Patent Publication Number: US-2019193437-A1

Title: Cradle apparatus and printing device interface

Description:
RELATED APPLICATION 
     This patent arises from a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 15/455,680, filed on Mar. 10, 2017, which is a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 14/623,224, filed on Feb. 16, 2015, which are hereby incorporated herein by reference. 
    
    
     FIELD OF THE INVENTION 
     Embodiments discussed herein are related to mobile printer docking and charging devices (also referred to herein as mobile printer cradles or simply “cradles”) and, more particularly, to systems, methods, apparatuses, and other means for providing mobile printer docking, charging, interfacing, networking and related functionality. 
     BACKGROUND 
     Applicant has discovered various problems associated with printer docks and charging devices. Through applied effort, ingenuity, and innovation, Applicant has solved many of these identified problems by developing a solution that is embodied by the present invention as described in detail below. 
     BRIEF SUMMARY 
     Systems, methods, apparatuses, and computer readable media disclosed herein are related to a cradle, printing device, and/or other external devices. 
     The cradle may comprise a cradle body configured to support a printing device, the cradle body defining an extended battery cavity, first and second printer capture flanges extending from the cradle body and disposed proximate a first side of the extended battery cavity, each of the first and second printer capture flanges defining support portion and a capture portion, first and second biased latches extending from the cradle body and disposed proximate a second side of the extended battery cavity, each of the first and second biased latches defining a printer drive surface and a lock surface, and a communication port extending from the cradle body proximate the second side of the extended battery cavity between the first and second biased latches, wherein the communication port is configured to receive a communication connector of the printing device and thereby facilitate electrical communication between the cradle and the printing device. 
     In some embodiments, the cradle is configured for four-point attachment comprising the first and the second printer capture flanges and the first and the second biased latches. 
     In some embodiments, the first and the second biased latches are configured to define a latch height. 
     In some embodiments, the first and the second biased latches are configured to receive a biasing force between 5 and 10 lbs. 
     In some embodiments, the first and second biased latches are driven rearward in opposition to a biasing force applied to the first and second biased latches. 
     In some embodiments, the printer drive surface and the lock surface define a locking angle. 
     In some embodiments, the first and the second printer capture flanges are configured to define a flange height. 
     In some embodiments, the first and the second printer capture flanges are comprised of metal. 
     In some embodiments, the support portion and the capture portion define a capture angle. 
     In some embodiments, the support portion and the first side portion define a supporting angle. 
     In some embodiments, the first and the second biased latches are configured to move between a locked position and an unlocked position. 
     In some embodiments, the first and second biased latches are spring biased toward the locked position. 
     In some embodiments, the first and second biased latches are driven from a locked position to an unlocked position by a release linkage in response to a user driving a biased release member from a first position to a release position. 
     In some embodiments, the extended battery cavity is configured to receive a secondary battery, and wherein the secondary battery is configured to extend electrical energy provided by a primary battery. 
     A printing device comprising a printer body, a cradle engagement surface configured to interface with a cradle, the cradle engagement surface defining a first recess and a second recess disposed proximate a first side of a battery compartment, and a bumper attachment extending from the printer body and disposed proximate a front side of the printer body, the bumper attachment defining at least two capture cavities structured to slideably receive reciprocally structured first and second printer capture flanges extending from the cradle. 
     In some embodiments, the first recess and the second recess are configured to receive first and second biased latches extending from the cradle, the first recess and the second recess comprising first and second recess walls. 
     In some embodiments, the first and second biased latches are configured to snap into the first recess and the second recess, and wherein a bottom wall of the cradle engagement surface proximate the first recess and the second recess is captured into cavities defined by a lock surface of the first and second biased latches. 
     In some embodiments, the first and second latches comprising a locking angle and a driving angle move to a locked position in response to the first and second recess walls interface with the locking angle and the driving angle. 
     In some embodiments, the plurality of capture cavities comprises at least two capture cavities defined by a left bumper cavity side, right bumper cavity side, top bumper cavity side, and bottom bumper cavity side. 
     In some embodiments, the bumper attachment defines two capture cavities structured to slidably receive first and second printer capture flanges. 
     In some embodiments, the bumper attachment defines two capture cavities positioned to slidably receive first and second printer capture flanges. 
     In some embodiments, the top bumper cavity side and the right bumper cavity side form a first angle. 
     In some embodiments, the right bumper cavity side and the bottom bumper cavity side form a second angle. 
     In some embodiments, the bottom bumper cavity side and the left bumper cavity side form a third angle. 
     In some embodiments, the left bumper cavity side and the top bumper cavity side form a fourth angle. 
     In some embodiments, the bumper attachment is configured to remain securely attached to the printing device in response to a depressed contact on a surface of a biased release member that extends from the cradle. 
     In some embodiments, portions of the cradle engagement surface disposed proximate the first recess and the second recess are configured to drive downwardly into a printer drive surface of the first and second biased latches. 
     A cradle comprising a cradle body configured to support a printing device, the cradle body defining capture end and release end, first and second printer capture flanges extending from the cradle body proximate the capture end of the cradle body, each of the first and second printer capture flanges defining a support portion and a capture portion, first and second biased latches extending from the cradle body between the capture end and release end of the cradle body, each of the first and second biased latches defining printer drive surface and a lock surface, wherein each of the first and second biased latches are movable between a locked position and an unlocked position, a biased release member movable between a first position and a release position, and a release linkage supported by the cradle body, the release linkage coupling the biased release member and the first and second biased latches, wherein the release linkage is structured to drive the first and second biased latches from respective locked positions to respective unlocked positions in response to movement of the biased release member from a first position to a release position. 
     In some embodiments, the biased release member is configured to actuate the release linkage. 
     In some embodiments, the release linkage is configured to transfer and transform rotational pressing movement applied to the biased release member into a linear force, and wherein the linear force is configured to drive the first and second biased latches rearward against a biasing force. 
     In some embodiments, the release linkage comprises a connecting member configured to drive one or more tabs in response to the biased release member being moved into the release position, and a spring configured to drive the first and second biased latches from the locked position to the unlocked position. 
     In some embodiments, the spring is configured to oppose a pressing force applied to the biased release member. 
     In some embodiments, the connecting member is a lever. 
     In some embodiments, the biased release member is configured to actuate a spring-biased release of the printing device from the cradle body. 
     In some embodiments, the first and the second biased latches are actuated in response to a user driving the biased release member from the first position to the release position. 
     In some embodiments, the release member is positioned such that the biased release member may be driven by fingers of single hand of the user. 
     In some embodiments, the biased release member comprises a spring configured to compress or extend at a predetermined rate. 
     In some embodiments, the cradle body further defines an upper neck surface disposed between first and a second shoulder surfaces. 
     In some embodiments, the upper neck surface and the first and second shoulder surfaces define neck supporting angles. 
     In some embodiments, the neck supporting angles are between the range 0 to 100 degrees. 
     In some embodiments, the biased release member extends from the upper neck surface. 
     In some embodiments, the biased release member extends from the cradle body. 
     In some embodiments, the biased release member extends outwardly in response to a depressed contact performed by a user on the surface of the biased release member. 
     In some embodiments, the biased release member comprises a spring configured to oppose a pressing force applied to the biased release member. 
     In some embodiments, the biased release member comprise an angular contact surface structured to accommodate an arc of a hand produced by at least a portion of a hand. 
     In some embodiments, the angular contact surface comprises one or more ridged surfaces. 
     In some embodiments, the biased release member further defines a pivoting member configured to turn or pivot the biased release member from the first position to the release position. 
     In some embodiments, the cradle further comprises one or more device receivers housed in an internal cavity defined by the cradle body, the one or more device receivers configured to communicate with one or more external devices. 
     In some embodiments, the one or more device receivers are further configured to supply electrical energy to the one or more external devices. 
     In some embodiments, the one or more device receivers are configured to define a peripheral strain reliever, and wherein the peripheral strain reliever is at least partially recessed within the cradle body. 
     In some embodiments, the peripheral strain reliever is coupled to the one or more external devices. 
     In some embodiments, the cradle body further comprises a bottom surface defining one or more drains and one or more protrusions configured for mounting on a surface. 
     A method of manufacturing a cradle for supporting a printing device, the method comprising providing a cradle body defining an extended battery cavity, extending first and second printer capture flanges from the cradle body proximate a first side of the extended battery cavity, each of the first and second printer capture flanges defining a support portion and a capture portion, extending first and second biased latches from the cradle body proximate a second side of the extended battery cavity, each of the first and second biased latches defining a printer drive surface and a lock surface, and extending a communication port from the cradle body proximate the second side of the extended battery cavity between the first and second biased latches, wherein the communication port is configured to receive a communication connector of the printing device and thereby facilitate electrical communication between the cradle and the printing device. 
     A method of manufacturing a printing device to interface with a cradle, the method comprising providing a printer body and a cradle engagement surface defining a first recess and a second recess disposed proximate a first side of a battery compartment, and extending a bumper attachment from the printer body and disposing the bumper attachment proximate a front side of the printer body, the bumper attachment defining at least two capture cavities structured to slideably receive reciprocally structured first and second printer capture flanges extending from the cradle. 
     A method of manufacturing a cradle for supporting a printing device, the method comprising providing a cradle body defining capture end and release end, extending first and second printer capture flanges from the cradle body proximate the capture end of the cradle body, each of the first and second printer capture flanges defining a support portion and a capture portion, extending first and second biased latches from the cradle body between the capture end and release end of the cradle body, each of the first and second biased latches defining printer drive surface and a lock surface, wherein each of the first and second biased latches are movable between a locked position and an unlocked position, extending a biased release member movable between a first position and a release position from the cradle body, and coupling, via a release linkage supported by the cradle body, the biased release member and the first and second biased latches, wherein the release linkage is structured to drive the first and second biased latches from respective locked positions to respective unlocked positions in response to movement of the biased release member from a first position to a release position. 
     A computer program product comprising at least one non-transitory computer-readable storage medium having computer-executable program code portions stored therein, the computer-executable program code portions comprising program code instructions for configuring a cradle comprising a cradle body to support a printing device, the cradle body defining an extended battery cavity, extending first and second printer capture flanges from the cradle body and disposing the first and second printer capture flanges proximate a first side of the extended battery cavity, each of the first and second printer capture flanges defining a support portion and a capture portion, extending first and second biased latches from the cradle body and disposing the first and second biased latches proximate a second side of the extended battery cavity, each of the first and second biased latches defining a printer drive surface and a lock surface, and extending a communication port from the cradle body proximate the second side of the extended battery cavity between the first and second biased latches, wherein the communication port is configured to receive a communication connector of the printing device and thereby facilitate electrical communication between the cradle and the printing device. 
     A computer program product comprising at least one non-transitory computer-readable storage medium having computer-executable program code portions stored therein, the computer-executable program code portions comprising program code instructions for configuring a printing device comprising a printer body and a cradle engagement surface to interface with a cradle, the cradle engagement surface defining a first recess and a second recess disposed proximate a first side of a battery compartment, and extending a bumper attachment from the printer body and disposing the bumper attachment proximate a front side of the printer body, the bumper attachment defining at least two capture cavities structured to slideably receive reciprocally structured first and second printer capture flanges extending from the cradle. 
     A computer program product comprising at least one non-transitory computer-readable storage medium having computer-executable program code portions stored therein, the computer-executable program code portions comprising program code instructions for configuring a cradle comprising a cradle body to support a printing device, the cradle body defining capture end and release end, extending first and second printer capture flanges from the cradle body proximate the capture end of the cradle body, each of the first and second printer capture flanges defining a support portion and a capture portion, extending first and second biased latches from the cradle body between the capture end and release end of the cradle body, each of the first and second biased latches defining printer drive surface and a lock surface, wherein each of the first and second biased latches are movable between a locked position and an unlocked position, extending a biased release member movable between a first position and a release position from the cradle body, and coupling, via a release linkage supported by the cradle body, the biased release member and the first and second biased latches, wherein the release linkage is structured to drive the first and second biased latches from respective locked positions to respective unlocked positions in response to movement of the biased release member from a first position to a release position. 
     Additional features and advantages of the present invention will be set forth in portion in the description which follows, and in portion will be obvious from the description, or may be learned by practice of the invention. The features and advantages of the invention will be realized and attained by means of the elements and combinations particularly pointed out in the appended claims. 
     It is to be understood that both the foregoing general description and the following detailed description are exemplary and explanatory only and are not restrictive of the invention as claimed. 
    
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE SEVERAL VIEWS OF THE DRAWING(S) 
       Having thus described the invention in general terms, reference will now be made to the accompanying drawings, which are not necessarily drawn to scale, and wherein: 
         FIG. 1A  illustrates a top perspective view of an exemplary cradle structured in accordance with certain embodiments; 
         FIG. 1B  illustrates a perspective view of an exemplary cradle structured in accordance with certain embodiments; 
         FIG. 2A  illustrates a detail side view of a latch structured in accordance with one embodiment, taken along detail circle  2 A of  FIG. 1A ; 
         FIG. 2B  illustrates a detail side view of a flange structured in accordance with one embodiment, taken along detail circle  2 B of  FIG. 1A ; 
         FIG. 2C  illustrates a bottom perspective view of a cradle structured in accordance with various embodiments; 
         FIG. 3A  illustrates a front perspective view of an exemplary printing device structured in accordance with various embodiments; 
         FIG. 3B  illustrates a detail view of a bumper attachment for the printing device of  FIG. 3A ; 
         FIG. 3C  illustrates a bottom view of an exemplary printing device structured in accordance with various embodiments; 
         FIG. 3D  illustrates a bottom view of an exemplary printing device structured in accordance with various embodiments; 
         FIG. 3E  illustrates a side view of an exemplary printing device structured in accordance with various embodiments; 
         FIG. 4  illustrates a side perspective view of an exemplary cradle and printing device structured in accordance with various embodiments; 
         FIG. 5A  illustrates a top detail view of a cradle structured in accordance with various embodiments; 
         FIG. 5B  illustrates a side cutaway view of an exemplary cradle structured in accordance with certain embodiments; 
         FIG. 5C  illustrates a top perspective cutaway view of an exemplary cradle structured in accordance with certain embodiments; 
         FIG. 5D  illustrates a detail view of an exemplary cradle in accordance with various embodiments; 
         FIG. 6A  illustrates a side perspective view of a user disengaging a printing device from a cradle in accordance with various embodiments; 
         FIG. 6B  illustrates an exemplary side view of a user disengaging a printing device from a cradle in accordance with various embodiments; 
         FIG. 7A  illustrates a side perspective view of an exemplary cradle in accordance with various embodiments; and 
         FIG. 7B  illustrates a side perspective view of an exemplary cradle in accordance with various embodiments. 
     
    
    
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION 
     Various embodiments of the present invention now will be described more fully hereinafter with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which some, but not all embodiments of the inventions are shown. It should be appreciated that the size and thickness of components shown in the accompanying drawings may differ from the physical size and physical thickness of the components and that the thickness of some portions are drawn on an enlarged scale for better comprehension and ease of description. Indeed, these inventions may be embodied in many different forms and should not be construed as limited to the embodiments set forth herein. Rather, these embodiments are provided so that this disclosure will satisfy applicable legal requirements. Like numbers refer to like elements throughout. 
     Overview 
     Various embodiments of the present invention are directed to an improved docking, charging, and networking device for a mobile printer. This improved device or cradle is structured to provide secure four point attachment of the corresponding mobile printer. The cradle is further structured to define adequate clearance for a mobile printer that is configured to accept an extended battery pack. Additionally, the cradle is configured to provide for a simplified single hand release of the mobile printer. 
     The cradle is configured to charge the mobile printer and otherwise dispose the printer in electronic communication with various network servers and accessory devices. In some embodiments, the cradle is advantageously configured such that various wired connections, e.g., power cord, USB accessory device, USB slave device, Ethernet cord, etc., may be plugged into the cradle and further configured to pass electrical communications originating with such connections through to a docked mobile printer. This allows the cradle, rather than the printer, to provide the base for such wired connections leaving the printer free to be quickly docked and un-docked without the need to repeatedly plug and unplug such wired connections. 
     Embodiments of the present invention are illustrated in the appended figures and description below. As will be apparent to one of ordinary skill in the art in view of this disclosure, the inventive concepts herein described may be applied to various applications. 
     Example Cradle Apparatus 
     A “cradle,” as used herein, refers to an apparatus that can receive and electrically couple with a printing device (e.g., a mobile printer), function as a source of power to charge the printing device&#39;s batteries, and facilitate data and electrical communications between the printing device and an external device (e.g., network server, accessory devices, etc.). Cradles, such as cradle  100  illustrated in  FIGS. 1A and 1B, 2A-2C, 4, 5A-5D, 6A-6B, and 7A-7B  may be configured to support a printing device, such as printing device  300  described in connection with  FIGS. 3A, 3C  below. 
       FIGS. 1A and 1B and 2A-2C  show various views of cradle  100 . Cradle  100  may include cradle body  110  that defines capture end  180  and release end  185 . As depicted, cradle body  110  is comprised of a plastic material. In preferred embodiments, cradle body  110  is comprised of a plastic (e.g., polycarbonate plastic). In some embodiments, cradle body  110  may be made from any suitable material and/or combinations of materials. For example, cradle body  110  may be made from plastic(s), rubber, metal, composite material, any other type of material, or combination thereof. In particular, cradle body  110  may be made from acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS), die cast zinc alloy, or other suitable resins. In further embodiments, a thermoplastic elastomer configured to resist at least one of oil, abrasion, or drops, in some example embodiments, may overlay cradle body  110 . 
     As depicted, cradle body  110  is structured to be durable enough to protect the internal components from a drop, while still allowing signals, for example, wireless signals, such as those used to wirelessly communicate with a docked mobile printer to radiate through at least some locations of cradle body  110 . 
     The depicted cradle body  110  is configured to define extended battery cavity  160 . Extended battery cavity  160  may include first side  162  (illustrated by dashed line  162 ), second side  164  (illustrated by dashed line  164 ), and recess surface  165  as illustrated in  FIG. 1A . In some embodiments, extended battery cavity  160  is sized to provide adequate clearance for receiving at least part of extended battery when a mobile printer equipped with an extended battery is docked into cradle  100 . In some embodiments, recess surface  165  is recessed at least 16.5 mm from mount surface  105  to ensure adequate clearance for extended battery equipped mobile printers. In particular, the proximate dimensions of extended battery cavity  160  measure 47.8 mm in length  167 , 72.5 mm in width  166 , and 16.5 mm in height  168  to adequately receive extended battery equipped printing devices. In other embodiments, the proximate dimensions of extended battery cavity  160  may be between 45-50 mm in length  167 , between 70-74 mm in width  166 , and between 16-17 mm in height  168 . 
     The depicted cradle  100  further defines a four point printer attachment structure. In the depicted embodiment, such attachment structure includes first and second printer capture flanges  170 A and  170 B shown in  FIGS. 1A and 1B, 2A, and 4  that are structured to engage reciprocally defined cavities of printing device  300  (shown in  FIG. 3A ). In the depicted embodiment, first and second printer capture flanges  170 A and  170 B extend from mount surface  105  of cradle body  110 . As used herein, a “flange” may refer to a projecting rim or edge for fastening, stiffening and/or positioning. 
     As used herein, the term “extending” may refer to one or more elements or components which have been molded, attached, coupled, welded, affixed, protruded, lengthened, or otherwise affixed to another component. For example, the first and second printer capture flanges are structured to extend (e.g., molded into, welded to, etc.) from the cradle body. The term extending also refers to a process or method step for affixing, coupling, molding, attaching, welding, protruding, or lengthening one component to another. 
     The depicted first and second printer capture flanges  170 A and  170 B are disposed proximate a first side  162  of extended battery cavity  160 . The first and second printer capture flanges  170 A and  170 B are further configured to extend from cradle body  110  proximate capture end  180 . Other features and aspects of the depicted printer capture flanges  170 A and  170 B are discussed in connection with  FIG. 2B  described herein below. 
     In one embodiment, the four point printer attachment structure also includes first and second biased latches  140 A and  140 B that are configured to engage and secure reciprocally defined cavities in printer device  300  (as shown in  FIGS. 3C and 3E  at  382 A-B). 
     As shown in  FIG. 1A , the depicted first and second biased latches  140 A and  140 B are configured to extend from cradle body  110  and/or be disposed proximate a second side  164  of extended battery cavity  160 . In other embodiments, first and second biased latches  140 A and  140 B may be configured to extend from cradle body  110  between capture end  180  and release end  185 . As such, in some preferred embodiments, cradle  100  is configured for four-point attachment that includes first and second printer capture flanges  170 A and  170 B and first and the second biased latches  140 A and  140 B. For example, the printing device (e.g., printing device  300 ) is securely attached to cradle  100  upon the mating of first and the second printer capture flanges  170 A and  170 B and first and second biased latches  140 A and  140 B with the reciprocally defined cavities of printing device  300  as described herein with respect to  FIG. 4 . Further example embodiments including biased latches are discussed in connection with  FIG. 2B  described herein below. 
     Cradle  100  also includes communication port  130  configured to receive communication connector  388  (e.g., as illustrated in  FIG. 3C ) of a printing device and thereby facilitate electrical communication between the cradle and the printing device. Communication port  130  is disposed within communication flange  131  which is structured define a tapered perimeter wall as shown. The communication flange  131  combines with the first and second printer capture flanges  170 A and  170 B and the first and second biased latches  140 A and  140 B to precisely locate the printing device relative to the cradle  100  as the printing device is docked onto the cradle  100 . In some embodiments, communication flange  131  provides rearward support to a docked printing device in that it limits the printing device from sliding towards release end  185  of the cradle  100 . 
     In some embodiments, communication port  130  is configured to enable data, power, ground and other types of signals to be provided to, for example, a printer&#39;s electrical interface components. Data imported may include printing commands, status requests, e-mail, printer settings, executable computer code, definitions for formatting data, fonts, graphics, passwords, or maintenance data. The data may be provided from a data storage medium, such as a computer, web site, portable data terminal, mobile phone, bar code reader, RFID reader, weigh scale, truck radio, or even another printer. Communication could be via a Universal Serial Bus (USB) as described herein below with reference to  FIGS. 7A and 7B , Ethernet stack, wireless radio, or the like. Data may also be exported from communication port  130  to help with product information storing and shipment tracking. Data exported may include the response to status requests, e-mail, network messages, printer status or settings, stored customer data, passwords, maintenance data, printer alert conditions, information read from RFID tags on the ribbon or supplies, battery status, external battery conditions, or information derived from sensors within the printer such as power conditions, supply measurements, temperature, or print head conditions. 
     The depicted communication port  130  includes 12 individual communication contacts. The individual communication contacts of communication port  130  are arranged as shown in  FIG. 1A . In some example embodiments, communication port  130  may include 10 to 19 individual communication contacts or pins. It should be appreciated that each of the individual communication contacts may be electrically isolated from the others. In further embodiments, first and second biased latches  140 A and  140 B and/or first and second printer capture flanges  170 A and  170 B comprise male connector components configured to guide and removably lock a printing device (such as, e.g., printer device  300 ) into a docked position, such that the printing device&#39;s electrical interface (such as, e.g., the printing device&#39;s communication connector  388 ) makes sufficient contact with communication port  130 . 
     Cradle  100  may also be configured to connect to one or more power sources (e.g., analog to digital converter, mains power, battery, etc.). Furthermore, cradle  100  may also be configured to connect to one or more wired networks (e.g., the Internet, intranet, etc.) and/or any other devices via one or more additional cables and/or components. Various embodiments of cradle  100  may also utilize wired and/or wireless communications techniques and/or protocols for communications with, and control of, cradle  100  via communication port  130  as described herein. These communications techniques and/or protocols may allow for tethered and/or untethered operation of cradle  100 . 
     In some embodiments, cradle  100  may include a communications interface that may be controlled by various means, including one or more processors. The one or more processors may be software and/or hardware configured and may control various communications hardware that may be used to implement communications with a remote device (e.g., an external device). The processor(s) may be configured to communicate using various wired and wireless communications techniques and/or protocols including serial and parallel communications and printing protocols, USB techniques, transmission control protocol/internet protocol (TCP/IP), radio frequency (RF), infrared (IrDA), or any of a number of different wireless networking techniques, including WLAN techniques such as, IEEE 802.11 (e.g., 802.11a, 802.11b, 802.11g, 802.11n, etc.), world interoperability for microwave access (WiMAX) techniques such as IEEE 802.16, and/or wireless Personal Area Network (WPAN) techniques such as IEEE 802.15, Bluetooth (BT), ultra wideband (UWB), Near field communication (NFC), inductive electrical power transfer such as Qi, and/or the like. The cradle  100  may implement these and other communications techniques and/or protocols directly with an external device in a point-to-point manner, or indirectly through an intermediate device such as an access point or other network entity. Various external devices that may be used to communicate with and/or control the operation of cradle  100  may include computers, mobile computers, cameras, scales, global positioning system (GPS) devices, radios, mobile terminals, media players, or the like. 
     In the depicted embodiment, communication port  130  extends from cradle body  110  proximate second side  164  of the extended battery cavity  160 . For example, communication port  130  may be disposed between first and second biased latches  140 A and  140 B as illustrated in  FIG. 1A . In some embodiments, communication port  130  may be located under a data port cover and may allow for data to be input to communicate with the printing device (e.g., printing device  300 ) during typical operation to help facilitate tasks like storing information or printing certain labels. 
       FIG. 2A  illustrates a detail view of first and second biased latches  140 A and  140 B. Each of first and second biased latches are moveable from a locked position (shown in  FIG. 2A ) to an unlocked position (not shown) against a biasing force BF. In preferred embodiments, 7.5 lbs. is the biasing force BF required to ensure adequate mounting and attachment of the printer to the cradle. In other embodiments, the biasing force may be between 5 and 10 lbs. 
     In the depicted embodiment, first and second biased latches  140 A and  140 B are configured to measure 9.5 mm (millimeters), a latch height h1. The latch height h1 may range between 5 mm to 15 mm. In the depicted embodiment, first biased latch  140 A is disposed at a latch center distance  189  (shown in  FIG. 1A ) with respect to second biased latch  140 B. For example, first biased latch  140 A is disposed at a latch center distance of 86 mm center to center with respect to second biased latch  140 B. 
     As illustrated in  FIG. 2A , each of first and second biased latches  140 A and  140 B define printer drive surface  210  and lock surface  220 . Printer drive surface  210  may be configured for engagement by the underbody surface of printer  300  (immediately proximate first recess  382 A and second recess  382 B) such that downward movement of the printer  300  (shown in  FIG. 4 ) drives the first and second biased latches  140 A and  140 B along arrow M against their respective biasing forces BF from the locked position (shown in  FIG. 2A ) toward an unlocked position. 
     In some embodiments, lock surface  220  and printer drive surface  210  define locking angle  230 . In a preferred example embodiment, lock surface  220  and printer drive surface  210  define a 90 degree locking angle  230  that is configured to provide strength, clearance, and security for holding the printing device in place. In some embodiments, locking angle  230  may be an angle measured in the range between 60 and 95 degrees. First and second biased latches  140 A and  140 B are configured to move from an unlocked position to a locked position when they snap into engagement with components of the printing device as described below with reference to  FIGS. 3A and 4 . 
     In the depicted embodiment, first and second biased latches  140 A and  140 B are configured to click-back in response to mating of locking angle  230  and lock surface  220  with female connecting components (e.g., first recess  382 A and second recess  382 B defined by cradle engagement surface  330  of printing device  300 ). In further embodiments, first and second biased latches  140 A and  140 B are configured to provide a spring-biased attachment of a cradle body to a printing device. However, in other embodiments, first and second biased latches  140 A and  140 B may be configured to provide a spring-biased, damper-biased, or similar attachment of a cradle body to a printing device. In the depicted embodiment, the spring is retracted and/or expanded in response to a force (e.g., biased force BF and/or moving force applied by the downward moving printer along arrow M) being applied to the spring. The force applied to the spring locks first and second biased latches  140 A and  140 B, and thereby, securely attaches printer device  300  to cradle  100 . In preferred embodiments, the spring takes the form of a compression spring comprising spring steel. Alternatively, the spring may take the form of a tension spring, extension spring, compression spring, torsion spring, constant spring, variable spring, machined spring, flat spring, coil spring, belleville spring, main spring, spring washer, and/or the like. 
     Returning to  FIG. 1A , cradle  100  also includes compression dampers  102 A and  102 B that are configured to balance force and vibration that may result as cradle  100  and printing device  300  are engaged (e.g., the printing device is attached to the cradle) and/or disengaged (e.g., the printing device is released from the cradle). In the depicted embodiment, compression dampers  102 A and  102 B are rubber bumpers. Alternatively, compression dampers  102 A and  102 B may take the form of a pad or one or more springs. In a locked position (as referenced in  FIG. 4 ), compression dampers  102 A and  102 B aid in keeping the printing device securely attached to cradle  100 . In such embodiments, compression dampers  102 A and  102 B absorb gaps and vibrations as first and second biased latches  140 A and  140 B mate with female connecting components (e.g., first recess  382 A and second recess  382 B) defined by the cradle engagement surface  330  of the printing device. When biased release member  120  is depressed (as illustrated with reference to  FIGS. 6A and 6B ), compression dampers  102 A and  102 B move from a damper rest position to an active damper position (e.g., compression dampers  102 A and  102 B extend or pop-up), thereby, creating a gap that assists in disengaging (e.g., lifting) printing device  300  from cradle  100 . Although two compression dampers  102 A and  102 B are depicted, it should be appreciated that a single or three or more compression dampers may be utilized in some embodiments. 
       FIG. 2B  illustrates an example view of first and second printer capture flanges  170 A and  170 B that define support portion  250  and capture portion  260 . As illustrated, capture portion  260  extends from support portion  250 . Support portion  250  and capture portion  260  define capture angle  270 . In depicted example embodiment, support portion  250  and capture portion  260  define a 90 degree capture angle. In some embodiments, capture angle  270  may be an angle configured to measure between 0 and 180 degrees. Further, support portion  250  and first side portion  275  define supporting angle  280 . To that end, first and second printer capture flanges  170 A and  170 B are configured to be received into capture cavities  340  defined by bumper attachment  320 A and  320 B of, for example, printing device  300  as the printing device  300  is docketed into the cradle  100  as shown in  FIG. 4 . 
     Returning to  FIG. 2B , first and the second printer capture flanges  170 A and  170 B are configured to measure a flange height h3 measuring 6.5 mm. The flange height h3 may range from a minimum of 1 mm to a maximum of 30 mm. In the depicted embodiment, first printer capture flange  170 A is disposed at a flange locating distance  187  with respect to second printer capture flange  170 B. For example, first printer capture flange  170 A is disposed at a flange locating distance of 47.5 mm from inner edge to inner edge with respect to second printer capture flange  170 B. 
     In the depicted embodiment, first and second printer capture flanges  170 A and  170 B are comprised of a plastic (e.g., polycarbonate plastic). In other embodiments, first and second printer capture flanges  170 A and  170 B may be made from plastic(s), rubber, metal, composite material, any other type of material, or combination thereof. Alternatively, or additionally, first and second printer capture flanges  170 A and  170 B may be made of the same material as cradle body  110 , a material other than the material of cradle body  110 , or a combination thereof. First and second printer capture flanges  170 A and  170 B may be strong enough to resist fracture in response to the attachment and detachment of printing device  300 , for example, from cradle  100 . 
       FIG. 2C  illustrates an example bottom perspective view of cradle  100 . Cradle  100  includes bottom surface  280 . Bottom surface  280  includes electrical connections  292  (e.g., pad connectors, etc.) that are configured to interface with one or more charging devices. In the depicted embodiment, cradle  100  also includes mount interface  293  defined by bottom surface  280 . In various embodiments, cradle  100  may be coupled to one or more mounts, such as a standard RAM (Round-A-Mount) mount or other like mounts, configured to connect to mount interface  293  or a D-shaped lock mount adapted to connect to D-shaped lock interface  295  which in turn connects to threaded mount receivers  296 . 
     In one embodiment, cradle  100  may receive electrical current when charging the printing device. Cradle  100  may receive electrical power through direct current (DC) member  294  (illustrated in  FIG. 1B ). Still in other embodiments, cradle  100  may interface (e.g., be connected to and operate in parallel with) with external devices, for example, a barcode scanner, power source, accessory device, network device, and/or other apparatus. Advantageously, such connections may facilitate the convenience of utilizing the capabilities of such external devices in parallel without having to unplug each cable associated with the aforementioned external devices when the printing device is docked or undocked to the cradle. 
     In further embodiments, cradle  100  is configured to meet IEC 60529, an international protection (IP) code. The IP code rates the degree of protection cradle  100  provides against intrusion (e.g., intrusion from body parts such as hands and fingers), dust, accidental contact, and water by mechanical casings (e.g., cradle body  110 ) and electrical enclosures. In the depicted embodiment, cradle  100  is configured to meet the IP43 standard. To that end, bottom surface  280  defines one or more drains  286  configured to protect internal components of cradle  100  from intrusion by water and foreign bodies. 
     Additionally, bottom surface  280  comprises one or more pads or protrusions  288  (e.g., feet) configured for mounting cradle  100  on a support surface such as, for example, a table, desk, dashboard, wall, or any other like surface comprising a flat top and/or configured to provide a level surface on which one or more objects may be placed. The one or more protrusions  288  may be made of plastic(s), rubber, metal, composite material, any other type of material, or combination thereof. 
     Example Printing Device 
     Printing devices may be configured to perform a variety of operations, such as printing labels, receipts, barcodes, cards, media, and other materials, connecting to a network via wired or wireless technologies, reading, writing, and/or processing barcode or radio frequency transponders or tags. Each of these example activities negatively impact (i.e., drains) the battery power of the printing device. To that end, printing devices periodically need to be charged and/or stored. Printing devices, such as printing device  300  illustrated in  FIGS. 3A-3E, 4, and 7 , are configured to dock with a cradle (e.g., cradle  100 ) for storage (e.g., storage of the printing device), wired or wireless communication (e.g., charging the battery of the printing device, providing network communications, etc.), and/or other like uses. 
       FIGS. 3A-3C, 4, and 7  illustrate various views of printing device  300 . With reference to  FIG. 3A , printing device  300  may include printer body  305 . In preferred embodiments, printer body  305  comprises an injection molded thermoplastic and/or a polycarbonate plastic (e.g., LEXAN EXL). In other embodiments, printer body  305  may be made from any suitable material and/or combinations of materials. For example, printer body  305  may be made from plastic, rubber, metal, composite material, any other type of material, or combination thereof. In the depicted embodiment, printer body  305  is strong enough to protect the internal components from a fall, detachment or ejectment, while still allowing wireless signals, such as those used to communicate with other devices to radiate through in at least some locations. In some embodiments, printer body  305  may include integrated components (e.g., display screens, navigation button arrangements, etc.) that may be suited to be formed from one or more materials other than materials forming portions of the printer body. 
     The depicted printing device  300  is configured to receive either of alternative bumper attachments  320 A and  320 B. As will be apparent to one of ordinary skill in the art, bumper attachment  320 A is configured with a magnetic card reader. Alternatively, bumper attachment  320 B is not configured with a magnetic card reader. Bumper attachments  320 A and  320 B are each configured to extend from printer body  305 . In the depicted embodiment, bumper attachments  320 A and  320 B are disposed proximate a front side  310  of printing device  300 . Bumper attachment  320 A is formed from an alloy comprising zinc and alloying elements including aluminum, magnesium, and copper (e.g., zamak). Bumper attachment  320 B is formed from a polycarbonate plastic. Alternatively in other embodiments, bumper attachments  320 A and  320 B may be formed from the same material(s) as that of printer body  305  or bumper attachment  320 A and  320 B may be formed from one or more different materials other than the material(s) forming printer body  305 . 
     As illustrated, bumper attachment  320 A is configured to electronically connect its magnetic card reader to printing device  300  via attachment communication interface  327 . Here, attachment communication interface  327  comprises a pogo pin connector configured to utilize serial communication. Attachment communication interface  327  provides electrical connections to accommodate features such as the above referenced magnetic card reader, a smart card reader, a scanner, fiscal management device(s), and/or other like features. In some embodiments, the pogo pin connector may be configured to connect to one or more printed circuit boards (PCBs). In some example embodiments, the PCB may electrically connect electronic components using conductive tracks, pads, and other features. Such features may be formed from metal sheets, preferably copper sheets, bonded with a non-conductive substrate. In further embodiments, PCB may include a plurality of layers (e.g., one copper layer, two copper layers, etc.), capacitors, resistors or active devices, embedded in the substrate. 
     When attaching (e.g., securing) bumper attachment  320 A and  320 B to printing device  300 , one or more fasteners  325  are utilized as depicted in  FIG. 3A . Here, one or more fasteners  325  take the form of one or more screws. One or more fasteners  325  may take the form of one or more screws, nails, pins, threaded inserts, flanges (e.g., male and female components configured to mate by snapping together) and/or any other type of mechanical fasteners. For example, screws  325  attach bumper attachments  320 A and  320 B to printing device  300 . To that end, bumper attachments  320 A and  320 B are configured to remain securely attached to printing device  300  in response to attachment of printing device  300  to cradle  100 . For example, printing device  300  is attached to cradle  100  as described herein with reference to  FIG. 4 . Additionally, bumper attachments  320 A and  320 B are configured to remain securely attached to printing device  300  in response to detachment of printing device  300  from cradle  100 . For example, printing device  300  is released from cradle  100  as described herein with reference to  FIGS. 6A and 6B . 
     In some embodiments, bumper attachments  320 A and  320 B define a plurality of capture cavities  340 A and  340 B configured to interface with cradle  100  as described herein below with reference to  FIGS. 3B and 4 . 
     Printing device  300  also includes cradle engagement surface  330  as illustrated in  FIG. 3C  (i.e., an example bottom view of printing device  300 ) configured to interface with a cradle (e.g., cradle  100 ). Cradle engagement surface  330  is configured to define female interface components, such as first recess  382 A and second recess  382 B. First recess  382 A and second recess  382 B are disposed proximate connector side  386  (shown by dashed line  386 ) of battery receptacle  384 . 
     In example embodiments, first recess  382 A and second recess  382 B are configured to receive male components, such as first and second biased latches  140 A and  140 B. Turning to  FIG. 3E , first recess  382 A and second recess  382 B include first and second recess walls  390 ,  391  that are configured to interface with locking angle  230  and lock surface  220  of first and second biased latches  140 A and  140 B. Said differently, in the depicted embodiment, the barb type head (i.e., the drive surface  210  and lock surface  220 ) defined by the first and second biased latches  140 A and  140 B is configured to snap into the first and second recesses  382 A,  382 B such that the bottom wall of the cradle engagement surface  330  proximate the recesses (e.g., the shelf defined by first and second recess walls  390 ,  391 ) is captured into the cavities defined by the respective lock surfaces of the first and second biased latches  140 A and  140 B. In the depicted embodiment, recess wall  391  defines a height A7 of 1.75 mm. The depicted recess wall  390  defines a length A6 of 3.502 mm. In other embodiments, A7 may range between 1 and 2 mm while A6 may range between 3 and 4 mm. 
       FIG. 3B  illustrates a detail view of bumper attachments  320 A and  320 B. The depicted bumper attachment  320 A and  320 B defines two capture cavities  340 A and  340 B that are structured and positioned to slidably receive capture flanges  170 A,  170 B of the cradle  100 . The two capture cavities  340 A and  340 B are defined by respective left bumper cavity side  380 , right bumper cavity side  360 , top bumper cavity side  350 , and bottom bumper cavity side  370 . Top bumper cavity side  350  and right bumper cavity side  360  are configured to define first angle  342 . Right bumper cavity side  360  and bottom bumper cavity side  370  are configured to define second angle  352 . Bottom bumper cavity side  370  and left bumper cavity side  380  are configured to define third angle  362 . Left bumper cavity side  380  and top bumper cavity side  350  are configured to define fourth angle  372 . As depicted in  FIG. 3B , first angle  342 , second angle  352 , third angle  362 , and fourth angle  372  each measure approximately 90 degrees and are structured to slideably receive capture flanges  170 A,  170 B. While depicted as defining a generally rectangular shape, one or ordinary skill in the art may readily appreciate that capture cavities  340 A and  340 B may define a variety of other shapes (e.g., square, hexagonal, round, semi-circular, triangular, etc.) so long as capture flanges  170 A,  170 B are reciprocally structured to promote slideable engagement between the capture flanges and the capture cavities. 
     Example Cradle-Printer Interface 
       FIG. 4  illustrates an example view of a cradle (e.g., cradle  100 ) interfacing with a printing device (e.g., printing device  300 ). As printing device storage needs and/or communication needs (e.g., printing device  300  is low on power) arise a user may attach or dock the printing device into the cradle. 
     When a user wants to attach printing device  300 , for example, to cradle  100 , the user tilts front side  310  of printing device  300  into capture end  450  of cradle  100 . It should be appreciated that the cradle (e.g., cradle  100 ) is configured to receive a printer  300  simply and efficiently with a user driving the printer  300  into a docked position using a single hand. As front side  310  of printer  300  is tilted to interface with cradle  100 , first and second printer capture flanges  170 A and  170 B are configured to move into and be slidably received by correspondingly positioned capture cavities  340 A and  340 B (shown in  FIGS. 3A-3B ) of bumper attachment  320 A and  320 B. 
     Once the capture flanges  170 A and  170 B are sufficiently seated into the capture cavities  340 A and  340 B, the user drives the cradle engagement surface  330  of the printer  300  downwardly toward the cradle  100 . Portions of the cradle engagement surface  330  disposed proximate the first recess  382 A and second recess  382 B (i.e., the forward edges of the recesses) are thereby driven downwardly into printer drive surfaces  210  of the first and second biased latches  140 A and  140 B. The first and second biased latches  140 A and  140 B are thus driven rearward, along arrow M against the bias force BF shown in  FIG. 2A , until the barbed ends of the first and second biased latches  140 A and  140 B fully seat into corresponding first and second recesses  382 A,  382 B defined by cradle engagement surface  330 . 
     In the depicted embodiment, first and second biased latches  140 A and  140 B are configured to click-back (i.e., move slightly forward along bias force direction BF) when fully seated such that lock surface  220  receives the respective recess walls  390 ,  391  (as illustrated in  FIG. 3E ) of the first recess  382 A and the second recess  382 B. 
     As shown in  FIG. 3D , first recess  382 A is disposed at a recess center distance A4 of approximately 86 mm center to center with respect to second recess  382 B. This recess center distance is structured to correspond generally with the center to center distance between the first and second biased latches  140 A and  140 B of cradle  100  that also measures proximately 86 mm center to center. Additional measurements structured to ensure proper alignment also include the latch recess leading edge distance A3 (as depicted in  FIGS. 3D and 3E ) from a leading edge of the printing device to a leading edge (i.e., where recess wall  391  meets the cradle engagement surface of the printing device) of the first and second recesses  382 A and  382 B, the connector distance A2 from the leading edge of the printing device to a rear edge  394  of communication connector  388 , and the capture cavity inner edge distance A5 as between the inner surfaces of capture cavities  340 A and  340 B. As depicted, A2 measures 78.701 mm, A3 measures 62.940 mm, and A5 measures 47.552 mm. 
     As will be appreciated by one of ordinary skill in the art, the printer is thus fully docked onto the cradle by means of a four-point attachment mechanism whereby the capture flanges  170 A and  170 B are sufficiently seated into the capture cavities  340 A and  340 B and the barbed ends of the first and second biased latches  140 A and  140 B are securely seated into the first recess  382 A and the second recess  382 B of the printer  300 . 
     Example Biased Release Assembly 
     Cradles, such as cradle  100  illustrated in  FIGS. 1A and 1B, 2A-2C, 4, and 5A-5B , may be further configured to disengage (e.g., release) a printing device, such as printing device  300 . 
     With reference to  FIG. 5A , cradle  100  also includes biased release member  120  configured to move between a first position and a release position. In the first position (e.g., at the position measuring α, here depicted in  FIG. 5D  as 110 degrees), biased release member  120  is positioned so as to not engage the first and second biased latches  140 A and  140 B to move rearward against bias force BF and is generally positioned as shown in  FIG. 4, 5A, 5B , or  5 D. Said differently, the first position is the position of biased release member  120  prior to being actuated (e.g., depressed) by a user as shown in  FIGS. 6A, 6B . 
     Cradle body  110  further defines upper neck surface  510  disposed between first and second shoulder surfaces  520 . Upper neck surface  510  measures a height h4 of 26.554 mm and a length L2 of 44.700 mm as depicted. As depicted, upper neck surface  510  and first and second shoulder surfaces  520  define neck supporting angles  530 A and  530 B. In the preferred embodiment depicted, neck supporting angles  530 A and  530 B measure 90 degrees. In some embodiments, neck supporting angles  530 A and  530 B may be configured to measure between 0 to 180 degrees. 
     Although biased release member  120  is configured to extend from upper neck surface  510 , in some embodiments, biased release member  120  may extend from cradle body  110  without the surrounding upper neck surface  510 . Alternatively, or additionally, biased release member  120  may extend outwardly in response to a depressed contact (e.g., the user presses biased release member) performed by a user on the surface of biased release member  120  as described herein with reference to  FIGS. 6A and 6B . 
     In some embodiments, biased release member  120  may include a spring configured to oppose, to some degree, a pressing force applied to the biased release member  120  by a user. In preferred embodiments, 3 lbs. (e.g., at the bottom produced by one finger) is the pressing force PF applied to biased release member  120 . 
       FIG. 5B  illustrates a side cutaway view of cradle  100  that includes biased release member  120 . Biased release member  120  is structured for engagement by one or more fingers and is thereby configured to include surfaces that are easily gripped. In the depicted embodiment, biased release member  120  is configured to be depressed by a user as shown in  FIGS. 6A, 6B . For example, as a single hand holds and/or grips a printing device (e.g., printing device  300 ), various portions of the hand (e.g., distal phalanges, intermediate phalanges, proximal phalanges, metacarpals, or carpals) may depress (e.g., push, pull, and/or touch) biased release member  120 . The force applied to biased release member  120  thereby actuates release linkage  565  as described herein below. 
     In the depicted embodiment, biased release member  120  includes angular contact surface  540 . Angular contact surface  540  is structured to accommodate the arc of a hand or the arc produced by at least a portion of a hand as one or more fingers, for example, grip a printing device (e.g., printing device  300 ). 
     In further embodiments, angular contact surface  540  includes one or more ridged surfaces  545 . Ridged surfaces  545  are ribs within or surrounding at least a portion of the angular contact surface  450  that are intended for engagement by a user&#39;s finger. Such ridged surfaces  545  are configured to ease wear and improve grip of biased release member  120  and/or cradle  100 . For example, ridged surfaces  545  are configured to provide friction as between a hand, or portions thereof, and biased release member  120 . Although four consecutive ridged surfaces  545  are illustrated in  FIG. 5B , biased release member  120  may include a singular ridged surface or a plurality of ridged surfaces. 
     Biased release member  120  further defines pivoting member  560 , or hinge, configured to turn or pivot biased release member  120  from a first position (e.g., 110 degrees, a, as depicted in  FIG. 5D ) to a release position (approximately 70 degrees, β, as depicted in  FIG. 5D ). At β, biased release member  120  is configured to allow a user&#39;s finger(s) to readily roll off the biased release member and onto the printing devices making the printing device easy to lift off of cradle  100 . 
     The depicted pivoting member  560  is disposed between bottom surface  280  and angular base  550 . In some embodiments, pivoting member  560  may be a hinge or other movable joint that connects a plurality of mechanical components. In the depicted embodiment, pivoting member  560  pivots approximately 40 degrees (i.e., between angles α and β). However, in alternative embodiments, pivoting member  560  may be configured to pivot between 30 and 60 degrees. 
     As illustrated in  FIGS. 5B-5C and 6A-6B , cradle  100  includes first and second biased latches  140 A and  140 B as described herein above with reference to  FIGS. 1A and 1B, 2A-2C, and 4 . Each of first and second biased latches  140 A and  140 B are configured to move between a locked position as referenced in  FIG. 4  and an unlocked position. When first and second biased latches  140 A and  140 B are in the unlocked position, printing device  300  may be readily removed from cradle  100 . However, when first and second biased latches  140 A and  140 B are in the locked position, printing device  300  is securely docked, or engaged, with cradle  100 . Further description of first and second biased latches  140 A and  140 B is described herein with reference to  FIGS. 1A and 1B, 2A-2B, and 4 . 
     As illustrated in  FIG. 5C , cradle  100  further includes release linkage  565  supported by cradle body  110 . Release linkage  565  is configured to transfer and transform the rotational pressing movement applied by the user to the biased release member  120  into a linear force that is configured to drive the first and second biased latches  140 A and  140 B rearward against biasing force BF (shown in  FIG. 2A ). In some embodiments, release linkage  565  is structured to drive first and second biased latches  140 A and  140 B from respective locked positions to respective unlocked positions in response to movement of biased release member  120  from a first position to a release position. 
     Release linkage  565  comprises connecting member  570 , tabs  572 , and/or springs  574 . The depicted release linkage  565  is housed in one or more internal cavities defined by cradle body  110 . However, in other embodiments, release linkage  110  may be disposed external to cradle body  110 . Yet, in some embodiments at least a portion of release linkage  565  may be housed in one or more internal cavities defined by cradle body  110 . For example, connecting member  570  as described herein below may be externally coupled to cradle body  110 , while other elements of release linkage  565  may be housed in one or more internal cavities defined by cradle body  110 . 
     Connecting member  570  is configured to drive tabs  572  in response to biased release member  120  being moved into a release position. In the depicted embodiment, the connecting member  570  takes the form of a lever. In some embodiments, connecting member  570  may take the form of, for example, a lever, knuckle joint, turnbuckle, or any other mechanical connector or fastening device configured for motion. In the depicted embodiment, connecting member  570  moves in an up or down direction as indicated by the arrows  595 . Connecting member  570  may be made from plastic(s), rubber, metal, composite material, any other type of material, or combination thereof. 
     For example, when biased release member  120  is depressed (e.g., in a released position), biased release member  120  depresses (e.g., pushes down) connecting member  570  and tabs  572  move in a forward and backwards direction as indicated by the arrows  591 . Tabs  572  may move in an up or down direction as indicated by the arrows  592 . In preferred embodiments, when tabs  572  move in a forward and backwards direction, tabs  572  move from a shift position to a fixed position. In some embodiments, tabs  572  may be in a shift position when tabs  572  execute a motion, movement, or the like. Alternatively, or additionally, tabs  572  may be in a fixed position when tabs  572  are in a state of being motionless or at rest. 
     In the embodiment depicted, biased release member  120  is configured to actuate a spring-biased release of the printing device from the cradle body. In such example embodiments, release linkage  565  further includes springs  574  configured to drive first and second biased latches  140 A and  140 B from an unlocked position to a locked position. It should be appreciated that one or more springs  574  may be configured to drive first and second biased latches  140 A and  140 B. First and second biased latches  140 A and  140 B are configured to move in a forward or backward direction as indicated by the arrows  593 . However, in some embodiments, first and second biased latches  140 A and  140 B may be configured to move in an up or down direction as indicated by the arrows  594 . Alternatively, first and second biased latches  140 A and  140 B may be configured to provide a spring-biased, damper-biased, or similar attachment of a cradle body to a printing device. In preferred embodiments, the spring takes the form of a compression spring comprising steel. Alternatively, springs  574  may take the form of tension springs, extension springs, compression springs, torsion springs, constant springs, variable springs, machined springs, flat springs, coil springs, belleville springs, main springs, spring washer, and/or the like. 
     Springs  574  are configured to apply a biasing force to first and second biased latches  140 A and  140 B as described with reference to  FIG. 2A . The force applied by the springs  574  drives first and second biased latches  140 A and  140 B from the unlocked position to the locked position. The biasing forces of the springs may be overcome by the release linkage discussed above upon a user driving the biased release member  120  to a release position. 
     Example Cradle Detachment 
     With reference to  FIGS. 6A and 6B , when a user desires to detach a printing device (e.g., printing device  300 ) from cradle  100 , the user places his or her hand  610  on printer body  305 . It should be appreciated that the cradle (e.g., cradle  100 ) is configured to detach printing device  300  as a user utilizes a single hand (e.g., a left or right hand). At least a portion of hand  610  interfaces with biased release member  120 . For example, various portions of hand  610  (e.g., the distal phalanges and intermediate phalanges) depress (e.g., push) biased release member  120 . The force applied to biased release member  120  thereby actuates release linkage  565  in response to the movement of biased release member  120  from a first position to the release position as described herein with reference to  FIGS. 5A-5C . Release linkage  565  simultaneously drives first and second biased latches  140 A and  140 B from a locked position to an unlocked position as described herein with reference to  FIGS. 5B-5C . To that end, cradle engagement surface  330  defined by printing device  300  may be tilted away from cradle  100  and the capture flanges  170 A,  170 B may be removed from the capture cavities  340 A,  340 B as illustrated in  FIG. 6B . 
     Example External Device Interface 
       FIGS. 1A-B  and  7 A-B illustrate various views of cradle  100 . In the depicted embodiment, cradle  100  is configured to interface with one or more external devices. As illustrated, cradle  100  includes one or more device receivers  705  housed in an internal cavity defined by cradle body  110 . A receiver cover  710  is configured to protect device receiver  705 . Receiver cover  710  may be removed and/or opened to access the protected component(s) (e.g. device receiver  705 ). In further embodiments, one or more device receivers  705  are configured to define one or more peripheral strain relievers  730 . The peripheral strain reliever  730  as depicted here is a twist lock strain relief. Peripheral strain reliever(s) may be coupled to one or more external devices, for example, direct current (DC) member  294  (illustrated in  FIGS. 1B and 2C ) comprising an angle at, or between, the range of 90 to 180 degrees. U-shaped strain relief fork  297  extends from strain relief door  296  which is hinged to move between open and closed positions. In a closed position as shown in  FIG. 1B , u-shaped strain relief fork  297  captures the connector end of DC member  294  (i.e., a power cord) as illustrated. In this regard, the inadvertent removal of the cord  298  and resulting wear and tear are eliminated or reduced. 
     Receiver cover  710  is removed to expose one or more device receivers  705 . One or more device receivers  705  are configured to communicate with one or more devices that support external devices, for example, a barcode scanner, power source, accessory device, network device, and/or other apparatus to be coupled with the circuitry of cradle  100  and/or printing device  300 . In the depicted embodiment, device receiver  705  is a USB connection configured for communication with a peripheral device such as a bar code scanner. In the depicted embodiment, cradle  100  is configured to accept and/or work with accessories common to other types or models of devices. In other embodiments, cradle  100  is configured to accept and/or work with accessories common to other types or models of devices. For example the depicted cradle is configured with a device port  740  (e.g., a USB host port) that is configured for electrical communication with one or more external devices. The depicted embodiment also includes DC member  294  (illustrated in Figured  1 B and  2 C) which provides a power source to cradle  100  that may utilized to charge the battery pack of a printing device (e.g., printing device  300 ). 
     Various other features for, modifications to and other embodiments of the inventions set forth herein will come to mind to one skilled in the art to which these inventions pertain having the benefit of the teachings presented in the foregoing descriptions and the associated drawings. For example, while examples discussed herein are often related to printing devices (e.g., mobile printing devices), one skilled in the art would appreciate that various types of printers, such as desktop or less mobile printers, as well as other types of devices may benefit from embodiments discussed herein. Therefore, it is to be understood that the inventions are not to be limited to the specific embodiments disclosed and that modifications and other embodiments are intended to be included herein. Although specific terms are employed herein, they are used in a generic and descriptive sense only and not for purposes of limitation.