US20060023410A1 - Apparatus for storing a structure within an electronic device - Google Patents
Apparatus for storing a structure within an electronic device Download PDFInfo
- Publication number
- US20060023410A1 US20060023410A1 US10/903,106 US90310604A US2006023410A1 US 20060023410 A1 US20060023410 A1 US 20060023410A1 US 90310604 A US90310604 A US 90310604A US 2006023410 A1 US2006023410 A1 US 2006023410A1
- Authority
- US
- United States
- Prior art keywords
- bay
- electronic device
- interface
- electronic
- game controller
- Prior art date
- Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
- Abandoned
Links
Images
Classifications
-
- G—PHYSICS
- G06—COMPUTING; CALCULATING OR COUNTING
- G06F—ELECTRIC DIGITAL DATA PROCESSING
- G06F1/00—Details not covered by groups G06F3/00 - G06F13/00 and G06F21/00
- G06F1/16—Constructional details or arrangements
- G06F1/1613—Constructional details or arrangements for portable computers
- G06F1/1632—External expansion units, e.g. docking stations
-
- G—PHYSICS
- G06—COMPUTING; CALCULATING OR COUNTING
- G06F—ELECTRIC DIGITAL DATA PROCESSING
- G06F1/00—Details not covered by groups G06F3/00 - G06F13/00 and G06F21/00
- G06F1/26—Power supply means, e.g. regulation thereof
- G06F1/266—Arrangements to supply power to external peripherals either directly from the computer or under computer control, e.g. supply of power through the communication port, computer controlled power-strips
Definitions
- a user may use these types of devices to perform functions such as playing games, watching video, or listening to music, it may be desirable to provide the type of functionality or interface to users that they normally associate with these activities. For example, a user may prefer a gaming experience using a game controller or interface similar to that employed when using a dedicated gaming console. Similarly, a user watching video or listening to music stored on a portable electronic device may desire to use a familiar remote control or interface.
- portable and handheld computers as well as other types of portable electronic devices, are designed to be easily and conveniently transported, it is inconvenient to carry separate equipment, such as controllers, cables, connectors, and so forth, with the device.
- portable electronic devices may use insertable memory media, such as memory cards or sticks, it may be undesirable to carry additional, loose media with the device.
- FIG. 1 depicts an embodiment of a portable computer and an insertable structure, in accordance with aspects of the present invention
- FIG. 2 depicts an embodiment of a handheld computer and an insertable structure, in accordance with aspects of the present invention
- FIG. 3 depicts an embodiment of a remote control device configured to be inserted into a peripheral card slot of an electronic device, in accordance with aspects of the present invention
- FIG. 4 depicts an embodiment of a remote control device configured to be inserted into a peripheral card slot of an electronic device and to be charged within the slot, in accordance with aspects of the present invention
- FIG. 5 depicts an embodiment of a foldable game controller configured to be inserted into a peripheral card slot of an electronic device, in accordance with aspects of the present invention
- FIG. 6 depicts the foldable game controller of FIG. 5 being unfolded, in accordance with aspects of the present invention
- FIG. 7 depicts the foldable game controller of FIG. 5 when unfolded, in accordance with aspects of the present invention
- FIG. 8 depicts an alternate embodiment of a game controller including a storable cable, in accordance with aspects of the present invention.
- FIG. 9 depicts an embodiment of a storage structure configured to be inserted into a peripheral card slot of an electronic device, in accordance with aspects of the present invention.
- FIG. 10 depicts an embodiment of a cable storage structure configured to be inserted into a peripheral card slot of an electronic device, in accordance with aspects of the present invention.
- FIG. 11 depicts an embodiment of a battery charging structure configured to be inserted into a peripheral card slot of an electronic device, in accordance with aspects of the present invention.
- certain embodiments of the present invention comprise a technique for storing auxiliary equipment for use with an electronic device, such as a portable or handheld computer, a personal digital assistant (PDA), a digital camera or camcorder, an audio player (such a player configured to play files in accordance with a Motion Picture Experts Group, Audio Layer 3 (MP3) standard), or other consumer electronic device.
- PDA personal digital assistant
- MP3 Motion Picture Experts Group, Audio Layer 3
- the teachings of the present invention take advantage of user-accessible peripheral or memory device bay(s) in the housing of the electronic device that are configured to interface with insertable components or media, such as peripheral cards, storage devices, or memory cards.
- a device bay may comprise one or more peripheral card slots, such as slots configures to receive peripheral cards adhering to a Personal Computer Memory Card International Association (PCMCIA) standard or an express card standard.
- a device bay may comprise slots adapted to engage and read various media, such as optical disks, magnetic disks, memory cards, or other memory media.
- a device bay may comprise a bay or compartment configured to accommodate a storage device or reader, such as optical and floppy disk drives or removable hard drives. According to the teachings of the present invention, such a device bay, when not occupied by the peripheral device, memory media, storage device, etc. for which it is configured, may instead be used to securely store other structures or equipment.
- FIG. 1 depicts an embodiment of an electronic device in the form of a portable computer 10 , such as a laptop, notebook, or tablet computer.
- the housing 12 of the portable computer 10 includes a variety of device bays configured to receive removable components or media designed operate within the bay.
- a device bay may be configured to directly connect to a suitably configured device, such as by an electrical interface, when the device is inserted into the bay.
- the inserted device may operate with other components with which it is electrically connected, such as with a bus, memory, or processor in the interior of the portable computer 10 .
- the housing 12 includes one or more peripheral card slots 14 , such as PCMCIA or express card slots, that are configured to electrically interface/connect with a peripheral card, such as a network adapter, modem, or removable hard drive.
- peripheral cards of this type are generally designed to provide increased functionality to the portable computer 10 when inserted into a respective bay or slot such that they properly interface with a respective electrical connector when inserted into the bay.
- many structures such as, and without limitation, electronic apparatuses, storage containers, chargeable structures, etc., lack a suitable connector to directly connect to the bay's interface, although they may interact with the electronic device via other communication avenues, e.g., wireless, a separate cable to connect to a dedicated outlet in the device housing, etc.
- the corresponding bay such as the depicted peripheral card slots 14
- the vacant bay is utilized, in accordance with embodiments of the present invention, to securely store other equipment or devices, such as the structure 16 , which are designed to be used remote from or outside of the bay.
- the structure 16 is configured to reside in a bay, where residing is defined to encompass being retained in, fitting within, or being positionable entirely or mostly within the confines of the bay.
- the structure 16 is ejected using the ejection mechanism typically used to remove the peripheral card or other removable device for which the slot or bay is configured.
- the user simply pulls on the structure 16 with sufficient force to overcome the resistive or engaging force holding the structure 16 within the bay, such as the peripheral card slot 14 .
- the structure 16 is an electronic apparatus, such as a universal serial bus (USB) hub or an input device or a control device, that communicates with or connects to the portable computer 10 , but not via the connectors present within the slot or bay in which it is stored.
- the structure 16 may be a controller or other input device which, when not stored within the bay, may communicate, without limitation, with the portable computer 10 via wireless means, such as over the infrared or radio frequencies, or via a cable connection to a dedicated interface in the housing of portable computer 10 .
- wireless means such as over the infrared or radio frequencies
- Examples of some electronic apparatuses would be a remote control, a game controller, and optical and non-optical mice.
- the structure 16 connects to the connector(s) within a respective bay, here depicted as peripheral card slots 14 , in a limited manner, such as to charge a battery of structure 16 .
- the limited connection between the structure 16 and the connector(s) enables power, but not data, to pass between the structure 16 and portable computer 10 or other electronic device.
- a chargeable component of the structure 16 such as a battery, may charge from a battery of the portable computer 10 or from power delivered to the portable computer 10 , such as via an AC power cord plugged into an electrical outlet.
- the structure 16 is charged when not in use, i.e., when stored in a device bay, so that the charged structure 16 is ready for use (i.e., its intended functionalities) when removed from the bay.
- the controller or input device of the preceding example may include a chargeable battery that is charged when stored in the bay via a limited or dedicated connection to an electrical interface within the depicted peripheral card slots 14 . In such a limited interface, no communicative connection exists between the structure 16 and the portable computer 10 or other electronic device.
- the structure 16 may be an electronic device, as set forth in the preceding examples, it may also be a simple mechanical structure, such as a storage container. In such an embodiment, the structure 16 may be used to store any item capable of fitting into the structure 16 . For instance, equipment for use with the portable computer 10 or with other electronic devices may be stored in this manner.
- a storage structure may be used to store a variety of memory media which may be read by the portable computer 10 or by another electronic device. Examples of such storable memory media include memory sticks, memory cards, including secure digital (SD) memory cards, multimedia cards (MMC), mini-optical disks, and so forth.
- cable such as network, telephone, or USB cable usable with the portable computer 10 or with other electronic devices
- cable such as network, telephone, or USB cable usable with the portable computer 10 or with other electronic devices
- items unrelated to the use of the portable computer 10 such as paper clips, rubber bands, gum, and so forth, may also be stored in this manner so that a user may store and carry other items, even if not related to the use of the electronic device.
- FIG. 1 is one example of an electronic device that may benefit from the teachings of the present invention
- other electronic devices which have at least one device bay, such as peripheral or memory card slots
- FIG. 2 a portable electronic device, such as a PDA or handheld computer 20
- the portable electronic device includes a user-accessible device bay, such as a memory card slot or a peripheral card slot 14 , which may be used for storage when slot 14 is vacant.
- other electronic devices such as MP3 and other audio players, digital cameras and camcorders, portable digital video disk (DVD) players, and so forth, may include compartments or bays for the insertion of functional components or memory media which, when empty, may be used to store other equipment or media for use with the device or another electronic device.
- MP3 and other audio players such as MP3 and other audio players, digital cameras and camcorders, portable digital video disk (DVD) players, and so forth
- DVD portable digital video disk
- a remote control 30 is depicted that is configured to be inserted and securely held within a PCMCIA card slot, such as may be found on a portable or handheld computer.
- the remote control 30 includes spacers 32 which prevent the remote control 30 from contacting the electrical connectors located in a PCMCIA card slot. In this way, the connectors within the PCMCIA card slot are not damaged by insertion and storage of the remote control 30 into the slot.
- the spacers 32 enable an ejection mechanism found within a PCMCIA card slot to eject the remote control 30 when the ejection mechanism is actuated.
- the remote control 30 of FIG. 3 runs on a battery and does not contact the connectors located within a device bay, e.g., a PCMCIA card slot.
- the remote control 30 may include receptacles or contacts on the spacers 32 which contact respective power connectors at the end of the bay to enable recharging of a battery of the remote control.
- the spacers 32 enable the remote control 30 to be charged when stored in a bay but prevent the remote control 30 from contacting other interface structures within the bay.
- the chargeable remote control 40 is configured to be charged when stored within a device bay, e.g., a PCMCIA card slot.
- the chargeable remote control 40 includes all or part of a charging interface 42 for coupling with connectors within a peripheral card slot.
- the charging interface 42 does not include a full complement of receptacles or contacts for engaging the full set of available connectors 46 (depicted in FIG. 5 ) of the peripheral card slot 14 .
- the charging interface 42 is configured to connect to some or all of the power pins 48 of the complementary peripheral card slot interface.
- the chargeable remote control 40 includes power pin receptacles 44 corresponding to the power pins of a peripheral card slot, that is, for example, pins 1 , 17 , 34 , 35 , 51 , and 68 of a PCMCIA card slot.
- a battery or other chargeable medium within the chargeable remote control 40 may be charged when control 40 is not in use and while stored in a peripheral card slot or other bay.
- FIG. 5 a foldable game controller 50 is depicted.
- the depicted game controller comprises a first portion 52 and a second portion 54 connected by a hinge 56 .
- the game controller 50 is insertable into a pair of vacant peripheral card slots 14 .
- the two portions 52 and 54 of the game controller 50 may be unfolded to an open position, as depicted in FIG.
- the game control interface 59 includes action and pause buttons 60 and a directional control 62 , such as a joystick interface.
- the depicted game controller 50 communicates with a suitable gaming device, such as a portable or handheld computer, via wireless means.
- the game controller 50 includes a compartment, such as hinge compartment 58 , within which a battery is inserted to power the game controller 50 .
- one or more charging interfaces 42 are provided to charge the battery of game controller 50 when stored in the peripheral card slots 14 .
- the power pin receptacles 44 of the charging interface 42 engage some or all of the respective power pins 48 of the available connectors 46 .
- the charging interfaces 42 may be absent and the battery is replaced by the user as needed instead of being charged when stored in a respective bay.
- a cable-connected game controller 64 is provided, as depicted in FIG. 8 .
- a cable 66 and connector 68 such as a USB connector, may be stored in the hinge compartment 58 .
- the cable-connected game controller 64 is powered through the cable 66 when the connector 68 is inserted into a complementary receptacle of a gaming device, such as a portable or handheld computer.
- the cable-connected game controller 64 may be battery-powered and/or chargeable, as described above.
- cable 66 and connector 68 does not have to be stored in hinge compartment 58 but may instead be stored as desired within the game controller 64 .
- controllers and other input devices represent one type of apparatus which may be inserted for storage within a bay of an electronic device
- a storage structure 70 configured to be stored in a slot or bay of an electronic device is depicted in FIG. 9 .
- the storage structure 70 encloses a storage space 72 , which can be accessed by moving all or part of a movable section 74 of the storage structure housing.
- a hinged movable section 74 of the storage structure housing is such that the movable section 74 may be flipped between open and closed positions.
- the movable section 74 may be configured to slide between open and closed positions or may be configured to move in other ways known to those of ordinary skill in the art.
- the accessible storage space 72 may be used to store media, such as memory cards or memory sticks, for use with a reader of the electronic device or another electronic device. Though the storage of memory media is one possibility, in practice, any item or items of interest capable of fitting into the storage structure 70 may be stored by a user. For example, replacement parts, such as screws, nuts, bolts, etc., for equipment may be stored in the storage space 72 . Similarly, office supplies, such as paper clips, rubber bands, adhesive flags, and so forth, may be stored in the storage space 72 if a user so desires.
- a cable storage structure 80 is provided which is configured to be stored in a slot or bay of an electronic device.
- the depicted cable storage structure 80 is configured to store at least one type of cable 82 , such as network cable, telephone cable, USB cable, and so forth.
- the stored cable 82 is withdrawn from the cable storage structure 80 and used to connect respective sockets or plugs that the connectors 84 are configured to fit.
- the cable 82 is accessible when the cable storage structure 80 is stored in a slot or bay of an electronic device, though this need not be the case in all embodiments.
- a charging structure 90 is provided.
- the charging structure 90 includes a charging interface 42 that may be used to connect to some or all of the power pins of a peripheral card slot, such as a PCMCIA slot, or other power connectors in the bay into which the charging structure 90 is inserted.
- the charging structure 90 includes a battery receptacle 92 configured to receive one or more batteries 94 for charging.
- the depicted charging structure 90 also includes a battery ejection mechanism, which is activated by the ejection button 96 , to facilitate the unloading of the battery 94 from the structure 90 .
- no ejection mechanism may be provided other than the force applied by a user to overcome a resistive force holding the battery 94 in the charging structure 90 .
Abstract
An apparatus comprises an electronic apparatus adapted to reside in a bay of an electronic device having an interface adapted to engage a suitable structure. The electronic apparatus lacks the suitable connector to engage the device bay interface. In an alternative embodiment, the apparatus comprises a chargeable structure adapted to reside in a bay of an electronic device and configured to couple to only a portion of an electrical interface in the device bay such that the chargeable structure is charged when it resides in the device bay. In a further embodiment, the apparatus comprises a storage structure adapted to reside in a bay of an electronic device having an interface adapted to engage a suitable structure. The storage structure lacks the suitable connector to engage the device bay interface. In an additional embodiment, a game controller comprises first and second portions comprising respective interfaces and a hinge configured to enable the portions to move with respect to one another.
Description
- As computers and other electronic devices have advanced, the types of functions they are capable of performing has also evolved. For example, as portable and handheld computers have increased in processor power, screen resolution, and screen size, they have become capable of functioning as multimedia platforms that may be used to play music, movies, or games. Similarly, digital cameras and camcorders may store video files which, when the device is connected to a television, monitor, or computer, may be played by the device. In the same way, music players and other audio playback devices may be used to play stored audio files on a connected computer or stereo system.
- To the extent that a user may use these types of devices to perform functions such as playing games, watching video, or listening to music, it may be desirable to provide the type of functionality or interface to users that they normally associate with these activities. For example, a user may prefer a gaming experience using a game controller or interface similar to that employed when using a dedicated gaming console. Similarly, a user watching video or listening to music stored on a portable electronic device may desire to use a familiar remote control or interface.
- However, to the extent that portable and handheld computers, as well as other types of portable electronic devices, are designed to be easily and conveniently transported, it is inconvenient to carry separate equipment, such as controllers, cables, connectors, and so forth, with the device. Similarly, to the extent that the portable electronic devices may use insertable memory media, such as memory cards or sticks, it may be undesirable to carry additional, loose media with the device.
-
FIG. 1 depicts an embodiment of a portable computer and an insertable structure, in accordance with aspects of the present invention; -
FIG. 2 depicts an embodiment of a handheld computer and an insertable structure, in accordance with aspects of the present invention; -
FIG. 3 depicts an embodiment of a remote control device configured to be inserted into a peripheral card slot of an electronic device, in accordance with aspects of the present invention; -
FIG. 4 depicts an embodiment of a remote control device configured to be inserted into a peripheral card slot of an electronic device and to be charged within the slot, in accordance with aspects of the present invention; -
FIG. 5 depicts an embodiment of a foldable game controller configured to be inserted into a peripheral card slot of an electronic device, in accordance with aspects of the present invention; -
FIG. 6 depicts the foldable game controller ofFIG. 5 being unfolded, in accordance with aspects of the present invention; -
FIG. 7 depicts the foldable game controller ofFIG. 5 when unfolded, in accordance with aspects of the present invention; -
FIG. 8 depicts an alternate embodiment of a game controller including a storable cable, in accordance with aspects of the present invention; -
FIG. 9 depicts an embodiment of a storage structure configured to be inserted into a peripheral card slot of an electronic device, in accordance with aspects of the present invention; -
FIG. 10 depicts an embodiment of a cable storage structure configured to be inserted into a peripheral card slot of an electronic device, in accordance with aspects of the present invention; and -
FIG. 11 depicts an embodiment of a battery charging structure configured to be inserted into a peripheral card slot of an electronic device, in accordance with aspects of the present invention. - As discussed below, certain embodiments of the present invention comprise a technique for storing auxiliary equipment for use with an electronic device, such as a portable or handheld computer, a personal digital assistant (PDA), a digital camera or camcorder, an audio player (such a player configured to play files in accordance with a Motion Picture Experts Group, Audio Layer 3 (MP3) standard), or other consumer electronic device. The teachings of the present invention take advantage of user-accessible peripheral or memory device bay(s) in the housing of the electronic device that are configured to interface with insertable components or media, such as peripheral cards, storage devices, or memory cards. For example, a device bay, as discussed herein, may comprise one or more peripheral card slots, such as slots configures to receive peripheral cards adhering to a Personal Computer Memory Card International Association (PCMCIA) standard or an express card standard. Similarly, a device bay may comprise slots adapted to engage and read various media, such as optical disks, magnetic disks, memory cards, or other memory media. Furthermore, a device bay may comprise a bay or compartment configured to accommodate a storage device or reader, such as optical and floppy disk drives or removable hard drives. According to the teachings of the present invention, such a device bay, when not occupied by the peripheral device, memory media, storage device, etc. for which it is configured, may instead be used to securely store other structures or equipment.
- Turning to the figures,
FIG. 1 depicts an embodiment of an electronic device in the form of aportable computer 10, such as a laptop, notebook, or tablet computer. Thehousing 12 of theportable computer 10 includes a variety of device bays configured to receive removable components or media designed operate within the bay. For example, a device bay may be configured to directly connect to a suitably configured device, such as by an electrical interface, when the device is inserted into the bay. When so connected, the inserted device may operate with other components with which it is electrically connected, such as with a bus, memory, or processor in the interior of theportable computer 10. For example, thehousing 12 includes one or moreperipheral card slots 14, such as PCMCIA or express card slots, that are configured to electrically interface/connect with a peripheral card, such as a network adapter, modem, or removable hard drive. As will be appreciated, peripheral cards of this type are generally designed to provide increased functionality to theportable computer 10 when inserted into a respective bay or slot such that they properly interface with a respective electrical connector when inserted into the bay. However, many structures such as, and without limitation, electronic apparatuses, storage containers, chargeable structures, etc., lack a suitable connector to directly connect to the bay's interface, although they may interact with the electronic device via other communication avenues, e.g., wireless, a separate cable to connect to a dedicated outlet in the device housing, etc. - When the functionality provided by a peripheral card or other removable device is not needed, the corresponding bay, such as the depicted
peripheral card slots 14, may be vacant. In such circumstances, the vacant bay is utilized, in accordance with embodiments of the present invention, to securely store other equipment or devices, such as thestructure 16, which are designed to be used remote from or outside of the bay. In particular, when not in use, thestructure 16 is configured to reside in a bay, where residing is defined to encompass being retained in, fitting within, or being positionable entirely or mostly within the confines of the bay. When a user wishes to remove astructure 16 residing in a bay, thestructure 16 is ejected using the ejection mechanism typically used to remove the peripheral card or other removable device for which the slot or bay is configured. Alternately, in other embodiments, the user simply pulls on thestructure 16 with sufficient force to overcome the resistive or engaging force holding thestructure 16 within the bay, such as theperipheral card slot 14. - In one implementation, the
structure 16 is an electronic apparatus, such as a universal serial bus (USB) hub or an input device or a control device, that communicates with or connects to theportable computer 10, but not via the connectors present within the slot or bay in which it is stored. For example, thestructure 16 may be a controller or other input device which, when not stored within the bay, may communicate, without limitation, with theportable computer 10 via wireless means, such as over the infrared or radio frequencies, or via a cable connection to a dedicated interface in the housing ofportable computer 10. Examples of some electronic apparatuses would be a remote control, a game controller, and optical and non-optical mice. - In another embodiment, the
structure 16 connects to the connector(s) within a respective bay, here depicted asperipheral card slots 14, in a limited manner, such as to charge a battery ofstructure 16. In one exemplary embodiment, the limited connection between thestructure 16 and the connector(s) enables power, but not data, to pass between thestructure 16 andportable computer 10 or other electronic device. In this manner, a chargeable component of thestructure 16, such as a battery, may charge from a battery of theportable computer 10 or from power delivered to theportable computer 10, such as via an AC power cord plugged into an electrical outlet. In such an embodiment, thestructure 16 is charged when not in use, i.e., when stored in a device bay, so that thecharged structure 16 is ready for use (i.e., its intended functionalities) when removed from the bay. For example, the controller or input device of the preceding example may include a chargeable battery that is charged when stored in the bay via a limited or dedicated connection to an electrical interface within the depictedperipheral card slots 14. In such a limited interface, no communicative connection exists between thestructure 16 and theportable computer 10 or other electronic device. - While the
structure 16 may be an electronic device, as set forth in the preceding examples, it may also be a simple mechanical structure, such as a storage container. In such an embodiment, thestructure 16 may be used to store any item capable of fitting into thestructure 16. For instance, equipment for use with theportable computer 10 or with other electronic devices may be stored in this manner. For example, a storage structure may be used to store a variety of memory media which may be read by theportable computer 10 or by another electronic device. Examples of such storable memory media include memory sticks, memory cards, including secure digital (SD) memory cards, multimedia cards (MMC), mini-optical disks, and so forth. Similarly, cable, such as network, telephone, or USB cable usable with theportable computer 10 or with other electronic devices, may be stored in asuitable structure 16. However, items unrelated to the use of theportable computer 10, such as paper clips, rubber bands, gum, and so forth, may also be stored in this manner so that a user may store and carry other items, even if not related to the use of the electronic device. - While the
portable computer 10 depicted inFIG. 1 is one example of an electronic device that may benefit from the teachings of the present invention, other electronic devices which have at least one device bay, such as peripheral or memory card slots, can also benefit. For example, referring now toFIG. 2 , a portable electronic device, such as a PDA orhandheld computer 20, is depicted. The portable electronic device includes a user-accessible device bay, such as a memory card slot or aperipheral card slot 14, which may be used for storage whenslot 14 is vacant. Similarly, other electronic devices, such as MP3 and other audio players, digital cameras and camcorders, portable digital video disk (DVD) players, and so forth, may include compartments or bays for the insertion of functional components or memory media which, when empty, may be used to store other equipment or media for use with the device or another electronic device. - The following discussion provides examples of
different structures 16 which may exemplify or expand upon some of the concepts discussed above. For the purpose of illustration, the following examples will be discussed in the context of storage within peripheral card slots, particularly PCMCIA card slots. However, in view of the preceding discussion, one of ordinary skill in the art will appreciate that other device bays are also contemplated for storing devices and structures in accordance with the teachings of the present invention and that the following examples are merely illustrative. - For example, referring now to
FIG. 3 , aremote control 30 is depicted that is configured to be inserted and securely held within a PCMCIA card slot, such as may be found on a portable or handheld computer. In particular, theremote control 30 includesspacers 32 which prevent theremote control 30 from contacting the electrical connectors located in a PCMCIA card slot. In this way, the connectors within the PCMCIA card slot are not damaged by insertion and storage of theremote control 30 into the slot. Furthermore, in one embodiment, thespacers 32 enable an ejection mechanism found within a PCMCIA card slot to eject theremote control 30 when the ejection mechanism is actuated. - In one embodiment, the
remote control 30 ofFIG. 3 runs on a battery and does not contact the connectors located within a device bay, e.g., a PCMCIA card slot. In another embodiment, however, theremote control 30 may include receptacles or contacts on thespacers 32 which contact respective power connectors at the end of the bay to enable recharging of a battery of the remote control. In this embodiment, thespacers 32 enable theremote control 30 to be charged when stored in a bay but prevent theremote control 30 from contacting other interface structures within the bay. - Similarly, referring now to
FIG. 4 , an alternative embodiment of a chargeableremote control 40 is provided. As in the preceding embodiment, in this embodiment the chargeableremote control 40 is configured to be charged when stored within a device bay, e.g., a PCMCIA card slot. In particular, the chargeableremote control 40 includes all or part of a charginginterface 42 for coupling with connectors within a peripheral card slot. In the depicted embodiment, the charginginterface 42 does not include a full complement of receptacles or contacts for engaging the full set of available connectors 46 (depicted inFIG. 5 ) of theperipheral card slot 14. Instead, the charginginterface 42 is configured to connect to some or all of the power pins 48 of the complementary peripheral card slot interface. In the depicted example, the chargeableremote control 40 includespower pin receptacles 44 corresponding to the power pins of a peripheral card slot, that is, for example, pins 1, 17, 34, 35, 51, and 68 of a PCMCIA card slot. In this way, a battery or other chargeable medium within the chargeableremote control 40 may be charged whencontrol 40 is not in use and while stored in a peripheral card slot or other bay. - While remote controls represent one type of electronic apparatus that may be stored within a peripheral card slot or other bay of a portable electronic device, other devices, such as USB hubs or other types of controllers, may also be stored in this manner. For example, referring now to
FIG. 5 , afoldable game controller 50 is depicted. The depicted game controller comprises afirst portion 52 and asecond portion 54 connected by ahinge 56. When the twoportions FIG. 5 , thegame controller 50 is insertable into a pair of vacantperipheral card slots 14. When removed from theperipheral card slots 14 the twoportions game controller 50 may be unfolded to an open position, as depicted inFIG. 6 , to reveal agame control interface 59, as depicted inFIG. 7 . In the depicted embodiment, thegame control interface 59 includes action andpause buttons 60 and adirectional control 62, such as a joystick interface. The depictedgame controller 50 communicates with a suitable gaming device, such as a portable or handheld computer, via wireless means. In this embodiment, thegame controller 50 includes a compartment, such ashinge compartment 58, within which a battery is inserted to power thegame controller 50. In the depicted embodiment, one or more charging interfaces 42, such as discussed above in connection withFIG. 4 , are provided to charge the battery ofgame controller 50 when stored in theperipheral card slots 14. In particular, thepower pin receptacles 44 of the charginginterface 42 engage some or all of the respective power pins 48 of theavailable connectors 46. In other embodiments, the charging interfaces 42 may be absent and the battery is replaced by the user as needed instead of being charged when stored in a respective bay. - Alternatively, in another embodiment, a cable-connected
game controller 64 is provided, as depicted inFIG. 8 . In this embodiment, acable 66 andconnector 68, such as a USB connector, may be stored in thehinge compartment 58. In the depicted embodiment, the cable-connectedgame controller 64 is powered through thecable 66 when theconnector 68 is inserted into a complementary receptacle of a gaming device, such as a portable or handheld computer. In other embodiments, the cable-connectedgame controller 64 may be battery-powered and/or chargeable, as described above. Elsewise, it will be appreciated by one skilled in the art thatcable 66 andconnector 68 does not have to be stored inhinge compartment 58 but may instead be stored as desired within thegame controller 64. - While controllers and other input devices represent one type of apparatus which may be inserted for storage within a bay of an electronic device, other types of devices and/or structures may also stored in this manner. For example, a
storage structure 70 configured to be stored in a slot or bay of an electronic device is depicted inFIG. 9 . Thestorage structure 70 encloses astorage space 72, which can be accessed by moving all or part of amovable section 74 of the storage structure housing. For example, in the depicted embodiment, a hingedmovable section 74 of the storage structure housing is such that themovable section 74 may be flipped between open and closed positions. In other embodiments, themovable section 74 may be configured to slide between open and closed positions or may be configured to move in other ways known to those of ordinary skill in the art. - The
accessible storage space 72 may be used to store media, such as memory cards or memory sticks, for use with a reader of the electronic device or another electronic device. Though the storage of memory media is one possibility, in practice, any item or items of interest capable of fitting into thestorage structure 70 may be stored by a user. For example, replacement parts, such as screws, nuts, bolts, etc., for equipment may be stored in thestorage space 72. Similarly, office supplies, such as paper clips, rubber bands, adhesive flags, and so forth, may be stored in thestorage space 72 if a user so desires. - Likewise, in one embodiment depicted in
FIG. 10 , acable storage structure 80 is provided which is configured to be stored in a slot or bay of an electronic device. The depictedcable storage structure 80 is configured to store at least one type ofcable 82, such as network cable, telephone cable, USB cable, and so forth. When in use, the storedcable 82 is withdrawn from thecable storage structure 80 and used to connect respective sockets or plugs that theconnectors 84 are configured to fit. In the depicted embodiment, thecable 82 is accessible when thecable storage structure 80 is stored in a slot or bay of an electronic device, though this need not be the case in all embodiments. - In an additional exemplary embodiment, a charging
structure 90 is provided. The chargingstructure 90 includes a charginginterface 42 that may be used to connect to some or all of the power pins of a peripheral card slot, such as a PCMCIA slot, or other power connectors in the bay into which the chargingstructure 90 is inserted. In the depicted embodiment, the chargingstructure 90 includes abattery receptacle 92 configured to receive one ormore batteries 94 for charging. The depicted chargingstructure 90 also includes a battery ejection mechanism, which is activated by theejection button 96, to facilitate the unloading of thebattery 94 from thestructure 90. In other embodiments, no ejection mechanism may be provided other than the force applied by a user to overcome a resistive force holding thebattery 94 in the chargingstructure 90. - While the preceding examples provide some idea of the scope and variety of storable structures encompassed by the present technique, it is too be understood that these examples are merely illustrative and are not intended to exclusively list the range of possibilities. Indeed, one of ordinary skill in the art will appreciate that other storable structures encompassing other functionalities than those presently described are within the scope of the present disclosure.
Claims (44)
1. An apparatus, comprising:
an electronic apparatus adapted to reside in a bay of an electronic device, the device bay having an interface adapted to engage a suitable connector, the electronic apparatus lacking said suitable connector to engage the device bay interface, wherein the electronic apparatus is not an USB hub.
2. The apparatus of claim 1 , wherein the electronic apparatus comprises a control device configured to function with the electronic device.
3. The apparatus of claim 2 , wherein the control device comprises one from the group comprising a remote control and a game controller.
4. The apparatus of claim 1 , wherein the electronic apparatus further comprises a cable.
5. The apparatus of claim 1 , wherein the bay comprises at least one peripheral card slot.
6. An electronic device, comprising:
a bay adapted to receive a structure, the bay having an interface therein adapted to engage a suitable connector; and
an electronic apparatus adapted to reside in the bay, the electronic apparatus lacking said suitable connector, wherein the electronic apparatus is not an USB hub.
7. The electronic device of claim 6 , wherein the electronic apparatus comprises an input device for the electronic device.
8. The electronic device of claim 6 , wherein the electronic apparatus further comprises a cable.
9. The electronic device of claim 6 , wherein the bay comprises at least one peripheral card slot.
10. An apparatus, comprising:
a chargeable structure adapted to reside in a bay of an electronic device, wherein the chargeable structure is configured to couple only to a power portion of an electrical interface in the device bay such that the chargeable structure is charged when it resides in the device bay.
11. The apparatus of claim 10 wherein the power portion comprises at least two power pins.
12. The apparatus of claim 10 wherein the chargeable structure comprises a battery.
13. The apparatus of claim 10 wherein the bay comprises at least one peripheral card slot.
14. The apparatus of claim 10 , wherein the chargeable structure comprises an input device for the electronic device.
15. The apparatus of claim 10 , wherein the chargeable structure is a control device configured to function with the electronic device.
16. The apparatus of claim 10 , wherein the chargeable structure comprises a battery charger.
17. An electronic device, comprising:
a bay adapted to receive a structure, the bay having an electrical interface therein adapted to engage a suitable connector; and
a chargeable structure adapted to reside in the bay, wherein the chargeable structure is configured to couple only to a power portion of an electrical interface in the bay such that the chargeable structure is charged when it resides in the bay.
18. The electronic device of claim 17 wherein the power portion comprises at least two power pins.
19. The electronic device of claim 17 wherein the chargeable structure comprises a battery.
20. The electronic device of claim 17 wherein the bay comprises at least one peripheral card slot.
21. The electronic device of claim 17 , wherein the chargeable structure comprises an input device for the electronic device.
22. The electronic device of claim 17 , wherein the chargeable structure comprises a control device configured to function with the electronic device.
23. The electronic device of claim 22 , wherein the control device comprises one of a remote control and a game controller.
24. The electronic device of claim 17 , wherein the chargeable structure is a battery charger.
25. An apparatus, comprising:
a storage structure adapted to reside in a bay of a first electronic device, the device bay having an interface adapted to connect to a suitable connector, the storage structure lacking said suitable connector.
26. The apparatus of claim 25 , wherein the storage structure is configured to store at least one memory medium readable by the first electronic device.
27. The apparatus of claim 25 , wherein the storage structure is configured to store at least one cable.
28. The apparatus of claim 25 , wherein the storage structure is configured to store office supplies.
29. The apparatus of claim 25 , wherein the storage structure is configured to store at least one memory medium readable by a second electronic device.
30. The apparatus of claim 25 , wherein the bay comprises at least one peripheral card slot.
31. An electronic device, comprising:
a bay adapted to receive a suitable structure, the bay having an interface therein adapted to connect to the suitable connector; and
a storage structure adapted to reside the bay, the storage structure lacking said suitable connector.
32. The electronic device of claim 31 , wherein the storage structure is configured to store at least one memory medium readable by the electronic device.
33. The electronic device of claim 31 , wherein the storage structure is configured to store at least one cable.
34. The electronic device of claim 31 , wherein the bay comprises at least one peripheral card slot.
35. A game controller, comprising:
a first portion comprising an interface;
a second portion comprising an interface; and
a hinge configured to enable the first portion and the second portion to move with respect to one another.
36. The game controller of claim 35 , wherein the first portion and the second portion move between an open position and a closed position.
37. The game controller of claim 36 , wherein the first portion and the second portion, when in the closed position, can reside a bay of an electronic device.
38. The game controller of claim 36 , wherein the first portion and the second portion, when in the closed position, are insertable into a pair of peripheral card slots.
39. The game controller of claim 35 , wherein the interface of the first portion comprises a directional control.
40. The game controller of claim 35 , wherein the interface of the second portion comprises at least one command button.
41. The game controller of claim 35 , comprising a battery compartment.
42. The game controller of claim 41 , wherein the battery compartment is in the hinge.
43. The game controller of claim 41 , comprising at least one charging interface.
44. The game controller of claim 35 , comprising a cable and connector.
Priority Applications (13)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
---|---|---|---|
US10/903,106 US20060023410A1 (en) | 2004-07-30 | 2004-07-30 | Apparatus for storing a structure within an electronic device |
US10/989,047 US7280351B2 (en) | 2004-07-30 | 2004-11-15 | Storing a structure within an electronic device |
TW094122101A TW200612636A (en) | 2004-07-30 | 2005-06-30 | Apparatus for storing a structure within an electronic device |
TW094122078A TWI372987B (en) | 2004-07-30 | 2005-06-30 | Rechargeable mouse and electronic device |
DE102005031131A DE102005031131B4 (en) | 2004-07-30 | 2005-07-04 | Device for recording in a blank card slot of a computer and computer with the same |
EP05254393A EP1624366A1 (en) | 2004-07-30 | 2005-07-13 | Storing a structure within an electronic device |
GB0514799A GB2416931B (en) | 2004-07-30 | 2005-07-19 | Apparatus for storing a structure within an electronic device |
JP2005209605A JP2006048674A (en) | 2004-07-30 | 2005-07-20 | Apparatus for storing structure within electronic device |
JP2005209597A JP4088640B2 (en) | 2004-07-30 | 2005-07-20 | Storing structures in electronic devices |
CNA2005100878801A CN1728045A (en) | 2004-07-30 | 2005-08-01 | Storing a structure within an electronic device |
CNB2005101098667A CN100517163C (en) | 2004-07-30 | 2005-08-01 | Apparatus for storing structure in electronic device |
US11/830,521 US7675745B2 (en) | 2004-07-30 | 2007-07-30 | Storing a structure within a electronic device |
US13/237,403 US8614885B2 (en) | 2004-07-30 | 2011-09-20 | Apparatus for storing a structure within an electronic device |
Applications Claiming Priority (1)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
---|---|---|---|
US10/903,106 US20060023410A1 (en) | 2004-07-30 | 2004-07-30 | Apparatus for storing a structure within an electronic device |
Related Child Applications (2)
Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
---|---|---|---|
US10/989,047 Continuation-In-Part US7280351B2 (en) | 2004-07-30 | 2004-11-15 | Storing a structure within an electronic device |
US13/237,403 Division US8614885B2 (en) | 2004-07-30 | 2011-09-20 | Apparatus for storing a structure within an electronic device |
Publications (1)
Publication Number | Publication Date |
---|---|
US20060023410A1 true US20060023410A1 (en) | 2006-02-02 |
Family
ID=34912831
Family Applications (2)
Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
---|---|---|---|
US10/903,106 Abandoned US20060023410A1 (en) | 2004-07-30 | 2004-07-30 | Apparatus for storing a structure within an electronic device |
US13/237,403 Expired - Fee Related US8614885B2 (en) | 2004-07-30 | 2011-09-20 | Apparatus for storing a structure within an electronic device |
Family Applications After (1)
Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
---|---|---|---|
US13/237,403 Expired - Fee Related US8614885B2 (en) | 2004-07-30 | 2011-09-20 | Apparatus for storing a structure within an electronic device |
Country Status (6)
Country | Link |
---|---|
US (2) | US20060023410A1 (en) |
JP (1) | JP2006048674A (en) |
CN (2) | CN100517163C (en) |
DE (1) | DE102005031131B4 (en) |
GB (1) | GB2416931B (en) |
TW (1) | TW200612636A (en) |
Cited By (13)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US20060126286A1 (en) * | 2004-12-10 | 2006-06-15 | Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd. | Mouse and portable computer with the same |
US20060212635A1 (en) * | 2005-03-21 | 2006-09-21 | Wenstrand John S | Input devices and methods of operating same |
US7122747B1 (en) * | 2005-05-25 | 2006-10-17 | Inventec Corporation | Extension-type access device |
US20060284830A1 (en) * | 2005-06-21 | 2006-12-21 | Microsoft Corporation | Input device for a computer system |
US20070200824A1 (en) * | 2006-02-24 | 2007-08-30 | Choo Eugene K | Wireless foldable mouse |
US20090002571A1 (en) * | 2007-06-27 | 2009-01-01 | Avermedia Technologies, Inc. | Television Card with Remote Control Module |
US20090037632A1 (en) * | 2007-07-30 | 2009-02-05 | Downing Bart M | Rechargeable wireless portable device |
US20100328871A1 (en) * | 2009-06-29 | 2010-12-30 | Hong Fu Jin Precision Industry (Shenzhen) Co., Ltd. | Electronic device with detachable touchpad |
US20110193617A1 (en) * | 2009-03-12 | 2011-08-11 | Panasonic Corporation | Semiconductor card |
US20120134089A1 (en) * | 2010-11-29 | 2012-05-31 | Hon Hai Precision Industry Co., Ltd. | Electronic device |
US20120162885A1 (en) * | 2010-12-22 | 2012-06-28 | Panasonic Corporation | Information processing apparatus |
US20120314022A1 (en) * | 2011-06-13 | 2012-12-13 | Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd. | Display apparatus and method for controlling display apparatus and remote controller |
WO2023101670A1 (en) * | 2021-12-02 | 2023-06-08 | Hewlett-Packard Development Company, L.P. | Touch sensitive handheld input device |
Families Citing this family (18)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
DE202011101269U1 (en) | 2011-05-23 | 2012-02-13 | Rheinmetall Waffe Munition Gmbh | Fastening device for a throwing unit |
US10115841B2 (en) | 2012-06-04 | 2018-10-30 | Solaredge Technologies Ltd. | Integrated photovoltaic panel circuitry |
US9205340B2 (en) * | 2012-08-03 | 2015-12-08 | Intel Corporation | Stowable expanding controller for a mobile gaming device, apparatus and system |
CN105706033B (en) | 2013-03-05 | 2019-05-10 | 法斯埃托股份有限公司 | System and method for cube graphic user interface |
US10095873B2 (en) | 2013-09-30 | 2018-10-09 | Fasetto, Inc. | Paperless application |
US9584402B2 (en) | 2014-01-27 | 2017-02-28 | Fasetto, Llc | Systems and methods for peer to peer communication |
US9792239B2 (en) * | 2014-02-27 | 2017-10-17 | Genesis Technology Usa, Inc. | Tablet case with switching circuit for on-the-go USB port |
MX2017000339A (en) | 2014-07-10 | 2017-08-14 | Fasetto Llc | Systems and methods for message editing. |
US10437288B2 (en) * | 2014-10-06 | 2019-10-08 | Fasetto, Inc. | Portable storage device with modular power and housing system |
EP3205176B1 (en) | 2014-10-06 | 2021-12-29 | Fasetto, Inc. | Systems and methods for portable storage devices |
KR102452169B1 (en) | 2015-03-11 | 2022-10-11 | 파세토, 인크. | Systems and methods for web api communications |
WO2017096245A1 (en) | 2015-12-03 | 2017-06-08 | Fasetto, Llc | Systems and methods for memory card emulation |
MX2019005965A (en) | 2016-11-23 | 2019-10-24 | Fasetto Inc | Systems and methods for streaming media. |
JP7181882B2 (en) | 2017-02-03 | 2022-12-01 | ファセット・インコーポレーテッド | Data storage system and method in cooperative devices |
US10763630B2 (en) | 2017-10-19 | 2020-09-01 | Fasetto, Inc. | Portable electronic device connection systems |
EP3782112A4 (en) | 2018-04-17 | 2022-01-05 | Fasetto, Inc. | Device presentation with real-time feedback |
US11188119B2 (en) * | 2019-09-18 | 2021-11-30 | International Business Machines Corporation | Portable computer peripheral holder |
US11023054B2 (en) * | 2019-09-25 | 2021-06-01 | International Business Machines Corporation | Device case computer mouse |
Citations (25)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US4788658A (en) * | 1986-07-03 | 1988-11-29 | Hanebuth Charles E | Apparatus for connecting computer components |
US5020926A (en) * | 1990-06-08 | 1991-06-04 | Sejus Corporation | Printer mounting arrangement |
US5080452A (en) * | 1990-03-01 | 1992-01-14 | Tuckman Tab R | Integral storage receptacle for personal computer |
US5168969A (en) * | 1991-12-13 | 1992-12-08 | Mayhew Joseph C | Cable re-winder box for electronic game controllers |
US5689654A (en) * | 1992-06-29 | 1997-11-18 | Elonex F.P. Holdings, Ltd. | Digital assistant system including a host computer with a docking bay for the digital assistant wherein a heat sink is moved into contact with a docked digital assistant for cooling the digital assistant |
US5850296A (en) * | 1995-10-10 | 1998-12-15 | Storm Technology, Inc. | Scanner housing structure |
US6007195A (en) * | 1996-08-20 | 1999-12-28 | Brother Kogyo Kabushiki Kaisha | Scanner printer connectable to a PCMCIA card slot of an external computer and method for connecting a scanning printer to a PCMCIA card slot of an external computer |
US6049453A (en) * | 1997-12-09 | 2000-04-11 | Compaq Computer Corporation | Personal digital assistant and associated computer host device bay structure |
US6065080A (en) * | 1994-04-21 | 2000-05-16 | Click Technologies, Inc. | Miniature circuit card with retractable cord assembly |
US6184652B1 (en) * | 2000-03-14 | 2001-02-06 | Wen-Chin Yang | Mobile phone battery charge with USB interface |
US6359775B1 (en) * | 1999-08-11 | 2002-03-19 | Micron Technology, Inc. | Accessible desktop computer |
US6362610B1 (en) * | 2001-08-14 | 2002-03-26 | Fu-I Yang | Universal USB power supply unit |
US20020039245A1 (en) * | 2000-10-04 | 2002-04-04 | Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd. | Modular card-type disk drive |
US20020050807A1 (en) * | 2000-08-02 | 2002-05-02 | Janik Craig M. | Device docking apparatus and method for using the same |
US6390261B1 (en) * | 2000-11-15 | 2002-05-21 | Sheng Hsin Liao | Wire-winding box capable of detecting the line |
US6462937B1 (en) * | 2000-09-22 | 2002-10-08 | Dell Products L.P. | Computer having an integrated gaming control pad |
US20020163777A1 (en) * | 2001-05-04 | 2002-11-07 | Kang-Yeh Yu | Notebook computer with a cassette for holding a communications device |
US6489932B1 (en) * | 1999-09-30 | 2002-12-03 | Prasanna R. Chitturi | Display device including an integral docking station for a palm sized computing device |
US20030103035A1 (en) * | 2001-12-04 | 2003-06-05 | Alps Electric Co., Ltd. | Computer with slidable built-in unit |
US20030235030A1 (en) * | 2002-06-19 | 2003-12-25 | Bill Kwong | Console drive |
US20040140955A1 (en) * | 2003-01-21 | 2004-07-22 | Metz Kristofer Erik | Input device for a computer and method of operation |
US20040263471A1 (en) * | 2003-01-17 | 2004-12-30 | Bor-Wen Hsieh | Remote controller capable of being received in a PCMCIA slot of a notebook computer |
US6940487B2 (en) * | 2001-03-06 | 2005-09-06 | International Business Machines Corporation | Input unit and information processing unit |
US6972948B1 (en) * | 2003-09-05 | 2005-12-06 | New Gerald W | Computer drawer assembly |
US20050270735A1 (en) * | 2004-06-07 | 2005-12-08 | Che-Chih Chen | Remote control holding unit |
Family Cites Families (16)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US6035350A (en) * | 1997-01-21 | 2000-03-07 | Dell Usa, L.P. | Detachable I/O device with built-in RF/IR functionality to facilitate remote audio-visual presentation |
KR100259264B1 (en) | 1997-10-02 | 2000-06-15 | 윤종용 | Computer system |
JP3009875B1 (en) * | 1998-07-27 | 2000-02-14 | 京セラ株式会社 | Charger for wireless telephone |
US6424335B1 (en) * | 1998-09-02 | 2002-07-23 | Fujitsu Limited | Notebook computer with detachable infrared multi-mode input device |
DE60045294D1 (en) * | 1999-06-14 | 2011-01-05 | Ntt Docomo Inc | Battery unit and charger for a wireless telecommunications device |
US6476795B1 (en) * | 2000-01-20 | 2002-11-05 | Hewlett-Packard Company | Mouse recharging module |
CA2344024C (en) * | 2000-04-14 | 2006-08-01 | Zip Charge Corporation | Charging apparatus, charging method, charging system, and recording medium onto which is recorded a charging method |
TW463999U (en) * | 2000-06-14 | 2001-11-11 | Zone Technology Inc | Power supply device for computer peripheral units |
US6665741B1 (en) * | 2000-10-17 | 2003-12-16 | Hewlett-Packard Development Company, L.P. | Portable computer with removable I/O device |
TW501326B (en) * | 2001-01-10 | 2002-09-01 | Tai-He Yang | Electric equipment with backup battery-stand powered by host machine power source |
GB2376818A (en) * | 2001-06-21 | 2002-12-24 | Ubinetics Ltd | Charging method |
TW568312U (en) | 2001-09-10 | 2003-12-21 | Carry Computer Eng Co Ltd | Adapter of communication card |
GB2391370B (en) * | 2002-07-25 | 2005-12-14 | First Int Computer Inc | Control apparatus for computer |
WO2004075039A1 (en) * | 2003-02-21 | 2004-09-02 | Research In Motion Limited | Circuit and method of operation for an adaptive charge rate power supply |
TW595775U (en) | 2003-06-27 | 2004-06-21 | Wen-Shiang Yue | Portable wireless terminal device with wireless mouse stylus |
DE20314713U1 (en) * | 2003-07-08 | 2003-12-04 | Borgward, Glenn Rolus | Laptop computer has the cursor controlled by a mouse pad that can be removed from the docking station and can be used away from the computer |
-
2004
- 2004-07-30 US US10/903,106 patent/US20060023410A1/en not_active Abandoned
-
2005
- 2005-06-30 TW TW094122101A patent/TW200612636A/en unknown
- 2005-07-04 DE DE102005031131A patent/DE102005031131B4/en not_active Expired - Fee Related
- 2005-07-19 GB GB0514799A patent/GB2416931B/en not_active Expired - Fee Related
- 2005-07-20 JP JP2005209605A patent/JP2006048674A/en active Pending
- 2005-08-01 CN CNB2005101098667A patent/CN100517163C/en not_active Expired - Fee Related
- 2005-08-01 CN CNA2005100878801A patent/CN1728045A/en active Pending
-
2011
- 2011-09-20 US US13/237,403 patent/US8614885B2/en not_active Expired - Fee Related
Patent Citations (25)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US4788658A (en) * | 1986-07-03 | 1988-11-29 | Hanebuth Charles E | Apparatus for connecting computer components |
US5080452A (en) * | 1990-03-01 | 1992-01-14 | Tuckman Tab R | Integral storage receptacle for personal computer |
US5020926A (en) * | 1990-06-08 | 1991-06-04 | Sejus Corporation | Printer mounting arrangement |
US5168969A (en) * | 1991-12-13 | 1992-12-08 | Mayhew Joseph C | Cable re-winder box for electronic game controllers |
US5689654A (en) * | 1992-06-29 | 1997-11-18 | Elonex F.P. Holdings, Ltd. | Digital assistant system including a host computer with a docking bay for the digital assistant wherein a heat sink is moved into contact with a docked digital assistant for cooling the digital assistant |
US6065080A (en) * | 1994-04-21 | 2000-05-16 | Click Technologies, Inc. | Miniature circuit card with retractable cord assembly |
US5850296A (en) * | 1995-10-10 | 1998-12-15 | Storm Technology, Inc. | Scanner housing structure |
US6007195A (en) * | 1996-08-20 | 1999-12-28 | Brother Kogyo Kabushiki Kaisha | Scanner printer connectable to a PCMCIA card slot of an external computer and method for connecting a scanning printer to a PCMCIA card slot of an external computer |
US6049453A (en) * | 1997-12-09 | 2000-04-11 | Compaq Computer Corporation | Personal digital assistant and associated computer host device bay structure |
US6359775B1 (en) * | 1999-08-11 | 2002-03-19 | Micron Technology, Inc. | Accessible desktop computer |
US6489932B1 (en) * | 1999-09-30 | 2002-12-03 | Prasanna R. Chitturi | Display device including an integral docking station for a palm sized computing device |
US6184652B1 (en) * | 2000-03-14 | 2001-02-06 | Wen-Chin Yang | Mobile phone battery charge with USB interface |
US20020050807A1 (en) * | 2000-08-02 | 2002-05-02 | Janik Craig M. | Device docking apparatus and method for using the same |
US6462937B1 (en) * | 2000-09-22 | 2002-10-08 | Dell Products L.P. | Computer having an integrated gaming control pad |
US20020039245A1 (en) * | 2000-10-04 | 2002-04-04 | Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd. | Modular card-type disk drive |
US6390261B1 (en) * | 2000-11-15 | 2002-05-21 | Sheng Hsin Liao | Wire-winding box capable of detecting the line |
US6940487B2 (en) * | 2001-03-06 | 2005-09-06 | International Business Machines Corporation | Input unit and information processing unit |
US20020163777A1 (en) * | 2001-05-04 | 2002-11-07 | Kang-Yeh Yu | Notebook computer with a cassette for holding a communications device |
US6362610B1 (en) * | 2001-08-14 | 2002-03-26 | Fu-I Yang | Universal USB power supply unit |
US20030103035A1 (en) * | 2001-12-04 | 2003-06-05 | Alps Electric Co., Ltd. | Computer with slidable built-in unit |
US20030235030A1 (en) * | 2002-06-19 | 2003-12-25 | Bill Kwong | Console drive |
US20040263471A1 (en) * | 2003-01-17 | 2004-12-30 | Bor-Wen Hsieh | Remote controller capable of being received in a PCMCIA slot of a notebook computer |
US20040140955A1 (en) * | 2003-01-21 | 2004-07-22 | Metz Kristofer Erik | Input device for a computer and method of operation |
US6972948B1 (en) * | 2003-09-05 | 2005-12-06 | New Gerald W | Computer drawer assembly |
US20050270735A1 (en) * | 2004-06-07 | 2005-12-08 | Che-Chih Chen | Remote control holding unit |
Cited By (18)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US20060126286A1 (en) * | 2004-12-10 | 2006-06-15 | Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd. | Mouse and portable computer with the same |
US20060212635A1 (en) * | 2005-03-21 | 2006-09-21 | Wenstrand John S | Input devices and methods of operating same |
US7330923B2 (en) * | 2005-03-21 | 2008-02-12 | Avago Technologies Ecbu Ip (Singapore) Pte. Ltd. | Input devices and methods of operating same |
US7122747B1 (en) * | 2005-05-25 | 2006-10-17 | Inventec Corporation | Extension-type access device |
US7719517B2 (en) * | 2005-06-21 | 2010-05-18 | Microsoft Corporation | Input device for a computer system |
US20060284830A1 (en) * | 2005-06-21 | 2006-12-21 | Microsoft Corporation | Input device for a computer system |
US20070200824A1 (en) * | 2006-02-24 | 2007-08-30 | Choo Eugene K | Wireless foldable mouse |
US20090002571A1 (en) * | 2007-06-27 | 2009-01-01 | Avermedia Technologies, Inc. | Television Card with Remote Control Module |
US8018534B2 (en) * | 2007-06-27 | 2011-09-13 | Avermedia Technologies, Inc. | Television card with remote control module |
US20090037632A1 (en) * | 2007-07-30 | 2009-02-05 | Downing Bart M | Rechargeable wireless portable device |
US20110193617A1 (en) * | 2009-03-12 | 2011-08-11 | Panasonic Corporation | Semiconductor card |
US20100328871A1 (en) * | 2009-06-29 | 2010-12-30 | Hong Fu Jin Precision Industry (Shenzhen) Co., Ltd. | Electronic device with detachable touchpad |
US7948741B2 (en) * | 2009-06-29 | 2011-05-24 | Hong Fu Jin Precision Industry (Shenzhen) Co., Ltd. | Electronic device with detachable touchpad |
US20120134089A1 (en) * | 2010-11-29 | 2012-05-31 | Hon Hai Precision Industry Co., Ltd. | Electronic device |
US20120162885A1 (en) * | 2010-12-22 | 2012-06-28 | Panasonic Corporation | Information processing apparatus |
US20120314022A1 (en) * | 2011-06-13 | 2012-12-13 | Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd. | Display apparatus and method for controlling display apparatus and remote controller |
US9491520B2 (en) * | 2011-06-13 | 2016-11-08 | Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd. | Display apparatus and method for controlling display apparatus and remote controller having a plurality of sensor arrays |
WO2023101670A1 (en) * | 2021-12-02 | 2023-06-08 | Hewlett-Packard Development Company, L.P. | Touch sensitive handheld input device |
Also Published As
Publication number | Publication date |
---|---|
JP2006048674A (en) | 2006-02-16 |
CN1728045A (en) | 2006-02-01 |
CN1770053A (en) | 2006-05-10 |
DE102005031131B4 (en) | 2009-05-07 |
US20120062177A1 (en) | 2012-03-15 |
GB0514799D0 (en) | 2005-08-24 |
DE102005031131A1 (en) | 2006-03-23 |
US8614885B2 (en) | 2013-12-24 |
GB2416931A (en) | 2006-02-08 |
GB2416931B (en) | 2008-09-10 |
TW200612636A (en) | 2006-04-16 |
CN100517163C (en) | 2009-07-22 |
Similar Documents
Publication | Publication Date | Title |
---|---|---|
US8614885B2 (en) | Apparatus for storing a structure within an electronic device | |
US7675745B2 (en) | Storing a structure within a electronic device | |
US7564678B2 (en) | Adapting device for a portable device | |
US20070250193A1 (en) | Dongle-based multimedia player | |
AU2009100672B4 (en) | Interface connector between media player and electronic device | |
US7580254B2 (en) | Apparatus, system, and method for secure storage bay for an electronic handheld device | |
US20030063196A1 (en) | Handheld portable interactive data storage device | |
US7643283B2 (en) | Adaptive dock for use with personal media players | |
US20090304217A1 (en) | Apparatus and method for using a portable media unit | |
US20060212637A1 (en) | Dock insertable into computer and receiving media player | |
US20060232922A1 (en) | Portable digital storage device | |
US8423696B2 (en) | Multimedia docking computer | |
US20090282180A1 (en) | Plug-and-play hard disk read/write drive | |
JP2001015945A (en) | Peripheral device | |
WO2006062691A9 (en) | Apparatus and method for using a portable media unit | |
CN201994062U (en) | Connecting device of hard disk drive carrying and packaging box | |
KR20040076776A (en) | Mouse device having function of charging a mobile-phone and recording and playing a receiving data |
Legal Events
Date | Code | Title | Description |
---|---|---|---|
AS | Assignment |
Owner name: HEWLETT-PACKARD DEVELOPMENT COMPANY, L.P., TEXAS Free format text: ASSIGNMENT OF ASSIGNORS INTEREST;ASSIGNORS:SOLOMON, MARK;MOORE, EARL W.;HARRIS, JONATHAN R.;AND OTHERS;REEL/FRAME:016047/0911;SIGNING DATES FROM 20041108 TO 20041130 |
|
STCB | Information on status: application discontinuation |
Free format text: ABANDONED -- AFTER EXAMINER'S ANSWER OR BOARD OF APPEALS DECISION |