Abstract: An arrangement for charging an electronic accessory (such as a wireless headset) using a docking station that obtains power from at least one of a power port and a data port of an attached electronic device (such as the pairing cellular phone). The docking station provides mechanical support and a convenient storage arrangement for the electronic accessory, as well as power conditioning. In another embodiment, the charging and storage functions for the electronic accessory are provided by a cigarette lighter plug employed to charge the electronic device.

Abstract: Methods and apparatus, including computer program products, implementing and using techniques for projecting a source image in a head-mounted display apparatus for a user. A first display projects an image viewable by a first eye of the user. A first peripheral light element is positioned to emit light of one or more colors in close proximity to the periphery of the first display. A receives data representing a source image, processes the data representing the source image to generate a first image for the first display and to generate a first set of peripheral conditioning signals for the first peripheral light element, directs the first image to the first display, and directs the first set of peripheral conditioning signals to the first peripheral light element. As a result, an enhanced viewing experience is created for the user.

Abstract: Methods and apparatus, including computer program products, implementing and using techniques for projecting a source image in a head-mounted display apparatus having a left and a right display for projecting a left and right images viewable by the left and right eyes, respectively, of a user. Source image data is received. The source image has right, left, top, and bottom edges. The source image data is processed to generate left image data for the left display and right image data for the right display. The left image data includes the left edge, but not the right edge, of the source image and the right image data includes the right edge, but not the left edge, of the source image. The right image data is presented on the right display and the left image data is presented on the left display.

Abstract: An improved hinge mechanism for use with a portable computing device is disclosed. According to one embodiment, a hinge mechanism includes a first gear and a first deformable braking mechanism that is coupled to the first gear. The first deformable braking mechanism is substantially axially aligned with the first gear along a first axis. The hinge mechanism also includes a second gear that engages the first gear during rotation of the first gear, as well as a second braking mechanism. The second braking mechanism is arranged to be substantially axially aligned with the second gear along a second axis. The second braking mechanism contacts the first deformable braking mechanism to cause the first deformable braking mechanism to deform during rotation of the first gear. Finally, the hinge mechanism includes a linking mechanism that allows a constant distance to be maintained between the first axis and the second axis.

Abstract: An apparatus in a hand-held computing device for providing non-simultaneous user access to a pair of mutually exclusive electrical connectors is disclosed. The present invention includes a slidable door having three operative positions. In its closed position, the door is adapted to cover the pair of the mutually exclusive electrical connectors to prevent user access. The door can be guided to stop at a first open position where a first electrical connector of the pair is exposed for user access and the other connector remains covered. The door can also be guided to stop at a second open position where the other connector is exposed whereas the first connector is covered up. One aspect of the invention includes detents associated with the three door positions for user feedback.

Abstract: An electronic housing structure including an enclosure for containing at least one electronic device having a plurality of user interface switches. The electronic housing structure further has a user interface pad attached to the enclosure near the user interface switches for operating said user interface switches. The user interface pad further seals the enclosure to completely seal and protect the electronic device. The enclosure and the user interface pad are composed of a waterproof, dust-proof and mud-proof material whereby said electronic device can be operated in an outdoor condition.