×

Notebook computer docking station having floating connector interface structure

  • US 5,552,959 A
  • Filed: 03/29/1994
  • Issued: 09/03/1996
  • Est. Priority Date: 01/05/1993
  • Status: Expired due to Term
First Claim
Patent Images

1. Connector apparatus for use in operatively and electrically coupling a first electrical connector structure carried by a portable computer to a docking station structure having a receiving area into which the portable computer may be inserted in a first direction toward a docked orientation of the computer, said connector apparatus comprising:

  • a second electrical connector structure telescopingly engageable with the first electrical connector structure; and

    floating support means for supporting said second electrical connector structure within the receiving area in a manner such that said second electrical connector structure will be forcibly engaged by the first electrical connector structure as the computer approaches its docked orientation within the receiving area,said floating support means being operative to resiliently bias said second electrical connector structure toward a ready-for-docking position, permit said second electrical connector structure to be translated away from said ready-for-docking position and into precise telescopingly mateable alignment with the first electrical connector structure in response to a forcible, misaligned engagement of said second electrical connector structure by the first electrical connector structure as the computer moves in said first direction toward its docked orientation, and substantially prevent rotation of said second electrical connector structure relative to the first electrical connector structure, said floating support means including;

    first and second facing wall structures spaced apart in a first direction,first and second cylindrical members disposed between said first and second facing wall structures, spaced apart in a direction transverse to said first direction, and having first ends slidably engaging said first wall structure,third and fourth cylindrical members respectively and telescopingly engaged with said first and second cylindrical members for axial movement relative thereto,a base member extending between and anchored to said third and fourth cylindrical members for movement therewith, said second electrical connector structure being fixedly secured to said base member for movement therewith, andfirst and second springs biasing said first and second cylindrical members toward engagement with said first wall structure, and biasing said third and fourth cylindrical members toward engagement with said second wall structure.

View all claims
  • 1 Assignment
Timeline View
Assignment View
    ×
    ×