Packard Bell Nec

Heath Company

William R Cubbage

Peter A Ojeda

Eric D Fuhs

John P Wagner

Robert R Turnbull

Timothy A Bonardi

David L Plangger

Wayne L Griffin

Russell S Uithoven

Larry A Sparling

Daniel R Carter

Russell M Niedzielski

A flexible multimedia presentation system is configured to be releasably secured to a portable personal computer to provide additional features, such as a PCMCIA interface, a port replicator and other options. The system is configured to enable the unit to be rather easily transported as a unit. A retractable handle is provided which further facilitates transport of the unit. In order to provide enhanced flexibility of the flexible multimedia presentation system, the system includes a PCMCIA interface, as well as replicates the various I/O ports on the rear of the portable personal computer. By replicating the I/O ports on the portable personal computer, external I/O devices, such as an external monitor, keyboard, mouse and printer can be used when the portable personal computer is docked to the flexible multimedia presentation system. In the event that the personal computer is turned off; or the personal is not docked to the system; or the power supply within the system is unavailable, the various data, address and control signals in the flexible multimedia system are disconnected to prevent any loss of data or any damage to the personal computer and the flexible multimedia system.

Apparatus and method for automatically disconnecting address and data

A portable presentation system includes a portable personal computer with a removable LCD and a stand assembly for carrying the LCD in a detached position to enable the LCD to be viewed when detached from the portable personal computer. In accordance with an important aspect of the invention, the LCD display is formed with a hinge which enables the viewing angle of the display to be fully adjustable in both a detached and attached position. The LCD display system also includes a latching mechanism which enables the display to be latched to the computer housing in all positions, thus preventing inadvertent removal and perhaps damage to the display. The stand assembly includes a base for carrying the LCD in a detached position and enabling the LCD display to be latched thereto in all viewing angle positions while enabling the viewing angle to be varied. The stand also includes a connector that is adapted to mate with a connector on the LCD display. The connector on the stand assembly is connected to a cable, which, in turn, is connected to an adapter assembly. The adapter assembly is adapted to be latched to the portable personal computer and includes a connector for mating with a corresponding connector on the portable personal computer.

Removable LCD and stand assembly

A locking hinge for a printed circuit board includes a pair of molded end pieces defining guide tracks cooperating with tabs on one edge of the printed circuit board for permitting confined pivotal movement thereof between two positions. Slots are formed in the guide tracks for engagement with the tabs by lateral movement of the board. When the tabs are engaged with the slots, the board is restricted from pivotal movement. Stops are formed in the end pieces adjacent to the slots to positively define the two positions. Ports are provided to permit entry and removal of the printed circuit board when in an intermediate position.

Locking hinge for a printed circuit board

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Coloma, MI, United States of America

William R Cubbage