Expansion/docking Station Patents (Class 361/679.41)
Motorized (Class 361/679.42)
Latching (Class 361/679.43)
Adjustable (Class 361/679.44)
  • Apparatus for mounting an audio player
    Patent number: 8611075
    Abstract: Disclosed is a mounting dock with an integral jack for digital audio players, preferably that incorporate a built-in clip, including, but not limited to the iPod Shuffle® and iPod Nano® manufactured by Apple, Inc. The dock includes a tapered and beveled mounting stem that inserts into the audio player's clip and a jack that inserts into and provides electrical connection with the audio player's audio port. The stem and jack are positioned and aligned so as to enable simultaneous mounting and electrical connection with the audio player, thereby effecting connection with a desired output device, such as earphones, with one hand in a single motion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 6, 2012
    Date of Patent: December 17, 2013
    Inventor: Zane Carter
  • Stand device for portable electronic device
    Patent number: 8608123
    Abstract: To provide a stand device capable of improving workability in removing a portable electronic device. A stand device has a pedestal and a lever mechanism. The pedestal is supported movable between a support portion for supporting an electronic device mounted on the support surface and a removal position at which the pedestal is arranged through a movement thereof in which the pressing portion descends. The lever mechanism includes a pressed arm and a projection. The pressed arm is pressed by the pressing portion to thus move downward when the pedestal moves from the support position to the removal position. The projection moves upward along with the rotation of the fulcrum portion caused by the downward movement of the pressed arm to thus project from the support surface of the pedestal.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 25, 2009
    Date of Patent: December 17, 2013
    Assignees: Sony Corporation, Sony Computer Entertainment Inc.
    Inventors: Nobuyuki Takahashi, Nobuyoshi Ishiwata
  • Method of distributing to a user a remedy for inadequate battery life in a handheld device
    Patent number: 8604753
    Abstract: The teachings relate to a method of distributing to a user a system to provide a remedy for inadequate battery life in a handheld device. The system comprises a modular hybrid-charger assembly operably connected to a device holder. The modular hybrid-charger assembly comprises a rechargeable internal battery connected to a port operable to function as a connection to a portable electronic device, a power management engine embodied in a computer readable medium, and a solar energy source. The device holder comprises a framework operable to receive, hold, and release the portable electronic device; and an alignment mechanism that facilitates a mating of the portable electronic device with the hybrid-charger assembly. The modular hybrid-charger assembly can comprise a form factor that is interchangeable and operable with each of several different device holder form factors.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 24, 2011
    Date of Patent: December 10, 2013
    Assignee: iPowerUp, Inc
    Inventors: Jerry S. Bessa, Martin D. Cox, Donald K. Moore
  • PORTABLE DEVICE AND PERIPHERAL EXTENSION DOCK
    Publication number: 20130322010
    Abstract: An electronic device includes a housing, a connector port and a switching device. The connector port receives a peripheral device. The processor is electrically connected to the connector port and includes a detection pin and a 1-wire pin. The switching device is coupled between the connector port and the processor to selectively connect the connector port to one of the detection pin or the 1-wire pin. When the peripheral device is inserted into the connector port, the processor controls the switching device to connect the connector port to the detection pin to determine whether the connected peripheral device is a 1-wire device. When the processor determines that the connected peripheral device is a 1-wire device, the processor controls the switching device to connect the connector port to the 1-wire pin and the processor executes 1-wire communication with the peripheral device via the 1-wire pin.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 5, 2012
    Publication date: December 5, 2013
    Inventors: Ching-Chung Hung, Yu-Peng Lai, Wei-Chih Chang
  • Mobile Computer Workstation
    Publication number: 20130322002
    Abstract: A mobile computer workstation for use with a computer network is disclosed. The workstation can include a wheeled chassis having a vertical beam that supports a horizontal work surface. An input device tray is located at a front side of the work surface and a bracket located at a rear side of the work surface mounts a display screen to the workstation above and off the work surface. A power unit including a battery charger and a battery is mounted to the chassis and supplies power to the display screen.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 9, 2013
    Publication date: December 5, 2013
    Applicant: InterMetro Industries Corporation
    Inventors: Richard A. Clark, Michael R. Jacobs, Steven B. Flemig, Fouad Geries Abu-Akel, Darin Janoschka, Keith Washington
  • Combined cover, keyboard and stand for tablet computer with reversable connection for keyboard and reading configuration
    Patent number: 8599542
    Abstract: A reversible connection device to attach a cover to a tablet computer in two opposite configurations has a channel pivotally coupled to the cover to receive an edge of the tablet computer. The channel has a first magnet array to magnetically attach to a magnet array of the edge of the tablet computer in a first orientation of the tablet computer with respect to the cover and the channel. A tab is movably coupled in and carried by the channel and movable into the channel. The tab has a second reversed magnet array to magnetically attach to the magnet array of the edge of the tablet computer in a second reversed orientation of the tablet computer with respect to the cover and the channel. The second reversed magnet array has a reversed orientation with respect to the first magnet array of the channel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 17, 2013
    Date of Patent: December 3, 2013
    Assignee: ZAGG Intellectual Property Holding Co., Inc.
    Inventors: Arthur Healey, Jim Colby, David Gengler, Daniel Pryor Oakeson, Jeffrey King
  • System, method and apparatus for holding multiple devices
    Patent number: 8593804
    Abstract: A consumer electronic system for concurrently holding and providing power to several consumer electronic devices has several cradles in a staggered configuration. At least one of the cradles is positioned behind at least one other of the cradles. Thereby the cradle positioned behind the at least one other cradles is capable of supporting a larger consumer electronic device without blocking the at least one other cradle. The support walls of the at least one other cradles provides a surface that supports the larger consumer electronic device, keeping the larger consumer electronic device from sliding forward.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 9, 2012
    Date of Patent: November 26, 2013
    Inventor: Jack Strauser
  • Tri-holder/organizer system
    Patent number: 8593802
    Abstract: A plurality of stations is positionable on the top of a stereo radio/alarm clock. The stations include end stations and a central station between the end stations. Each station has a downwardly extending recess to removably receive and support a smaller consumer electronic music device. Each station has a support plate extending upwardly from an associated recess. The end recesses are laterally aligned with their associated support plates in a forward plane. The central recess is rearwardly spaced from the end recesses with its associated support plate in a rearward plane. The arrangement of the support plates allows the support plates to removably receive and support a larger consumer electronic music device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 3, 2011
    Date of Patent: November 26, 2013
    Inventor: John E. Strauser
  • LOW POWER, HIGH DENSITY SERVER AND PORTABLE DEVICE FOR USE WITH SAME
    Publication number: 20130308265
    Abstract: A high density server including a plurality of portable devices is disclosed. The portable devices may be arranged in drawers, which may be assembled into shelves for mounting within the high density server. The server rack of the high density server has a substantially open bottom and open top to permit passive airflow in and around the portable devices housed therein. Because of the configuration of the portable devices within the server, the computing power density is increased over a traditional server. Also, the design of the portable devices and their placement within the high density server minimizes the need for active cooling and in some embodiments removes the need for active cooling mechanisms altogether. The portable devices are encased in a protective coating that facilitates heat dissipation away from the portable device. The portable devices include components found in traditional servers.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 9, 2013
    Publication date: November 21, 2013
    Applicant: Amouse Digital Devices Corporation
    Inventor: Michael Arnouse
  • Reconfigurable Modular Computing Device
    Publication number: 20130301202
    Abstract: A configurable computing device comprising a housing, a printed circuit board disposed within the housing, a first microcontroller and a second microcontroller each coupled to the PCB, wherein the first microcontroller and the second microcontroller are in electrical signal communication with each other, a computer-on-module (COM) coupled to the PCB, wherein the COM is in electrical signal communication with the first microcontroller and the second microcontroller, and one or more peripheral modules coupled to the PCB, wherein, the peripheral modules are each in electrical signal communication with the first microcontroller and wherein, the peripheral modules are each in electrical signal communication with the COM via the second microcontroller.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 11, 2013
    Publication date: November 14, 2013
    Applicant: ENTEGRA TECHNOLOGIES, INC
    Inventor: Douglas Lee Fowler
  • UTILITY MODULE
    Publication number: 20130304142
    Abstract: A defibrillator system optimizes the timing and manner of applying a defibrillator charge to a patient based upon data provided to the defibrillator from a utility module or one or more external devices. A parameter module on the utility module provides the defibrillator with patient parameter information. Devices external to the utility module may provide the utility module with coaching data that the utility module may pass through to the defibrillator as a proxy to the external devices. The utility module may also provide external devices with patient data that the utility module may pass through to the external devices as a proxy to the defibrillator on a scheduled or other basis. The utility module may additionally provide a reserve of power to enable defibrillators to be used where power is unavailable and to enable defibrillators to deliver multiple charges more readily anywhere, anytime.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 30, 2012
    Publication date: November 14, 2013
    Applicant: Physio-Control, Inc.
    Inventors: Barry D. Curtin, John Daynes, Karen Kraft Langman, Mina Lim, Neil G. McIlvaine, E. Thomas McKay, Randy L. Merry, Ken Peterson, Mitchell Allen Smith
  • Docking station and electronic device
    Patent number: 8582289
    Abstract: A docking station includes a housing, and a connecting mechanism rotatably received in the housing. The connecting mechanism includes an interface. The connecting mechanism rotates from a first position exposed out of the housing to a second position hidden in the housing. When the connecting mechanism rotates to the first position, the interface is exposed out of the housing. When the connecting mechanism rotates to the second position, the interface is hidden in the housing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 9, 2011
    Date of Patent: November 12, 2013
    Assignees: Fu Tai Hua Industry (Shenzhen) Co., Ltd., Hon Hai Precision Industry Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Cong-Bing Zhou
  • Stand for portable hand held device
    Patent number: 8576557
    Abstract: The stand is made of a pair of hingedly connected plates for holding a portable device in a clamped upright position for viewing and for use purposes. The plates are hinged at one end and biased by a spring into a closed position to clamp about opposite sides of the portable device. The edges of the plates are provided with a rubberized bead to provide a non-slip surface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 5, 2010
    Date of Patent: November 5, 2013
    Inventor: Darryl Chu
  • STANDARDIZATION OF SERVER MODULE IN HIGH-DENSITY SERVER
    Publication number: 20130279108
    Abstract: A server includes a housing having a server module dock, a power source disposed in the rear side inside the housing, and a pair of server modules having horizontally symmetrical and vertically reversible shapes. When a pair of server modules is properly inserted into the housing of a server, they can receive electric power from the power source via connectors. Even when a pair of server modules is vertically reversed and inserted into the housing of a server, it is possible to secure electrical connection between the power source and the vertically reversed server modules. An erroneous insertion preventing measure is applied to the server module dock and a back panel fixed to a riser card, attached to each server module, so as to prevent erroneous insertion of server modules into the housing of a server. This may establish compatibility and standardization between server modules for use in servers.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 23, 2013
    Publication date: October 24, 2013
    Applicant: NEC Corporation
    Inventor: TAKAYUKI SHIROKAZE
  • Tablet Storage Device
    Publication number: 20130279109
    Abstract: A tablet storage device includes a frame having a plurality of slots, at least one of which is adapted to hold a tablet. A docking station can be disposed in at least one slot. In some cases the docking station is configured to align a tablet as the tablet is positioned in the slot such that a corresponding port in the tablet aligns with, and connects to, a connector. The frame also has a surface to attach the device to a vertical surface and can have a door that can be moved from an open to a closed position and adapted to retain at least one tablet held within at least one slot when the door is closed. A power supply system and/or a network connection system can be provided with the tablet storage device.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 12, 2012
    Publication date: October 24, 2013
    Inventors: Shaun C. Lindblad, Joe Funk, William D. Tischer, Matthew D. Purrington, Peter Segar, Diane L. Richardson, David J. Prince
  • POINT-OF-SALE SYSTEM
    Publication number: 20130279110
    Abstract: A point-of-sale system includes a stand that supports a tablet computer. The tablet computer can run a merchant application to provide the typical functionality for a point-of-sale system. The stand can be rotatable to face either the merchant or the customer. The stand can incorporate a card reader. The tablet computer can be connected through a hub to other peripheral components, such as a controllable cash drawer, a printer and/or a bar code reader. The cash drawer can include a slidable drawer having sliding rails that are hidden from a top view of the drawer.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 12, 2013
    Publication date: October 24, 2013
    Applicant: Square, Inc.
    Inventors: Troy Edwards, Lukas Skoog, Amish Babu, Jesse Dorogusker
  • Tablet Storage and Transportation Device
    Publication number: 20130277930
    Abstract: A tablet storage device includes a module on a cart frame that includes a wheeled base. A cart module defines a selectively accessible interior space having multiple storage slots within the interior space for holding tablets. In some cases a tablet storage device holds multiple tablets using two or more modules in a stacked arrangement on a wheeled base. Each module can hold a portion of the multiple tablets within storage slots within an interior space inside the module. The storage slots may have connectors for connecting to tablets, and the cart frame can have a network connection system that is adapted to provide a network connection for each tablet that is connected to one of the connectors. The cart frame may also have a power supply system for charging each tablet that is connected to one of the connectors.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 12, 2012
    Publication date: October 24, 2013
    Inventors: Mustafa A. Ergun, Shaun C. Lindblad, Joe Funk, William D. Tischer, Peter Segar, David J. Prince
  • Heat exhaustion structure for heat dissipating device
    Patent number: 8564947
    Abstract: A heat exhaustion structure for a heat dissipating device is provided. The present invention relates to a heat exhaustion structure for a heat dissipating device, and more particularly, to a heat exhaustion structure that may effectively exhaust an internal heat generated by heat dissipating devices included in a semiconductor package and in a large number of electronic products.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 11, 2011
    Date of Patent: October 22, 2013
    Assignee: Electronics and Telecommunications Research Institute
    Inventor: Chang Soo Kwak
  • Docking station
    Patent number: 8559172
    Abstract: A docking station (100) is adapted for charging or otherwise transmitting electrical signals to an electronic device (240). The docking station (100) includes a main housing (102) and a device connector assembly (204). The device connector assembly (204) is coupled to the main housing (102) and electronically connected to circuit components (130, 132) for mechanically and electrically coupling the electronic device (240) to the docking station (100).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 4, 2009
    Date of Patent: October 15, 2013
    Inventor: Norman R. Byrne
  • Docking station, and associated methodology, for a mini personal computer
    Patent number: 8559171
    Abstract: A docking station for a mini personal computer. The docking station formed of the shell of a laptop computer at which a user keyboard and a display screen are supported at the docking station. Additional elements, such as a computer hard drive or computer mass storage device are also supported at the docking station. When the mini personal computer is received at a docking port of the docking station, the processor of the mini personal computer is able to make use of the elements supported at the docking station.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 22, 2008
    Date of Patent: October 15, 2013
    Assignee: Hewlett-Packard Development Company, L.P.
    Inventor: Fred A. Cummins
  • Motherboard assembly and central processing unit expansion card
    Patent number: 8559170
    Abstract: A central processing unit (CPU) expansion card may be inserted into a first connector of a motherboard. The CPU expansion card includes a board, a CPU socket mounted on the board, a number of memory slots mounted on the board and electrically connected to the CPU socket, and a second connector electrically connected to the CPU socket and mounted on the bottom side of the board to be inserted into the first connector of the motherboard.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 11, 2011
    Date of Patent: October 15, 2013
    Assignee: Hon Hai Precision Industry Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Yao-Tsung Lee, Yi-Cheng Tseng, Chun-Hsien Tsai, Feng-Ming Chang
  • Charging docking system
    Patent number: 8553408
    Abstract: Systems and methods provide power to a device via a dock. A mounting base may include a mounting component, including a receiving area configured to removably receive a mating device at a plurality of orientations within a plane, wherein the mounting component comprises one or more indexing members and the mating device comprises one or more indexing elements, or the mating device comprises one or more indexing members and the mounting component comprises one or more indexing elements, the indexing members and elements configured to engage each other to align the mating device with the mounting component in one or more rotational orientations on said plane. A detector, configured to detect the presence of the mating device, and a driver circuit may be included. A device may be configured to control power sourced to the mating device by the driver circuit after the detector detects the mating device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 5, 2012
    Date of Patent: October 8, 2013
    Assignee: Dana Innovations
    Inventors: Ari Supran, Scott Struthers, Rob Roland, Derick Dahl, Jim O'Dea, Huy Bui, Ray Call, Alex Bertagni
  • Seperable point of sale system
    Patent number: 8550343
    Abstract: A separable point of sale system includes a mainframe and a base. The mainframe has one or more base connecting sockets, a case, a touch screen and a power receiving socket, and the case has a mainframe tenon; the base has an inputting module, one or more mainframe connecting plugs, a base tenon, a power supply plug and a trough used to accommodate the mainframe. The base tenon operatively connects with the mainframe tenon, and the amount of the mainframe connecting plugs and that of the base connecting sockets are the same. When the mainframe tenon connects with the base tenon, the mainframe is vertically placed in the trough.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 17, 2011
    Date of Patent: October 8, 2013
    Assignee: Partner Tech Corp.
    Inventor: Chun-Shih Ko
  • Docking station for electronic device
    Patent number: 8553407
    Abstract: A docking station is used for receiving an electronic device. The docking station includes a housing, a docking port, and a locking mechanism. The housing defines a receiving slot. The docking port is arranged inside the housing and is capable of partly extending into the receiving slot to engage with the electronic device when the electronic device is received in the receiving slot. The locking mechanism is connected to the docking port for locking the docking port in the receiving slot. The locking mechanism is partly exposed outside the housing to allow to be operated to drive the docking port to be retracted from the receiving slot.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 26, 2011
    Date of Patent: October 8, 2013
    Assignees: Fu Tai Hua Industry (Shenzhen) Co., Ltd., Hon Hai Precision Industry Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Cong-Bing Zhou
  • Device stowing mechanism
    Patent number: 8540109
    Abstract: A stowing mechanism for a laptop or other device can secure different devices with varying thicknesses and widths within a compartment. The mechanism includes a cover which serves as the actuator for a jack mechanism. A pressure plate pivotally attached to the jack mechanism pushes against the device when the lid is closed, thereby securing the device within the compartment. The device can be released from the secure position by opening the cover. A buffer spring operating in conjunction with the jacking mechanism allows the mechanism to secure devices having different thicknesses and widths, while the pivotal pressure plate allows the plate to conform to devices having different shapes.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 18, 2010
    Date of Patent: September 24, 2013
    Assignee: Rockwell Collins, Inc.
    Inventors: Mark V. McPeek, Roger D. Eller, Josh M. Roe, Stephen R. Blair
  • Comfortable laptop computer stand
    Patent number: 8537537
    Abstract: A laptop computer stand includes a case having a top, a bottom, right and left sides, a front, and a back. The stand further includes a plurality of speakers disposed at right and left sides of the top, and an audio hub coupled to the speakers. The audio hub is configured to receive audio signals from a laptop computer coupled to the audio hub, and control the speakers to output audio from the audio signal. The stand further includes a cooling fan disposed in the body below the top. The top includes a top grate formed therein configured to output air blown by the fan, and the back includes a back grate configured to intake air blown out the top grate. The air blown by the fan is configured to circulate between the top of the stand and the bottom of a laptop computer positioned on the top of the stand.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 7, 2010
    Date of Patent: September 17, 2013
    Assignee: Logitech Europe S.A.
    Inventors: Alain Tabasso, Simone Chevalley, Patrick Monney
  • Portable electronic device case with battery
    Patent number: 8531833
    Abstract: A case for an electronic device protects and extends the battery life of the electronic device. The case has a lower case portion and an upper case portion, which assemble together to protect the top, side, and bottom edges of the electronic device. The lower case portion includes a battery to extend the battery life of the electronic device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 11, 2011
    Date of Patent: September 10, 2013
    Assignee: Incase Designs Corp.
    Inventors: Markus Diebel, David Johnson
  • Quick mount system for computer terminal
    Patent number: 8531829
    Abstract: A mounting system for quickly attaching and detaching a computer terminal from a mounting station. The mounting station can be semi-permanently attached to an object, such as on forklift or a non-mobile structure, such as a wall. The mounting station can include a power input port for receiving external power for the computer terminal and one or more communication ports for providing data communication between the computer terminal and another device. The computer terminal includes an electrical connector that engages an electrical connector of the mounting station to receive the supply power and facilitate the data communication between the computer terminal and other device. The computer terminal and/or the mounting station can include a locking mechanism that releasably couples the computer terminal to the mounting station such that the electrical connectors maintain proper contact.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 3, 2011
    Date of Patent: September 10, 2013
    Assignee: EMS Technologies, Inc.
    Inventors: Mark Oberpriller, Robert Bullard, Khalid Kidari
  • Hinge device and keyboard dock and portable electronic device having the same
    Patent number: 8526172
    Abstract: A hinge device and a keyboard dock and a portable electronic device having the same are provided. The hinge device includes a body, a torsion generating part, a rotating part and a second wedging unit. The torsion generating part is pivotally connected to the body and has a first wedging unit. The rotating part is pivotally connected to the body. The second wedging unit is assembled to the rotating part and moved along with the rotating part. The first wedging unit and the second wedging unit are wedged together or separated from each other while the rotating part rotates relative to the body along a first axis. The body can rotate along a second axis relative to the torsion generating part while the first wedging unit and the second wedging unit are separated from each other. The first axis is vertical to the second axis.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 1, 2011
    Date of Patent: September 3, 2013
    Assignees: Wistron Corporation, Shin Zu Shing Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Hish-Bin Dai, Yi-Ling Kuo, Ming-Hua Hung, Wen-Chin Wu, Chih-Kuang Chuang
  • Mobile computer workstation
    Patent number: 8526176
    Abstract: A mobile computer workstation for use with a computer network is disclosed. The workstation can include a wheeled chassis having a vertical beam that supports a horizontal work surface. An input device tray is located at a front side of the work surface and a bracket located at a rear side of the work surface mounts a display screen to the workstation above and off the work surface. A power unit including a battery charger and a battery is mounted to the chassis and supplies power to the display screen.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 26, 2011
    Date of Patent: September 3, 2013
    Assignee: InterMetro Industries Corporation
    Inventors: Richard A. Clark, Michael R. Jacobs, Steven B. Flemig, Fouad Geries Abu-Akel, Darin Janoschka, Keith Washington
  • UNIVERSAL ADAPTOR MOUNT FOR A DOCKING STATION
    Publication number: 20130223003
    Abstract: A docking station having a docking tray that is adapted for seating a portable electronic device therein with a docking port of the portable electronic device seated against an interface portion thereof, and the interface portion of the docking tray being formed with an interface outlet aperture positioned for alignment with the docking port of the portable electronic device. A connector retainer is coupleable for releasably urging individual ones of a plurality of different interfaces toward the interface portion of the docking tray and positioning a connection portion thereof adjacent to the interface outlet aperture and directed inwardly of the docking tray. An urging mechanism is adapted for urging the seated portable electronic device toward the interface portion of the docking tray and the interface outlet aperture thereof.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 14, 2012
    Publication date: August 29, 2013
    Inventor: Jeffrey D. Carnevali
  • INTEGRATED CIRCUIT CHIP, MOBILE DEVICE INCLUDING THE SAME, AND METHOD FOR OPERATING THE MOBILE DEVICE
    Publication number: 20130215569
    Abstract: A mobile device includes a docking unit for docking with an external device, and an integrated circuit chip including an impedance matching circuit for impedance matching of an internal bus outside of the integrated circuit chip, wherein activation or deactivation of the impedance matching circuit is determined based on whether the docking unit is docked.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 17, 2012
    Publication date: August 22, 2013
    Applicant: SK HYNIX INC.
    Inventor: SK hynix Inc.
  • Docking station for an electronic device with improved electrical interface
    Patent number: 8512080
    Abstract: Disclosed is a device for attaching a plurality of external connectors to an electronic device having a first and second ports for attaching a first and second external connectors, a first and second plugs positioned to interface with a first and second ports of the electronic device, and a first and second pins positioned to interface with a first and second electrical contact of a third port on the electronic device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 18, 2012
    Date of Patent: August 20, 2013
    Assignee: Henge Docks LLC
    Inventors: Matthew L. Vroom, Benjamin E. Maskell
  • Positioning structure for expansion card
    Patent number: 8514586
    Abstract: A positioning structure is used for mounting a expansion card to a printed circuit board. The positioning structure includes a first plate, a second plate and a connecting plate connected between the first plate and the second plate. The first plate defines a slot. The second plate defines an opening. The first plate is selectively mounted to different positions of the circuit board by the slot, and the second plate is selectively mounted to different positions of the expansion card by the opening.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 17, 2011
    Date of Patent: August 20, 2013
    Assignees: Hong Fu Jin Precision Industry (ShenZhen) Co., Ltd., Hon Hai Precision Industry Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Wei Tan
  • SYSTEM COMPRISING A DOCKING STATION AND A HANDHELD DEVICE
    Publication number: 20130208416
    Abstract: The system of the invention comprises a docking station (1) and a handheld device (3). The docking station (1) has a bathtub shape following the contours of the handheld device (3) tightly and comprises four walls (5, 7, 9, 11). The inner part of the four walls (5, 7, 9, 11) is curved so that the handheld device (3) is guided during docking.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 14, 2011
    Publication date: August 15, 2013
    Applicant: KONINKLIJKE PHILIPS ELECTRONICS N.V.
    Inventors: Wendela Meertens, Tom Philippe Jean Jacqu Delaey
  • Preventing glare to camera from flash in smartphone case
    Patent number: 8509864
    Abstract: A case for portable electronic devices including smartphones includes a feature to prevent glare from a flash from affecting images and video captured by a camera lens. Smartphones have telephony, Internet connectivity, and camera and video features. Photos and video can be uploaded through the Internet or sent to other phones. A case has hole for a camera flash of the smartphone to pass through. The edging of the hole is colored black or another dark color to prevent glare from appearing in the photos or video taken by the smartphone when using the camera flash.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 18, 2011
    Date of Patent: August 13, 2013
    Assignee: Incase Designs Corp.
    Inventor: Markus Diebel
  • Docking station
    Patent number: 8508932
    Abstract: Disclosed is a docking station mountable in an environment such as a vehicle. The docking station is configured to accept a computerized tablet and to provide to such tablet a power source for operation and recharging of the tablet. Also disclosed is a docking station configured for communicating with the tablet for disseminating the data, video and/or audio content of the tablet to other receivers, such as headphones or vehicle audio system. Similarly, other appliances, such as a channel controller, gaming controller, mouse of a keyboard, may be configured to control the tablet while it is docked. The docking station is configured to allow the user to position the tablet for optimal viewing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 25, 2011
    Date of Patent: August 13, 2013
    Assignee: Magnadyne Corporation
    Inventor: Christopher Duval
  • Recorder set and holder
    Patent number: 8508931
    Abstract: A recorder set includes: a recorder which has a connection terminal electrically connected to external equipment, and a casing; and a holder which maintains an attitude of the recorder. The casing has an accommodation unit which accommodates the connection terminal therein, and an opening which allows the connection terminal to externally project therethrough. The holder includes an attachment unit which allows the recorder to be attached thereto in a predetermined attitude. The attachment unit includes a fit member which has an inner wall fitting the connection terminal in geometry. The fit member has an outer wall fittable in the opening.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 21, 2010
    Date of Patent: August 13, 2013
    Assignee: SANYO Electric Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Shinya Uchida
  • Supplementary cooling system
    Patent number: 8503172
    Abstract: A supplementary cooling system is provided for cooling a computing system. An apparatus may comprise a computing system and a docking system. The computing system has a cooling area and a fan area which is partionable from the cooling area. The docking system has a fan and an airflow outlet which is operably connected to the fan.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 28, 2010
    Date of Patent: August 6, 2013
    Assignee: Lenovo Pte. Ltd.
    Inventors: Fusanobu Nakamura, Hiroaki Agata
  • Media player
    Patent number: 8504182
    Abstract: A media player has a body, and an operating circuit with speakers. A support is attached to the body for movement between a retracted position, retracted at least partially within the body, and an extended position, extending from the body. The support incorporates a connector for, in the extended position, mechanically connecting and supporting a media playing device adjacent the body and electrically connecting an internal playing circuit of the media playing device to the operating circuit of the media player for operation of the media playing device via the operating circuit of the media player. A holder attached to the body engages the media playing device connected to the support, holding the media playing device in position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 20, 2009
    Date of Patent: August 6, 2013
    Assignee: Alco Electronics Limited
    Inventor: Wilson Wai Sing Leung
  • Fitting mechanism and output device
    Patent number: 8498109
    Abstract: A fitting mechanism includes a door member that is provided on a front side of a housing area for accommodating a terminal device and opens and closes the housing area, and a supporting member that is provided on a back side of the housing area and supports the terminal device accommodated in the housing area by urging the terminal device against the door member. The supporting member is urged toward the front side and has an abutting portion that abuts against the terminal device, the abutting portion being movable in a depth direction of the housing area within a predetermined movable range.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 6, 2009
    Date of Patent: July 30, 2013
    Assignee: Sony Corporation
    Inventor: Naohiro Nishimoto
  • Electronic device connecting structure and function expansion device
    Patent number: 8491322
    Abstract: For connecting devices, an electromagnetic interference (EMI) connecting portion includes a conductor connected to a first EMI shield. An electrostatic discharge (ESD) contact portion electrically connects to a second EMI shield through a high-impedance element. The ESD contact portion electrically connects the EMI connecting portion to the second EMI shield through the high-impedance element as the ESD contact portion initially contacts the EMI connecting portion during hot docking. The ESD contact portion subsequently moves in response to the initial contact to contact a low-impedance element electrically connected to the second EMI shield and connect the EMI connecting portion to the second EMI shield through the low-impedance element.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 1, 2012
    Date of Patent: July 23, 2013
    Assignee: Lenovo (Singapore) Pte. Ltd.
    Inventors: Mitsuo Horiuchi, Fumio Tamura, Hiroaki Agata
  • ACCESSORY SYSTEM FOR PORTABLE ELECTRONIC COMPUTING DEVICES
    Publication number: 20130182387
    Abstract: An accessory system for a portable electronic computing device includes a body, a dock integral with the body for receiving and securing the portable electronic computing device, and a protective case for enclosing at least a portion of the portable electronic computing device when the portable electronic computing device is not attached to the body. The dock is sized and shaped to receive the portable electronic computing device while the portable electronic computing device is in said protective case.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 16, 2012
    Publication date: July 18, 2013
    Inventors: Shadi Mere, Royce Channey, Kyle Walworth
  • Modular mobile accessory for mobile device
    Patent number: 8483758
    Abstract: Accessories for mobile devices. Embodiments include an external protective case and/or holster for mobile electronic devices, where the external protective case/holster incorporates a battery pack, a payment processing device, television signal receiver, and/or a modular multi-input/output device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 19, 2011
    Date of Patent: July 9, 2013
    Assignee: Mophie, Inc.
    Inventor: Daniel Huang
  • Docking station system
    Patent number: 8481832
    Abstract: A portable docking station system is designed to mount a portable computing device flush onto a musical instrument. The system features buttons or openings so the user can easily access the controls on the computing device such as volume and power. The system features a housing having a eject system allowing the edge to pivot which provides ease in installing and removing an attached portable computing device. The system is adjustable to receive computing devices of various sizes and thicknesses. Fillers or spacers are added to the system to accommodate various computing devices.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 30, 2012
    Date of Patent: July 9, 2013
    Inventor: Bruce Lloyd
  • CONNECTION UNIT AND ELECTRONIC APPARATUS
    Publication number: 20130163186
    Abstract: Disclosed herein is a connection unit, including: a connector unit having a connection connector to which a connector portion of a personal digital assistance is connected; an apparatus insertion opening into which the personal digital assistance is inserted; a cover which is pivoted between a closing position where the apparatus insertion opening is closed and an opening position where the apparatus insertion opening is opened, and which receives and holds the personal digital assistance connected to the connection connector in a state in which at least a part of the apparatus insertion opening is opened; and an adjusting mechanism having a manipulation portion, and adjusting a pivot position of the cover by a manipulation carried out for the manipulation portion.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 4, 2012
    Publication date: June 27, 2013
    Applicant: Sony Corporation
    Inventor: Sony Corporation
  • DOCKING STATION
    Publication number: 20130163187
    Abstract: A docking station is used to hold an electronic apparatus and includes a docking body and a hinge module. The docking body includes an operation interface and a hinge portion. The hinge module includes a hinge element and a holding element. The hinge element is pivotally connected to the hinge portion and connected to the holding element. The holding element and the docking body form a groove. The holding element for holding the electronic apparatus is rotatable relative to the docking body for more than 270 degrees through the rotation space provided by the groove until being stopped by the docking body.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 21, 2012
    Publication date: June 27, 2013
    Applicant: PEGATRON CORPORATION
    Inventor: Pegatron Corporation
  • DATA CENTER DOCKING STATION AND CARTRIDGE
    Publication number: 20130163185
    Abstract: A data center may be built from docking stations, and from removable and replaceable IT cartridges. In one example, a docking station is built that provides cooling capability, and other support capability, for IT equipment. An IT cartridge is coupled to the docking station, thereby allowing the IT equipment in the cartridge to receive cooling and other support from the docking station, without the cartridge having any cooling infrastructure (or without having a substantial cooling infrastructure). Since IT equipment may have a shorter useful life than cooling equipment (or other non-IT equipment), when the IT equipment has reached the end of its useful life, the IT cartridge can be retired, and replaced with a new IT cartridge, thereby allowing the longer-lived equipment in the docking station to be easily reused with new IT equipment.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 21, 2011
    Publication date: June 27, 2013
    Applicant: MICROSOFT CORPORATION
    Inventors: Stephan W. Gilges, Christian L. Belady, David Thomas Gauthier, Mark E. Shaw, Steven Solomon
  • Universal auxiliary component connecting system for a personal audio-set
    Patent number: 8467541
    Abstract: A universal auxiliary component connection system that operably connects an auxiliary component to a variety of different personal audio-sets using the connection cables supplied with each personal audio-set. In one embodiment, a clip operably connects the personal audio-set engaging fitting of the connection cable, and the clip is detachably secured to the auxiliary component. Accordingly, this connection system allows a variety of different personal audio-sets to be operably connected to the same auxiliary component without requiring the auxiliary component to offer a variety of different fixed connectors.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 28, 2006
    Date of Patent: June 18, 2013
    Assignee: Logitech Europe S.A.
    Inventor: Ryan P. Stuczynski
  • System and method for expansion of a computer
    Patent number: RE44628
    Abstract: A system and method for interfacing at least one ISA and/or PCI compliant device with a PCMCIA compliant socket on a host computer is disclosed. The system is particularly useful to allow ISA and/or PCI compliant devices, which could not otherwise be used with a portable computer having a PCMCIA socket, to be used with such computers. The system can provide complete compatibility between a PCMCIA socket and ISA /PCI compliant devices even though such industry standards include contradictory requirements. The system allows a user to easily connect and disconnect numerous ISA and/or PCI compliant devices via a single PCMCIA socket commonly found on portable computers.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 7, 2006
    Date of Patent: December 3, 2013
    Assignee: Intellectual Ventures I LLC
    Inventors: Paul Charles, Walter M. Peschke