Patent ID: 7102328

Claim:
A charging stand for charging and selectively enclosing and exposing an appliance having a rechargeable battery, the battery being charged by an external power source, comprising: a base having a docking recess for receiving and supporting the appliance, said base having electrical contacts in communication with said recess for charging the battery and at least one socket for supplying power from the external power source to the contacts, said docking recess defining a pocket surrounding a lower portion of the appliance upon insertion of the appliance into said pocket; a cover configured to fit over said base to define, with said recess, an interior space for enclosing the appliance; and means for securing said cover to said base in at least two positions such that in a first, closed position said cover encloses the appliance with said base and in a second, open position said cover exposes the appliance; wherein said cover supports said base in said second, open position while said cover remains attached to said base; wherein said base includes a latch which releasably secures said base and said cover together, and a groove on a surface of said base opposite from said recess for receiving an edge of said cover for supporting said base in said second, open position.