Docking station for multiple devices
US6231371A · kind A · utility
Assignee
Inventor
Key dates
| Filing date | Jun 25, 1999 |
| Grant date | May 15, 2001 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Jun 25, 2019 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC Y)Emerging Cross-Sectional Technologies
- CPC primaryY10S439/929
- WIPO fieldElectrical machinery, apparatus, energy
- WIPO sectorElectrical engineering
Abstract
A docking station includes mechanisms to accommodate multiple devices simultaneously. In the preferred embodiment, the docking station can accommodate at least a notebook computer and a palmtop-type handheld device. The docking station preferably facilitates a communication link between the handheld device and the notebook computer when the two devices are docked to the docking station. The communication link allows transmission and synchronization of data between the handheld device and the notebook computer. In a first embodiment of the invention, the docking station includes a docking connector that can mate with the notebook computer. The docking station also includes a docking cradle that can accommodate the handheld device. In the preferred embodiment, the docking cradle is configured to be adjustable in angle, so that the docked handheld device can be positioned at a desired angle. In the most preferred embodiment, the docking cradle includes a security feature that locks the handheld device to the docking cradle to prevent theft. In a second embodiment of the invention, the docking station includes a slot in the housing to accommodate the handheld device, instead of the doc…
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.