초록 ▼

The present invention is a system that enables a plurality of external peripheral devices to be easily connected to a conventional personal computer, or other computing device. The system can include the computer, or can alternatively be configured as a hub. In either configuration, the system inclu

The present invention is a system that enables a plurality of external peripheral devices to be easily connected to a conventional personal computer, or other computing device. The system can include the computer, or can alternatively be configured as a hub. In either configuration, the system includes an arcuate-shaped interface surface, on a base. One end of the interface surface includes an upright chassis, which includes a plurality of bays. Rails extend longitudinally along the interface surface, toward each bay. An external peripheral device is slid over a rail, which provides attachment and stability to the device and aligns it with the bay. Each bay includes an alignment pin, a power connection, and a data connection. Adjacent to each rail is a latch for securing an external peripheral device in a bay. The top of the chassis includes a marking to provide a visual reference that aids in attaching an external peripheral device to a bay. The rails can provide an electrical ground and/or include an element that provides electro-static discharge protection. In one embodiment, the rails are configured to provide electrical contact for coupling power into a peripheral device, and/or coupling to a data port on an external peripheral device.

대표청구항 ▼

1. Apparatus adapted to support a plurality of external peripheral devices thereon and for connecting the plurality of external peripheral devices to a computing device, said apparatus comprising:(a) a base; and (b) a plurality of bays defined on the base, each bay interfacing with an external perip

1. Apparatus adapted to support a plurality of external peripheral devices thereon and for connecting the plurality of external peripheral devices to a computing device, said apparatus comprising:(a) a base; and (b) a plurality of bays defined on the base, each bay interfacing with an external peripheral device and each bay including: (i) a data connection for directly coupling to a data port on an external peripheral device; (ii) a power connection for supplying electrical power directly to a power port on an external peripheral device; and (iii) a rail providing alignment of an external peripheral device in the bay, said rail being adapted to mechanically engage an external peripheral device so as to attach an external peripheral device to the base.