Patent ID: 6142593
Filing Date: 2000-11-07
Classification: G06F

Abstract:
A docking station for a portable computer, said docking station comprising:a chassis comprising:a structure having a front side bearing a port for interfacing with said portable computer, and bearing a plurality of peripheral ports for interfacing with a peripheral device;a tray attached to said structure, having a top side, and extending from said front side of said structure to support said portable computer while said portable computer is interfaced with said chassis; anda depression in a top side of said tray creating a seating surface;said seating surface comprising:a first groove located in a bottom of said seating surface; anda second groove located in said bottom of said seating surface substantially parallel to said first groove;a plurality of guide means respectively disposed on opposite sides of said tray for guiding said portable computer on said tray at least one of said guide means comprising a guide rail slidably insertable inside said depression in said tray and engageable with said seating surface, said guide rail comprising:a body having a base and a first flange for guiding said portable computer along said tray of said chassis during the interfacing of said portable computer with said chassis;a plug attached to said base for engaging said second groove; anda pair of opposing latches attached to said base for engaging said first groove;a second flange attached to said top side of said chassis as another of said plurality of guide means forming a fixed guide rail operating cooperatively with said guide rail to properly align a portable computer while interfacing said portable computer with said docking station.