Docking Station Patent.pdf

The United States Patent US 9,570,872 B2, granted on February 14, 2017, to Jeffrey D. Carnevali, relates to a docking station having a connector preload and isolator system. The invention is designed for portable electronic devices, such as laptops, and aims to provide a secure connection between the expansion connector of the docking station and the input/output (I/O) communication port of the device.

The docking station features a docking tray with a bearing surface that receives the device, a device receiver structure, and a device clamping mechanism. A floating expansion connector is projected from the bearing surface and is resiliently movable in three dimensions. The connector includes an isolator system with a mounting plate, backstops, a printed circuit board (PCB), and in-plane isolators.

The isolator system allows for movement of the expansion connector in three dimensions, providing a secure connection between the docking station and the device, even in environments with shock and vibration. The system also includes biasing members that urge the connector toward the device, ensuring constant engagement with the expansion connector port.

The patent includes 20 claims and 6 drawing sheets, with figures illustrating the docking station and its components, including the expansion connector and isolator system. The invention is classified under various categories, including H01R 43/24, G06F 1/16, and H05K 3/28.

Key aspects of the invention include:

A docking station with a floating expansion connector that is resiliently movable in three dimensions
An isolator system with a mounting plate, backstops, and in-plane isolators
Biasing members that urge the connector toward the device, ensuring constant engagement with the expansion connector port
A secure connection between the docking station and the device, even in environments with shock and vibration.