Abstract: A universal adapter module supporting a plurality of different interface adapters, each of the interface adapters having a body, a plug, and a cable communicating with the plug and extended from the body; a housing having an internal cavity sized to receive therewithin the body of the adapter with an opening adjacent to one surface thereof that is sized to admit the plug therethrough, and access means for removing one interface adapter from the housing and substituting therefor a different interface adapter; and a means for urging the plug outwardly through the opening of the housing. A docking station formed of a docking tray configured for supporting a portable electronics device, the docking tray having a means for coupling the housing of the universal adapter module to a device receiver structure thereof with the opening of the adapter module positioned adjacent to an aperture formed in an interface portion thereof.

Abstract: Systems and methods (900) for providing an electrical connector (101, 700) in an electronic device (100). The electrical connector comprises a connector body (350) comprising a planar layer of insulator material having a first face (470) opposed from a second face (370), and a peripheral wall extending around a periphery of the connector body. The electrical connector further comprises one or more conductive posts (401, 403, 405, 407), each having an electrical contact at a first end, and a spring anchor (311, 313, 315, 317) at an opposing end. The connector body comprises one or more elongated cavity structures, each comprising a recess (613) molded into the second face. Conductive spring members (301, 303, 305, 307), each comprised of an elongated cantilevered beam element, are secured by one of the spring anchors within one of the cavity structures. An outer seal (360) is provided, coextensive with the peripheral wall.

Abstract: A docking station for a portable computer or other portable computing device. The docking station having a docking tray formed of a tray body formed with a bearing surface that is adapted for receiving thereon a body portion of the portable computing device. A device receiver structure is positioned adjacent to an edge of the bearing surface of the tray body, and a device clamping mechanism is coupled opposite from the receiver structure for cooperating therewith. At least one substantially resilient preload mechanism is positioned adjacent to bearing surface with at least a portion thereof being projected thereabove. A floating expansion connector that is connectable with the device I/O connector is projected from the bearing surface and is resiliently movable in three dimensions relative thereto.

Abstract: Docking stations having a connector with a compliant mount to provide improved durability and flexibility are provided herein. The compliant mount may couple a connector to a base of a docking station and may include at least a first and second flexure disposed therebetween. The first and second flexure may be configured to have flexural movement in along transverse direction so that, in combination, the flexural movement pivots the connector about a virtual pivot point a distance away from the flexures. The first and second flexures may be configured to project the virtual pivot point to a location on the connector where the connector protrudes from an opening in a docking housing, thereby minimizing the clearance required between the connector and docking housing, while providing controlled movement of the connector relative the dock.

Abstract: A connector assembly for a modular device that connects to a host device, including a receptacle forming part of a host electronic device, and a connector plug mounted on one side of a modular electronic device, for use with two operational modes of the modular device, including a first connector for engagement with the receptacle in a first operational mode in which the modular device is connected with the host device, and a second connector for engagement with a cable external to the modular device in a second operational mode in which the modular device is not connected with the host device, the second connector being covered by the host device but not engaged therewith when the first connector is engaged with the receptacle, thus enabling the modular device to be used with a host or alternatively removed from the host and connected to a cable for external use.

Abstract: A dock for receiving a portable electronic device, including a housing comprising an aperture; a support coupled to an inner wall of the housing, a portion of the support being elastically deformable; and a connector received in the support and extending through the aperture for electrically communicating with the portable electronic device, wiring of the connector for transferring data to an electronic device; wherein the portion of the support elastically deforms in response to non-axial movement of at least a portion of the connector.

Abstract: A compliant mount for use in a connector or connection adapter is disclosed. The compliant mount may be used in a connection between a portable electronic device and another electronic device, such as a docking station. A compliant mount connector adapter may include a first end connector engageable with a portable device and a second end connector engageable with another device, the first and second end connectors coupled with a compliant mount allowing movement of the first end connector engaged with the portable device relative to the second end connector when engaged within the other electronic device. The compliant mount may include any or all of: elastomers, springs, torsion bars, elastomers, rigid members or housing, ball and socket joints, resilient bendable members, and dongles to allow for controlled resistance to bending or torsional forces applied to the portable device when connected to the other electronic device with the connector adapter.

Abstract: A connector apparatus having a detachable module includes a connector base and a detachable module. The connector base has an insulating body and a plurality of press-contacting terminals. A plurality of grooves are inwardly formed on a rear surface of the insulating body. The press-contacting terminals are correspondingly located in the grooves. A press-contacting portion of each of the press-contacting terminals extends along the upper surface of the insulating body and protrudes out from the upper surface. The detachable module is composed of a circuit board, an integrated circuit electrically connecting to the circuit board and a plurality of connecting pins arranged on the circuit board. When the detachable module is connected to the connector base, the connecting pins are electrically connected to the press-contacting portions, and the mainboard of a computer connected to the connector base can execute the function of the integrated circuit in the detachable module.

Abstract: A compliant mount for use in a connector or connection adapter is disclosed. The compliant mount may be used in a connection between a portable electronic device and another electronic device, such as a docking station. A compliant mount connector adapter may include a first end connector engageable with a portable device and a second end connector engageable with another device, the first and second end connectors coupled with a compliant mount allowing movement of the first end connector engaged with the portable device relative to the second end connector when engaged within the other electronic device. The compliant mount may include any or all of: elastomers, springs, torsion bars, elastomers, rigid members or housing, ball and socket joints, resilient bendable members, and dongles to allow for controlled resistance to bending or torsional forces applied to the portable device when connected to the other electronic device with the connector adapter.

Abstract: A connector includes a main body and a detachable module. The main body has an insulation base and a plurality of pin header slots. The rear surface of the insulation base is provided with a plurality of troughs. The pin header slots are disposed in the troughs. Each pin header slot extends toward the top surface of the insulation base. The detachable module includes a circuit board, an integrated circuit and a plurality of pin headers both electrically connected to the circuit board. When the detachable module is assembled with the main body in such a manner that the pin headers are electrically connected to the pin header slots, a mother board connected to the main body can perform the functions of the integrated circuit of the detachable module.

Abstract: An adaptor is provided. The adaptor comprises a first portion including a plug insertable into a port of a portable electronic device. The adaptor further comprises a second portion including at least one adaptor contact configured such that, when the plug of the first portion is inserted into the port and the portable electronic device is placed in a pod, the at least one adaptor contact abuts to at least one pod contact in the pod.

Abstract: A compliant mount for use in a connector or connection adapter is disclosed. The compliant mount may be used in a connection between a portable electronic device and another electronic device, such as a docking station. A compliant mount connector adapter may include a first connector end engageable with a portable device and a second connector end engageable with another device, the first and second connector ends coupled with a compliant mount allowing movement of the first end connector engaged with the portable device relative to the second end connector when engaged within the other electronic device. The compliant mount may include any or all of: elastomers, springs, torsion bars, elastomers, rigid members or housing, ball and socket joints, resilient bendable members, and dongles to allow for controlled resistance to bending or torsional forces applied to the portable device when connected to the other electronic device with the connector adapter.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a universal serial bus (USB) connector for use in a base unit in a car kit comprising at least two pairs of shielded connection lines. It further relates to a USB cable for providing a shielded connection between a mobile unit and a car kit adaptor. The USB connector for use in a base unit in a car-kit comprises two twin axial connectors (430) including two inner contacts separated by a dielectric and further adapted to be connected to respective complementary connectors and two pairs of shielded connection lines (104 and 104?). Each pair is connected to a twin axial connector (430). Further, a shielded USB bridge (100) connects the two pairs of connection lines (104 and 104?) to four cable terminations (106) to form a USB line (108). The bridge (100) is mounted in the base unit (400?) with the twin axial connectors (430) located in modified guide gins (441) that extend from the base unit.

Abstract: A method and system for coupling to a palmtop computer that supports both mobile computing and desktop use. A palmtop computer docking system is disclosed that includes a cable assembly and a base. The cable assembly includes a palmtop computer connection mechanism that is connected to a USB connector and that is connected to a power connection mechanism via an electrical cable. Power is provided via the power connection mechanism. The cable assembly is adapted to engage the base so as to produce a fully functional docking cradle. In operation, once the cable assembly is engaged with the base, the USB connector is then coupled to the desired computing device (typically either a portable computer or a full-size computer). The resulting docking cradle facilitates desktop use such as, for example, communication with a full size computer. The cable assembly can be removed from the base and can be used independently of the base for mobile computing.

Abstract: The present invention includes a fastening mechanism comprising a base and a metal frame. The base has an accommodating slot arranged for accommodating a memory card, a first fastener and a second fastener. The first fastener and the second fastener are electrically connected to a battery and the memory card, respectively. When the metal frame is in a fastening position and fastened to the first fastener and the second fastener, the memory card can be clamped between the base and the metal frame. Then an electrical path is formed among the first fastener, the second fastener and the metal frame, thereby supplying the memory card with power of the battery. The present invention further includes a portable electronic device with the above fastening mechanism in which the electrical path is opened, while removing the memory card, so as to prevent supplying the memory card with power of the battery.

Abstract: There is provided a connecting apparatus for connecting to an electronic apparatus including a connector, the connecting apparatus including: a body that includes a base portion and a back portion substantially perpendicular to each other so as to define a holding space for holding the electronic apparatus; a connector provided on the base portion, and to be connected with the connector of the electronic apparatus; and a positioning unit which adjusts the electronic apparatus to a predetermined position with respect to the base portion in a state where the connector of the electronic apparatus is connected to the connector of the connecting apparatus.

Abstract: A quick connect system for an electronic device, comprising a docking station configured to engage the electronic device, the docking station having a locking mechanism actuatable to an unlocked position, the locking mechanism configured to independently remain in the unlocked position and automatically return to a locking position in response to disengagement of the electronic device from the docking station.

Abstract: A plug-in power supply for a refrigerator used to charge portable electronic devices includes an auxiliary power supply mounted in an auxiliary power supply compartment, and a removable module, having an electrical connector, mounted in an electrical connector cup. A portable electronic device is charged by placing the device in the connector cup and coupling the device to the electrical connector. Power is then supplied from the auxiliary power supply to the portable electronic device.

Abstract: An overhead console (10) spanning the header above the windshield (150) includes support for a removable electronic device (120).

Abstract: A computer dock having a device for protecting a portable computer against damage during vertical or inclined insertion within the computer dock. The computer dock includes an abutment member, slidably mounted on a rail, and biased to an upper position when the dock is not in use; the abutment member moving downwardly as a result of abutment against a portable computer during insertion, and at the same time exerting an upward force that at least in part counteracts the downward force of gravity acting on the portable computer.

Abstract: A quick connect system for an electronic device, comprising a docking station configured to engage the electronic device, the docking station having a locking mechanism actuatable to an unlocked position, the locking mechanism configured to independently remain in the unlocked position and automatically return to a locking position in response to disengagement of the electronic device from the docking station.

Abstract: Disclosed herein is a system allowing mechanical coupling and decoupling of an electronic display to a support member. The system includes a first mounting component mountable to the support member, and including a first engaging member. The system further includes a second mounting component supportable from a back of the electronic display, and including a second engaging member having a shape complementary to the first engaging member to permit the second engaging member to matingly engage the first engaging member by sliding the second engaging member onto the first engaging member to support the electronic display on the support member. The first engaging member includes a wedge-shaped member, and the second mounting component includes a plurality of holes for inserting a corresponding plurality of fasteners therethrough.

Abstract: Systems and methods are disclosed herein to provide improved techniques for connecting an electrical device to an external power source. For example, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention, an electrical device is disclosed having various types of connections to a power source. The connections may also provide power transformation.

Abstract: The present invention provides a slantwise connecting base for being connected to a control box having a first connection port. The slantwise connecting base includes a baseplate, a first circuit board and a second circuit board fixed to the baseplate. The baseplate has at least a slanting platform disposed thereon at a slant angle, and the slanting platform is used for disposing the first circuit board to be thereon. Moreover, the first circuit board has a second connection port corresponding to the first connection port, and the second connection port is used for being electrically connected to the control box. The second circuit board has an electrical connection portion for being electrically connected to the first circuit board, thereby allowing the second circuit board and the second connection port to be electrically connected to each other. Thus, the slantwise connecting base provides a means for the control box to be slantwise plugged therein.

Abstract: A charging communication-adaptor has such an arrangement that, when a mobile device is attached, communication terminals of the mobile device and the charging communication-adaptor make a contact first, and then the charging terminals of the mobile device and the charging communication-adaptor make a contact.

Abstract: An electronic device docking system comprises a docking station configured to receive docking of an electronic device with an external battery coupled thereto, the docking station comprising at least one mechanism actuatable to cause detachment of the electronic device from both the external battery and the docking station. The docking system may include a pair of release mechanisms, one of which enables release of the electronic device and the external battery as a unit and a second one that enables release of the electronic device from the docking system while the external battery remains with the docking system.

Abstract: The present invention provides an electronic charging cup assembly, including an electronic charging cup and charging cup holder. The electronic charging cup is provided with an embedded cell module and a button set, so that the cell module supplies sufficient power to the linear conducting strip covering the cup core. Since the cell module is a rechargeable cell structure, it is only required to place the electronic charging cup into the charging cup holder in the event of electric exhaustion of cell module, thereby achieving the purpose of additional power supply with improved applicability.

Abstract: Refrigerator including a body forming an outer appearance of the refrigerator, a terminal detachably mounted on the body for controlling the refrigerator, a power supply device at one side of the body, for receiving power from an outside of the refrigerator, converting to a predetermined charge power, and supplying to the terminal, and an electric connection part connected between the power supply device and the terminal.

Abstract: A universal connector apparatus comprising a first component and a second component. The first component is fixedly secured to a housing of an LCD monitor and includes a wedge shaped projection or protrusion and a first electrical connector. The second component forms a docking station and is fixedly secured to any other support surface where the LCD monitor is to be attached and supported from. The second component includes a second electrical connector intended to matingly engage with the first electrical connector. The LCD monitor is attached to the second component by slid ably engaging the wedge shaped protrusion or projection of the first component into a wedge shaped recess formed in the second component. This automatically centers the two electrical connectors before they matingly engage one another and prevents damage to the male pins of the male electrical connector.

Abstract: A cradle is provided for a handheld communications device (106). The cradle is comprised of a rigid structure (160), a latch actuator (302), a latch (300), an engagement face (514), and a resilient member (304, 304-1, 304-2). The rigid structure defines a compartment (202) for receiving the device. The compartment is comprised of an aperture and a sidewall structure (314). The latch actuator is comprised of a first end portion (716) and a second end portion (720). The latch actuator is movable in a sliding motion aligned with the sidewall between a first position and a second position. The latch is pivotally mounted to the first end portion of the latch actuator. The resilient member resiliently biases the latch actuator in a first position. The latch actuator is engaged when the device is inserted into the compartment and pushed down such that a force is applied to the latch actuator causing the latch to be moved to a second position where it engages the device.

Abstract: An electric power tool includes a main body having a tubular tool body part with an output portion at one end, and a battery pack detachably attached to the main body. The main body also has a grip portion extending from the tool body part radially downwardly. The grip portion has an attachment section formed at a bottom end portion thereof. The attachment section of the main body is provided with an engaged portion, the battery pack is provided at an upper region thereof with an engaging portion for engaging with the engaged portion and at a side region thereof with an operating portion for releasing the engagement of the engaging portion with the engaged portion.

Abstract: A desk attachment includes a base unit 1 including a communication bus having a communication port for connection to at least one remote signal source. A plurality of user modules 20 are provided for attachment to the base unit such that they are electrically connected with the bus. Each module has a PC port 22 for connection with a local computer and at least one peripheral port 23 for connection with a user interface device. The ports are arranged such that a computer on the PC port is operably connected to the or each peripheral port and the bus.

Abstract: A quick connect system for an electronic device, comprising a docking station configured to engage the electronic device, the docking station having a locking mechanism actuatable to an unlocked position, the locking mechanism configured to independently remain in the unlocked position and automatically return to a locking position in response to disengagement of the electronic device from the docking station.

Abstract: An apparatus that can secure an electronic device into a vehicle recess is described. The apparatus provides a vehicle-specific integrated docking station for a digital media player, e.g. Apple's iPod. The docking station contains a connecting assembly to interface the digital media player to a digital media interface than in turn is connected to a vehicle audio system. The vehicle recess may be an ashtray recess, a change-tray recess, a cup-holder recess or other appropriate recess. The vehicles may be automobiles, trucks, boats or aircraft.

Abstract: An electronic device, an accessory for an electronic device and a support element. The support element (15) is arranged to support the connection between an accessory connector (5) of the electronic device (1) and a connector (13) of the accessory (6). The support element (15) is fitted either to the electronic device (1) or to the accessory for the electronic device.

Abstract: A support assembly for a portable device includes a base (10), a support body (20) and a holder (30) for holding the portable device. The support body extends from the base. A protrusion (25) is formed on the support body. The holder defines a cutout (37) and a groove (375). The cutout receives the support body. The protrusion of the support body slides into the groove of the holder to detachably mount the holder to the support body.

Abstract: A platform having a raised support member including a plurality of spaced openings configured to securing receive device connectors. In one preferred embodiment, the raised member comprises an upwardly extending barrier shaped as a comb, formed by a plurality of slots adapted to selectively receive the connector. The connector has a predetermined power rating, and is keyed such that portable electronic devices configured to draw power at or below the power rating of the connector can be securingly and electrically coupled thereto. The platform may be angled upwardly to both support and present the portable electronic device to the user.

Abstract: A portable loudspeaker with a replaceable insertion base comprises: the loudspeaker; an insertion base; and a push mechanism. An insertion slot is formed on the loudspeaker for placing the insertion base. A first trench and a second trench are formed on the bottom of the insertion base in parallel with each other. A rib is formed between these two trenches. When the insertion base is coupled with the insertion slot, the hooks protrudent from the insertion slot are located to penetrate through the first trench and hook the rib, thereby inserting the terminal base of the insertion base into the socket of the loudspeaker for electrical connection. Besides, by using the push mechanism, the insertion base can be separated from the insertion slot rapidly. As a result, the insertion base can be replaced easily and it is also suitable for different digital music players.

Abstract: The present invention discloses a docking station for locking a notebook computer, of which the docking station not only can expand the functions of a notebook computer to those of a desktop computer, but also can lock the notebook computer to prevent it from being taken away or stolen, and the docking station can further integrate another lock device as to lock the notebook and the docking station together as to provide a multiple of effects for preventing the notebook, the docking station, or both from being taken away or stolen.

Abstract: A battery ejection mechanism for ejecting a battery housing removably attached to an electrical device housing. The mechanism includes at least one ejection member having a button and an arm. The arm is adapted to transfer a force applied on the button to the electrical device housing to assist in the removal of the battery pack from the electrical device housing. Button motion may also be used to cause retraction of latches mounted on the battery housing.

Abstract: A hot contact adapter for use with portable computing devices, such as laptop, notebook and tablet computers, PDA's and gaming devices, is disclosed. The adapter has a plug which fits in the power input port of the device and a body have a distal surface with exposed electrodes formed thereon. The device, with the adapter mounted thereon, may then be used with a charging cradle having electrodes which contact the adapter electrodes when the device is placed in the cradle. The cradle is connected to a source of power, such that power is supplied to the device in the cradle via the adapter.

Abstract: A system includes a computer having at least one power input connection and at least one I/O connection grouped into a first port. The system also includes a docking station that has at least one power output connection and at least one I/O connection grouped into a second port. The system further comprises a cable having a first end connectable with the first port and a second end connectable with the second port. The cable provides an interconnection between the at least one power output connection of the docking station and the at least one power input connection of the computer. The cable also provides interconnection between the at least one I/O connection of the computer and the at least one I/O connection of the docking station.

Abstract: A modular appliance system comprising a plurality of modular appliances, a base unit for supporting at least two of the modular appliances simultaneously or a free standing unit for supporting one or more modular appliances simultaneously or a free standing appliance for supporting one or more modular appliances simultaneously. Hingedly attached extensions are movable between points under and around the base, free standing unit and free standing appliance. The extensions provide electric power through cordless connectors and may be pivoted, hingedly attached or on slides.

Abstract: A slide-in structure (210) inside a cradle set (200) for accommodating a personal digital assistant (PDA) module (10) is disclosed. The slide-in structure comprises a base plate (220), a sliding stand (230) and a pushing arm (240). A connector (204) of the cradle set is fastened to the sliding stand via a circuit board (206). The base plate has a pair of sidewalls (222, 224) and two sliding grooves (226) located on of the sidewalls. The two ends of the sliding stand are inserted into the respective sliding grooves so that the sliding stand is free to move relative to the sliding grooves. The pushing arm is in contact with the sliding stand. The pushing arm resiliently pushes the sliding stand to one side of the sliding grooves and provides a buffering force when the PDA module engages with/disengages from the connector in the cradle set.

Abstract: One embodiment of the system provides for removably mounting a signal testing unit to a suitable vehicle surface, and optionally provides for an electrical connector to a power source, GPS antenna, and cellular antennas such that moving a signal testing unit from one vehicle to another can be accomplished more easily. The mounting system includes a signal testing unit with a lip extending from each of two opposing sides of the testing unit and a bracket defined by a panel that is intermediate two inwardly opening U-shaped channels. Each U-shaped channel is positioned to slidably receive one of the lips extending from the side of the testing unit. The channels can receive a connector plate that has a lip extending from each of two opposing sides of the plate and an electrical connector positioned on the plate to align and mate with an electrical connector on the testing unit.

Abstract: A battery connecting apparatus includes a housing, a base and a connector. The housing has a receiving cavity with an opening at an end thereof for receiving a battery therein. The base for sealing the opening of the housing has an assembling hole defined therein. The connector is mounted on the base with a lower portion thereof extending below the base through the assembling hole and an upper portion thereof supported by the base. A sliding engagement mechanism is provided between the base and the connector for enabling the connector to slide between a removable position where the connector is removable from the base and an assembled position where the connector is assembled with the base. A latching mechanism is provided between the base and the insulating body for latching the connector in the assembled position.

Abstract: A recoverable connector structure and a cradle having the same are provided. The cradle includes a base plate, a fixed stand, a recoverable assembly having a bolt and an elastic body, a support body, a shielding plate, a circuit board, a second connector and a case. An electronic device couples with the second connector of the cradle through a first connector of the electronic device. When the electronic device is pulled from the second connector of the cradle, the recoverable assembly allows the second connector and the circuit board to rotate in a certain angle. As the electronic device is separated from the cradle, the second connector can return to its initial position. This design not only makes the process of pulling up the electronic device smooth, but also avoids the second connector from fatigued damage to extend the cradle's life.

Abstract: A charger having an adjustable connector accommodates a plurality of electronic devices having different form factors. In one embodiment, the charger includes at least one pocket for receiving an electronic device, like a cellular telephone. Within the pocket, an electronic connector capable of supplying power to the electronic device is mounted atop an optionally detachable adjustable connector support member. The adjustable connector support module has cantilever arms that have protrusions disposed thereon. The cantilever arms are preloaded against adjustment tracks that include a series of ratchet grooves. By applying a lateral force against the adjustable connector support module, the connector may be moved laterally from a first position to a second position. Where the adjustable connector support module is detachable from the charger, the adjustable connector support module may be coupled to a connector base member by way of snap features that engage travel rails on the connector support member.

Abstract: The present invention discloses a sectional adapter of a clamping holder for automobiles, which can be fixed inside a car by clamping or sticking and has a clamping member for clamping a mobile phone, a PDA, or a palm game. A socket electrically connected to the internal circuit of the adapter is disposed at the rear end of the main body of the clamping holder, so that an adapter can be inserted into the socket to constitute an electrical connection. The adapter is mounted onto the clamping holder by a snap-in member, and a plug of various shapes is disposed at the front edge of the upper section of the adapter for connecting to a corresponding connector of an electronic device.

Abstract: An extractable conversion plug with a safety protection means includes a spring is located between a moveable pillar of a slab and a latching element, inside a connection head, such that the slab can cover conduction pieces through an elastic force from an expansion of the spring, thereby preventing the conduction pieces from being exposed. Upon emplacing the connection head at a base seat, the slab is stopped from moving by a stopper, and the conduction pieces are exposed and are contacted with spring leaves of the base seat, thereby constituting a close-circuit status. When the base seat falls off by accident, a stopping force of the slab is relieved to release a compression force from the spring, which will cause the spring to expand, so as to move the slab to cover the conduction pieces, thereby preventing from getting an electric shock by a careless touch.