WO2016133725A1

WO2016133725A1 - Docking station for an electronic device

Info

Publication number: WO2016133725A1
Application number: PCT/US2016/016816
Authority: WO
Inventors: Michael John MULLEN
Original assignee: Ergotron, Inc.
Priority date: 2015-02-18
Filing date: 2016-02-05
Publication date: 2016-08-25

Abstract

A docking station for an electronic device having a positioning device, the docking station that can comprise a first assembly configured to couple to the positioning device of the electronic device; and a second assembly configured to rest on a support surface; and a hinge that hingedly couples the first assembly and the second assembly together.

Description

DOCKING STATION FOR AN ELECTRONIC DEVICE CLAIM OF PRIORITY

[0001] This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Patent

Application Serial No. 62/117,770, titled DOCKING STATION FOR

HANDHELD DEVICE, invented by Michael John Mullen, filed on February 18, 2015, the benefit of priority of which is claimed hereby, and of which is incorporated by reference herein in its entirety.

OVERVIEW

[0002] In general, this disclosure describes a docking station for use with an electronic device, such as a handheld computer. Computers have become an integral part of our society - they are everywhere. Handheld computers, such as tablet computers and cell phones, can include a positioning device, e.g., a kickstand, for allowing a user to position the computer above a prone position such as lying flat on a planar desk or tabletop. The present inventor has recognized a need for a positioning device for an electronic device that allows a greater stability, and a greater range of positions than a positioning device alone can provide. The inventors have recognized a need to provide a docking station in combination with the positioning device.

10003] To further illustrate the DOCKING STATION FOR AN

ELECTRONIC DEVICE disclosed herein, a non-limiting list of examples is provided here:

[0004] In Example 1, a docking station for an electronic device having a positioning device can comprise a first assembly configured to couple to the positioning device of the electronic device; a second assembly configured to rest on a suppori surface; and a hinge that hingedly couples the first assembly and the second assembly together.

[0005] In Example 2, the docking station of Example 1 can optionally be configured such that the electronic device is a tablet computer.

[0006] In Exampl e 3, the docking station of any one or any combination of Examples 1-2 can optionally be configured to further comprise at least one electronic component. [0007] In Example 4, the docking station of Example 3 can optionally he configured such that the at least one electronic component is located in the second assembly.

[0008] In Example 5, the docking station of any one or any combination of Examples 1-4 can optionally be configured such that the at least one electronic component is selected from the group consisting of a power input connector, a display port connector, a Universal Serial Bus port, an Ethernet port, and a headphone input.

[0009] In Example 6, the docking station of any one or any combination of Examples 1-5 can optionally be configured to further comprise a removable cover configured to conceal the at least one electronic component.

[0010] In Example 7, the docking station of any one or any combination of Examples 1-6 can optionally be configured to further comprise a lock configured to lock the positioning device to the first assembly.

[0011] In Example 8, the docking station of any one or any combination of Examples 1-7 can optionally be configured such that a movement of the first assembly relative to the second assembly causes a change in a viewing orientation of the electronic device.

[0012] In Example 9, the docking station of Example 8 can optionally be configured such that a movement of the first assembly relative to the second assembly causes a ch ange in a viewing orientation of th e tablet compu ter, wherein a movement of the first assembly towards the second assembly causes the viewing orientation of the tablet computer to approach a declining viewing orientation and a movement of the first assembly away from the second assembly causes the viewing orientation of the tablet computer to approach a horizontal viewing orientation.

[0013] In Example 10, the docking station of any one or any combination of Examples 1-9 can optionally be configured such that the first assembly includes a first portion and a second portion and an opening defined between the first portion and the second portion, the opening configured to receive the positioning device.

[0014] In Example 11, the docking station of any one or any combination of Examples 1-10 can optionally be configured such that the hinge is a friction hinge. [0015] In Example 12, the docking station of any one or any combination of Examples 1-1 1 can optionally be configured to further comprise a connector configured to connect the electronic device to the second assembly,

[0016] In Example 13, the docking station of any one or any combination of Examples 1-12 can optionally be configured to further comprise a clamp connected to the second assembly and configured to couple the docking station to the support surface.

[0017] In Example 14, the docking station of any one or any combination of Examples 1-13 can optionally be configured such that the second assembly defines a cutout section configured to receive one or more cables.

[0018] In Example 15, the docking station of any one or any combination of Examples 1-14 can optionally be configured such that the first assembly includes a first assembly top surface opposing a first assembly bottom surface and the second assembly includes a second assembly top surface opposing a second assembly bottom surface, wherein when the hinge is closed, the first assembly bottom surface engages the second assembly top surface and the first assembly top surface is substantially parallel to the support surface and the second assembly bottom surface.

[0019] In Example 16, the docking station of Example 15 can optionally be configured such that when the hinge is closed, an angle formed between the support surface and the engaged surfaces is between 15 degrees and 45 degrees.

[0020] In Example 17, a docking station for an electronic device having a positioning device can comprise a first assembly configured to couple to the positioning device of the electronic device, wherein the first assembly includes a first portion and a second portion and an opening defined between the first portion and the second portion, the opening configured to receive the positioning device; a second assembly configured to rest on a support surface; a hinge that hingedly couples the first assembly and the second assembly together; at least one electronic component located in the second assembly ; wherein a movement of the first assembly relative to the second assembly causes a change in a viewing orientation of the tablet computer, wherein a movement of the first assembly towards the second assembly causes the viewing orientation of the tablet computer to approach a declining viewing orientation and a movement of the first assembly away from the second assembly causes the viewing orientation of the tablet computer to approach a horizontal viewing orientation.

[0021] In Example 18, the docking station of Example 17 can optionally be configured such that the at least one electronic component is selected from the group consisting of a power input connector, a display port connector, a

Universal Serial Bus port, an Ethernet port, and a headphone input.

[0022] In Example 19, the docking station of any one or any combination of Examples 17-18 can optionally be configured to further comprise a clamp connected to the second assembly and configured to couple the docking station to the support surface.

[0023] In Example 20, a docking station for a tablet computer having a positioning device, the docking station can comprise a first assembly configured to couple to the positioning device of the tablet computer, wherein the first assembly includes a first portion and a second portion and an opening defined between the first portion and the second portion, the opening configured to receive the positioning device; a second assembly configured to rest on a support surface, wherein the second assembly defines a cutout section configured to receive one or more cables; a hinge that hingediy couples the first assembly and the second assembly together; at least one electronic component located in the second assembly, wherein the at least one electronic component is selected from the group consisting of a power input connector, a display port connector, a Universal Serial Bus port, an Ethernet port, and a headphone input; a removable cover configured to conceal the at least one electronic component; a connector configured to connect the tablet computer to the second assembly; a clamp connected to the second assembly and configured to couple the docking station to the support surface; wherein the positioning device is hingediy engaged to the tablet computer, and; wherein a movement of the first assembly relative to the second assembly causes a change in a viewing orientation of the tablet computer, wherein a movement of the first assembly towards the second assembly causes the viewing orientation of the tablet computer to approach a declining viewing orientation and a movement of the first assembly away from the second assembly causes the viewing orientation of the tablet computer to approach a horizontal viewing orientation. [0024] In Example 21, the docking station of any one or any combination of Examples 1-20 can optionally he configured such that all elements, operations, or other options recited are available to use or select from.

[0025] Additional aspects and advantages will be apparent from the following detailed description of example embodiments, which proceeds with reference to the accompanying drawings.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS [0026] FIG. 1 illustrates a front view of a docking station coupled to an electronic device, in accordance with at least one example of this disclosure.

[0027] FIG. 2 illustrates a perspective rear view of a docking station coupled to an electronic device, in accordance with at least one example of this disclosure.

[0028] FIG. 3 illustrates a perspective rear view of a docking station coupled to an electronic device, in accordance with at least one example of this disclosure.

[0029] FIG. 4 illustrates a perspective front view of a docking station, in accordance with at least one example of this disclosure.

[0030] FIG. 5 illustrates detail A of FIG. 4, in accordance with at least one example of this disclosure.

[0031] FIG. 6 illustrates a perspective front view of a docking station, in accordance with at least one example of this disclosure.

[0032] FIG. 7 illustrates a side view of a docking station coupled to an electronic device in a horizontal viewing orientation, in accordance with at least one example of this disclosure.

[0033] FIG. 8 illustrates a side view of a docking station coupled to an electronic device in a declining viewing orientation, in accordance with at least one example of this disclosure.

[0034] This disclosure describes a docking station that is configured to position an electronic device having a positioning device, e.g., kickstand relative to a support surface, e.g., a desktop or work surface. As described in detail below, the docking station of this disclosure can advantageously support an electronic device that includes a kickstand, such as a handheld electronic device, a tablet computer, a cell phone, etc. while allowing a tilt adjustment of the electronic device.

[0035] Instead of holding the electronic device by a stationary frame, the docking station of the present disclosure can be physically coupled to a positioning device, e.g., kickstand, of the electronic device, thereby allowing the electronic device to tilt by utilizing a tilt mechanism, e.g., hinge, associated with the positioning device.

[0036] In one example, after the positioning device is coupled to the docking station, a hinge in the docking station can operate in conjunction with a positioning device hinge to provide a full tilt range or tilt angle adjustment. By adjusting the position of a first assembly relative to a second assembly using the docking station hinge, the user can improve or optimize a viewing angle or v iewing orientation of the electronic device. In contrast to docking stations for handheld devices that have a fixed angle, the docking station of the present disclosure can advantageously improve usability by including a tilting feature.

[0037] FIG. 1 illustrates a front view of a docking station 12 coupled to an electronic device 10, in accordance with at least one example of this disclosure. The electronic device 10 can include a display screen 14, a lower edge 16, an upper edge 18, a left side 20, and a right side 22. The lower edge 16 can rest against a support surface 24, such as a tabletop, a desktop, or other type of work surface. The display screen 14 is shown in a landscape orientation 26 whereby a device width 28 is greater than a device height 30. The electronic device 10 may have the ability to be viewed in a portrait orientation and for explanation purposes, the lower edge 16 will refer to the edge resting against a support surface 24. Although not illustrated, the electronic device 10 can be connected to a keyboard tray. The keyboard tray can be hingedly connected to the electronic device 10.

[ΘΘ38] The docking station 12 can include a first assembly 32 and a second assembly 34. A connector 36 can extend from the second assembly 34 and can attach to the electronic device 10. The connector 36 can provide in a single connection, one or more of the following non-limiting examples: charging power, internet connectivity, an audio feed, a data feed, a video feed, a connection to another computer, or a Universal Serial Bus (USB) connection. In another example, multiple connections such as above can extend from the docking station 12 to connect to the electronic device 10. The docking station can include a clamp 38. The clamp 38 can secure the docking station 12 to the support surface 24.

[0039] FIG. 2 illustrates a perspective rear view of a docking station 12 coupled to an electronic device 10, in accordance with at least one example of this disclosure. The electronic device 10 can include a positioning device 40, e.g., a kickstand, coupled to the rear 42 of the electronic device 10. A positioning device hinge 44 can rotably or hingedly couple the positioning device 40 to the electronic device 10. The positioning device 40 can be coupled near the middle of the electronic device 10 as shown. In another example, the positioning device 40 can be coupled at other locations closer to the upper edge 18 or lower edge 16.

[0040] The positioning device 40 can be coupled to the first assembly 32.

The docking station 12 can include a hinge 46 located near a rear face 48 of the docking station 12. The hinge 46 can movably couple the first assembly 32 to the second assembly 34. The second assembly 34 can rest on the support surface 24 (see FIG. 1) and the hinge 46 can open and close. The opening or closing of the hinge 46 can raise and lower the first assembly 32, The positioning device 40 can include a lip 50 that can extend around the perimeter of the positioning device 40. The lip 50 can provide a structure to help secure the positioning device 40 to the first assembly 32. As described below, movement of the first assembly 32 away or towards the second assembly 34 can change a viewing orientation of the electronic device 10. The clamp 38 can be a bracket as shown. The inventor has contemplated securing the docking station 12 to the support surface 24 by other means such as by fasteners, cords, spring loaded clamps etc. without changing the intent of this disclosure.

[0041] FIG. 3 illustrates a perspective rear vie of a docking station 12 coupled to an electronic device 10, in accordance with at least one example of this disclosure. The second assembly 34 can include one or more electronic components 52. In an example, the electronic components 52 can include, for example, a power input 54, a display port 56, (e.g., for dual monitor support), one or more USB ports 58A, 58B, 58C (collectively referred to as "USB ports 58" in this disclosure), an Ethernet port 60, an audio port 62 (e.g. headphone jack), or any other type of electronic port. The second assembly 34 can include any internal circuitry and/or electronics needed for the functionality of a docking station, such as wiring, charging, routing, wireless connections, audio connections, data connections, timing circuitry, printer connections, USB connections, or buffering. In some example configurations, the electronic components 52 can be located on and/or housed within the second assembly 34 of the docking station 12. In other example configurations, the electronic components 52 can be located on and/or housed within the first assembly 32 of the docking station 12.

[0042] The second assembly 34 can include a generally rectangular top view profile and can include dimensions that can vary depending on the size of the electronic device 10. In one non-limiting example configuration, the docking station 12 can have the following dimensions of a height 64 of about 1 inch, a length 66 of about 14 inches, and a width 68 of about 3 inches. In another non- limiting example configuration, the docking station 12 can have a height 64 of about .5 inches to about 2 inches, a length 66 of about 6 inches to about 15 inches, and a width 68 of about 1 inch to about 5 inches.

[0043] The docking station 12 can define a first cutout section 70. The first cutout section 70 can receive one or more cables. The cables can enter the first cutout section 70 from an opening (not illustrated) in the support surface 24, from around the edge of the support surface 24, or from any direction as needed. A removable cover 72 can cover the first cutout section 70 on the second assembly 34 so that at least some of the cabling can be at least partially hidden from view on the support surface 24. Such cable organization can minimize the footprint of the docking station 12. The cables can then be connected to the second assembly 34 at the electronic components 52, The removable cover 72 can be a "snap-on" cover, include a hinge, or be coupled to the second assembly by fasteners.

[0044] The second assembly bottom surface 74 can rest against the support surface 24 (see FIG. 1). Although the clamp 38 is illustrated in the middle of the docking station 12, in another example, one or more clamps 38 can be located near one or both ends of the second assembly 34. [0045] FIGS. 4-6 illustrate a perspective front view of an example of docking station 12, in accordance with at least one example of this disclosure. The first assembly 32 can include a second cutout section 76. The profile of the second cutout section 76 can match the profile of the first cutout section 70. The first assembly 32 can include a first portion 78 and a second portion 80. The first portion 78 and the second portion 80 can define an opening 82. The positioning device 40 can be received in the opening 82. The second portion 80 can be coupled to the first portion by a second portion hinge 83, located near the rear side of the second portion 80. The second portion 80 can swing away from the first portion to allow the opening 82 to receive the positioning device 40 (see FIG. 2). The second portion 80 can be biased towards a closed positon 84 such that the second portion 80 can clamp the positioning device 40 securely to the first assembly 32. FIG. 4 illustrates the second portion 80 in a closed position 84 and FIG. 6 illustrates the second portion 80 in an open position 86.

[0046] The first assembly 32 can include a first lock 88. The first lock

88 can lock the second portion 80 in a closed position 84 that can prevent removal of the positioning device 40 from the first assembly 32 without unlocking. The first lock 88 can be a keyed lock, a pin lock, a Kensington type lock, a cam lock, or any other type of locking mechanism that can prevent unwanted removal of the positioning device 40 from the first assembly 32. The first assembly 32 ca include a second lock 90 that can lock the docking station 12 to the support surface 24 or other structure, for example by having a cable or other connecting means. In another example, the second lock 90 can lock the clamp 38 to the support surface 24. The second lock can be a keyed lock, a pin lock, a Kensington type lock, a cam lock, or any other type of locking mechanism that can prevent unwanted removal of the docking station 12 from the support surface 24.

[0047] In another example, security ca be provided by clamping around the positioning device 40 and then locking the electronic device 10 to the docking station 12, e.g., the first assembly 32, using a security lock slot or a keyed lock. Example locks include, but are not limited to, the following: c- clamps for desk edge or grommet mount configuration; adhesive tape; or bolt thru connection with threaded inserts/fasteners. [0048] FIG. 5 illustrates detail A of FIG. 4, in accordance with at least one example of this disclosure. The second portion 80 is in the closed position 84 and the opening 82 can be slot-like between the first portion 78 and the second portion 80.

[0049] FIG. 6 illustrates a perspective front view of a docking station 12, in accordance with at least one example of this disclosure. The second portion 80 is shown in an open position 86 and has been moved away from the first portion 78. The positioning device 40 (see FIG. 2) can be located in the opening 82 and the second portion 80 can spring shut to the closed position 86 to clamp on the positioning device 40.

[0050] The present inventor has contemplated other means of attaching the positioning device 40 to the first assembly 32. In another example, the first assembly 32 can include a slot-like opening to receive the positioning device 40 and the first assembly 32 can be formed of one piece rather than including the first portion 78 and the second portion 80. In other examples, the first assembly 32 can include one or more fasteners, e.g., a clamp, a clasp, cam-locks, removable or integral fasteners, and the like, to releasably attach the docking station 12 to the positioning device 40.

[0051] The docking station 12 can include additional porting, such as USB ports 106 A and 106B located on the forward face 94.

[ΘΘ52] FIG. 7 illustrates a side view of a docking station 12 coupled to an electronic device 10 in a generally horizontal viewing orientation 92, in accordance with at least one example of this disclosure. With the positioning device 40 coupled to the first assembly 32, the lower edge 16 of the electronic device 10 can be moved towards a forward face 94 of the second assembly 34. A distance 104 between the lower edge 16 and the forward face 94 can be very small, even zero.

[ΘΘ53] The hinge 46 can allow the first assembly 32 to raise upwards from the second assembly 34 as a first angle 96 increases, where the first angle 96 is located between a first assembly bottom surface 98 and a second assembly top surface 100. A second angle 102 formed between the positioning device 40 and the rear 42 of the electronic device 10 can become smaller as the electronic device 10 approaches a more vertical position and the user has a generally horizontal viewing orientation 92. Both the lower edge 16 and the second assembly bottom surface 74 can rest on the support surface 24. In order to provide a user with a greater range of viewing or using choices of the electronic device 10, the viewing orientation can easily be adjusted. In an example, the user may wish to stand up and can change the viewing angle to a generally declining viewing orientation, as shown in FIG. 8. Some electronic device functions such as digital inking, may be easier if the electronic device 10 is in a more horizontal orientation. The connector 36 can extend from the second assembly 34 and can attach to the electronic device 10 allowing connecti vity between the docking station 12 and the electronic device 10. In an alternative example, one or more connections between the electronic device 10 and the docking station 12 can be wireless.

[0054] FIG. 8 illustrates a side view of a docking station coupled to an electronic device 10 in a declining viewing orientation 108, in accordance with at least one example of this disclosure. The user can, for example, grasp an edge of the electronic device 10 and move the lower edge 16 away from the forward face 94. In another example, the user can grasp the first assembly 32 and adj ust its position relative to the second assembly 34 and the position of the electronic device 10 can change accordingly.

[0055] The electronic device 10 can tilt as the hinge 46 coupling the first assembly 32 to the second assembly 34 moves towards a closed position as the first angl e 96 decreases and as the second angle 102 increases. In the declining viewing orientation 108, the distance 104 between the lower edge 16 and the forward face 94 is greater than in the horizontal viewing orientation 92 (see FIG. 7) and the second angle 102 has increased.

[0056] The hinge 46 coupling the first assembly 32 to the second assembly 34 can be in a closed position and the first assembly bottom surface 98 can contact the second assembly top surface 100. The hinge 46 can be a friciion hinge and can allow setting the electronic device 10 lower edge 16 at any position between a maximum distance between the lower edge 16 and the forward face 94 and a minimum distance between the lower edge 16 and the forward face 94. Some electronic devices may include a positioning device (e.g. kickstand) that allows rotation of the electronic device 10 from a landscape orientation to a portrait orientation. A user can leave the positioning device 40 coupled to the first assembly 32 and raise the first assembly 32 enough to turn the electronic device 10 so that a former side edge can rest against the support siirface 24,

[0057] In an example, the tilt angle of the electronic device 10 can vary as a function of the size of the electronic device 10 as well as the mounting location of the positioning device 40 on the rear 42 of the electronic device 10.

[0058] The side profile 110 of the docking station 12 can be as illustrated with the engaged surfaces 112 of the first assembly bottom surface 98 and the second assembly top surface 100 forming an acute angle 114 with the support siirface 24. The first assembly top surface 1 16 and the second assembly bottom surface 74 can be generally parallel when the hinge 46 is closed. The forward face 94 can be angled and a first assembly forward face 118 can have a matching contour. A docking station rear face 120 can be generally normal to the support surface 24. The present inventor has considered numerous other side profiles for the docking station 12 such as a rectangular profile, a profile having curved sections, an irregularly shaped profile, etc. without changing the intent of this disclosure.

Various Notes

[0059] The above detailed description includes references to the accompanying drawings, which form a part of the detailed description. The drawings show, by way of illustration, specific embodiments in which the invention can be practiced. These embodiments are also referred to herein as "examples." Such examples can include elements in addition to those shown or described. However, the present inventors also contemplate examples in which only those elements shown or described are provided. Moreover, the present inventors also contemplate examples using any combination or permutation of those elements shown or described (or one or more aspects thereof), either with respect to a particular example (or one or more aspects thereof), or with respect to other examples (or one or more aspects thereof) shown or described herein.

[0060] In the event of inconsistent usages between this document and any documents so incorporated by reference, the usage in this document controls.

[0061] In this document, the terms "a" or "an" are used, as is common in patent documents, to include one or more than one, independent of any other instances or usages of "at least one" or "one or more." In this document, the term "or" is used to refer to a nonexclusive or, such that "A or B" includes "A hut not B," "B but not A," and "A and B," unless otherwise indicated. In this document, the terms "including" and "in which" are used as the plain-English equivalents of the respective terms "comprising" and "wherein." Also, in the following claims, the terms "including" and "comprising" are open-ended, that is, a system, device, article, composition, formulation, or process that includes elements in addition to those listed after such a term in a claim are still deemed to fall within the scope of that claim. Moreover, in the following claims, the terms "first," "second," and "third," etc. are used merely as labels, and are not intended to impose numerical requirements on their objects.

[0062] The above description is intended to be illustrative, and not restrictive. For example, the above-described examples (or one or more aspects thereof) may be used in combination with each other. Other embodiments can be used, such as by one of ordinary skill in the art upon reviewing the above description. The Abstract is provided to comply with 37 C.F.R. § 1.72(b), to allow the reader to quickly ascertain the nature of the technical disclosure. It is submitted with the understanding that it will not be used to interpret or limit the scope or meaning of the claims. Also, in the above Detailed Description, various features may be grouped together to streamline the disclosure. This should not be interpreted as intending that an unclaimed disclosed feature is essential to any claim. Rather, inventive subject matter may lie in less than ail features of a particular disclosed embodiment. Thus, the following claims are hereby incorporated into the Detailed Description as examples or embodiments, with each claim standing on its own as a separate embodiment, and it is contemplated that such embodiments can be combined with each other in various combinations or permutations. The scope of the invention should be determined with reference to the appended claims, along with the full scope of equivalents to which such claims are entitled.

Claims

THE CLAIMED INVENTION IS:

1. A docking station for an electronic device having a positioning device, the docking station comprising:

a first assembly configured to couple to the positioning device of the electronic device;

a second assembly configured to rest on a support surface; and a hinge that hingedly couples the first assembly and the second assembly together,

2. The docking station of claim I, wherein the electronic device is a tablet computer.

3. The docking station of any one of claims 1-2, further comprising at least one electronic component.

4. The docking station of claim 3, wherein the at least one electronic component is located in the second assembly.

5. The docking station of claim 3, wherein the at least one electronic component is selected from the group consisting of a power input connector, a display port connector, a Universal Serial Bus port, an Ethernet port, and a headphone input.

6. The docking station of claim 3, comprising:

a removable cover configured to conceal the at least one electronic component.

7. The docking station of any one of claims 1-2, or 4-6, comprising:

a lock configured to lock the positioning device to the first assembly.

8. The docking station of any one of claims 1-2, or 4-6, wherein a movement of the first assembly relative to the second assembly causes a change in a viewing orientation of the electronic device.

9. The docking station of claim 8, wherein a movement of the first assembly relative to the second assembly causes a change in a viewing orientation of the tablet computer, wherein a movement of the first assembly towards the second assembly causes the viewing orientation of the tablet computer to approach a declining vi ewing orientation and a movement of the first assembly away from the second assembly causes the viewing orientation of the tablet computer to approach a horizontal viewing orientation.

10. The docking stati on of any one of claims 1-2, or 4-6, wherein the first assembly includes a first portion and a second portion and an opening defined between the first portion and the second portion, the opening configured to receive the positioning device.

11. The docking station of any one of claims 1-2, or 4-6, wherein the hinge is a friction hinge.

12. The docking station any one of claims 1-2, or 4-6, further comprising a connector configured to connect the electronic device to the second assembly.

13. The docking station of any one of claims 1 -2, or 4-6, further comprising a clamp connected to the second assembly and configured to couple the docking station to the support surface.

14. The docking station of any one of claims 1-2, or 4-6, wherein the second assembly defines a cutout section configured to receive one or more cables.

15. The docking station of any one of claims 1 -2, or 4-6,

wherein the first assembly includes a first assembly top surface opposing a first assembly bottom surface and the second assembly includes a second assembly top surface opposing a second assembly bottom surface,

wherein when the hinge is closed, the first assembly bottom surface engages the second assembly top surface and the first assembly top surface is substantially parallel to the support surface and the second assembly bottom surface.

16. The docking station of claim 15, wherein when the hinge is closed, an angle formed between the support surface and the engaged surfaces is between

15 degrees and 45 degrees.

17. A docking station for an electronic device having a positioning device, the docking station comprising:

a first assembly configured to couple to the positioning device of the electronic device, wherein the first assembly includes a first portion and a second portion and an opening defined between the first portion and the second portion, the opening configured to receive the positioning device;

a second assembly configured to rest on a support surface;

a hinge that hingediy couples the first assembly and the second assembly together;

at least one electronic component located in the second assembly;

wherein a movement of the first assembly relative to the second assembly causes a change in a viewing orientation of the tablet computer, wherein a movement of the first assembly towards the second assembly causes the viewing orientation of the tablet computer to approach a declining viewing orientation and a movement of the first assembly away from the second assembly causes the viewing orientation of the tablet computer to approach a horizontal viewing orientation.

18. The docking station of claim 17, wherein the at least one electronic component is selected from the group consisting of a power input connector, a display port connector, a Universal Serial Bus port, an Ethernet port, and a headphone input.

19. The docking station of any one of claims 17-18, further comprising a clamp connected to the second assembly and configured to couple the docking station to the support surface.

20. A docking station for a tablet computer having a positioning device, the docking station comprising:

a first assembly configured to couple to the positioning device of the tablet computer, wherein the first assembly includes a first portion and a second portion and an opening defined between the first portion and the second portion, the opening configured to receive the positioning device;

a second assembly configured to rest on a support surface, wherein the second assembly defines a cutout section configured to receive one or more cables;

a hinge that hingedly couples the first assembly and the second assembly together;

at least one electronic component located in the second assembly, wherein the at least one electronic component is selected from the group consisting of a power input connector, a display port connector, a Universal Serial Bus port, an Ethernet port, and a headphone input;

a removable cover configured to conceal the at least one electronic component;

a connector configured to connect the tablet computer to the second assembly;

a clamp connected to the second assembly and configured to couple the docking station to the support surface;

wherein the positioning device is hingedly engaged to the tablet computer, and;

wherein a movement of the first assembly relative to the second assembly causes a change in a viewing orientation of the tablet computer, wherein a movement of the first assembly towards the second assembly causes the viewing orientation of the tablet computer to approach a declining viewing orientation and a movement of the first assembly away from the second assembly causes the v iewing orientation of the tablet computer to approach a horizontal viewing orientation.