Abstract: A mobile office system includes a folding rack system for integrating with a computer system including a portable computer and peripheral components. The folding rack system includes a first shelf for supporting a portable computer and a port replicator, and a second shelf for supporting one or more peripheral components. A connecting structure is provided for coupling the first shelf and the second shelf, wherein the connecting structure moves the second shelf between a stowage position and a computer operating position. The computer, port replicator and peripheral component can remain attached to the folding rack system when in the stowage position and when stowed in a carrying case. A retaining mechanism is coupled to the connecting structure for retaining the second shelf in an intermediate position between the stowage position and the operating position. A cable for connecting the portable computer and the peripheral components is embedded into the connecting structure.

Abstract: A shade device that facilitates the viewing of the contents displayed on the notebook computer display screen includes a bracket for mounting the shade device to a monitor display assembly of a notebook computer, a top panel hingedly connected to the bracket, an upper right panel hingedly connected to the top panel, a lower right panel hingedly connected to the upper right panel and the bracket, an upper left panel hingedly connected to the top panel, a lower left panel hingedly connected to the upper left panel and the bracket, and a flap hingedly connected to the top panel. The shade device being fully expandable to shade the display screen of a notebook computer and collapsible into a flat surface that fits between the display screen and the keyboard when the monitor display assembly of the notebook computer is closed.

Abstract: A compact docking station for a portable computer includes a mounting bracket assembly for supporting together as a compact unit a computer port replicating device, a DC power supply and a light for illuminating the work area of the computer. The mounting bracket assembly includes lower and upper mounting brackets that are pivotably connected to each other. The lower mounting bracket can be directly mounted on a support base such as a vehicle console. The upper mounting bracket provides a computer support surface and carries the port replicating device adjacent thereto. The upper mounting bracket is pivotable between a generally horizontal computer use position, and an upwardly angled computer removal/attachment position. This arrangement allows the computer to be positioned for use in a limited space, with minimal handling and clutter.