Modular profile adaptive channel assembly

Abstract

A modular profile adaptive channel assembly may include a plurality of modules releasably and adjustably connected to each other in a chained manner to define a common cable channel. Each of the plurality of modules may include a base, a cover removably disposed on the base, and a cable pathway defined between the cover and the base. The base may include a front connector, a rear connector, and a base fastener. The cover may include a cover fastener. The cover fastener and the base fastener may engage each other to releasably connect the cover and the base. Adjacent modules of the plurality of modules may be pivotally and releasably connected to each other via engagement of a front connector of a first module of the adjacent modules and a rear connector of a second module of the adjacent modules. The cable pathways may collectively define a common cable channel.

Description

[0001] CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0002] This application claims the benefit of and priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application Serial No. 63 / 542,890, filed on October 6, 2023, the disclosure of which is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety, as if fully set forth herein. Technical Field

[0003] The present disclosure generally relates to modular channel assemblies for holding, mounting, routing and / or protecting one or more cables, such as channel assemblies that may be used in conjunction with and / or incorporated into a vehicle, for example. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0005] Although the claims are not limited to specific illustrations, an understanding of various aspects may be gained through a discussion of various examples. The drawings are not necessarily to scale, and certain features may be exaggerated or hidden to better illustrate and explain the innovative aspects of the examples. In addition, the exemplary illustrations described herein are not exhaustive or otherwise limiting, and the embodiments are not limited to the precise forms and configurations shown in the drawings or disclosed in the following detailed description. The exemplary illustrations are described in detail with reference to the drawings as follows:

[0006] Figure 1 is a perspective view generally illustrating an embodiment of a channel assembly attached to a plurality of objects in accordance with the teachings of the present disclosure.

[0007] Figure 2 is a perspective view generally illustrating an embodiment of a module of a channel assembly according to the teachings of the present disclosure.

[0008] Figure 3 is a perspective view generally illustrating an embodiment of a cover of a module in accordance with the teachings of the present disclosure.

[0009] Figure 4 and Figure 5 is a perspective view generally illustrating an embodiment of a base of a module in accordance with the teachings of the present disclosure.

[0010] Figure 6 is a perspective cross-sectional view generally illustrating an embodiment of a module for holding a plurality of cables in accordance with the teachings of the present disclosure.

[0011] Figure 7 and Figure 8 are perspective cross-sectional views generally illustrating embodiments of modules having covers disposed in different positions in accordance with the teachings of the present disclosure.

[0012] Fig. 9 and Fig.10is a perspective view generally illustrating an embodiment of a pair of adjacent modules disposed in different positions relative to each other in accordance with the teachings of the present disclosure. Detailed Description

[0014] Reference will now be made in detail to embodiments, examples of which are illustrated in the accompanying drawings. In the detailed description that follows, many specific details are set forth in order to provide a thorough understanding of the various embodiments described. However, it will be apparent to one of ordinary skill in the art that the various embodiments described may be practiced without these specific details. In other instances, well-known methods, processes, components, circuits, and networks are not described in detail to avoid unnecessarily obscuring aspects of the embodiments.

[0015] refer to Figure 1 , depicts a modular contour adaptive channel assembly 100 for holding, installing, guiding and / or protecting one or more cables 20. The channel assembly 100 includes a plurality of modules 1101, 1102, 1103, 1104, 1105, 1106, which are pivotally and releasably connected to each other in a chain-like manner. Modules 1101-1106 may be additionally and / or alternatively considered, referred to, and / or claimed to be links, chain links, channel links, link units, link assemblies, guide assemblies, guide units, structural units and / or housings, as well as other suitable and appropriate terms. Optionally, the channel assembly 100 also includes one or more attachments 106 connected to one or more modules in the modules 1061-1106.

[0016] The channel assembly 100 and / or the modules 1101-1106 of the channel assembly 100 accommodate, receive, support and / or connect to a plurality of cables 20, secure and / or attach the cables 20 to one or more objects (e.g., support structure 10 and / or bracket 12), and guide the cables 20 along the contours of one or more objects 10, 12. The channel assembly 100 and / or one or more modules 1101-1106 of the channel assembly 100 are attached, connected, mounted, and / or secured to one or more support structures 10 (e.g., one or more parts of a vehicle, such as a vehicle floor and / or panel) via one or more brackets 12. Alternatively, the channel assembly 100 and / or one or more modules 1101-1106 may be directly attached and / or connected to one or more support structures 10.

[0017] The cable 20 may include one or more flat cables (flat cables) (e.g., a first flat cable 22A and a second flat cable 22B) and / or one or more non-flat cables (non-flat cables) (e.g., a first round cable 24A, a second round cable 24B, and a third round cable 24C). Flat cables 22A, 22B are flexible and each has a substantially rectangular cross-section. Non-flat cables 24A-24C are flexible and each has a circular and / or substantially circular cross-section. However, in different embodiments, one or more of the cables 20 may have other suitable configurations (e.g., non-flexible) and / or cross-sectional shapes (e.g., polygonal, trapezoidal, octagonal). One or more of the cables 20 include one or more electrical conductors that are overmolded and / or embedded in an insulating material that electrically insulates the conductors from each other and / or from other components. One or more of the cables 20 may be power cables that deliver power from a power source (e.g., a battery, such as a vehicle battery) to one or more electrical components.

[0018] like Figure 1 and Figure 6 , the channel assembly 100 and / or the modules 1101-1106 of the channel assembly 100 define one or more common cable channels 102. The common cable channel 102 is configured to receive and retain at least a portion of one or more cables 20, such as to secure and / or mount the cables 20 to the objects 10, 12, thereby protecting the cables 20 (at least to some extent), and / or guiding at least a portion of the cables 20 (e.g., along the contours of the objects 10, 12 and / or between two locations).

[0019] The common cable channel 102 includes a first channel portion 102A and a second channel portion 102B. The channel portions 102A, 102B are portions and / or areas of a single cable channel 102 or space, but may alternatively be separate from one another. Figure 1 and Figure 6 As shown in FIG, the flat cables 22A, 22B are disposed in and extend through the first channel portion 102A, while the non-flat cables 24A-24C are disposed in and extend through the second channel portion 102B. However, one or more different types and / or shapes of cables 20 may additionally and / or alternatively be disposed in one or more of the channel portions 102A, 102B.

[0020] The cable passages 112 and / or cable openings 124 of each of the plurality of modules 1101-1106 of the channel assembly 100 may collectively define at least a portion of the common cable channel 102. For example, Figure 1 and Figure 6 As shown in FIG. 1 , the cable passages 112 of each of the plurality of modules 1101 - 1106 of the channel assembly 100 collectively define a first channel portion 102A. The cable openings 124 of each of the plurality of modules 1101 - 1106 of the channel assembly 100 collectively define a second channel portion 102B.

[0021] like Figure 1 As generally illustrated in FIG. 1 , the channel assembly 100 includes a plurality of modules 1101-1106 (e.g., housing modules) that are pivotally and releasably connected to each other in a chain-like manner. The channel assembly 100 includes any desired number of modules 1101-1106, for example, the desired number of modules 1101-1106 can vary depending on the situation, use, and / or environment. For example, when the cable 20 extends a short distance, the channel assembly 100 can include a smaller number of modules 1101-1106. Alternatively, when the cable 20 extends a greater distance, the channel assembly 100 can include a larger number of modules 1101-1106. Due to the modular design of the channel assembly 100, the number of modules 1101-1106 can be easily changed and / or modified as needed (e.g., to accommodate and / or take into account manufacturing tolerances), so that the longitudinal length of the channel assembly 100 is highly adaptable and customizable.

[0022] Due to the modular design of the channel assembly 100, the channel assembly 100 can be more easily repaired, adapted and / or customized in a cost-effective manner, such as by simply replacing and / or swapping out one or more modules 1101-1106 to utilize one or more other modules 1101-1106. A broken and / or damaged module 1101-1106 can, for example, be disconnected and replaced with another module 1101-1106 (e.g., the same module). As another example, a module 1101-1106 can be disconnected and replaced with another module 1101-1106 having a different design and / or configuration to facilitate assembly of the cable 20 and / or adjust the path of the cable 20 (e.g., a module having an elongated linear shape can be exchanged for a different module having a curved and / or S-shape to guide the cable 20 around obstacles, reduce play in the cable 20, etc.).

[0023] The modules 1101-1106 of the channel assembly 100 can be configured to be substantially similar (e.g., identical) to one or more other modules 1101-1106 and / or can be configured to be different from one or more modules 1101-1106. The modules 1101-1106 can also include features, elements, and / or components that are substantially similar to one or more other modules 1101-1106 and / or that are different from one or more other modules 1101-1106. However, for simplicity, Figure 1 , Fig. 9 and / or Fig.10 The modules 1101-1106 of the channel assembly 100 depicted in FIG. 1 are substantially similar and / or identical to one another. Therefore, for simplicity, a single module 110 representing each of the plurality of modules 1101-1106 is shown in FIG. Figures 2 to 8 and described below.

[0024] like Figure 2 and Figures 6 to 8 As generally illustrated in FIG. 1 , the module 110 includes a cable passage 112, a cover 120, and a base 150. The base 150 and the cover 120 are separate and independent components and / or bodies. The cover 120 is releasably and / or removably connected to the base 150 so as to at least partially close and / or form the cable passage 112 between the cover 120 and the base 150. The module 110, the base 150, and / or the cover 120 generally have a rectangular shape. Alternatively, the module 110 (e.g., the base 150 and / or the cover 120 of the module 110) may have one or more other shapes, such as a curved shape, a C-shape, and / or an S-shape, etc. The base 150 and the cover 120 are constructed of a plastic material, but may additionally and / or alternatively be constructed of and / or include one or more other materials (such as, metal, rubber, ceramic, and / or composite materials).

[0025] The cable passage 112 is configured to receive at least a portion of one or more of the cables 20 (e.g., the flat cables 22A, 22B). The cable passage 112 is defined by the base 150 (e.g., the base body 152 and / or the two side walls 154, 154') and the cover 120 (e.g., the body 122 and / or the one or more walls 132, 132') and is defined between the base 150 and the cover 120. The cable passage 112 leads to the cable opening 124 of the cover 120 (e.g., in the Z direction) and has an open end facing the extension direction of the cable 20 (e.g., in the X direction). The cable passages 112 of each of the plurality of modules 1101-1106 of the channel assembly 100 collectively form and / or define at least a portion of the common cable channel 102 (e.g., the first channel portion 102A).

[0026] like Figure 2 , Figure 3 and Figure 6 130 , 132 ', 132 ', and one or more cover fasteners 140 , 140 '. The body 122 , walls 130 , 130 ', 132 ', 132 ', and cover fasteners 140 , 140 ' of the cover 120 are integrally formed with each other so that the cover 120 is an integral part. Alternatively, one or more of the body 122 , walls 130 , 130 ', 132 ', 132 ', and / or cover fasteners 140 , 140 ' can be constructed separately / independently and attached to each other to form the cover 120.

[0027] like Figure 2 , Figure 3 and Figure 6 , the body 122 of the cover 120 has a generally rectangular shape. The body 122 includes and / or defines a cable opening 124 that is configured to receive at least a portion of one or more of the cables 20 (e.g., the non-flat cables 24A-24C). The cable opening 124 opens into the cable passage 112 (e.g., in the Z direction) and has an open end facing the direction of extension of the cable 20 (e.g., in the X direction). Figure 6 , in at least some embodiments, one or more of the cables 20 (e.g., the second flat cable 22B) at least partially closes the cable opening 124 to form and / or define at least one segment of the second channel portion 102B in conjunction with the body 122. The cable openings 124 of each of the plurality of modules 1101-1106 of the channel assembly 100 collectively form and / or define at least a portion of the common cable channel 102 (e.g., the second channel portion 102B).

[0028] like Figure 2 , Figure 3 and Figures 6 to 8As generally illustrated in FIG. 1 , the cover 102 and / or the body 122 include one or more walls. The walls include one or more outer side walls (e.g., a first outer side wall 130 and a second outer side wall 130') and one or more inner side walls (e.g., a first inner side wall 132 and a second inner side wall 132'). The walls 130, 130', 132, 132' protrude vertically or obliquely (e.g., generally in the Z direction) from one or more portions of the body 122. The first side walls 130, 132 and the second side walls 130', 132' are disposed at or around opposite ends of the body 122 and / or the cover 120. The inner side walls 132, 132' extend substantially parallel to the outer side walls 130, 130' and are offset inwardly from the outer side walls 130, 130' (e.g., inwardly offset in the Y direction toward the cable opening 124).

[0029] When cover 120 is disposed on and connected to base 150 , outer sidewalls 130 , 130 ′ are each at least partially disposed in a respective recess 156 , 156 ′ of base 150 , and inner sidewalls 132 , 132 ′ are disposed adjacent to and / or in contact with respective sidewalls 154 , 154 ′ of base 150 . Optionally, when one or more cables 20 are disposed in the cable passage 112 and the cover 120 is disposed on and connected to the base 150, the body 122 and / or one or more inner side walls 132, 132' may contact the base 150 and / or the base body 152, rest on the base 150 and / or the base body 152, and / or press one or more of the cables 20 (e.g., the flat cables 22A, 22B) against the base 150 and / or the base body 152, which may reduce and / or limit movement of one or more of the cables 20 (e.g., the flat cables 22A, 22B) within the cable passage 112, within the cable opening 124, within the common cable channel 102, and / or relative to the module 110 (e.g., relative to the cover 120 and / or the base 150).

[0030] like Figure 2 , Figure 3 and Figures 6 to 8, the cover 120 includes a plurality of cover fasteners (e.g., a first cover fastener 140 and a second cover fastener 140') configured to engage corresponding base fasteners 160, 160' of the base 150 to releasably and removably connect the cover 120 and the base 150. The cover fasteners 140, 140' extend and / or protrude from the cover 120, for example, generally away from one or more portions of the body 122 and / or toward the base 150 (e.g., generally in the Z direction). The cover fasteners 140, 140' are configured to adjust, deflect, flex, etc. to engage and / or disengage corresponding base fasteners 160, 160' to connect and / or disconnect the cover 120 and the base 150. The cover fasteners 140, 140' are generally U-shaped and / or handle-shaped, which can allow a user to more easily grasp and / or actuate the cover fasteners 140, 140' (e.g., to disconnect the cover 120 and the base 150). In other embodiments, the cover fasteners 140, 140' can have one or more other shapes.

[0031] Each cover fastener 140, 140' includes one or more latching protrusions (e.g., one or more first latching protrusions 142A, 142B, one or more second latching protrusions 142A', 142B') that are configured to engage one or more tabs 162A-162C, 162A'-162C' of the corresponding base fastener 160, 160'. In some embodiments, the latching protrusions 142A, 142B, 142A', 142B' can be configured for ratcheting engagement on one or more tabs 162A-162C, 162A'-162C' of the corresponding base fastener 160, 160'. The latch protrusions 142A, 142B, 142A′, 142B′ extend and / or protrude inwardly from the cover fasteners 140 , 140 ′ generally toward the cable opening 124 and / or the inner sidewalls 132 , 132 ′ adjacent to the cable opening 124 (eg, generally in the Y direction).

[0032] like Figure 7 and Figure 8 As generally illustrated in FIG. 1 , the first cover fastener 140 includes one or more first latch protrusions 142A, 142B and is disposed on, attached to, and / or extends from an outwardly facing surface of the first outer sidewall 130. Figure 3As generally illustrated in FIG. 1 , the second cover fastener 140′ includes one or more second latch protrusions 142A′, 142B′ and is disposed on, attached to, and / or extends from an outwardly facing surface of the second outer sidewall 130′.

[0033] like Figure 2 and Figures 4 to 6 1, among other possible configurations, the base 150 has a generally rectangular configuration. The base 150 includes a base body 152, one or more walls 154, 154', one or more base fasteners 160, 160', one or more connectors 180, 180', 190, 190', and one or more attachment formations 170, 170'. The base body 152, walls 154, 154', base fasteners 160, 160', connectors 180, 180', 190, 190', and attachment formations 170, 170' of the base 150 are integrally formed with one another so that the base 150 is a unitary component. Alternatively, one or more of the base body 152 , walls 154 , 154 ′, base fasteners 160 , 160 ′, connectors 180 , 180 ′, 190 , 190 ′, and attachment structures 170 , 170 ′ may be constructed separately / independently and attached to one another to form the base 150 .

[0034] like Figure 2 and Figures 4 to 8, the base 150 (e.g., the base body 152 and / or one or more side walls 154, 154' of the base 150) includes one or more attachment structures 170, 170' configured to engage the attachment 106 to, for example, connect the attachment 106 to the base 150, the module 110, and / or the channel assembly 100. The attachment structures 170, 170' include one or more opposing L-shaped protrusions 172A, 172B, 172A', 172B' that protrude from the base body 152 away from the cover 120 and / or the cable passage 112. The L-shaped protrusions 172A, 172B, 172A', 172B' define an attachment receptacle 174, 174' that is configured to receive at least a portion of the attachment 106. The attachment structure 170, 170' also includes a protrusion and / or latching nose 176, 176' that is configured to engage (e.g., snap into engagement with) the attachment 106. The latching nose 176, 176' is disposed adjacent to the L-shaped protrusions 172A, 172B, 172A', 172B' and, in some embodiments, may protrude into the attachment receptacle 174, 174'.

[0035] like Figure 2 and Figures 4 to 6 As generally shown in FIG. 1 , the base body 152 of the base 150 is generally planar and has a generally rectangular shape. The base body 152 extends substantially perpendicular to the Z direction or obliquely relative to the Z direction.

[0036] like Figure 2 and Figures 4 to 8 As generally shown in FIG. 1 , the base 150 includes two side walls (e.g., a first side wall 154 and a second side wall 154′). The side walls 154, 154′ protrude vertically or obliquely from the base body 152 (e.g., protrude generally in the Z direction). The side walls 154, 154′ are disposed at or around opposite ends of the base body 152 and / or the base 150. Figure 2 and Figures 6 to 8 As generally illustrated in FIG. 1 , when the cover 120 is disposed on and connected to the base 150 , the side walls 154 , 154 ′ are each at least partially disposed between a respective cover fastener 140 , 140 ′ and a respective inner side wall 132 , 132 ′ of the cover 120 .

[0037] like Figure 2 and Figures 4 to 8, the base 150 and / or the side walls 154, 154' each include a recess (e.g., a first recess 156 and a second recess 156') configured to receive at least a portion of the corresponding outer side wall 130, 130' of the cover 120. The recess 156, 156' is configured as a recess that extends from the upper edge of the side wall 154, 154' toward the base body 152 (e.g., generally in the Z direction) into the side wall 154, 154'. The depth of the recess 156, 156' (e.g., generally in the Z direction) generally corresponds to and / or is substantially equal to the height of the corresponding outer side wall 130, 130' of the cover 120 to be received in the recess 156, 156'. The recesses 156, 156' are disposed in and / or defined by the side walls 154, 154', the front connectors 180, 180', and / or the rear connectors 190, 190'. For example, the recesses 156, 156' are disposed in the side walls 154, 154' between at least a portion of the front connectors 180, 180' (e.g., the pivot projections 184, 184') and at least a portion of the rear connectors 190, 190' (e.g., the pivot openings 194, 194').

[0038] like Figure 2 and Figures 4 to 8 , the base 150 and / or the side walls 154, 154' each include a base fastener (e.g., a first base fastener 160 and a second base fastener 160') that is configured to engage a corresponding cover fastener 140, 140' to releasably and removably connect the cover 120 and the base 150. At the bottom of the first recess 156, around the bottom of the first recess 156, and / or adjacent to the bottom of the first recess 156 (see, e.g., Figure 2 , Figure 7 and Figure 8 ), the first base fastener 160 is disposed on and / or attached to the first side wall 154. At the bottom of the second recess 156', around the bottom of the second recess 156', and / or adjacent to the bottom of the second recess 156' (see, for example, Figure 4 and Figure 5), the second base fastener 160' is disposed on and / or attached to the second side wall 154'. The base fasteners 160, 160' each include one or more tabs (e.g., one or more first tabs 162A, 162B, 162C; one or more second tabs 162A', 162B', 162C') that extend and / or protrude outwardly from the outwardly facing surface of the corresponding side wall 154, 154' (e.g., generally in the Y direction). The first tabs 162A, 162B, 162C of the first base fastener 160 are disposed one above the other (e.g., generally in the Z direction) to define a first column of tabs and / or form a first column of tabs (see, e.g., Figure 7 and Figure 8 ). The second tabs 162A', 162B', 162C' of the second base fastener 160' are arranged one above the other (e.g., generally in the Z direction) to define a second column of tabs and / or form a second column of tabs (see, e.g., Figure 4 and Figure 5 ).

[0039] The position of the cover 120 relative to the base 150, the proportion of the outer sidewalls 130, 130' disposed in the recess, and the size and / or one or more dimensions (e.g., height, volume, cross-sectional area) of the cable passage 112 vary based on the engagement of the cover fasteners 140, 140' and the base fasteners 160, 160' (e.g., based on which tab(s) 162A-162C, 162'-162C' of the base fasteners 160, 160' are engaged by one or more latching protrusions 142A, 142B, 142A', 142B' of the cover fasteners 140, 140'). For example, as Figure 6 and Figure 7 As generally illustrated in FIG, when the latch protrusion 142A, 142B, 142A', 142B' of each of the cover fasteners 140, 140' is engaged with the ear 162C, 162C' of the corresponding base fastener 160, 160' (e.g., disposed farthest from the recess 156, 156'), the cover 120 is disposed in a first position relative to the base 150, the outer side walls 130, 130' are completely disposed in the recesses 156, 156', and the cable passage 112 has a first size (e.g., a first height h1, a first volume, and / or a first cross-sectional area). When the latching protrusion 142A, 142B, 142A', 142B' of each cover fastener 140, 140' engages with a different tab 162A, 162A' (e.g., disposed closest to the recess 156, 156') of the corresponding base fastener 160, 160', as shown in FIG. Figure 8, the cover 120 is disposed in a second position relative to the base 150, the outer sidewalls 130, 130' are only partially disposed in the recesses 156, 156', and the cable passage 112 has a second, larger dimension (e.g., a second height h2, a second volume, and / or a second cross-sectional area). Because the size and / or one or more dimensions of the cable passage 112 of each individual module 110 are adjustable, the channel assembly 100 and / or the common cable channel 102 can accommodate different numbers of cables 20, cables 20 of various shapes and sizes (e.g., thickness), and even cables 20 whose size varies along their length.

[0040] like Figure 2 and Figures 4 to 8 As generally illustrated in FIG. 1 , the base 150 includes a plurality of connectors, such as one or more front connectors (e.g., a first front connector 180 and a second front connector 180') and one or more rear connectors (e.g., a first rear connector 190 and a second rear connector 190'). The first front connector 180 and the first rear connector 190 are disposed on, attached to, and / or protrude from opposite ends of the first side wall 154, and are disposed to be at least partially offset from each other (e.g., generally in the Y direction). The second front connector 180' and the second rear connector 190' are disposed on, attached to, and / or protrude from opposite ends of the second side wall 154', and are disposed to be at least partially offset from each other (e.g., generally in the Y direction).

[0041] The front connectors 180, 180' are each configured to pivotally and releasably engage one or more rear connectors 190, 190' (e.g., of an adjacent module 110). The front connectors 180, 180' of the modules 110 may be configured to be substantially similar (e.g., identical) to each other and / or different from each other. Additionally and / or alternatively, one or more front connectors 180, 180' of the module 110 may be configured to be substantially similar (e.g., identical) to one or more front connectors 180, 180' of one or more other modules 110 and / or different from one or more front connectors 180, 180' of one or more other modules 110.

[0042] The rear connectors 190, 190' are each configured to pivotally and releasably engage one or more front connectors 180, 180' (e.g., of an adjacent module 110). The rear connectors 190, 190' of a module 110 may be configured to be substantially similar (e.g., identical) to each other and / or different from each other. Additionally and / or alternatively, one or more rear connectors 190, 190' of a module 110 may be configured to be substantially similar (e.g., identical) to one or more rear connectors 190, 190' of one or more other modules 110 and / or different from one or more rear connectors 190, 190' of one or more other modules 110.

[0043] like Figure 2 and Figures 4 to 8 , the front connector 180, 180' includes a front connector body 182, 182'. The front connector body 182, 182' is a generally planar body that is disposed on, attached to, and / or protrudes from a front end of the side wall 154, 154' and / or a front end of the base body 152. In at least some examples, the front connector body 182, 182' can be a portion of the side wall 154, 154' and / or the front connector body 182, 182' can be defined by the side wall 154, 154'. The front connector body 182, 182' extends and / or protrudes beyond the front end and / or front edge of the base body 152 (e.g., generally in the X direction). The front connector bodies 182, 182' are configured to be offset outward from the rear connectors 190, 190' and / or the side walls 154, 154' (e.g., laterally and / or generally in the Y direction away from the base body 152) such that, for example, a distance d1 between the inward-facing surfaces of the front connectors 180, 180' (e.g., in the Y direction) is greater than a distance d2 between the outward-facing surfaces of the rear connectors 190, 190' and / or the side walls 154, 154' (e.g., in the Y direction).

[0044] like Figure 2 , Figure 4 and Figure 51 , the front connector 180, 180' includes a pivot protrusion 184, 184' configured to be received in and engage the pivot opening 194, 194' of the rear connector 190, 190' (e.g., of the adjacent module 110) to, for example, pivotably and releasably connect the adjacent modules 110 (e.g., modules 1101, 1102) to each other. The pivot protrusion 184, 184' is a generally cylindrical body disposed on, attached to, and / or protruding inwardly (e.g., generally in the Y direction) from the inwardly facing surface of the front connector body 182, 182'. The pivot protrusions 184, 184' have angled surfaces disposed at the free ends that engage, contact, and / or slide on one or more guide surfaces 192A, 192A' of the rear connectors 190, 190' to facilitate (e.g., smooth) engagement of the pivot protrusions 184, 184' with the pivot openings 194, 194' of the rear connectors 190, 190'. The pivot protrusions 184, 184' of the front connectors 180, 180' are disposed substantially coaxially with each other.

[0045] like Figure 2 , Figure 4 and Figure 5As generally illustrated in FIG. 1 , the front connector 180, 180' includes a groove 186, 186' that is configured to receive and engage a protrusion 198, 198' of a rear connector 190, 190' (e.g., of an adjacent module 110) to, for example, facilitate, guide, and / or limit adjustment (e.g., pivotal and / or rotational movement) of adjacent modules 110 (e.g., modules 1101, 1102) relative to each other. The groove 186, 186' is defined by the front connector body 182, 182' and the groove 186, 186' protrudes into the front connector body 182, 182' (e.g., laterally and / or generally in the Y direction). The groove 186, 186' is disposed in an inwardly facing surface of the front connector body 182, 182' and does not extend completely through the front connector body 182, 182' (e.g., in the Y direction). However, in other embodiments, the grooves 186, 186' can extend completely through the front connector body 182, 182' (e.g., in the Y direction). The grooves 186, 186' extend at least partially around the pivot protrusions 184, 184' (e.g., in a circumferential direction relative to the pivot protrusions 184, 184') and generally have and / or form a C-shape.

[0046] like Figure 2 , Figure 4 and Figure 5As generally illustrated in FIG. 1 , the grooves 186, 186' are rib grooves that maintain the position and / or orientation of adjacent modules 110 (e.g., modules 1101, 1102) relative to each other, at least to some extent (e.g., until a force threshold is overcome), such as by resisting adjustment and / or movement of the adjacent modules 110 relative to each other. The rib grooves 186, 186' include one or more ribs 188, 188' that extend transversely (e.g., obliquely or perpendicularly) relative to the longitudinal direction and / or longitudinal extent of the rib grooves 186, 186' and are spaced apart from each other along the longitudinal direction and / or longitudinal extent of the rib grooves 186, 186'. The ribs 188, 188' contact and / or engage protrusions 198, 198' (e.g., of the rear connectors 190, 190' of an adjacent module 110), which are disposed in the rib grooves 186, 186' to resist adjustment and / or movement of the protrusions 198, 198' within the rib grooves 186, 186', which in turn resists adjustment and / or movement of the adjacent modules 110 relative to each other. At a given time, only a subset of the ribs 188, 188' (e.g., one and / or two ribs 188, 188' disposed directly adjacent to the protrusions 198, 198') contact and / or engage the protrusions 198, 198' disposed within the rib grooves 186, 186', and the subset of the ribs 188, 188' that contact and / or engage the protrusions 198, 198' varies based on the position of the protrusions 198, 198' within the rib grooves 186, 186'.

[0047] like Figure 2 and Figures 4 to 8 As generally illustrated in FIG. 1 , the rear connector 190, 190' includes a rear connector body 192, 192'. The rear connector body 192, 192' is a generally planar body that is disposed on, attached to, and / or protrudes from the rear ends of the side walls 154, 154' and / or the rear ends of the base body 152. In at least some examples, the rear connector body 192, 192' can be a portion of the side walls 154, 154' and / or the rear connector body 192, 192' can be defined by the side walls 154, 154'. The rear connector body 192, 192' extends and / or protrudes beyond the rear end and / or rear edge of the base body 152 (e.g., generally in the X direction).

[0048] like Figure 2 and Figures 4 to 8, the rear connector 190, 190' includes a pivot opening 194, 194' that is configured to receive and engage the pivot protrusion 184, 184' of the front connector 180, 180' (e.g., of the adjacent module 110) to, for example, pivotably and releasably connect the adjacent modules 110 (e.g., modules 1101, 1102) to each other. The pivot opening 194, 194' is configured to be complementary to the pivot protrusion 184, 184'. The pivot opening 194, 194' is defined by the rear connector body 192, 192' and protrudes into the rear connector body 192, 192' (e.g., generally in the Y direction). The pivot openings 194, 194' are disposed in the outwardly facing surface of the rear connector bodies 192, 192' and optionally extend completely through the rear connector bodies 192, 192' (e.g., in the Y direction). In other embodiments, the pivot openings 194, 194' may not extend completely through the rear connector bodies 192, 192' (e.g., in the Y direction). The pivot openings 194, 194' of the two rear connectors 190, 190' are disposed substantially coaxially with each other and / or are disposed substantially coaxially with the pivot protrusions 184, 184' when engaged by the pivot protrusions 184, 184'.

[0049] like Figure 5 , Figure 7 and Figure 8, the rear connector 190, 190' includes one or more guide surfaces 192A, 192B, 192C, 192A', 192B', 192C', which are configured to contact and / or engage the pivot protrusion 184, 184' of the front connector 180, 180' (e.g., of the adjacent module 110) to guide the pivot protrusion 184, 184' to engage with the pivot opening 194, 194', for example, when connecting the adjacent module 110 (e.g., modules 1101, 1102). The guide surfaces 192A-192C, 192A'-192C' are each defined by one or more surfaces of the rear connector body 192, 192'. The guide surfaces 192A-192C, 192A'-192C' are recessed into the rear connector body 192, 192' and define a channel 196, 196'. Alternatively, in other embodiments, the guide surfaces 192A-192C, 192A'-192C' may not define a channel and / or may protrude outwardly from the rear connector body 192, 192'. The guide surfaces 192A-192C, 192A'-192C' extend longitudinally from the pivot opening 194, 194' to and / or extend through the end and / or edge of the rear connector body 192, 192'. One or more of the guide surfaces 192A-192C, 192A'-192C' (e.g., guide surfaces 192A, 192A') are inclined surfaces that protrude further / deeper (e.g., in the Y direction) into the rear connector body 192, 192A as the guide surfaces 192A, 192A' extend from the pivot opening 194, 194' toward the edge of the rear connector body 192, 192'. The angled surfaces of the pivot protrusions 184, 184' may engage, contact, and / or slide along one or more of the guide surfaces 192A, 192A' to facilitate (e.g., smooth) engagement of the pivot protrusions 184, 184' with the pivot openings 194, 194' of the rear connectors 190, 190'.

[0050] like Figure 2 and Figures 4 to 8, the rear connector 190, 190' includes a channel 196, 196' configured to receive and engage the pivot protrusion 184, 184' of the front connector 180, 180' (e.g., of the adjacent module 110) to guide the pivot protrusion 184, 184' into engagement with the pivot opening 194, 194', for example, when connecting the adjacent module 110 (e.g., modules 1101, 1102). The channel 196, 196' is defined by the rear connector body 192, 192' (e.g., the guide surfaces 192A-192C, 192A'-192C' of the rear connector body 192, 192') and protrudes into the rear connector body 192, 192' (e.g., generally in the Y direction). The channels 196, 196' are disposed in the outwardly facing surface of the rear connector bodies 192, 192' and do not extend completely through the rear connector bodies 192, 192' (e.g., in the Y direction). In other embodiments, the channels 196, 196' may extend completely through the rear connector bodies 192, 192' (e.g., in the Y direction). The channels 196, 196' extend longitudinally from the pivot openings 194, 194' to and / or extend through the ends and / or edges of the rear connector bodies 192, 192'. The depth of the channels 196, 196' (e.g., in the Y direction) increases as the channels 196, 196' extend from the pivot openings 194, 194' toward the edges of the rear connector bodies 192, 192'.

[0051] like Figure 2 and Figures 4 to 8 As generally illustrated in the figure, the rear connectors 190, 190' include protrusions 198, 198' (e.g., bumps) that are configured to be received in grooves 186, 186' of the front connectors 180, 180' (e.g., of an adjacent module 110) and engage the grooves 186, 186' of the front connectors 180, 180' (e.g., of an adjacent module 110) to, for example, facilitate, guide and / or limit adjustment (e.g., pivotal and / or rotational movement) of adjacent modules 110 (e.g., modules 1101, 1102) relative to each other. The protrusions 198, 198' are generally dome-shaped bodies that are disposed on, attached to, and / or protrude outwardly from the outwardly facing surfaces of the rear connector bodies 192, 192' (e.g., generally in the Y direction) of the rear connector bodies 192, 192'. Optionally, the protrusions 198, 198' of the two rear connectors 190, 190' are disposed coaxially with each other.

[0052] While embodiments are generally shown with cover fasteners 140, 140' including latch tabs 142A, 142B, 142A', 142B' and base fasteners 160, 160' including an array of tabs 162A, 162B, 162C, 162A', 162B', 162C', embodiments may also include the opposite configuration (e.g., cover fasteners 140, 140' including an array of tabs 162A, 162B, 162C, 162A', 162B', 162C' and base fasteners 160, 160' including an array of tabs 162A, 162B, 162C, 162A', 162B', 162C'). The base fasteners 160, 160' include latching protrusions 142A, 142B, 142A', 142B') or a combination / hybrid of these configurations (e.g., the first cover fastener 140 includes latching protrusions 142A, 142B, the second cover fastener includes an array of tabs 162A', 162B', 162C', the first base fastener 160 includes an array of tabs 162A, 162B, 162C, and the second base fastener 160' includes latching protrusions 142A', 142B'). Similarly, while the embodiments are generally shown with front connectors 180, 180' each including various features and / or elements (e.g., connector bodies 182, 182', pivot protrusions 184, 184', ribbed recesses 186, 186'), and rear connectors 190, 190' including various other features and / or elements (e.g., connector bodies 192, 192', pivot openings 194, 194', channels 196, 196', protrusions 198, 198'), '), but embodiments may also include opposite configurations or combinations / hybrids of various configurations (e.g., the first front connector 180 includes the pivot opening 194, the channel 196, and the rib groove 186, the first rear connector 190 includes the pivot protrusion 184 and the protrusion 198, the second front connector 180' includes the pivot opening 194', the channel 196', and the protrusion 198', and the second rear connector 190' includes the pivot protrusion 184' and the rib groove 186').

[0053] Modules 110, 1101-1106 may be connected to one or more adjacent modules 110, 1101-1106. Figure 1 , the third module 1103 is connected to the adjacent fourth module 1104 and the adjacent second module 1102. The front connector of the third module 1103 engages with the rear connector of the fourth module 1104, thereby releasably and adjustably connecting the third module 1103 and the fourth module 1104. The rear connector of the third module 1103 engages with the front connector of the second module 1102, thereby releasably and adjustably connecting the third module 1103 and the second module 1102.

[0054] Fig. 9 and Fig.101 , a pair of adjacent modules 1101, 1102 is depicted, which represents each pair of adjacent modules 110 (e.g., adjacent modules 1102, 1103, adjacent modules 1103, 1104, etc.) of the channel assembly 100. The pair of adjacent modules 1101, 1102 includes a first module 1101 and a second module 1102, each of which includes a cover 1201, 1202 and a base 1501, 1502. The adjacent modules 1101, 1102 are pivotally and releasably connected to each other via engagement of the front connector 1801, 1801' of the first module 1101 with the rear connector 1902, 1902' of the second module 1102. The inwardly facing surface of each first connector body 1821, 1821' of the first module 1101 faces the outwardly facing surface of the corresponding rear connector body 1922, 1922' of the second module 1102. The pivot protrusions 1841, 1841' of the first module 1101 are each disposed in a corresponding pivot opening 1942, 1942' of the second module 1102, thereby pivotably and releasably connecting the first module 1101 and the second module 1102. The protrusions 1982 of the second module 1102 are each disposed in a corresponding rib-shaped groove 1861 of the first module 1101, which guides the adjustment of the first module 1101 and the second module 1102 relative to each other. The engagement of the protrusion 1982 of the second module 1102 and the rib of the rib groove 1861 of the first module 1101 resists movement and / or adjustment of the protrusion 1982 within the rib groove 1861 and maintains the position and orientation of the first module 1101 and the second module 1102 relative to each other, at least to a certain extent. The position and / or orientation of the first module 1101 and the second module 1102 relative to each other can be adjusted by rotating and / or pivoting the modules 1101, 1102 relative to each other about the pivot protrusions 1841, 1841' (e.g., adjusting to Fig. 9 The first / linear position depicted in Fig.10 Adjacent modules 1101, 1102 may rotate and / or pivot about pivot protrusions 1841, 1841' by applying sufficient (e.g., rotational) force to overcome the resistance provided by the engagement of protrusion 1982 and the rib and adjusting / changing the position of protrusion 1982 within rib recess 1861.

[0055] The present disclosure includes but is not limited to the following embodiments:

[0056] 1. A modular contour adaptive channel assembly, comprising a plurality of modules, which are releasably and adjustably connected to each other in a chain-like manner to define a common cable channel, wherein: each module of the plurality of modules comprises: a base; a cover, which is removably arranged on the base; and a cable passage, which is defined by and between the cover and the base; the base comprises: a front connector; a rear connector; and a base fastener; the cover comprises a cover fastener; the cover fastener and the base fastener engage with each other to releasably connect the cover and the base; adjacent modules of the plurality of modules are pivotally and releasably connected to each other via engagement of the front connector of a first module of the adjacent modules and the rear connector of a second module of the adjacent modules; and the cable passage of each module of the plurality of modules collectively defines the common cable channel.

[0057] 2. An assembly according to embodiment 1, wherein: the cover fastener includes a latching protrusion; the base fastener includes an ear piece; and the latching protrusion and the ear piece engage each other to releasably connect the cover and the base.

[0058] 3. A component according to any one of the preceding embodiments, wherein: the cover fastener includes a latch protrusion; the base fastener includes a plurality of ears; the latch protrusion engages with at least one of the plurality of ears to releasably connect the cover and the base; and the size of the cable passage varies based on which of the plurality of ears is engaged by the latch protrusion.

[0059] 4. The assembly of any one of the preceding embodiments, wherein the plurality of tabs are arranged one above the other to define a row of tabs.

[0060] 5. A component according to any one of the preceding embodiments, wherein: the front connector includes a pivot protrusion; the rear connector includes a pivot opening, which is complementary to the pivot protrusion; and the pivot protrusion of the first module is arranged in the pivot opening of the second module to pivotably and releasably connect the first module and the second module.

[0061] 6. A component according to any one of the preceding embodiments, wherein: the rear connector includes a rear connector body and a guide surface; the pivot opening is arranged in the rear connector body; the rear connector body defines the guide surface; and the guide surface extends from an edge of the rear connector body to the pivot opening to facilitate the engagement of the pivot opening with the pivot protrusion of another module among the multiple modules.

[0062] 7. A component according to any one of the preceding embodiments, wherein: the rear connector includes a rear connector body and a channel; the pivot opening and the channel are arranged in the rear connector body; and the channel extends from the edge of the rear connector body to the pivot opening to facilitate the engagement of the pivot opening with the pivot protrusion of another module among the multiple modules.

[0063] 8. A component according to any one of the preceding embodiments, wherein: the front connector includes a front connector body and a groove arranged in the front connector body; the rear connector includes a protrusion; and the protrusion of the second module is arranged in the groove of the first module and guides the adjustment of the first module and the second module relative to each other.

[0064] 9. A component according to any one of the preceding embodiments, wherein: the groove of the front connector is a rib-shaped groove; and the engagement of the protrusion of the second module with at least one rib of the rib-shaped groove of the first module resists the adjustment of the protrusion within the rib-shaped groove, and maintains the position and orientation of the first module and the second module relative to each other to at least a certain extent.

[0065] 10. A component according to any one of the preceding embodiments, wherein: the front connector includes a pivot protrusion; the groove of the front connector extends at least partially around the pivot protrusion in a circumferential direction; the rear connector includes a pivot opening, which is complementary to the pivot protrusion; and the pivot protrusion of the first module is arranged in the pivot opening of the second module to pivotably and releasably connect the first module and the second module.

[0066] 11. An assembly according to any one of the preceding embodiments, wherein: the base includes a base body and a side wall extending from the base body; and the front connector and the rear connector are arranged at opposite ends of the side wall.

[0067] 12. A component according to any of the preceding embodiments, wherein: the side wall includes a recess, which is arranged between at least a portion of the front connector and at least a portion of the rear connector; and the cover includes an outer side wall, at least a portion of the outer side wall is arranged in the recess of the base.

[0068] 13. The assembly of any preceding embodiment, wherein the base fastener is disposed on the side wall of the base adjacent a bottom of the recess.

[0069] 14. A component according to any one of the preceding embodiments, wherein: the cover fastener includes a latch protrusion; the base fastener includes a plurality of ears; the latch protrusion engages with one of the plurality of ears to releasably connect the cover and the base; when the latch protrusion engages with a first ear of the plurality of ears, the outer side wall is completely disposed in the recess, and when the latch protrusion engages with a second ear of the plurality of ears, the outer side wall is only partially disposed in the recess; and the second ear is disposed further away from the bottom of the recess than the first ear.

[0070] 15. The assembly of any preceding embodiment, wherein the cover fastener protrudes from the outer sidewall of the cover.

[0071] 16. The assembly of any preceding embodiment, wherein: the cover includes an inner sidewall; and at least a portion of the sidewall of the base is disposed between the cover fastener and the inner sidewall of the cover.

[0072] 17. The assembly of any preceding embodiment, wherein the sidewall of the base and the outer sidewall of the cover are substantially aligned with each other.

[0073] 18. The assembly of any preceding embodiment, wherein the front connector and the rear connector are arranged at least partially offset from each other.

[0074] 19. The assembly of any preceding embodiment, wherein the cover comprises a cable opening, the cable opening at least partially defining a second common cable channel.

[0075] 20. A component according to any one of the preceding embodiments, comprising at least one attachment that can be selectively and releasably connected to the multiple modules, wherein: the base includes an attachment structure, and the at least one attachment can be releasably connected to the base via the attachment structure; and the at least one attachment is releasably connected to a module among the multiple modules via the attachment structure of the module.

[0076] Various examples / embodiments for various devices, systems, and / or methods are described herein. Many specific details are set forth to provide a thorough understanding of the overall structure, function, manufacture, and use of the examples / embodiments described in the specification and illustrated in the accompanying drawings. However, it should be understood by those skilled in the art that the examples / embodiments can be practiced without such specific details. In other examples, well-known operations, parts, and elements are not described in detail so as not to obscure the examples / embodiments described in this specification. It should be understood by those of ordinary skill in the art that the examples / embodiments described and illustrated herein are non-limiting examples, and therefore it can be appreciated that the specific structural and functional details disclosed herein can be representative and do not necessarily limit the scope of the embodiments.

[0077] References to "example", "in an example", "according to an example", "various embodiments", "according to an embodiment", "in an embodiment", or "an embodiment" and the like throughout the specification mean that a particular feature, structure, or characteristic described in conjunction with the example / embodiment is included in at least one embodiment. Therefore, the appearance of the phrases "example", "in an example", "according to an example", "in various embodiments", "according to an embodiment", "in an embodiment", or "an embodiment" and the like in multiple places throughout the specification do not necessarily refer to the same embodiment. In addition, particular features, structures, or characteristics may be combined in any suitable manner in one or more examples / embodiments. Therefore, the particular features, structures, or characteristics illustrated or described in conjunction with one embodiment / example may be combined in whole or in part with the features, structures, functions, and / or characteristics of one or more other embodiments / examples without restriction, as long as such combination is not illogical or inoperative. In addition, many modifications may be made to adapt a particular situation or material to the teachings of the present disclosure without departing from the scope of the present disclosure.

[0078] It should be understood that references to individual elements are not necessarily so limited, but may include one or more such elements. Any directional references (e.g., positive, negative, upper, lower, upward, downward, left, right, leftward, rightward, front, forward, rearward, rearward, top, bottom, above, below, vertical, horizontal, clockwise, and counterclockwise) are used only for identification purposes to help the reader understand the present disclosure and do not create limitations, particularly with respect to the position, orientation, or use of the examples / embodiments.

[0079] “One or more” includes a function performed by one element, a function performed by more than one element (eg, in a distributed manner), several functions performed by one element, several functions performed by several elements, or any combination of the foregoing.

[0080] It should also be understood that, although in some cases, the terms first, second, etc. are used to describe various elements in this article, these elements should not be limited by these terms. These terms are only used to distinguish one element from another element. For example, a first element can be called a second element, and similarly, a second element can be called a first element without departing from the scope of the various embodiments described. Both the first element and the second element are elements, but they are not the same element.

[0081] The terms used in the description of the various embodiments described herein are only used for the purpose of describing specific embodiments and are not intended to be limiting. As used in the description of the various described embodiments and the appended claims, the singular forms "a", "an" and "the" are intended to also include plural forms unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. It should also be understood that the term "and / or" as used herein refers to and covers any and all possible combinations of one or more of the associated listed items. It should be further understood that when used in this specification, the terms "includes", "including", "comprises" and / or "comprising" specify the presence of the features, wholes, steps, operations, elements and / or parts, but do not exclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, wholes, steps, operations, elements, parts and / or groups thereof.

[0082] References to engagement (e.g., attachment, connection, connection, etc.) should be interpreted broadly and may include intermediate members between the connection of elements, relative movement between elements, direct connection, indirect connection, fixed connection, removable connection, operational connection, indirect contact and / or direct contact. Therefore, reference to engagement does not necessarily mean that two elements are directly connected / coupled and are in a fixed relationship with each other. The connection of electrical components (if any) may include mechanical connections, electrical connections, wired connections and / or wireless connections, etc. The use of "for example" and "such as" in this specification should be interpreted broadly and used to provide non-limiting examples of embodiments of the present disclosure, and the present disclosure is not limited to such examples.

[0083] Although processes, systems, and methods may be described herein in conjunction with one or more steps in a particular sequence, it should be understood that these methods may be practiced with steps in a different order, by performing certain steps simultaneously, with additional steps, and / or by omitting certain described steps.

[0084] As used herein, the term "if" is optionally interpreted to mean "when..." or "upon..." or "in response to determining..." or "in response to detecting...", as the context requires. Similarly, the phrases "if it is determined" or "if [the condition or event] is detected" are optionally interpreted to mean "upon determining..." or "in response to determining..." or "upon detecting [the condition or event]" or "in response to detecting [the condition or event]", as the context requires.

[0085] It is intended that all matter contained in the above description or shown in the accompanying drawings shall be interpreted as illustrative only and not limiting. Changes may be made in detail or structure without departing from the disclosure.

Claims

1. A modular contour adaptive channel assembly comprising a plurality of modules that are releasably and adjustably connected to each other in a chain-like manner to define a common cable channel, wherein: Each of the plurality of modules comprises: Pedestal; a cover removably disposed on the base; and a cable passage defined by and between the cover and the base; The base comprises: Front connector; rear connector; and Base fasteners; The cover includes a cover fastener; the cover fastener and the base fastener engage one another to releasably connect the cover and the base; adjacent modules of the plurality of modules are pivotably and releasably connected to each other via engagement of the front connector of a first module of the adjacent modules and the rear connector of a second module of the adjacent modules; and The cable passages of each module of the plurality of modules collectively define the common cable channel.

2. The assembly according to claim 1, wherein: The cover fastener includes a latching protrusion; The base fastener includes a tab; and The latch tab and the tab engage one another to releasably connect the cover and the base.

3. The assembly of claim 1, wherein: The cover fastener includes a latching protrusion; The base fastener includes a plurality of tabs; The latch tab engages at least one of the plurality of tabs to releasably connect the cover and the base; and A size of the cable passageway varies based on which of the plurality of tabs is engaged by the latch projection.

4. The assembly according to claim 3, wherein: The plurality of tabs are arranged one above the other to define a row of tabs.

5. The assembly of claim 1, wherein: The front connector includes a pivot protrusion; The rear connector includes a pivot opening that is complementary to the pivot protrusion; and The pivot protrusion of the first module is disposed in the pivot opening of the second module to pivotably and releasably connect the first module and the second module.

6. The assembly of claim 5, wherein: The rear connector includes a rear connector body and a guide surface; The pivot opening is disposed in the rear connector body; The rear connector body defines the guide surface; and The guide surface extends from an edge of the rear connector body to the pivot opening to facilitate engagement of the pivot opening with the pivot protrusion of another module of the plurality of modules.

7. The assembly of claim 5, wherein: The rear connector includes a rear connector body and a channel; The pivot opening and the passage are disposed in the rear connector body; and The channel extends from an edge of the rear connector body to the pivot opening to facilitate engagement of the pivot opening with the pivot protrusion of another module of the plurality of modules.

8. The assembly of claim 1, wherein: The front connector comprises a front connector body and a groove provided in the front connector body; The rear connector includes a protrusion; and The protrusion of the second module is disposed within the groove of the first module and guides adjustment of the first module and the second module relative to each other.

9. The assembly of claim 8, wherein: The groove of the front connector is a rib-shaped groove; and Engagement of the protrusion of the second module with at least one rib of the rib-shaped recess of the first module resists adjustment of the protrusion within the rib-shaped recess and maintains, at least to some extent, the position and orientation of the first and second modules relative to each other.

10. The assembly of claim 8, wherein: The front connector includes a pivot protrusion; The groove of the front connector extends at least partially around the pivot protrusion in a circumferential direction; The rear connector includes a pivot opening that is complementary to the pivot protrusion; and The pivot protrusion of the first module is disposed in the pivot opening of the second module to pivotably and releasably connect the first module and the second module.

11. The assembly of claim 1, wherein: The base includes a base body and a sidewall extending from the base body; and The front connector and the rear connector are disposed at opposite ends of the side wall.

12. The assembly of claim 11, wherein: The side wall includes a recess disposed between at least a portion of the front connector and at least a portion of the rear connector; and The cover includes an outer sidewall, at least a portion of which is disposed in the recess of the base.

13. The assembly of claim 12, wherein: The base fastener is disposed on the side wall of the base adjacent to the bottom of the recess.

14. The assembly of claim 13, wherein: The cover fastener includes a latching protrusion; The base fastener includes a plurality of tabs; the latch tab engages one of the plurality of tabs to releasably connect the cover and the base; The outer sidewall is completely disposed in the recess when the latching protrusion is engaged with a first one of the plurality of tabs, and the outer sidewall is only partially disposed in the recess when the latching protrusion is engaged with a second one of the plurality of tabs; and The second tab is disposed farther from the bottom of the recess than the first tab.

15. The assembly of claim 12, wherein: The cover fastener protrudes from the outer sidewall of the cover.

16. The assembly of claim 15, wherein: The cover includes an inner sidewall; and At least a portion of the side wall of the base is disposed between the cover fastener and the inner side wall of the cover.

17. The assembly of claim 16, wherein: The sidewall of the base and the outer sidewall of the cover are substantially aligned with each other.

18. The assembly of claim 11, wherein: The front connector and the rear connector are arranged at least partially offset from each other.

19. The assembly of claim 1, wherein: The cover includes a cable opening that at least partially defines a second common cable channel.

20. The assembly of claim 1, comprising at least one attachment selectively and releasably connectable to the plurality of modules, wherein: The base comprises an attachment structure, the at least one attachment being releasably connectable to the base via the attachment structure; and The at least one attachment is releasably connected to a module of the plurality of modules via the attachment structure of the module.

Images