Abstract: A docking station that accepts a portable computing device is disclosed. The docking station comprises a first surface that supports a bottom surface of the portable computing device. The first surface includes a means for restricting the movement of the portable computing device. The docking station additionally includes a body or a trunk that interfaces the portable computing device with an external device. The docking station additionally includes a hinge which joins the first surface to the body or trunk, in which the hinge permits the portable computing device to be rotated between a horizontal and a vertical orientation as well as various acute angles.

Abstract: A portable electronic device comprises, in one embodiment, one or more risers that protect an upper surface of the housing from being scratched. Additionally, the risers serve as bumpers to reduce damage to the device if it is dropped or bumped. Another embodiment of the present invention incorporates support members made from metal or metal alloy parts that are selectively attached to the laptop housing. These metal support members provide structural support for the housing and therefore aid in preventing the housing from twisting and bending. To further strengthen the housing, a metal frame is used in the upper and/or lower surface of the housing. The frame also serves to protect the enclosed electronics from electromagnetic interference.

Abstract: A backlit label includes a transparent element and a transflective element positioned at the backside of the transparent element. The transparent element passes light bi-directionally, whereas the transflective element passes light received from a first direction and reflects light received from an opposite direction. A backlight source, which may or may not be integrated with the label, produces backlighting for the label. The transflective element passes the backlight that emanates from behind out through the transparent element. However, for ambient light received from in front of the label, the transflective element reflects the ambient light back out through the transparent element.

Abstract: A computer mouse collapses into a smaller form. In one embodiment a cover slides to hide or reveal buttons and collapse or extend the length of the mouse. In another embodiment a lever is moved in one direction to bow the mouse surface and reveal buttons. Move the lever the other way and the mouse collapses in height and the buttons are hidden. In another embodiment a contoured leaf spring shapes the mouse. When relaxed, the spring is generally convex. Push down on the mouse and a latch captures the spring in an extended position reducing the height for storage and transport. Release the latch and the spring relaxes popping the mouse into an operable configuration. In another embodiment the mouse folds in half.

Abstract: A portable computer has a display housing attached to a base housing. The display has at least one panel used for personalization of the portable computer. The at least one panel can be removed and inserted into the display housing thereby changing the appearance of the portable computer.

Abstract: A portable electronic device has an outer shell, a first speaker assembly, and a second speaker assembly. The first speaker assembly has a first speaker, a first speaker chamber, and an outer edge. The second speaker assembly has a second speaker, a second speaker chamber, and an outer edge. The first and second speaker assemblies are capable of being in a normal position, where the first speaker assembly outer edge and the second speaker assembly outer edge are substantially flush with the outer shell of said portable electronic device. The first and second speaker assemblies are also capable of being in an extended position, where the first speaker assembly outer edge and the second speaker assembly outer edge extend beyond the outer shell of the portable electronic device. Preferably, the first and second speaker chambers each have a larger volume when the first and second speaker assemblies are in the extended position than when they are in the normal position.

Abstract: A wraparound battery cover (10) which slidably attaches to the lower portion (24) of a housing (20) is provided. The radio cover comprises a front side (12) and a rear side (14) joined by a gripping portion (15). Locking pegs (21) snap-fit into corresponding openings (11) in the battery cover. A plurality of gripping surfaces (19) are provided upon the gripping portion (15) of the cover. Upon full engagment of the battery cover to the housing, the battery cover wraps around five sides of the housing, with the rear side covering a battery containment section (26) of the housing. The battery cover is easily removed from the housing by pulling the cover and the housing in opposite directions perpendicular to the direction of battery insertion.