PATENT DOCUMENT

Publication Number: US-9201453-B2
Application Number: US-201213662375-A
Country: US
Kind Code: B2

Title: Self-retracting connector for docking device

Abstract:
Docking stations that can include a durable, movable plug connector are provided. For example, the plug connector can rotate and retract into or extend out of an opening of the docking station housing, thereby reducing the likelihood of breakage caused by misuse. A pivoting retraction mechanism can be rotatably coupled to the plug connector to allow the plug connector to be movable. The retraction mechanism can be a compliant mechanism that is formed from a single piece of material. The plug connector can be biased in a first position by a biasing element that also returns the plug connector to the first position after moving. The opening in the docking station that accommodates the plug connector&#39;s full range of motion may only be slightly larger than the plug connector.

Claims:
What is claimed is: 
     
       1. A docking station comprising:
 a housing that defines a cavity, the housing including an opening in an exterior surface that communicates with the cavity; 
 a plug connector movable between a first position where the plug connector extends a first distance out of the opening in a first orientation and a second position where the plug connector extends out of the opening at a second distance that is different than the first distance in a second orientation that is different than the first orientation; 
 an anchor element positioned within the cavity; and 
 one or more actuation members, each actuation member being pivotably coupled to the anchor element and rotatably coupled to the plug connector, 
 wherein when a torque is applied to a distal end of the plug connector in the first position, the one or more actuation members move the plug connector to the second position. 
 
     
     
       2. The docking station of  claim 1  wherein the first orientation is a substantially vertical orientation. 
     
     
       3. The docking station of  claim 1  wherein the first orientation is at an angle between about 10 and 35 degrees with respect to vertical. 
     
     
       4. The docking station of  claim 1  wherein the second orientation is at an angle between about 5 and 40 degrees with respect to the first orientation. 
     
     
       5. The docking station of  claim 1  wherein the one or more actuation members are pivotably coupled to the anchor element using flexible joints. 
     
     
       6. The docking station of  claim 5  wherein the flexible joints are living hinges. 
     
     
       7. The docking station of  claim 5  wherein the anchor element includes a step feature that may engage with an upper portion of one or more of the flexible joints when the plug connector is in the first position. 
     
     
       8. The docking station of  claim 1  wherein the anchor element and the one or more actuation members are integrally formed through an injection molding process. 
     
     
       9. The docking station of  claim 8  wherein the anchor element and the one or more actuation members are made from polypropylene. 
     
     
       10. The docking station of  claim 1  wherein the docking station includes first, second, third and fourth actuation members, wherein pivotable couplings of the first and second actuation members are farther from the opening than pivotable couplings of the third and fourth actuation members, and wherein the first and second actuation members are oriented at an inversion angle between about 180 and 190 degrees with respect to the plug connector when the plug connector is in the first position. 
     
     
       11. The docking station of  claim 10  wherein the first and third actuation members and the second and fourth actuation members are rotatably coupled to the plug connector at points on the plug connector separated by a distance between about 0.1 and 2.0mm. 
     
     
       12. The docking station of  claim 10  wherein a portion of the plug connector is flush with a portion of the anchor element when the plug connector is in the first position. 
     
     
       13. The docking station of  claim 1  wherein the plug connector includes one or more protrusions for rotatably coupling with corresponding hooks positioned on one or more of the actuation members. 
     
     
       14. The docking station of  claim 1  wherein the change in orientation between the first and second orientations is proportional to the change in distance between the first and second distances. 
     
     
       15. The docking station of  claim 1 , further comprising a biasing element coupled to one or more of the actuation members to bias the one or more actuation members to position the plug connector in the first position. 
     
     
       16. The docking station of  claim 15  wherein the second distance is shorter than the first distance. 
     
     
       17. The docking station of  claim 15  wherein the biasing element is a torsion spring. 
     
     
       18. The docking station of  claim 1  wherein the one or more actuation members move the plug connector to the second position by pivoting with respect to the anchor element and rotating with respect to the plug connector. 
     
     
       19. The docking station of  claim 1  wherein each actuation member is pivotably coupled to the anchor element about a first axis of rotation and rotatably coupled to the plug connector about a second axis of rotation, the second axis of rotation being substantially parallel to the first axis of rotation. 
     
     
       20. A docking station for a portable electronic device, the docking station comprising:
 a housing that defines a cavity, the housing including an opening in an exterior surface that communicates with the cavity; 
 a plug connector movable between a first position where the plug connector extends a first distance out of the opening in a first orientation and a second position where the plug connector extends out of the opening at a second distance that is longer than the first distance in a second orientation that is different than the first orientation, the plug connector configured to receive and electrically couple to a receptacle connector of the portable electronic device; 
 a retraction mechanism that causes the plug connector to move between the first and second positions, the retraction mechanism including:
 an anchor element positioned within the cavity; 
 one or more actuation members, each actuation member being pivotably coupled to the anchor element and rotatably coupled to the plug connector; and 
 a biasing element coupled to one or more of the actuation members to bias the actuation members to position the plug connector in the first position; and 
 electronic circuitry electrically coupled with contacts of the plug connector. 
 
 
     
     
       21. The docking station of  claim 20 , wherein the housing further includes a resting surface adapted to support the portable electronic device when the portable electronic device is coupled to the plug connector in the first position. 
     
     
       22. The docking station of  claim 20 , wherein the biasing element includes at least one spring that provides a biasing force that increases as the plug connector moves farther from the first position. 
     
     
       23. The docking station of  claim 20 , wherein a flex circuit electrically couples the electronic circuitry with the contacts of the plug connector. 
     
     
       24. The docking station of  claim 20  wherein the one or more actuation members are pivotably coupled to the anchor element using flexible joints. 
     
     
       25. The docking station of  claim 24  wherein the flexible joints are living hinges. 
     
     
       26. A docking station comprising:
 a housing that defines a cavity, the housing including an opening in an exterior surface that communicates with the cavity, and including a first end and a second end opposite the first end; 
 a plug connector that rotates between a first position where the plug connector extends a first distance out of the opening in a first orientation and a second position where the plug connector extends out of the opening at a second distance that is shorter than the first distance in a second orientation where a distal end of the plug connector is rotated from the first orientation toward the first end of the housing and a proximal end of the plug connector is rotated from the first orientation toward the second end of the housing; 
 an anchor element positioned within the cavity; 
 an actuation member pivotably coupled to the anchor element and rotatably coupled to the plug connector, that, when a torque is applied to the plug connector in the first position, moves the plug connector to the second position; and 
 a biasing element coupled to the actuation member that biases the actuation member to position the plug connector in the first position. 
 
     
     
       27. The docking station of the  claim 26 , wherein the opening includes first and second opposing opening sidewalls, and wherein the first sidewall is angled to accommodate the rotation of the plug connector between the first and second positions. 
     
     
       28. The docking station of  claim 26  wherein the one or more actuation members are pivotably coupled to the anchor element using flexible joints. 
     
     
       29. The docking station of  claim 26  wherein the anchor element and the one or more actuation members are integrally formed through an injection molding process. 
     
     
       30. The docking station of  claim 26  further comprising another actuation member that is pivotably coupled to the anchor element and rotatably coupled with the plug connector, wherein the actuation members cooperate to move the plug connector between the first and second positions.

Description:
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 
     The present invention relates to a docking station for an electronic device. More particularly, the present invention relates to a docking station having a self-retracting connector. 
     Portable electronic devices (such as phones, media players, notebook/netbook computers, tablet computers) are becoming ubiquitous. Portable electronic devices commonly have display screens (e.g. a touch screen) on which users view and/or select data and functionality. For example, a user may select a video or other presentation to watch. In such circumstances, it is more convenient for the user to have the device in an upright (viewable) position by placing the device in some sort of holder so the user is not forced to hold the device during viewing. 
     Additionally, users would like to interface the display devices with other electronics. For example, a user may want to play music through speakers, or simply charge the device. However, during such interfacing or charging, the user would still like to be able to view the display and/or controls of the device. 
     To provide such features, manufacturers provide docking stations (docks) in which a user can dock a device. Often the docks will have a connector rising out from an opening, with the connector being in a position such that the device can be viewed and/or used when connected therewith. However, connectors can be weak points, especially when devices become large and additional stresses are placed on the connector. The connector may also provide most of the support for the device. Accordingly, the connectors of such docking stations can be damaged by misuse, e.g. being pulled in an improper direction. 
     Some currently available docks include a rotating connector that rotates instead of breaking when stresses are applied to the connector. However, in order to accommodate rotating connectors, such docks often include a large, unsightly opening through which the connector or other unsightly features for accommodating the rotating connector may extend. The unsightliness of these openings may result from large gap(s) between the bounds or sidewalls of the opening station and the connector rising out of the opening. Furthermore, many docking stations with rotating connectors still have room for improvement in terms of manufacturability and convenience in disconnecting from corresponding portable electronic devices. 
     BRIEF SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION 
     Embodiments of the present invention provide docking stations with a connector, e.g., a plug connector, that is durable. Some embodiments allow a plug connector to move while connected to a portable electronic device. This movement of the connector can absorb undesirable forces, thereby reducing the likelihood of the connector breaking from misuse. In one example, if the connected portable electronic device is pushed forward and applies a torque to the plug connector of the docking station, the plug connector can rotate and retract into an opening of the docking station housing, thereby reducing the likelihood of breakage from such a push. The retracting motion can also aid in disconnecting the plug connector from the device, and thus can help prevent the torque from further acting on the plug connector. 
     Additionally, the movable plug connector may be biased with a biasing element to return the plug connector to its original position after rotating and retracting or extending in response to an applied torque. When a device is connected with the plug connector in the original position, the portable electronic device may be positioned in an upright position such that the electronic device is supported by a resting surface of the docking station, thereby preventing undue strain on the plug connector in the upright position. The biasing mechanism can act by opposing forward movement of the plug connector to keep the electronic device in a position to be supported by the rear reference surface. The plug connector may be partly below and partly above an exterior surface of the docking station through part of or all of the plug connector&#39;s full range of motion. 
     The opening in the docking station that accommodates the plug connector&#39;s full range of motion may only be slightly larger than the plug connector. This may be possible because a retraction mechanism of the docking station may produce a range of motion for the plug connector that does not require as large of an opening as required by typical docking stations. Hence, unsightly gaps between the docking station opening and the plug connector may be reduced in order to maintain the cosmetic appearance of the docking station. 
     According to one embodiment, a docking station is provided. The docking station can include a housing that defines a cavity. The housing can include an opening in an exterior surface that communicates with the cavity. The docking station can also include a plug connector movable between a first position where the plug connector extends a first distance out of the opening in a first orientation and a second position where the plug connector extends out of the opening at a second distance that is shorter than the first distance in a second orientation that is different than the first orientation. An anchor element can be positioned within the cavity. The docking station can further include one or more actuation members, each actuation member being pivotably coupled to the anchor element and rotatably coupled to the plug connector, that, when a torque is applied to a distal end of the plug connector in the first position, move the plug connector to the second position. A biasing element can be coupled to one or more of the actuation members to bias the actuation members to position the plug connector in the first position. 
     According to another embodiment, a docking station is provided. The docking station can include a housing that defines a cavity. The housing can include an opening in an exterior surface that communicates with the cavity. The docking station can also include a plug connector movable between a first position where the plug connector extends a first distance out of the opening in a first orientation and a second position where the plug connector extends out of the opening at a second distance that is longer than the first distance in a second orientation that is different than the first orientation, the plug connector configured to receive and electrically couple to a receptacle connector of the portable electronic device. The docking station can further include a retraction mechanism that causes the plug connector to move between the first and second positions. The retraction mechanism can include: an anchor element positioned within the cavity; one or more actuation members, each actuation member being pivotably coupled to the anchor element and rotatably coupled to the plug connector; and a biasing element coupled to one or more of the actuation members to bias the actuation members to position the plug connector in the first position; and electronic circuitry electrically coupled with contacts of the plug connector. 
     According to yet another embodiment, a docking station is provided. The docking station can include a housing that defines a cavity. The housing can include an opening in an exterior surface that communicates with the cavity, and a first end and a second end opposite the first end. The docking station can also include a plug connector that rotates between a first position where the plug connector extends a first distance out of the opening in a first orientation and a second position where the plug connector extends out of the opening at a second distance that is shorter than the first distance in a second orientation where a distal end of the plug connector is rotated from the first orientation toward the first end of the housing and a proximal end of the plug connector is rotated from the first orientation toward the second end of the housing. An anchor element can be positioned within the cavity. The docking station can further include one or more actuation members, each actuation member being pivotably coupled to the anchor element and rotatably coupled to the plug connector, that, when a torque is applied to the distal end of the plug connector in the first position, move the plug connector to the second position. A biasing element can be coupled to one or more of the actuation members to bias the actuation members to position the plug connector in the first position. 
     To better understand the nature and advantages of the present invention, reference should be made to the following description and the accompanying figures. It is to be understood, however, that each of the figures is provided for the purpose of illustration only and is not intended as a definition of the limits of the scope of the present invention. Also, as a general rule, and unless it is evident to the contrary from the description, where elements in different figures use identical reference numbers, the elements are generally either identical or at least similar in function or purpose. 
    
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
         FIG. 1A  depicts an illustrative rendering of one particular portable electronic device. 
         FIG. 1B  is a side view of a docking station according to the present invention mated with the device of  FIG. 1A . 
         FIGS. 2A and 2B  show cross-sectional views of a docking station  200  according to an embodiment of the present invention with a portable electronic device docked therein.  FIG. 2A  shows a plug connector of docking station  200  in an extended position and connected with the device.  FIG. 2B  shows the plug connector in a refracted position and nearly disconnected from the device. 
         FIG. 2C  illustrates a perspective view of the retraction mechanism of  FIGS. 2A and 2B . 
         FIG. 2D  shows a magnified perspective view of the retraction mechanism of  FIGS. 2A-2C . 
         FIGS. 3A and 3B  show cross-sectional views of a docking station  300  according to an embodiment of the present invention with a portable electronic device docked therein.  FIG. 3A  shows a plug connector of docking station  300  in a retracted position and connected with the device.  FIG. 3B  shows the plug connector in an extended position and nearly disconnected from the device 
         FIGS. 4A and 4B  show cross-sectional views of a docking station  400  according to an embodiment of the present invention with a portable electronic device docked therein.  FIG. 4A  shows a plug connector of docking station  400  in an extended position and connected with the device.  FIG. 4B  shows the plug connector in a refracted position and nearly disconnected from the device. 
     
    
    
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION 
     The present invention will now be described in detail with reference to certain embodiments thereof as illustrated in the accompanying drawings. In the following description, numerous specific details are set forth in order to provide a thorough understanding of the present invention. It will be apparent, however, to one skilled in the art, that the present invention may be practiced without some or all of these specific details. In other instances, well known details have not been described in detail in order not to unnecessarily obscure the present invention. 
     Embodiments of the present invention provide docking stations with a connector, e.g., a plug connector, that is durable. The plug connector may rotate and retract into an opening of the docking station housing when torque is applied to the plug connector, thereby reducing the likelihood of plug connector breakage due to applied torques. Toque may be applied to the connector in a number of situations, including when a connected portable electronic device is improperly disconnected from the plug connector of the docking station. 
     Unlike typical rotatable connectors, in embodiments of the present invention, the range of motion that the docking station&#39;s plug connector goes through as it retracts into the housing and then returns to the original, extended position does not require the opening of the plug connector to be large and unsightly. Instead, the plug connector may rotate and move up or down simultaneously such that the opening of the docking station need only be slightly larger than the plug connector to accommodate the plug connector&#39;s range of motion. The combined rotational and up/down movement of the plug connector may be accomplished with a compliant retraction mechanism or other four-bar retraction mechanism positioned within the cavity of the housing, which retraction mechanisms may be coupled to the plug connector. 
     Embodiments of the compliant retraction mechanisms may be formed from a single piece of material. Alternatively, the compliant retraction mechanism may be integrally formed with the housing. As used herein, compliant mechanism refers to mechanisms that include one or more flexures or flexible joints that may elastically deform in order to accommodate motion for the linkages or members connected thereto. 
     As discussed earlier, portable electronic devices may be connected with or docked in docking stations according to the present invention. Examples of electronic devices that may be used with the present invention are shown in the following figure. 
       FIG. 1A  depicts an illustrative rendering of one particular portable electronic device  10 . Device  10  includes a multipurpose button  15  as an input component, a touch screen display  20  as both an input and output component, and a speaker  25  as an output component, all of which are housed within a device housing  30 . Device  10  also includes a primary receptacle connector  35  and an audio plug receptacle  40  within device housing  30 . Each of the receptacle connectors  35  and  40  can be positioned within housing  30  such that the cavity of the receptacle connectors into which a corresponding plug connector is inserted is located at an exterior surface of the device housing. In some embodiments, the cavity opens to an exterior side surface of device  10 . For simplicity, various internal components, such as the control circuitry, graphics circuitry, bus, memory, storage device and other components are not shown in  FIG. 1A . Embodiments of the invention disclosed herein may include plug connectors that are particularly suitable for connecting with primary receptacle connector  35 . 
     Although device  10  is described above as one particular portable electronic device, embodiments of the invention are suitable for use with a multiplicity of portable electronic devices. As used herein, a portable electronic device is of such size and proportion that it may be carried in the hand(s) of a person. Examples of portable electronic devices include, but are not limited to, media players that play or otherwise transmit audio and/or visual (video or picture) signals (e.g., iPod) and phones that allow users to communicate remotely through wireless connections. Portable electronic devices may also correspond to mini-computers, tablet computers, PDAs, internet or email based devices. In fact, portable electronic devices may be a combination of specific or dedicated devices mentioned above (e.g., a smart phone such as the iPhone™), manufactured and sold by Apple Inc. of Cupertino, Calif., the assignee of the present application. 
     As discussed in the background section, in some circumstances, it is more convenient for the user to position device  10  in an upright (viewable) position by placing the device in some sort of holder so the user is not forced to hold the device during viewing. This may be useful for viewing a video or other presentation on display  20 . Alternatively, a user may want to play music stored on device  10  through external speakers, or simply charge the device. All these things may be accomplish using a docking station, e.g., a docking station according to the present invention as shown in the following figure. 
       FIG. 1B  is a side view of a docking station  50  according to the present invention mated with device  10 . Docking station  50  includes a plug connector  55  that extends through an opening (not shown in  FIG. 1B ) in an exterior surface  60 . Plug connector  55  generally defines a mating axis  65  along which a corresponding receptacle connector (e.g., connector receptacle  35  shown in  FIG. 1A ) of a device  10  can connect with or disconnect from plug connector  55 . As shown in  FIG. 1B , device  10  is docked in docking station  50  and plug connector  55  is mated or connected with a receptacle connector (not shown in  FIG. 1B ) of device  10 . Device  10  is docked in and removed from docking station  50  in order to couple with and decouple from the electrical contacts associated with the plug connector  55  and a corresponding receptacle connector. 
     When device  10  is docked in or removed from docking station  50 , off-axis forces—forces that are not along mating axis  65 —may be exerted on plug connector  55 . For example, during a removal event, device  10  may be rotated in any direction or pushed or pulled away from mating axis  65 , thereby exerting the aforementioned off-axis forces on plug connector  55 . More specifically, an exemplary force F1 may be applied by a user to device  10  during a removal event such that a torque  70  is applied to plug connector  55 . As will be discussed in further detail below, plug connectors according to the present invention, e.g., plug connector  55 , are movable in order to absorb these off-axis forces and reduce the likelihood of breakage. 
     As further shown in  FIG. 1B , the portion of plug connector  55  extending out of housing  51  is free of external supports. Accordingly, in some embodiments, housing  51  may include a protrusion that includes a resting surface  75  for supporting device  10  when docked in docking station  50 . Device  10  may be positioned when docked such that device  10  is supported by rest surface  75 , thereby preventing undue strain on plug connector  55  caused by the weight of the device torquing the plug connector as the device leans along an off-axis direction—a direction that is not along mating axis  65 . 
     In various embodiments, plug connector  55  can correspond to USB, FireWire, or other standardized connector formats having contacts for transmitting data and/or power For example, plug connector  55  may be a 30-pin or Lightning connector compatible with the Apple iPod® and iPhone™ devices. In one embodiment, device  10  can have a female receptacle connector that connects with plug connector  55 , which may be a male connector plug. In alternative embodiments, device  10  can have a male connector that connects with a female connector of a dock. In this embodiment, the female connector may be situated within dock housing  51 . 
     As mentioned above, plug connector  55  of dock  50  may be movable by means of a retraction mechanism. Specific examples of docking stations including retraction mechanisms according to the present invention are shown in the following figures. 
       FIGS. 2A and 2B  show cross-sectional views of a docking station  200  according to an embodiment of the present invention with a portable electronic device  205  docked therein.  FIG. 2A  shows a plug connector  210  of docking station  200  in an extended position and connected with device  205 .  FIG. 2B  shows plug connector  210  in a retracted position and nearly disconnected from device  205 . As mentioned above, docking stations such as docking station  200  can provide a platform for quickly and easily coupling device  205  to another system or device, e.g., a computer, a power source, or peripheral devices such as a monitor, a keyboard, speakers, etc. Docking station  200  can also hold device  205  in a position suitable for viewing a display (e.g., display  20  shown in  FIG. 1A ) of device  205 . 
     Plug connector  210  may be movable between a retracted position and an extended position for engaging a corresponding connector (e.g., connector  35  as shown in  FIG. 1A ) of device  205 . More specifically,  FIG. 2A  shows plug connector  210  in the extended position with plug connector  210  protruding through an opening  220  in exterior surface  225  of housing  215  at an extension distance  230 . Distance  230  is measured from exterior surface  225  to a distal end  235   a  of plug connector  210  along an axis  240   a  and may be equal to the full length of the mating portion of plug connector  210 . Axis  240   a  may define the orientation of plug connector  210  in the extended position, which axis  240   a  may be perpendicular with respect to the plane in which exterior surface  225  is oriented such that axis  240   a  is at an angle  245   a  with respect to vertical  250 . As shown in  FIG. 2A , angle  245   a  may be about 15 degrees. In some embodiments, angle  245   a  may be between about 10 and 35 degrees. In other embodiments, angle  245   a  may be such that plug connector  210  is orientated in a substantially vertical orientation (e.g., within about 5 degrees of vertical  250 ).  FIG. 2A  also shows plug connector  210  can be partly within an interior of housing  215  and extend through opening  220  when in the extended position. 
       FIG. 2B  shows plug connector  210  in the retracted position with plug connector  210  rotated forward (clockwise as shown) and partially retracted into housing  215  with device  205  nearly disconnected from plug connector  210 . In this retracted position, plug connector  210  still protrudes through opening  220 , but only at a distance  255 . Distance  255  is measured from exterior surface  225  to distal end  235   a  and may be a distance such that the receptacle connector of device  205  can no longer mate with plug connector  210  because access is blocked by housing  215 . Axis  240   b  may define the orientation of plug connector  210  in the retracted position, which axis  240   b  may be at an angle  245   b  with respect to axis  240   a . As shown in  FIG. 2B , angle  245   b  may be about 30 degrees. In other embodiments, angle  245   b  may be between about 5 and 40 degrees. 
     As discussed above, the movement of plug connector  210  may be a combination of different movements, e.g., rotating and retracting into or extending out of opening  220 . A retraction mechanism  260  may guide plug connector  210  between the extended and retracted positions. As shown in  FIGS. 2A and 2B , retraction mechanism  260  may be rotatably coupled with plug connector  210 . For example, retraction mechanism  260  may include linkages or actuation members  270   a ,  270   b  having hooks  275   a ,  275   b  positioned thereon that couple with complementary protrusions  280   a ,  280   b  positioned on plug connector  210 . In other embodiments, hooks  275   a ,  275   b  and protrusions  280   a ,  280   b  may be replaced with other types of pin or revolute joints. 
     As shown in  FIGS. 2A and 2B , actuation members  270   a ,  270   b  and anchor element  265  may be pivotably coupled together, e.g., using flexures or flexible joints  285   a ,  285   b . Accordingly and as further described below, actuation members  270   a ,  270   b ; anchor element  265  and flexible joints  285   a ,  285   b  may be integrally formed from a single piece of material to form retraction mechanism  260 . Flexible joints  285   a ,  285   b  may elastically deform to accommodate the pivoting motion of actuation members  270   a ,  270   b  as plug connector  210  moves between an extended position (shown in  FIG. 2A ) and a retracted position (shown in  FIG. 2B ). In some embodiments, flexible joints  285   a ,  285   b  may be living hinges. Accordingly, embodiments of retraction mechanism  260  may be compliant mechanisms. 
     Device  205  may be docked in docking station  200  by aligning plug connector  210  with a connector of device  205  and pushing device  205  in direction  288   a  until plug connector  210  is mated with a receptacle connector of device  205 . Prior to this mating event, plug connector  210  may be in the extended position as shown in  FIG. 2A , with a portion of plug connector  210  flush with surface  265   a  of anchor element  265 . Surface  265   a  may serve to limit the clockwise (the clockwise direction as in  FIGS. 2A-2B ) rotation of plug connector  210  as plug connector  210  cannot rotate past surface  265   a . As will be discussed in greater detail below, retraction mechanism  260  may not retract plug connector  210  during this mating event despite the application of compression mating forces; this may be possible due to an inversion angle  290  between the orientations of plug connector  210  and actuation member  270   a  when plug connector  210  is in the extended position. Instead, retraction mechanism  260  may hold plug connector  210  in the extended position to facilitate the mating event. 
     Device  205  may be removed from docking station  200  by pulling device  205  in a direction opposite that of direction  288   a . However, as discussed above, users may attempt to remove device  205  from docking station  200  in other ways that may potentially cause harmful off-axis forces—forces that are not along mating axis  240 —to be exerted on plug connector  210 . In one example, device  205  may be pushed forward by applying a force  292  to device  205  during a removal event. In response to force  292 , retraction mechanism  260  may allow plug connector  210  to rotate in the direction of force  292  and retract into opening  220 , thereby reducing the likelihood of breakage due the application of force  292 . 
     The retracting motion of plug connector  210  can also aid in disconnecting plug connector  210  from device  205  as retraction mechanism  260  pulls plug connector  210  away from device  205  and device  205  is pulled in direction  288   b  by a user. In this embodiment, even if device  205  is not pulled in direction  288   b , plug connector  210  will move to the retracted position (as shown in  FIG. 2B ) when force  292  is applied. As also shown in  FIGS. 2A and 2B , retraction mechanism  260  is designed to move plug  210  between the extended and retracted positions without being obstructed by housing  215 . Following the conclusion of the removal event, a biasing element may return plug connector  210  to the extended position from the retracted position. This biasing element will be discussed in further detail below. 
       FIGS. 2A and 2B  also show that throughout the retracting and extending movements of plug connector  210 , the change in orientation of the plug connector  210  may be proportional to the change in the extension distance of plug connector  210 . For example, the difference between angles  245   a  and  245   b  may continually increase or decrease as plug connector  210  moves between the extended (as shown in  FIG. 2A ) and retracted (as shown in  FIG. 2B ) positions. Similarly, the extension distance, e.g., distances  230  and  255 , may continually increase or decrease as plug connector  210  moves between the extended (as shown in  FIG. 2A ) and retracted (as shown in  FIG. 2B ) positions. That is, throughout the retracting and extending movements of plug connector  210 , a change in the orientation of plug connector  210  may always be accompanied by a change in the extension distance—the distance between exterior surface  225  and distal end  235   a.    
     Furthermore, distal end  235   a  and proximal end  235   b  (as shown in  FIG. 2C ) may always move in opposite directions throughout the retracting and extending movements of plug connector  210 . For example, as plug connector  210  moves from the extended position to the retracted position, distal end  235   a  may move away from a rest surface  215   a  and proximal end  235   b  may move in the opposite direction. And when plug connector moves from the retracted position to the extended position, distal end  235   a  may move back towards rest surface  215   a  and, again, proximal end  235   b  may move in the opposite direction. 
     Again, actuation members  270   a ,  270   b ; anchor element  265 ; and flexible joints  285   a ,  285   b  may be integrally formed from a single piece of material to form refraction mechanism  260 . For example, retraction mechanism  260  may be made from polypropylene using an injection molding process that may implement gates at the flexible joint locations, e.g., at flexible joints  285   a ,  285   b . In other embodiments, retraction mechanism  260  may be made from polyethylene. This once piece retraction mechanism design may be desirable for high volume production of docking stations according to the present invention. In this embodiment, anchor element  265  may be positioned within the cavity of housing  215  and attached to the interior of housing  215  by screws, adhesives, or any other suitable fastening method. In other embodiments, the retraction mechanism  260  may be integrally formed with housing  215  from a single piece of material. 
     As mentioned earlier, retraction mechanism  260  may guide plug connector  210  through a range of motions that do not require opening  220  to be large and unsightly. This may be possible because the relationship between the rotation and the extension and retraction movements of plug connector  210  may ensure that the portion of plug connector  210  moving through or positioned within opening  220  remains nearly at the same position with respect to opening  220  at all times. As a result, there may only be a small gap between plug connector  210  and an angled opening sidewall  220   a  and no gap between plug connector  210  and flat opening sidewall  220   b  when plug connector  210  is in the extended position (as shown in  FIG. 2A ). Furthermore, the small gap may not be readily visible to users because plug connector  215  and rest surface  215   a  may obstruct viewing of the small gap from front and back views of docking station  200 , respectively. In one embodiment, opening  220  may only be around 20 percent larger than necessary to accommodate the thickness of plug connector  210 . Hence, unsightly gaps between opening  220  and plug connector  210  may be reduced in order to maintain the cosmetic appearance of embodiments of docking stations according to the present invention. 
     As mentioned earlier, retraction mechanism  260  may not allow plug connector  210  to retract during mating events due the orientation of linkage  270   a  with respect to the orientation of plug connector  210 —inversion angle  290 —when plug connector  210  is in the extended position (as shown in  FIG. 2A ). A singularity, which may cause retraction mechanism  260  to be unable to respond to a force applied in a given direction (e.g., direction  288   a  in the present case) by retracting, may occur depending on the value of inversion angle  290 . For example, if a singularity occurs, retraction mechanism  260  may be locked in the extended position when a mating force is applied in direction  288   a  and thus plug connector  210  may remain in the extended position such that the mating event can occur. As shown in  FIG. 2A , inversion angle  290  may be between about 180 degrees and 181 degrees. In order for the singularity to exist, it may be necessary that inversion angle  290  be greater than about 180 degrees, but less than about 191 degrees. Accordingly, in some embodiments, the invention angle may be between about 180 and 190 degrees. 
     In addition to configuring docking station  200  as described above, the distance between pivot points, e.g., protrusions  280   a ,  280   b , may also contribute to causing the singularity described above to occur. For example, protrusions  280   a ,  280   b  may be positioned such that the shortest distance between protrusions  280   a ,  280   b  may be between about 0.8 mm and 1.5 mm. In other embodiments, the shortest distance between protrusions  280   a ,  280   b  may be between about 0.1 mm and 2.0 mm 
     However, the singularity described above may also result in flexible joint  285   a  absorbing the forces related to the compressive mating events thereby increasing the likelihood of breakage. To increase the strength of flexible joint  285   a  in order to deal with these compressive mating forces, flexible joint  285   a  may be molded in the injection molding process in the open state (as shown in  FIG. 2B ). 
     The following figure illustrates some additional features of retraction mechanism  260  that may be varied in order to strengthen flexible joint  285   a  as well as some other features of retraction mechanism  260 . 
       FIG. 2C  illustrates a perspective view of retraction mechanism  260  of  FIGS. 2A and 2B . As shown in  FIG. 2C , retraction mechanism  260  also includes additional actuation members  270   c ,  270   d  that were not visible in and not discussed with regards to  FIGS. 2A-2B . Nonetheless, actuation members  270   c ,  270   d  may be included in the embodiment of docking station  200  shown in  FIGS. 2A-2B . Furthermore, the discussion above of actuation members  270   a ,  270   b  and elements that interact with actuation members  270   a ,  270   b  may apply in whole or in part to actuation members  270   c ,  270   d  and corresponding elements that may interact with actuation members  270   c ,  270   d , including those shown in  FIG. 2C . However, some embodiments may only include one actuation member, e.g., actuation member  270   a , or two actuation members, e.g., actuation members  270   a ,  270   c , or other combinations of actuation members  270   a ,  270   b ,  270   c  and  270   d.    
     Actuation members  270   c ,  270   d  are shown in  FIG. 2C  as being pivotably coupled to anchor element  265  and rotatably coupled to plug connector  210 , which anchor element  265  and plug connector  210  were already shown in  FIGS. 2A and 2B . Actuation members  270   c ,  270   d  may move in unison with actuation members  270   a ,  270   b  as plug connector  210  moves between the retraction and extension positions.  FIG. 2C  also shows that actuations members  270   a ,  270   b ,  270   c  and  270   d  and their respective flexible joints  285   a ,  285   b ,  285   c  and  285   d  may include a length dimension, whereas only the height and thickness dimensions were visible in  FIGS. 2A and 2B . This length dimension may contribute to the overall strength of these actuation members  270   a ,  270   b ,  270   c  and  270   d  and their respective flexible joints. In particular, as the respective lengths of actuation members  270   a ,  270   c  and flexible joints  285   a ,  285   c  increase so do their capacities for absorbing the compressive mating event forces caused by the singularity described above. 
     In some embodiments, the thickness and length dimensions of actuations members  270   a ,  270   b ,  270   c  and  270   d  and their respective flexible joints may be varied to obtain the appropriate load capacity for a given application of docking station  200 . For example, embodiments of docking station  200  intended to hold tablet computers may include one or more actuation members and respective flexible joints having a greater thickness and/or length than actuation members and respective flexible joints of embodiments of docking station  200  intended to hold phones. 
     As discussed above, retraction mechanism  260  may also include a biasing element for biasing plug connector  210  in the extended position (as shown in  FIG. 2A ). As shown in  FIG. 2C , a biasing element  294  may be wrapped around or coupled to a protrusion  296  positioned on anchor element  265 . A first end  294   a  of biasing element  294  may be coupled to anchor element  265  and a second end  294   b  of biasing element  294  may be coupled to actuation member  270   a . This configuration results in a biasing mechanism that may be capable of returning plug connector  210  to its extended position after rotating and retracting into the retracted position in response to an applied torque. The biasing force of biasing element  294  may increase as plug connector  210  moves farther from the extended position (as shown in  FIG. 2A ) and towards the retracted position (as shown in  FIG. 2B ). In one embodiment, biasing element  294  may be a torsion spring. 
     In other embodiments, a biasing element, e.g., biasing element  294 , may be coupled with more than one actuation member of retraction mechanism  260 . For example, a biasing element may be coupled to both actuation members  270   a  and  270   c . This embodiment may provide a greater biasing force to help ensure actuation members  270   a  and  270   c  return to an orientation in the extended position where inversion angle  290  is such that a singularity occurs that prevents plug connector  210  from retracting during mating events with device  210  (as shown in  FIGS. 2A and 2B ). In yet additional embodiments, biasing element  294 , which may be a compression or tensile spring, may be attached at one end to proximal end  235   b  and at the other end to a position within the cavity of housing  215  such that plug connector  210  is biased in the extended position. 
     In yet additional embodiments, a biasing element may also be implemented to keep a docked electronic device in a position to be supported by a rest surface (e.g., rest surface  215   a  as shown in  FIGS. 2A and 2B ) of docking station  200 . 
     Although not shown in  FIG. 2C , proximal end  235   b  may include an electrical coupling, e.g., a flex circuit, for electrically coupling contacts (not shown in  FIG. 2C ) of plug connector  210  with electronic circuitry disposed within the cavity of housing  215  (as shown in  FIGS. 2A and 2B ). 
     As discussed previously, a singularity may result in flexible joints  285   a ,  285   c  absorbing forces related to compressive mating events. Designs and methods for strengthening flexible joints to deal with these compressive forces are discussed above. The following figure shows an example of another way to address these compressive forces. 
       FIG. 2D  shows a magnified perspective view of retraction mechanism  260  of  FIGS. 2A-2C . As shown in  FIG. 2D , retraction mechanism  260  may include a step feature  298 . Step feature  298  is positioned and shaped to engage with an upper portion  299   a  of flexible joint  285   a  when plug connector  210  is in the extended position (as shown in  FIG. 2A ). As such, when a singularity occurs at the extended position, compressive forces related to mating events may be translated through actuation member  270   a  and absorbed by step feature  298 . Otherwise, flexible joint  285   a  would have to absorb those compressive forces, which may lead to durability issues for retraction mechanism  260 . Although not visible in  FIG. 2D , a step feature may be positioned and shaped to engage an upper portion of each of flexible joints  285   b ,  285   c  and  285   d  as well. In some embodiments, retraction mechanism  260  may only include two step features, e.g., step features may be positioned and shaped to engage actuation members  285   a ,  285   c.    
     Although docking station  200  has been discussed above with regards to  FIGS. 2A-2D  as including flexible joints to pivotally couple actuation members, e.g., actuation members  270   a ,  270   b ,  270   c  and  270   d , to anchor element  265 , other joints or couplings may be used instead of flexible joints. For example, rigid joints such as mechanical joints may be used, e.g., pin or revolute joints. In some embodiments, retraction mechanism  260  can also include gears, cams, followers, and the like in addition to or instead of pin and/or flexible joints. 
     An additional embodiment of a docking station according to the present invention is shown in following figures. 
       FIGS. 3A and 3B  show cross-sectional views of a docking station  300  according to an embodiment of the present invention with a portable electronic device  305  docked therein.  FIG. 3A  shows a plug connector  310  of docking station  300  in a retracted position and connected with device  305 .  FIG. 3B  shows plug connector  310  in an extended position and nearly disconnected from device  305 . Except for those elements of docking station  300  specifically discussed below, the discussion of the elements of docking station  200  above may apply to corresponding elements of docking station  300 . In addition, the discussion of the elements of docking station  200  may still apply to some of those corresponding elements of docking station  300  specifically discussed below. 
     Plug connector  310  may be movable between an extended position (as shown in  FIG. 3B ) and a retracted position (as shown in  FIG. 3A ) for engaging a corresponding connector (e.g., connector  35  as shown in  FIG. 1A ) of device  305 . More specifically,  FIG. 3A  shows plug connector  310  in the retracted position with plug connector  310  protruding through an opening  320  in exterior surface  325  of housing  315 . An axis  340   a  may define the orientation of plug connector  310  in the retracted position, which axis  340   a  may be perpendicular with respect to the plane in which exterior surface  325  is oriented such that axis  340   a  is at an angle  345   a  with respect to vertical  350 . As shown in  FIG. 3A , angle  345   a  may be about 15 degrees. In some embodiments, angle  345   a  may be between about 10 and 35 degrees. In other embodiments, angle  345   a  may be such that plug connector  310  is orientated in a substantially vertical orientation (e.g., within about 5 degrees of vertical  350 ).  FIG. 3A  also shows plug connector  310  may be partly within an interior of housing  315  and extend through opening  320  when in the extended position. 
       FIG. 3B  shows plug connector  310  in the extended position with plug connector  310  rotated forward (clockwise as shown) and extending farther out of housing  315 , as compared to the retracted position. As shown in  FIG. 3B , device  305  may be disconnected from plug connector  310  when plug connector  310  is in the extended position. However, as device  305  is initially removed from plug connector  310 , plug connector  310  merely extends out further without disconnecting from device  310 . Once plug connector  310  is fully extended (as shown in  FIG. 3B ), device  310  may begin to disconnect from plug connector  310 . Axis  340   b  may define the orientation of plug connector  310  in the retracted position, which axis  340   b  may be at an angle  345   b  with respect to axis  340   a . As shown in  FIG. 3B , angle  345   b  may be about 30 degrees. In other embodiments, angle  345   b  may be between about 5 and 40 degrees. 
     As discussed above, the movement of plug connector  310  may be a combination of different movements, e.g., rotating and retracting into or extending out of opening  320 . A retraction mechanism  360  may guide plug connector  310  between the retracted and extended positions. As shown in  FIGS. 3A and 3B , retraction mechanism  360  may be rotatably coupled with plug connector  310 . For example, retraction mechanism  360  may include linkages or actuation members, e.g., an actuation member  370   b , that are rotatably coupled to plug connector  310 . 
     As shown in  FIGS. 3A and 3B , linkages or actuation members, e.g., actuation member  370   b , of retraction mechanism  360  may be pivotably coupled to an anchor element  365  of retraction mechanism  360 . Similar to retraction mechanism  260 , retraction mechanism  360  may be integrally formed from a single piece of material. In comparison with retraction mechanism  260 , retraction mechanism  360  is positioned on an interior surface of housing  315  opposite the interior surface on which retraction mechanism  260  is positioned within housing  215  (as shown in  FIGS. 2A and 2B ). Some embodiments of retraction mechanism  360  may be compliant mechanisms. 
     Device  305  may be docked in docking station  300  by aligning plug connector  310  with a connector of device  305  and pushing device  305  in direction  388   a  until plug connector  310  is mated with a receptacle connector of device  305 . Prior to this mating event, plug connector  310  may be in the retracted position as shown in  FIG. 3A , with a proximal end of plug connector  310  flush with an interior surface  315   a  of housing  315 . Surface  315   a  may serve to limit the retraction of plug connector  310  by physically obstructing further retraction. Hence, interior surface  315   a  may hold plug connector  310  in position—the retracted position as shown in FIG.  3 A—as plug connector  310  is mated with a receptacle connector of device  305 . 
     Device  305  may be removed from docking station  300  by pulling device  305  in a direction opposite that of direction  388   a . However, as discussed above, users may attempt to remove device  305  from docking station  300  in other ways that may potentially cause harmful off-axis forces—forces that are not along axis  340   a —to be exerted on plug connector  310 . In one example, device  305  may be pushed forward by applying a force  392  to device  305  during a removal event. In response to force  392 , retraction mechanism  360  may allow plug connector  310  to rotate in the direction of force  392  and extend farther out of opening  320 , thereby reducing the likelihood of breakage due the application of force  392 . 
     Once retraction mechanism  360  guides plug connector  310  to the extended position (as shown in  FIG. 3B ), the application of force to device  305  in direction  388   b  may cause device  315  to disconnect from docking station  300 . As shown in  FIGS. 3A and 3B , retraction mechanism  360  is designed to move plug connector  310  between the extended and retracted positions without being obstructed by housing  315 . Following the conclusion of the removal event, a biasing element may return plug connector  310  to the retracted position from the extended position. This biasing element will be discussed in further detail below. 
       FIGS. 3A and 3B  also show that throughout the refracting and extending movements of plug connector  310 , the change in orientation of the plug connector  310  may be proportional to the change in extension distance of plug connector  310 . Furthermore, distal and proximal ends of plug connector  310  may always move in opposite directions throughout the retracting and extending movements of plug connector  310 . 
     Retraction mechanism  360  may guide plug connector  310  through a range of motions that do not require opening  320  to be large and unsightly. This may be possible because the relationship between the rotation and the extension and retraction movements of plug connector  310  may ensure that the portion of plug connector  310  moving through or positioned within opening  320  remains nearly at the same position with respect to opening  320  at all times. Hence, unsightly gaps between opening  320  and plug connector  310  may be reduced in order to maintain the cosmetic appearance of embodiments of docking stations according to the present invention. 
     As discussed above, retraction mechanism  360  may also include a biasing element for biasing plug connector  310  in the retracted position (as shown in  FIG. 3A ). As shown in  FIGS. 3A and 3B , a biasing element  394  may be coupled to an actuation member of retraction mechanism  360 , e.g., an actuation member  370   b . This configuration results in a biasing mechanism that may be capable of returning plug connector  310  to its retracted position after rotating and extending into the extended position (as shown in  FIG. 3B ) in response to an applied torque, e.g., a torque resulting from the application of force  392 . The biasing force of biasing element  394  may increase as plug connector  310  moves farther from the retracted position and towards the extended position. Biasing element  394  may be a compression or tensile spring. 
     In other embodiments, a biasing element, e.g., biasing element  394 , may be coupled with more than one actuation member of refraction mechanism  360 . In yet additional embodiments, biasing element  394  may be attached at one end to the proximal end of plug connector  310  and at the other end to a position within the cavity of housing  315  such that plug connector  310  is biased in the retracted position. These biasing elements may also be implemented to hold plug connector  310  in the extended position such that the docked electronic device  305  (as shown in  FIG. 3A ) is held in position to be supported by a rest surface  315  (as shown in  FIG. 3B ) of docking station  300 . 
     Yet another embodiment of a docking station according to the present invention is shown in following figures. 
       FIGS. 4A and 4B  show cross-sectional views of a docking station  400  according to an embodiment of the present invention with a portable electronic device  405  docked therein.  FIG. 4A  shows a plug connector  410  of docking station  400  in an extended position and connected with device  405 .  FIG. 4B  shows plug connector  410  in a retracted position and nearly disconnected from device  405 . As with docking station  300 , except for those elements of docking station  400  specifically discussed below, the discussion of the elements of docking station  200  above may apply to corresponding elements of docking station  400 . In addition, the discussion of the elements of docking station  200  may still apply to some of those corresponding elements of docking station  400  specifically discussed below. 
     Docking station  400  may be movable between a retracted position and an extended position for engaging a corresponding connector of device  405 . More specifically,  FIG. 4A  shows plug connector  410  in the extended position with a plug connector  410  protruding through an opening  420  in exterior surface  425  of housing  415 . Axis  440   a  may define the orientation of plug connector  410  in the extended position, which axis  440   a  may be perpendicular with respect to the plane in which exterior surface  425  is oriented such that axis  440   a  is at an angle  445   a  with respect to vertical  450 . As shown in  FIG. 4A , angle  445   a  may be about 15 degrees. In some embodiments, angle  445   a  may be between about 10 and 35 degrees. In other embodiments, angle  445   a  may be such that plug connector  410  is orientated in a substantially vertical orientation (e.g., within about 5 degrees of vertical  450 ).  FIG. 4A  also shows plug connector  410  can be partly within an interior of housing  415  and extend through opening  420  when in the extended position. 
       FIG. 4B  shows plug connector  410  in the retracted position with plug connector  410  rotated forward (clockwise as shown) and partially retracted into housing  415  with device  405  nearly disconnected from plug connector  410 . In this retracted position, plug connector  410  still protrudes through opening  420 , but at a lesser distance as compared to the extended position. Axis  440   b  may define the orientation of plug connector  410  in the retracted position, which axis  440   b  may be at an angle  445   b  with respect to axis  440   a . As shown in  FIG. 4B , angle  445   b  may be about 30 degrees. In other embodiments, angle  445   b  may be between about 5 and 40 degrees. 
     As discussed above, the movement of plug connector  410  between the extended and retracted positions may be a combination of different movements, e.g., rotating and retracting into or extending out of opening  420 . A retraction mechanism  460  may guide plug connector  410  between the extended and refracted positions. As shown in  FIGS. 4A and 4B , retraction mechanism  460  may be rotatably coupled with plug connector  410 . Linkages or actuation members, e.g., an actuation member  470   a , may be pivotably coupled to anchor element  465  of retraction mechanism  460 . Similar to retraction mechanism  260 , retraction mechanism  460  may be integrally formed from a single piece of material. Some embodiments of retraction mechanism  460  may be compliant mechanisms. 
     Device  405  may be docked in docking station  400  by aligning plug connector  410  with a connector of device  405  and pushing device  405  in direction  488   a  until plug connector  410  is mated with a receptacle connector of device  405 . As will be discussed in greater detail below, retraction mechanism  460  may not retract plug connector  410  during this mating event despite the application of compression mating forces; this may be possible due to a biasing element that will be discussed in detail below. This biasing element may hold plug connector  410  in the extended position to facilitate the mating event. 
     Device  405  may be removed from docking station  400  by pulling device  405  in a direction opposite that of direction  488   a  and along orientation axis  440   a . However, as discussed above, users may attempt to remove device  405  from docking station  400  in other ways that may potentially cause harmful off-axis forces—forces that are not along axis  440   a —to be exerted on plug connector  410 . In one example, device  405  may be pushed forward by applying a force  492  to device  405  during a removal event. In response to force  492 , retraction mechanism  460  may allow plug connector  410  to rotate in the direction of force  492  and retract into opening  420 , thereby reducing the likelihood of breakage due the application of force  492 . 
     The retracting motion of plug connector  410  can also aid in disconnecting plug connector  410  from device  405  when retraction mechanism  460  pulls plug connector  410  away from device  405  and device  405  is pulled in direction  488   b  by a user. In this embodiment, even if device  405  is not pulled in direction  488   b , plug connector  410  will move to the retracted position (as shown in  FIG. 4B ) when force  492  is applied. As also shown in  FIGS. 4A and 4B , retraction mechanism  460  is designed to move plug  410  between the extended and retracted positions without being obstructed by housing  415 . Following the conclusion of the removal event, a biasing element may return plug connector  410  to the extended position from the retracted position. Again, this biasing element will be discussed in further detail below. 
       FIGS. 4A and 4B  also show that throughout the refracting and extending movements of plug connector  410 , the change in orientation of the plug connector  410  may be proportional to the change in extension distance of plug connector  410 . Furthermore, distal and proximal ends of plug connector  410  may always move in opposite directions throughout the retracting and extending movements of plug connector  410 . 
     In contrast with docking station  200 , a singularity may not occur when plug connector  410  is in the extended position (as shown in  FIG. 4A ). As shown in  FIG. 4A , inversion angle  490  may be about 195 degrees. However, in order for a singularity to exist, it may be necessary that inversion angle  490  be greater than about 180 degrees, but less than about 191 degrees. Accordingly, a singularity may not cause retraction mechanism  460  to be locked in the extended position when a mating force is applied in direction  488   a . Thus, plug connector  410  may not remain in the extended position during a mating event unless a sufficient biasing force is provided by a biasing element. 
     Retraction mechanism  460  may also include a biasing element  494  for biasing plug connector  410  in the extended position (as shown in  FIG. 4A ). As shown in  FIGS. 4A and 4B , biasing element  494  may be coupled to an actuation member of refraction mechanism  460 , e.g., an actuation member  470   a . This configuration results in a biasing mechanism that may be capable of returning plug connector  410  to its extended position after rotating and retracting into the refracted position in response to an applied torque, e.g., a torque resulting from the application of force  492 . As discussed earlier, biasing element  494  may also provide a sufficient biasing force so that plug connector  410  may remain in the extended position during a mating event. Biasing element  494  may be a compression or tensile spring. 
     In other embodiments, a biasing element, e.g., biasing element  494 , may be coupled with more than one actuation member of refraction mechanism  460 . In yet additional embodiments, biasing element  494  may be attached at one end to the proximal end of plug connector  410  and at the other end to a position within the cavity of housing  415  such that plug connector  410  is biased in the extended position. 
     The specific details of particular embodiments may be combined in any suitable manner or varied from those shown and described herein without departing from the spirit and scope of embodiments of the invention. Moreover, the invention may also provide other features of docking stations, such as speakers, video screen computers, and charging mechanisms. 
     The above description of exemplary embodiments of the invention has been presented for the purposes of illustration and description. It is not intended to be exhaustive or to limit the invention to the precise form described, and many modifications and variations are possible in light of the teaching above. The embodiments were chosen and described in order to best explain the principles of the invention and its practical applications to thereby enable others skilled in the art to best utilize the invention in various embodiments and with various modifications as are suited to the particular use contemplated.

Metadata:
Filing Date: 20121026
Publication Date: 20151201
Grant Date: 20151201
Priority Date: 20121026
Inventors: STANLEY CRAIG
Assignee: APPLE INC
CPC Classifications: [{"code": "G06F1/1632", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "H04M1/04", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "G06F1/1626", "inventive": true, "first": true, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "G06F1/1632", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "H04M1/04", "inventive": true, "first": false, "tree": "[]"}, {"code": "G06F1/1626", "inventive": true, "first": true, "tree": "[]"}]
Family ID: 50546945