in contacts to a battery housing.

Abstract: A removable battery package (120) has a latch assembly (200) for attaching to a latch coupler (700) of an electronic device (110). The removable battery package (120) includes a socket (432) that mates with the latch coupler (700). A resilient, deflectable latch member (260) is secured within the socket (432). The latch member (260) has a latch portion (266, 268) to engage a portion (715) of the latch coupler (700). A button (270), mounted on the latch member (260), is depressible to deflect the latch member (260).