Patent ID: 7573706

Claim:
An external expanding apparatus for expanding the function of a portable electronic device, the external expanding apparatus comprising: an apparatus body having an outer surface, the outer surface comprising a bearing surface structured for receiving the portable electronic device; an expansion connector connectable with the portable electronic device; an expansion connector drive mechanism structured for moving the expansion connector relative to the bearing surface between a disengaged position and an engaged position, the expansion connector drive mechanism comprising a linearly movable, unitary frame having opposing ends and a handle fixed to the frame, the linearly movable frame being slidably coupled to the apparatus body and adapted for linear movement of the expansion connector relative to the bearing surface thereof, wherein the handle maintains a constant position relative to the expansion connector when the expansion connector is moved relative to the bearing surface, wherein the handle is positioned beneath the bearing surface and does not extend beyond the outer surface of the apparatus body, and wherein the handle and the expansion connector are positioned on opposing ends of the frame; and a safety catch operable between the frame and an aperture communicating with the bearing surface, the safety catch being movable between an engaged position and a disengaged position.