The US Patent and Trademark Office has granted Apple an official patent on electronic accessories and covers for computer devices. More particularly, the present invention relates to a new modular expansion hub and a related system for attaching accessories to a computing device or mounting a computing device on a stand. Apple’s four patent claims state that the modular system applies to the iPad. The expandable system can transform the iPad into a mini desktop for consumers, retailers, hospitals and other applications.

They point out in Apple’s patent history that computing devices can be very efficient on their own, but they also often use a case or cover to protect a computing device from bumps, drops, scratches, scrapes, and other damage. The presence of a cover can make it difficult to plug in and secure a computing device or charger, making it unreliable, slow, or otherwise difficult. These covers similarly prevent electronic accessories connected to the computing device from being used due to interference from the cover or unwanted connection to the computing device. There is a need for continuous improvements in portable computing devices, enclosures and related parts of these systems.

Modular system of electronic devices

The patent granted by Apple relates to modular electronic device systems that can provide a more seamless and intuitive, seamless, durable and adaptable interface between a portable computing device and a cover, stand, expansion device hub and accessories that can be attached to a computing device. or to cover.

In an exemplary embodiment, the electronic device modular system may include a housing or cover for the electronic device, where the housing includes an electrical connector for making electrical contact with the electronic device, the electrical connector facing backwards from the housing (ie, the rear surface of the housing or the rear surface of the electronic device). pointing in a perpendicular direction) and fixings on the enclosure to secure the enclosure to a support base or additional device.

The support base may be detachable from the locking portion of the enclosure and may provide electrical connection to a power source, such as a power supply used to charge an electronic device, via electrical connectors embedded in or retained by the enclosure. The auxiliary device may include a locking member releasably coupled to the locking portion of the housing and electronically coupled to an electrical connector on the housing.