Docks, hubs and docking station systems

Abstract

This application discloses a docking station, a hub, and a docking station system. The docking station includes a body and an ejection mechanism. The body includes a housing and a circuit module disposed within the housing. The housing has a receiving cavity with an opening on one side, configured to accommodate a hub inserted through the opening. The circuit module is configured to electrically connect to the hub accommodated in the receiving cavity. The ejection mechanism includes a pusher movably disposed within the housing. The pusher is movable relative to the housing between a first position and a second position. During the movement from the first position to the second position, the pusher can eject at least a portion of the hub through the opening into the receiving cavity, allowing the hub to be detached from the docking station for separate use when needed. This allows users to flexibly select the docking station and / or the hub according to different usage scenarios.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This application relates to the field of electronic equipment technology, and in particular to a docking station, hub, and docking station system. Background Technology

[0002] Hubs expand the interfaces of mobile devices and are often used in mobile scenarios to provide basic data transmission functions. Docks are larger and are often used in desktop office scenarios. They not only allow for various structural expansions but also have built-in power supplies to power peripherals.

[0003] However, current docking stations and hubs are usually designed in a fixed integrated manner, which makes it impossible for users to flexibly separate them according to the usage scenario. When working on the go, users still need to carry a bulky docking station, while when only basic data transmission functions are needed, the hub cannot be used alone, which makes it difficult to meet the user's needs. Utility Model Content

[0004] This application provides a docking station, a hub, and a docking station system, which allows users to flexibly separate the docking station and the hub according to the usage scenario.

[0005] This application provides a docking station, which includes a main body and an ejection mechanism. The main body includes a housing and a circuit module disposed within the housing. The housing has a receiving cavity with an opening on one side, configured to accommodate a hub inserted through the opening. The circuit module is configured to electrically connect to the hub accommodated in the receiving cavity. The ejection mechanism includes a pusher movably disposed on the housing, which is movable relative to the housing between a first position and a second position. During the movement from the first position to the second position, the pusher can push at least a portion of the hub out of the receiving cavity through the opening, so that the hub can be separated from the main body.

[0006] This application provides a hub, including a hub body with a connection structure. The hub body is applied to the expansion dock as described above and can be inserted into the receiving cavity. The connection structure is used for electrical connection and cooperation with the circuit module.

[0007] This application provides a docking station system, including a docking station and a hub as described above.

[0008] Based on the docking station, hub, and docking station system of this application, the docking station body is provided with a receiving cavity for accommodating the hub, and equipped with an ejection mechanism. During the movement of the ejector component of the ejection mechanism from a first position to a second position, a pusher component can push at least a portion of the hub out of the receiving cavity through an opening, allowing the hub to be detached from the docking station for independent use when needed. This enables users to flexibly choose between the docking station and / or the hub according to different usage scenarios. Furthermore, in desktop office scenarios, users can combine the hub and docking station for rich interface and power supply support; while in mobile office scenarios, users can remove only the hub to carry, avoiding carrying a bulky integrated device, thus reducing burden and improving portability. Moreover, users can easily push the hub out of the receiving cavity using the pusher component in the ejection mechanism, achieving quick disassembly and improving the user experience. Attached Figure Description

[0009] To more clearly illustrate the technical solutions in the embodiments of this application or the prior art, the drawings used in the description of the embodiments or the prior art will be briefly introduced below. Obviously, the drawings described below are only some embodiments of this application. For those skilled in the art, other drawings can be obtained based on the structures shown in these drawings without creative effort.

[0010] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the docking station system provided in the embodiments of this application; Figure 2 for Figure 1 sectional view along line AA; Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the expansion dock provided in the embodiments of this application; Figure 4 for Figure 3 A schematic diagram of the exploded structure of the expansion dock; Figure 5 for Figure 4 A schematic diagram of the assembly of the ejection mechanism and the locking mechanism; Figure 6 for Figure 5 A schematic diagram of the assembly of the ejection mechanism and the locking mechanism from another perspective; Figure 7 for Figure 5 Exploded view of the ejection mechanism and locking mechanism; Figure 8 for Figure 7 Schematic diagram of the structure of the top abutment component; Figure 9 for Figure 7 A schematic diagram of the assembly of the central locking component and the top stop component; Figure 10 for Figure 9 Exploded view of the central locking assembly and the top stop component; Figure 11 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of a hub provided in an embodiment of this application; Figure 12 for Figure 11 A schematic diagram of the structure along the BB line.

[0011] Explanation of icon numbers: 10. Dock system; 20. Dock; 30. Hub; 100. Body; 100a. Connection structure; 110. Housing; 111. Receiving cavity; 112. Opening; 120. Circuit module; 121. Main board; 122. Connector; 200. Ejection mechanism; 210. Push-off component; 212. Mounting slot; 214. First magnetic suction component; 215. Positioning post; 216. Limiting hole; 220. First elastic component; 230. Mounting bracket; 231. First connecting part; 232. Movable passage 233. Hole; 240. Limiting groove; 250. Guide rail; 300. Fourth elastic element; 310. Locking mechanism; 311. Locking assembly; 311. Limiting buckle; 311a. Unlocking ramp; 311b. Elastic arm; 312. Second elastic element; 320. Toggle assembly; 321. Toggle lever; 321a. Through opening; 321b. Unlocking element; 321c. Second connecting part; 322. Toggle button; 323. Third elastic element; 410. Hub body; 420. Second magnetic element; 430. Positioning groove.

[0012] The realization of the purpose, functional features and advantages of this application will be further explained in conjunction with the embodiments and with reference to the accompanying drawings. Detailed Implementation

[0013] To make the objectives, technical solutions, and advantages of this application clearer, the embodiments of this application will be described in further detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0014] Where the following description relates to the accompanying drawings, unless otherwise indicated, the same numbers in different drawings denote the same or similar elements. The embodiments described in the following exemplary embodiments do not represent all embodiments consistent with this application. Rather, they are merely examples of apparatuses and methods consistent with some aspects of this application as detailed in the appended claims.

[0015] In the description of this application, it should be understood that the terms "first," "second," etc., are used for descriptive purposes only and should not be construed as indicating or implying relative importance. Those skilled in the art can understand the specific meaning of the above terms in this application based on the specific circumstances. Furthermore, in the description of this application, unless otherwise stated, "multiple" refers to two or more. "And / or" describes the relationship between related objects, indicating that three relationships can exist. For example, A and / or B can represent: A existing alone, A and B existing simultaneously, or B existing alone. The character " / " generally indicates that the preceding and following related objects are in an "or" relationship.

[0016] Unless otherwise defined, all technical and scientific terms used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which this application belongs. The terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing particular embodiments only and is not intended to be limiting of this application. The term "and / or" as used herein includes any and all combinations of one or more of the associated listed items.

[0017] Please see Figure 1 The docking station system 10 is a hardware device primarily used to expand the functionality of portable computers (such as laptops, tablets, etc.) or other mobile devices. It compensates for the ports and features that these devices lack due to size limitations by providing additional interfaces and functions.

[0018] The docking station system 10 includes a docking station 20 and a hub 30. For the sake of brevity in the accompanying drawings, Figure 1 Only partial structures of the docking station and hub are shown. Hub 30 provides basic data transmission capabilities, effectively expanding the number of interfaces on mobile terminals. It is suitable for various mobile office and travel scenarios, providing users with convenient peripheral connectivity when on the go. Docking station 20, on the other hand, has a larger size and greater functional integration, typically suitable for desktop office environments. It not only provides multiple types of interfaces to meet the access needs of different peripherals but also has a built-in power management module to ensure stable power supply to external devices.

[0019] Hub 30 can be detachably connected to docking station 20, for example, via clips or screws. When users travel or work outdoors, they often only need basic data transfer functionality. In this case, the lightweight hub 30 module can be detached and carried separately, avoiding the need to carry the bulky and heavy docking station 20. In fixed workstations or home office environments, users can plug hub 30 into docking station 20, utilizing docking station 20's rich array of interfaces (such as HDMI, USB-A, USB-C, Ethernet, card reader, etc.) and built-in power supply to power multiple peripherals, meeting the needs of high-performance workstations.

[0020] In addition, in desktop office scenarios, users can combine hub 30 with docking station 20 to obtain rich interfaces and power supply support; while in mobile office scenarios, users can take out only hub 30 to carry, avoiding carrying bulky whole devices, thereby reducing burden and improving portability.

[0021] Please see Figures 1 to 3 The docking station 20 may include a main body 100. The main body 100 includes a housing 110 and a circuit module 120 disposed within the housing 110. The housing 110 has a receiving cavity 111 with an opening 112 on one side. The receiving cavity 111 is configured to accommodate a hub 30 inserted through the opening 112. The circuit module 120 is configured to be electrically connected to the hub 30 housed within the receiving cavity 111. Specifically, the shape of the receiving cavity 111 can be adapted to the shape of the hub 30. For example, both the shape of the hub 30 and the shape of the receiving cavity 111 may be cuboid; or both the shape of the hub 30 and the shape of the receiving cavity 111 may be cylindrical. The cross-sectional area of ​​the opening 112 may be slightly larger than the cross-sectional area of ​​the hub 30, allowing the hub 30 to be smoothly inserted into the receiving cavity 111 through the opening 112 and to be easily removed from the receiving cavity 111 through the opening 112. The well-proportioned shape of the receiving cavity 111, the hub 30, and the opening 112 makes it easier for the user to insert or remove the hub 30, reducing resistance and avoiding damage caused by forced insertion. Of course, the hub 30 can be completely housed within the receiving cavity 111; or, at least a portion of the hub 30 can be housed within the receiving cavity 111.

[0022] Circuit module 120 is the core component of the docking station 20, enabling functional expansion. It typically includes a power management module, a protocol conversion module, an interface expansion module, a signal enhancement module, and an intelligent control module. The power management module provides stable power to the docking station itself and connected devices, and may include functions such as voltage regulation, current distribution, and overload protection. The protocol conversion module ensures compatibility between different communication standards, such as USB-C to HDMI and USB4 to PCIe, ensuring that various peripherals can work together. The interface expansion module integrates multiple standard interfaces (such as USB-A, USB-C, RJ45, audio interfaces, and SD card readers) to enable multi-channel access to peripherals. The signal enhancement module amplifies and optimizes video signals or data transmission, ensuring the stability of high-speed transmission. The intelligent control module is typically composed of a microcontroller or dedicated chip, supporting functions such as hot-swap identification, intelligent device matching, and dynamic power adjustment.

[0023] Please see Figures 2 to 4The docking station 20 may also include an ejection mechanism 200, which may be disposed in the housing 110. The ejection mechanism 200 can eject the hub 30 installed in the receiving cavity 111 from the receiving cavity 111. Of course, the docking station 20 can be configured to manually or electrically drive the ejection mechanism 200 to eject at least a portion of the hub 30 installed in the receiving cavity 111 from the receiving cavity 111, so that the user can remove the hub 30.

[0024] The ejection mechanism 200 includes a pusher 210 movably disposed in the housing 110, the pusher 210 being movable relative to the housing 110 between a first position and a second position. During the movement from the first position to the second position, the pusher 210 pushes at least a portion of the hub 30 out of the receiving cavity 111 via the opening 112, allowing the hub 30 to be separated from the body 100. When the receiving cavity 111 maximally accommodates the hub 30, the pusher 210 is in the first position, where there is no direct contact or only slight contact between the pusher 210 and the hub 30, and no pressure is applied to the hub 30. The user can manually or electrically drive the pusher 210 of the ejection mechanism 200 to move it towards the second position. As the pusher 210 moves towards the second position, it gradually contacts the end of the hub 30 away from the opening 112 and applies an outward thrust to the hub 30. The thrust overcomes the friction between the hub 30 and the receiving cavity 111, as well as any possible locking mechanisms (such as spring clips), without damaging the hub 30 or the docking station 20 itself. When the abutment 210 reaches the second position, at least a portion of the hub 30 is pushed out of the receiving cavity 111 through the opening 112 and a certain distance, so that the user can easily grasp and completely remove the hub 30.

[0025] Thus, the main body 100 of the docking station 20 is provided with a receiving cavity 111 to accommodate the hub 30, and is equipped with an ejection mechanism 200, so that the hub 30 can be detached from the docking station 20 for independent use when needed. This allows users to flexibly choose between the docking station 20 and / or the hub 30 according to different usage scenarios. Moreover, users can push the hub 30 out of the receiving cavity 111 through the push-stop part 210 in the ejection mechanism 200, achieving quick disassembly and improving the user experience.

[0026] Understandably, when the top abutment 210 is in the first position, the hub 30 is maximally housed within the receiving cavity 111. At this time, the hub 30 is electrically connected to the circuit module 120, and the hub 30 is used in combination with the docking station 20. The hub 30 can be considered as part of the docking station 20, increasing the number and types of interfaces of the docking station 20. As the top abutment 210 moves to the second position, it gradually contacts the end of the hub 30 away from the opening 112 and applies an outward pushing force to the hub 30, ultimately disconnecting the hub 30 from the circuit module 120. Furthermore, since part of the hub 30 extends outside the receiving cavity 111, the user can pull the entire hub 30 out of the receiving cavity 111 by clamping the part of the hub 30 extending outside the receiving cavity 111, thus separating the hub 30 from the main body 100 and satisfying the scenario of using the hub 30 alone.

[0027] Please see Figure 1 , Figure 2 and Figure 11 Specifically, in one embodiment, the circuit module 120 includes a motherboard 121, and the hub 30 includes a hub body 410. The hub body 410 has a connection structure 100a, and the hub 30 can be directly connected to the motherboard 121. For example, the motherboard 121 is provided with conductive contacts, and the connection structure 100a is an elastic pin. When the hub 30 is inserted into the receiving cavity 111, the elastic pin abuts against the conductive contacts on the motherboard 121, realizing an electrical connection between the motherboard 121 and the hub body 410. Alternatively, the motherboard 121 is provided with either a header pin or a header nut, and the connection structure 100a is the other of the header pin or header nut. When the hub 30 is inserted into the receiving cavity 111, the header pin is inserted into the header nut, realizing an electrical connection between the motherboard 121 and the hub body 410.

[0028] In another embodiment, the circuit module 120 includes a motherboard 121 and a connector 122. One end of the connector 122 is connected to the motherboard 121, and the other end extends into the receiving cavity 111. The connector 122 is configured to electrically connect to a hub 30 housed within the receiving cavity 111. The hub 30 includes a hub body 410, which has a connection structure 100a. The hub 30 achieves electrical connection with the motherboard 121 through the connection structure 100a and the connector 122. Exemplarily, the connection structure 100a is a connector on the hub body 410, and the connector 122 is a plug-in. The type of plug-in is adapted to the type of connector. When the hub 30 is plugged into the receiving cavity 111, the plug-in is plugged into the connector, achieving electrical connection between the motherboard 121 and the hub body 410. Alternatively, the connection structure 100a can also be a plug-in, and the connector 122 can be a plug socket with a connector.

[0029] The connector 122 can also be a first coil electrically connected to the motherboard 121, and the connection structure 100a is a second coil provided in the hub body 410. When the hub 30 is inserted into the receiving cavity 111, the second coil can be used as a receiving end to receive the signal transmitted by the first coil, or as a transmitting end to transmit the signal to the first coil. That is, through the coupling connection of the first coil and the second coil, the electrical connection between the hub body 410 and the motherboard 121 is realized.

[0030] Please see Figure 7 In one embodiment, the ejection mechanism 200 further includes a guide rail 240 disposed in the housing 110; the abutment member 210 is slidably connected to the guide rail 240 and configured to slide along the guide rail 240 between a first position and a second position. Thus, the presence of the guide rail 240 provides a precise sliding path for the abutment member 210, ensuring that the abutment member 210 moves between the first and second positions, and also helps reduce the risk of jamming or poor ejection of the abutment member 210 due to offset or tilting during movement.

[0031] The sliding engagement between the guide rail 240 and the top abutment 210 can have various options. For example, the guide rail 240 can be a guide rod, which can be fixedly connected to the housing 110 and pass through the top abutment 210, allowing the top abutment 210 to move along the length of the guide rod. Alternatively, the guide rail 240 can be a guide groove, with the housing 110 having a guide groove and the top abutment 210 having a protruding slider that can slide in engagement with the guide groove, allowing a portion of the top abutment 210 to slide along the length of the guide groove. Of course, there can be multiple guide rails 240, which helps improve the stability of the sliding of the top abutment 210.

[0032] In one embodiment, the abutment 210 is elongated, and there are at least two guide rails 240, which are spaced apart along the length of the abutment 210. By making the abutment 210 elongated, the length of the abutment 210 is perpendicular to the direction of movement of the guide rails 240 when pushing against the hub 30, thereby increasing the contact area between the abutment 210 and the hub 30 when pushing against it, which further helps the abutment 210 to remove at least a portion of the hub 30 from the receiving cavity 111.

[0033] In this embodiment, as Figure 4 and Figure 5As shown, the guide rail 240 is a guide rod, with one rod at each end of the top abutment 210 along its length. The two ends of the top abutment 210 are slidably fitted onto the guide rail 240. Specifically, the two guide rods can be fixedly connected to the mounting bracket 230 via insertion or threaded connection. The top abutment 210 may have two movable holes, extending through opposite sides of the top abutment 210. Each movable hole corresponds to one guide rod, which can pass through the corresponding movable hole and have a clearance fit with it. Because the top abutment 210 is a long strip structure arranged along the length of the opening 112, and its two ends are slidably connected to a guide rod, it can provide a more uniform force distribution when pushing the hub 30, and helps reduce the risk of the top abutment 210 tilting, jamming, or failing to extend properly due to uneven force at a single point.

[0034] Please see Figure 2 In one embodiment, in order for the hub 30 to be ejected only when needed by the user, the docking station 20 also includes a locking mechanism 300. The locking mechanism 300 prevents the ejection mechanism 200 from ejecting on its own when not triggered. The locking mechanism 300 can switch between a locked state and a released state.

[0035] The locking mechanism 300 is configured to lock the abutment 210 in a first position, thereby fixing the abutment 210 in the first position; or to release the abutment 210, allowing the abutment 210 to move from the first position to a second position. In the locked state, the locking mechanism 300 prevents the abutment 210 from moving from the first position to the second position, thus preventing the hub 30 from being pushed out by the abutment 210. In the released state, the locking mechanism 300 allows the abutment 210 to move when subjected to a force, thereby allowing the abutment 210 to perform an ejection action.

[0036] Please see Figure 4 and Figure 5 Furthermore, the ejection mechanism 200 also includes a first elastic member 220, which is configured to elastically deform when the abutment member 210 is in the first position, so that when the locking mechanism 300 releases the abutment member 210, the abutment member 210 can move from the first position to the second position under the action of the elastic force of the first elastic member 220.

[0037] Specifically, the first elastic element 220 can be a spring, a spring sheet structure, or a torsion spring, etc. The first elastic element 220 can be located on the side of the top abutment 210 facing away from the opening 112. When the locking mechanism 300 locks the top abutment 210 in the first position, the top abutment 210 presses against the first elastic element 220, causing the first elastic element 220 to undergo elastic deformation and be in an elastically compressed state. When the locking mechanism 300 releases the top abutment 210, the first elastic element 220 releases its elastic force, driving the top abutment 210 towards the opening 112, causing the top abutment 210 to move from the first position to the second position. By setting the first elastic element 220, the top abutment 210 automatically pops out and pushes the hub 30 with the aid of elastic force, eliminating the need for continuous manual application of external force, thereby improving the convenience and smoothness of disassembling the hub 30 from the docking station 20. One end of the first elastic member 220 can be fixedly connected to or abut against the top abutment 210, and the other end of the first elastic member 220 can be fixedly connected to or abut against the housing 110. The first elastic member 220 can also be wound around the guide rail 240.

[0038] It is understood that the first elastic element 220 can also be provided on the side of the top abutment 210 facing the opening 112. When the locking mechanism 300 locks the top abutment 210 in the first position, the top abutment 210 stretches the first elastic element 220, causing the first elastic element 220 to undergo elastic deformation and be in an elastically stretched state. When the locking mechanism 300 releases the top abutment 210, the first elastic element 220 releases elastic force to drive the top abutment 210 to move toward the opening 112, so that the top abutment 210 moves from the first position to the second position.

[0039] Please see Figure 2 , Figure 5 and Figure 7 The locking mechanism 300 may include a latch assembly 310 and a lever assembly 320. The latch assembly 310 may lock the abutment 210 relative to the housing 110, and the lever assembly 320 may unlock the abutment 210 relative to the housing 110.

[0040] In one embodiment, the locking assembly 310 includes a limiting buckle 311 disposed on the abutment member 210, and a limiting groove 233 provided on the housing 110; when the locking mechanism 300 locks the abutment member 210 in the first position, the limiting buckle 311 is inserted into the limiting groove 233; when the locking mechanism 300 releases the abutment member 210, the limiting buckle 311 disengages from the limiting groove 233.

[0041] In another embodiment, the locking assembly 310 includes a limiting buckle 311 disposed on the housing 110, and a limiting groove 233 provided on the abutment member 210; when the locking mechanism 300 locks the abutment member 210 in the first position, the limiting buckle 311 is inserted into the limiting groove 233; when the locking mechanism 300 releases the abutment member 210, the limiting buckle 311 disengages from the limiting groove 233.

[0042] Specifically, the lever assembly 320 includes a lever 321 movably connected to the housing 110. The lever 321 can move relative to the housing 110 from a locked position to a released position. When the abutment 210 is in the first position and the lever 321 is in the locked position, the limit buckle 311 is engaged with the limit groove 233. When the lever 321 moves from the locked position to the released position, the lever 321 drives the limit buckle 311 to disengage from the limit groove 233, and the abutment 210 moves from the first position to the second position under the action of the first elastic member 220.

[0043] In some embodiments, the limiting buckle 311 is movably disposed on the abutment member 210 or the housing 110. When the lever 321 moves from the locked position to the released position, the lever 321 can push the limiting buckle 311 to move, thereby causing the limiting buckle 311 to disengage from the limiting groove 233. In other embodiments, the limiting buckle 311 can be made of a material that can undergo elastic deformation, such as silicone or rubber. When the lever 321 moves from the locked position to the released position, the lever 321 and the abutment member 210 can jointly press the limiting buckle 311, causing the limiting buckle 311 to disengage from the limiting groove 233.

[0044] In other words, when the abutment 210 is in the first position and the lever 321 is in the locked position, the limit buckle 311 is engaged in the limit groove 233, thereby preventing the abutment 210 from moving from the first position to the second position under the action of the first elastic member 220, thus locking the abutment 210.

[0045] The lever 321 can move in various ways. For example, the lever 321 can be rotatably mounted on the housing 110 via a pivot; or the lever 321 can be slidably mounted on the housing 110 via a guide rail, so that the lever 321 can move relative to the housing 110.

[0046] In some embodiments, the abutment 210 or the housing 110 is provided with a mounting groove 212, and the limiting buckle 311 is movably disposed within the mounting groove 212; the locking mechanism 300 further includes a second elastic member 312 disposed within the mounting groove 212, the second elastic member 312 being configured to elastically deform when the limiting buckle 311 disengages from the limiting groove 233, so that when the abutment 210 is in the first position and the lever 321 is in the locking position, the limiting buckle 311 can be engaged into the limiting groove 233 under the action of the elastic force of the second elastic member 220. The following description uses the example of the abutment 210 having a mounting groove 212 for mounting the limiting buckle 311.

[0047] Specifically, when the lever 321 moves from the locked position to the released position, the lever 321 pushes the limiting buckle 311 to move, overcoming the force of the second elastic member 312, causing the limiting buckle 311 to disengage from the limiting groove 233. This allows the abutment member 210 to move from the first position to the second position under the action of the first elastic member 220, thereby pushing the hub 30 to move. When the user inserts the hub 30 into the receiving cavity 111, the user pushes the abutment member 210 from the second position to the first position through the hub 30. During this process, the first elastic member 220 undergoes elastic deformation and generates elastic force. When the lever 321 is in the locked position, and under the push of the hub 30, the limiting buckle 311 moves to a position opposite to the limiting groove 233, that is, when the abutment member 210 is in the first position, the limiting buckle 311 can be inserted into the limiting groove 233 under the action of the second elastic member 312, thereby locking the abutment member 210 onto the housing 110.

[0048] The second elastic element 312 provides elastic force and has a resetting function. The second elastic element 312 can be selected from various options; for example, it can be a compression spring. In a compressed state, the second elastic element 312 can store energy, thereby providing elastic force to the limiting buckle 311. One end of the compression spring can abut against the bottom of the mounting groove 212, and the other end can abut against the limiting buckle 311, causing the second elastic element 312 to be in an axially compressed state. When the abutment 210 is in the first position, the limiting buckle 311 is engaged in the limiting groove 233. When the lever 321 pushes the limiting buckle 311 to move towards the second elastic element 312, the limiting buckle 311 further presses against the compression spring, causing the limiting buckle 311 to leave the limiting groove 233, allowing the abutment 210 to move from the first position to the second position under the action of the first elastic element 220.

[0049] In other embodiments, the second elastic element 312 can be a torsion spring, comprising a torsion spring body, a first torsion spring arm, and a second torsion spring arm. The torsion spring body 100 can be the core part of the torsion spring, typically a helical metal wire, used to store and release torsional energy. The first torsion spring arm extends from one end of the torsion spring body 100 and is used to connect to the bottom of the mounting groove 212. The second torsion spring arm extends from the other end of the torsion spring body 100 and is used to connect to the limiting buckle 311. When the abutment 210 is in the first position and the lever 321 is in the locked position, the limiting buckle 311 is engaged in the limiting groove 233. At this time, the torsion spring is in a slightly torsional state and provides a certain preload, so that the limiting buckle 311 remains stable. When the lever 321 moves from the locked position to the released position, the lever 321 pushes the limiting buckle 311 against the force provided by the torsion spring, so that the limiting buckle 311 can gradually disengage from the limiting groove 233.

[0050] In some embodiments, such as Figure 9 and Figure 10 As shown, the top abutment 210 also has a limiting hole 216 that penetrates the side wall of the mounting groove 212. The limiting hole 216 is located between the bottom of the mounting groove 212 and the opening. The limiting buckle 311 has an elastic arm 311b, which passes through the limiting hole 216, so that the limiting buckle 311 will not completely detach from the mounting groove 212 during its movement within the mounting groove 212. Of course, there can be multiple limiting holes 216 and multiple elastic arms 311b, with each limiting hole 216 corresponding to one elastic arm 311b, thereby allowing the limiting buckle 311 to move more stably within the mounting groove 212.

[0051] Since the elastic arm 311b has a certain elasticity and can undergo elastic deformation, during the process of assembling the limit buckle 311 to the bottom of the mounting groove 212, the elastic deformation of the elastic arm 311b can reduce the protrusion height of the elastic arm 311b on the limit buckle 311, thereby making it easier for the limit buckle 311 to be installed into the mounting groove 212.

[0052] Please see Figure 8 , Figure 9 and Figure 10 In some embodiments, the end of the limiting buckle 311 near the limiting groove 233 is provided with an unlocking ramp 311a, the lever 321 is provided with a through opening 321a, and an unlocking member 321b is provided on the side of the through opening 321a away from the open. In the direction from the unlocking ramp 311a to the unlocking member 321b, the unlocking ramp 311a is inclined away from the lever 321. When the lever 321 is in the locked position, the limiting buckle 311 passes through the through opening 321a. When the lever 321 moves from the locked position to the released position, the movement direction of the lever 321 intersects with the movement direction of the limiting buckle 311, and the unlocking member 321b abuts against the unlocking ramp 311a and drives the limiting buckle 311 to disengage from the limiting groove 233.

[0053] Understandably, in the direction from the unlocking ramp 311a to the unlocking member 321b, the unlocking ramp 311a is inclined away from the lever 321. During the process of the lever 321 moving the unlocking member 321b from the locked position to the released position, the unlocking member 321b will contact the unlocking ramp 311a of the limit buckle 311. At this time, the force applied by the lever 321 is transmitted to the unlocking ramp 311a through the unlocking member 321b. Because the unlocking ramp 311a is inclined away from the lever 321 in the direction from the unlocking member 321b, it can vectorically decompose the positive pressure transmitted from the lever 321, that is, decompose the force originally roughly perpendicular to the limit buckle 311, to generate a component force that pushes the limit buckle 311 out of the limit groove 233. As the limit buckle 311 disengages from the limit groove 233, the abutment 210 moves from the first position to the second position under the action of the first elastic member 220. The limit buckle 311 moves to a position that is not opposite to the limit groove 233. Under the action of the second elastic member 312, the limit buckle 311 abuts against the housing 110, but does not get stuck into the limit groove 233.

[0054] When the hub 30 pushes the limit buckle 311 to the position opposite to the limit groove 233, that is, when the top abutment 210 is in the first position and the through opening 321a is opposite to the limit groove 233, that is, when the lever 321 is in the locked position, the limit buckle 311 can be inserted into the limit groove 233 under the action of the second elastic member 312, thereby locking the top abutment 210 onto the housing 110.

[0055] Please see Figure 5 and Figure 7 In one embodiment, one end of the lever 321 is rotatably connected to the housing 110, and the other end is slidably connected to the housing 110. The lever assembly 320 also includes a toggle button 322, which is slidably connected to the housing 110 and exposed outside the housing 110. The toggle button 322 is connected to one end of the lever 321 that is slidably connected to the housing 110. The toggle button 322 is configured to drive the lever 321 to move between a locked position and a released position through its own sliding. Since the position where the toggle button 322 is connected to the lever 321 is far from the pivot point (the connection point between the lever 321 and the housing 110), a long power arm is formed. When the user applies a small pushing force to the toggle button 322, due to the long power arm, a large torque is generated at the end of the lever 321, so that the lever 321 can push the limit buckle 311 away from the limit groove 233 with relatively little effort.

[0056] The toggle button 322 is exposed outside the housing 110, making it easy for the user to identify and operate. The toggle button 322 is slidably connected to the housing 110. Specifically, one or more guide rails can be installed on the housing 110, and the bottom of the toggle button 322 has a corresponding slider or groove, which cooperate to form a sliding connection; or, the surface of the housing 110 has a shallow groove as a sliding groove, and the bottom of the toggle button 322 has a protrusion embedded therein, so that the toggle button 322 can slide along the sliding groove.

[0057] Specifically, the toggle button 322 and the opening 112 are located on different sides of the housing 110. The length of the opening 112 is adapted to the length or width of the hub 30 to ensure that the hub 30 can be received into the receiving cavity 111 through the opening. By placing the toggle button 322 and the opening 112 on different sides of the housing 110, it is possible to avoid one side of the housing 110 being too long, which would affect the normal placement of the docking station 20. At the same time, it is possible to prevent the user from blocking the opening 112 of the receiving cavity 111 with their hand when using the toggle button 322, thus preventing the hub 30 from popping out normally.

[0058] Please see Figure 6 and Figure 8 The lever assembly 320 also includes a third elastic element 323, which is connected to the lever 321 and the housing 110. The third elastic element 323 provides an elastic force to drive the lever 321 from the released position to the locked position. After the user pushes the toggle button 322 to release the lever 321, if the user releases the toggle button 322, the third elastic element 323 will apply a restoring force, driving the lever 321 to automatically return to the locked position. This allows the user to unlock the lever simply by pushing the toggle button 322, without the need for manual reset, simplifying the operation process.

[0059] In some embodiments, the housing 110 includes a mounting bracket 230 disposed within a receiving cavity 111, an ejection mechanism 200 and a lever 321 disposed on the mounting bracket 230, a first connecting portion 231 on the side of the mounting bracket 230 opposite to the lever 321, and a movable through hole 232 extending along the rotation path of the lever 321; the lever 321 has a second connecting portion 321c, which passes through the movable through hole 232. The two ends of a third elastic member 323 are respectively connected to the first connecting portion 231 and the second connecting portion 321c, so that the third elastic member 323 can be fixed through two clearly defined connection points, thereby enabling the third elastic member 323 to stably provide elastic force to the lever 321.

[0060] Specifically, the mounting bracket 230 can be selected in various ways. For example, the mounting bracket 230 can be a plate structure; or it can be an open frame structure. The mounting bracket 230 can be connected to the inner wall of the receiving cavity 111 by means of screw connection or snap-fit ​​connection.

[0061] The mounting bracket 230 has a first surface and a second surface facing away from each other. A movable through hole 232 can pass through the first surface and the second surface. A first connecting part 231 is disposed on the first surface. The first surface is disposed opposite to the third elastic member 323, and the second surface is opposite to the lever 321. Thus, the lever 321 and the third elastic member 323 are located on opposite sides of the mounting bracket 230, which helps to reduce the risk of interference between the lever 321 and the third elastic member 323.

[0062] In other embodiments, the docking station 20 may electrically drive the lever 321. For example, the docking station 20 may include an electric push rod, the push rod of which may be connected to the lever 321, so that the push rod can drive the lever 321 to move.

[0063] In some embodiments, such as Figure 5 As shown, the ejection mechanism 200 also includes a fourth elastic element 250. The number of fourth elastic elements 250 can be the same as the number of first elastic elements 220. Both the first elastic element 220 and the fourth elastic element 250 can be springs, rubber springs, or silicone springs. Each end of the abutment member 210 has a first elastic element 220 and a fourth elastic element 250 respectively on opposite sides. A guide rod corresponding to each end of the abutment member 210 passes through the corresponding first elastic element 220 and fourth elastic element 250. Thus, the fourth elastic element 250 can also provide elastic force to counteract the elastic force provided by the first elastic element 220, making it easier for the user to move the abutment member 210 by pushing it through the hub 30.

[0064] Please see Figure 11 and Figure 12 The hub 30 may include a hub body 410, which has a connection structure 100a. The hub body 410 can be used to plug into the receiving cavity 111, and the connection structure 100a can be electrically connected to the circuit module 120. The hub body 410 integrates the necessary electronic components and circuits, supporting various functions such as power management, data transmission, and protocol conversion. The hub body 410 may also include various types of interfaces, such as HDMI, USB-A, USB-C, RJ45, and audio interfaces, to facilitate the connection of different peripherals.

[0065] As can be seen from the above, there are multiple options for the electrical connection between the connection structure 100a and the circuit module 120. The hub body 410 and the circuit module 120 can be electrically connected through a pin header and nut structure, a flexible pin structure, or an electrical connector.

[0066] Please see Figure 2 , Figure 11 and Figure 12 The docking station 20 also includes a first magnetic member 214 disposed on the top abutment member 210, and the hub 30 also includes a second magnetic member 420 disposed on the hub body 410. The second magnetic member 420 can magnetically engage with the first magnetic member 214. One of the first magnetic member 214 and the second magnetic member 420 can be a permanent magnet, and the other can be an iron block; alternatively, both the first magnetic member 214 and the second magnetic member 420 can be magnets. When the hub body 410 is inserted into the receiving cavity 111, the second magnetic member 420 can approach the first magnetic member 214, making it difficult for the hub body to separate from the top abutment member 210.

[0067] In some embodiments, one of the hub body 410 and the top abutment 210 is provided with a positioning post 215, and the other of the hub body 410 and the top abutment 210 is provided with a positioning groove 430. The positioning post 215 can be positioned and engaged with the positioning groove 430. When the hub body 410 is inserted into the receiving cavity 111, the positioning post 215 is inserted into the positioning groove 430 to achieve physical alignment and limiting functions, thereby ensuring that the hub body 410 and the circuit module of the expansion dock 20 can be accurately connected, avoiding poor contact due to misalignment.

[0068] In the accompanying drawings of this embodiment, the same or similar reference numerals correspond to the same or similar components. In the description of this application, it should be understood that if terms such as "upper," "lower," "left," "right," etc., indicate the orientation or positional relationship based on the orientation or positional relationship shown in the drawings, they are only for the convenience of describing this application and simplifying the description, and do not indicate or imply that the device or element referred to must have a specific orientation, or be constructed and operated in a specific orientation. Therefore, the terms used to describe positional relationships in the drawings are only for illustrative purposes and should not be construed as limiting this application. For those skilled in the art, the specific meaning of the above terms can be understood according to the specific circumstances.

[0069] The above are merely preferred embodiments of this application and are not intended to limit this application. Any modifications, equivalent substitutions, and improvements made within the spirit and principles of this application should be included within the protection scope of this application.

Claims

1. A docking station, characterized in that, include: The body includes a housing and a circuit module disposed within the housing. The housing has a receiving cavity and an opening communicating with the receiving cavity. The receiving cavity is configured to receive a hub inserted through the opening. The circuit module is configured to be electrically connected to the hub received within the receiving cavity. as well as The ejection mechanism includes a pusher movably disposed in the housing, the pusher being movable relative to the housing between a first position and a second position, and, during the movement from the first position to the second position, the pusher displaces at least a portion of the hub through the opening out of the receiving cavity, thereby allowing the hub to be separated from the body.

2. The expansion dock as described in claim 1, characterized in that, The ejection mechanism further includes: Guide rails are provided on the housing; The abutment is slidably connected to the guide rail and configured to slide along the guide rail between the first position and the second position.

3. The expansion dock as described in claim 2, characterized in that, The top abutment is elongated, and the number of guide rails is at least two, with at least two guide rails spaced apart along the length of the top abutment.

4. The expansion dock as described in claim 1, characterized in that, The expansion dock also includes: A locking mechanism is configured to lock the abutment in the first position to fix the abutment in the first position; or to release the abutment so that the abutment can move from the first position to the second position.

5. The expansion dock as described in claim 4, characterized in that, The ejection mechanism further includes: The first elastic element is configured to elastically deform when the abutment is in the first position, so that when the locking mechanism releases the abutment, the abutment can move from the first position to the second position under the action of the elastic force of the first elastic element.

6. The expansion dock as described in claim 5, characterized in that, The locking mechanism includes a limiting buckle, one of the abutment and the housing is provided with the limiting buckle, and the other is provided with a limiting groove; When the locking mechanism locks the abutment in the first position, the limiting buckle is inserted into the limiting groove; when the locking mechanism releases the abutment, the limiting buckle disengages from the limiting groove.

7. The expansion dock as described in claim 6, characterized in that, The locking mechanism further includes: A lever assembly includes a lever movably connected to the housing, the lever being movable relative to the housing from a locked position to a released position; When the abutment is in the first position and the lever is in the locked position, the limiting buckle is engaged with the limiting groove; when the lever moves from the locked position to the released position, the lever drives the limiting buckle to disengage from the limiting groove, and the abutment moves from the first position to the second position under the action of the first elastic member.

8. The expansion dock as described in claim 7, characterized in that, The top abutment or the housing is provided with a mounting groove, and the limiting buckle is movably disposed in the mounting groove; The locking mechanism further includes a second elastic element disposed in the mounting groove. The second elastic element is configured to undergo elastic deformation when the limiting buckle disengages from the limiting groove, so that the abutment is in the first position and the lever is in the locking position, the limiting buckle can be engaged into the limiting groove under the elastic force of the second elastic element.

9. The expansion dock as described in claim 8, characterized in that, The limiting buckle has an unlocking ramp at one end near the limiting groove, the lever has a through opening, and an unlocking component is provided on the side of the through opening away from the opening. In the direction of the unlocking ramp pointing to the unlocking component, the unlocking ramp is inclined away from the lever. When the lever is in the locked position, the limiting buckle passes through the through opening; when the lever moves from the locked position to the released position, the movement direction of the lever intersects with the movement direction of the limiting buckle, the unlocking member abuts against the unlocking ramp and drives the limiting buckle to disengage from the limiting groove.

10. The expansion dock as described in claim 7, characterized in that, One end of the lever is rotatably connected to the housing, and the other end is slidably connected to the housing; The lever assembly also includes: A toggle button is slidably connected to the housing and exposed outside the housing. The toggle button is connected to the lever and slidably connected to one end of the housing. The toggle button is configured to drive the lever to move between the locked position and the released position by its own sliding.

11. The expansion dock as described in claim 10, characterized in that, The toggle button and the opening are located on different sides of the housing.

12. The expansion dock as described in claim 7, characterized in that, The lever assembly also includes: A third elastic element is connected to the lever and the housing, and the third elastic element is used to provide elastic force to drive the lever from the released position to the locked position.

13. The expansion dock as described in claim 12, characterized in that, The housing includes a mounting bracket disposed within the receiving cavity, the ejection mechanism and the lever disposed on the mounting bracket, the mounting bracket having a first connecting portion on the side opposite to the lever, and the mounting bracket also having a movable through hole extending along the rotation path of the lever; the lever has a second connecting portion, the second connecting portion passing through the movable through hole; The two ends of the third elastic element are respectively connected to the first connecting part and the second connecting part.

14. The expansion dock as described in claim 1, characterized in that, The circuit module includes a motherboard and a connector, one end of which is connected to the motherboard and the other end extends into the receiving cavity. The connector is configured to electrically connect to the hub housed in the receiving cavity.

15. A hub, characterized in that, The device includes a hub body having a connection structure, the hub body being used in a docking station as described in any one of claims 1 to 14 and being able to be inserted into the receiving cavity, the connection structure being used for electrical connection and cooperation with the circuit module.

16. A docking station system, characterized in that, Includes the docking station as described in any one of claims 1 to 14 and the hub as described in claim 15.

17. The docking station system according to claim 16, characterized in that, The expansion dock also includes a first magnetic suction member disposed on the top abutment, and the hub also includes a second magnetic suction member disposed on the hub body, the second magnetic suction member being able to magnetically engage with the first magnetic suction member.

18. The docking station system according to claim 17, characterized in that, One of the hub body and the top abutment is provided with a positioning post, and the other of the hub body and the top abutment is provided with a positioning groove, and the positioning post can be positioned and engaged with the positioning groove.

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