Cable organiser

Abstract

A cable organiser 100 that may be used for electric vehicle charging cable comprises elongated, rigid, members (102, figure 1B) that may have C-shaped channel (112, figure 1B) to house a cable within and a protruding portion (118, figure 1B) running along the length of the member as to prevent the cable from being removed. The members have a connection surface (106, figure 1B) to connect members together, the connectors (110, figure 1B) in connection surface (106, figure 1B) may be magnetic, hook and loop fasteners or may have male and female elements. The cable can be folded such that the members connect with each other longitudinally, allowing the cable to be stored in a compact way (300, figure 5).

Description

Field of the Invention The present invention relates to high voltage cable organisers. In particular, the present invention relates to high voltage cable organisers for electric vehicle charging cables. Background of the Invention Electric vehicles are becoming increasingly popular as both personal, passenger and commercial vehicles. The majority of electric vehicles must be connected to a power source to be charged via a charging cable. Accordingly, many electric vehicle owners and operators carry a charging cable in their car to facilitate charging. Charging cables are prone to becoming untidy when stored, for example, in a luggage compartment of a vehicle. An unsecured cable is likely to become tangled up, the ends may not be easy to find, and the cable may even get tied in knots. This ‘cable spaghetti’ is frustrating for electric vehicle users, and also increases a risk of damage to a charging cable through coming into contact with pinch points of a vehicle, luggage, children, pets, etc. To address these issues coiled charging cables, and associated devices, such as devices configured to coil cables and store coiled cables, have been developed. In many cases, it is not easy or convenient to coil up a charging cable. The cable may be wet or dirty from being on the ground in use, the cable may resist being arranged in neat coils, and, after charging a vehicle, the user may be in a rush to leave; uninterested in carefully coiling a charging cable. Accordingly, many cables are not effectively coiled and the problem of ‘cable spaghetti’ persists. Further, coiled cables have their own disadvantages. Coiled cables often retain loose coils even when extended. These loose coils stand up away from the ground presenting a trip hazard that may be dangerous for pedestrians navigating around a plugged-in vehicle. In addition, it has been found that when in use, a coiled cable may overheat, meaning that users are encouraged to fully unfurl a coiled cable before use. Naturally this makes the set up and set down associated with each charging event more arduous, and neat recoiling even less likely. Objects and aspects of the present claimed invention seek to alleviate at least these problems with the prior art. Summary of the Invention At its most general, the present invention provides a high voltage cable organiser configured to be used in combination with other such high voltage cable organisers on a flexible cable to provide a high voltage cable assembly having compact and convenient configurations for both storage and operation. In particular, the high voltage cable organiser restricts a local flexibility of the flexible cable to reduce or eliminate disadvantages associated with flexible cables, while being separated from other high voltage cable organisers by gaps such that some flexibility is retained by the high voltage cable assembly. According to a first aspect of the invention, there is provided a high voltage cable organiser comprising: an elongated rigid element configured to be connected to a flexible cable and separated from any other such elongated rigid element on the flexible cable; the elongated rigid element comprising: a cable retaining surface configured to retain the elongated rigid element on a flexible cable; and a connection surface arranged substantially parallel to a longitudinal axis of the elongated rigid element; wherein the connection surface comprises a connector configured to connect the elongated rigid element to another such elongated rigid element to provide a compact and tidy high voltage cable assembly. The elongated rigid element comprises a length that is several times greater than a width or height of the element. In this way, the elongated rigid element may be bar, rod or baton shaped. The elongated rigid element is rigid with respect to a flexible cable to which the elongated rigid element is configured to be connected. The elongated rigid element may be substantially rigid, in other words, the elongated rigid element may comprise some flexibility, while maintaining a greater longitudinal rigidity than the flexible cable. The elongated rigid element may be formed of a single piece, or may be formed from a plurality of pieces assembled together to form the element. For example, the elongated rigid element may be formed from one extruded length of material, or several smaller lengths coupled together. The elongated rigid element is configured to be connected to a flexible cable. In other words, the elongated rigid element is configured to be removably retained upon the flexible cable. In this way, the elongated rigid element may be removed from the cable or installed upon the cable as required by the user. The flexible cable may be a flexible high voltage cable. The elongated rigid element may be separated from any other such elongated rigid element on the flexible cable. For example, two elongated rigid elements connected to a single cable may be separated by a gap. The gap may comprise the flexible cable, but no elongated rigid element. In this way, the cable assembly may be provided with rigid sections separated by flexible sections. The flexible sections may be configured to bend to allow the rigid sections to approach one another. For example, the flexible section of the cable assembly may be configured to bend such that two adjacent rigid sections may be disposed parallel and adjacent to one another. In this way, the rigid sections may be brought together to organise the cable. A plurality of elongated rigid elements may be configured to be connected to a flexible cable at intervals along the flexible cable. In other words, elongated rigid elements may be substantially evenly spaced along a flexible cable and separated from one another by gaps such that a cable assembly may be provided comprising flexible sections and rigid sections. The elongated rigid element comprises a cable retaining surface configured to retain the elongated rigid element on a flexible cable. The cable retaining surface may be a surface of the elongated rigid element configured to be in contact with a flexible cable when the elongated rigid element is installed upon a cable. The cable retaining surface may comprise a shape and / or features, e.g. clips, which enable the elongated rigid element to be retained upon the flexible cable. As a further example, the cable retaining surface may be configured to at least partially enclose or encapsulate a flexible cable. The cable retaining surface may inhibit translation of the elongated rigid element with respect to the cable in a radial direction of the cable. However, the elongated rigid element may not be inhibited from translation with respect to the cable in an axial direction of the cable, or rotation with respect to the cable in a circumferential direction of the cable. The connection surface is arranged substantially parallel to a longitudinal axis of the elongated rigid element. In other words, the elongated rigid element has a longitudinal axis arranged along a length of the elongated rigid element. The connection surface is arranged substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis, and accordingly, substantially along the length of the elongated rigid element. In this way, the connection surface is arranged substantially parallel to a central axis of any flexible cable to which the elongated rigid element is connected. Accordingly, the longitudinal axis of the elongated rigid element is arranged substantially parallel to a central axis of any flexible cable to which the elongated rigid element is connected. The connection surface comprises a connector which is configured to connect the elongated rigid element to another such elongated rigid element. The connector may connect the elongated rigid element to a further pair of such elongated rigid elements, or even to a greater plurality of elongated rigid elements. The connector may connect the elongated rigid element to an adjacent elongated rigid element, or a pair of adjacent elongated rigid elements. The connector may be configured to connect the elongated rigid element to another such elongated rigid element such that the flexible cable is folded back on itself. In use, a plurality of high voltage cable organisers are connected, at intervals, to a flexible cable to provide a high voltage cable assembly. When the high voltage cable assembly is in storage, the plurality of high voltage cable organisers may be arranged in a storage configuration which is compact and stable. In the storage configuration, each of the plurality of high voltage cable organisers is connected to another one of the plurality of high voltage cable organisers via the connectors. In this arrangement, each of the elongated rigid elements is arranged adjacent to another element, and longitudinal axes of the elongated rigid elements are arranged parallel to one another. As each of the plurality of high voltage cable organisers is separated from one another along the flexible cable, a flexible portion of cable is provided between each high voltage cable organiser and bends to allow the high voltage cable organisers to connect to one another via the connectors of their connection surfaces. In particular, each flexible portion of the flexible cable bends back on itself, i.e. follows a path through approximately 180 degrees, to allow the high voltage cable organisers to connect to one another via the connectors of their connection surfaces. As such, the high voltage cable assembly is folded in a Z-style, or concertina, arrangement. When in the storage configuration, the plurality of high voltage cable organisers are connected together to form a central rigid body of the high voltage cable assembly, and loops of flexible cable protrude from each end of the central rigid body. In this way, when in the storage configuration, the high voltage cable assembly is held in a compact, fixed and organised arrangement; the cable is not loose and cannot become tangled. As such, the high voltage cable assembly may not become untidy, e.g. cable ‘spaghetti’. For example, when stored in a compartment of an electric vehicle, the high voltage cable assembly may not be an unruly obstacle to luggage, passengers or pets in the vehicle. Ends of the cable assembly configured for connection to one of a car and a charger may be easy to find and handle by a user. Further, a risk of damage to the cable through mishandling, e.g. squashing, is reduced. In the storage configuration, one or more of the portions of the flexible cable disposed between adjacent elongated rigid elements may be used as a carry handle, improving a convenience of the high voltage cable assembly. In other words, a portion of the flexible cable that forms a loop between two elongated rigid elements that are, in the storage configuration, arranged parallel and adjacent to one another, may be held by a user carrying the high voltage cable assembly. Further, when the high voltage cable assembly is in use and not in storage, e.g. the cable is conveying electricity, the plurality of high voltage cable organisers may be arranged in an operating configuration which is at least partially extended, convenient and neat. In one operating configuration, the flexible cable may be extended such that all of the high voltage cable organisers are disconnected from other high voltage cable organisers; a fully extended operating configuration. Alternatively, in another operating configuration, the flexible cable may be extended such that some, but not all, of the high voltage cable organisers are disconnected from other high voltage cable organisers; a partially extended operating configuration. When in use to convey electricity, the high voltage cable assembly may not need to be extended to a maximum available length, i.e. a length of the flexible cable when all the high voltage cable organisers are disconnected from one another; the fully extended operating configuration. In this case, only as many high voltage cable organisers as are required need be disconnected from the plurality of high voltage cable organisers to provide a cable assembly having an appropriate length for the situation. In the fully or partially extended operating configurations, the cable may extend between a socket on a vehicle and a socket on an electric vehicle charger. For example, where a distance between a socket of an electric vehicle and a socket of an electric vehicle charger is large, the high voltage cable assembly may be fully extended. However, where a distance between a socket of an electric vehicle and a socket of an electric vehicle charger is small, the high voltage cable assembly may only be extended as far as is needed; partially extended. For example, in one scenario, only two of a plurality of high voltage cable organisers may need to be disconnected from the plurality of high voltage cable organisers to provide the high voltage cable assembly with the required length. Accordingly, the high voltage cable assembly may reduce a risk of trips and falls by having an appropriately adjustable and compact partially extended operating configuration. In use, any excess cable length remains neatly folded, i.e. some of the high voltage cable organisers remain connected together. Such a compact high voltage cable assembly may be convenient for a user and other charging infrastructure users. As each of the plurality of high voltage cable organisers is separated from one another along the flexible cable, a flexible portion of cable is provided between each high voltage cable organiser which bends to allow the flexible cable to take a non-straight path between sockets. For example, the flexible cable may bend between a substantially vertical high voltage cable organiser hanging adjacent to a plug of the cable, and a substantially horizontal high voltage cable organiser which may be disposed on a ground surface. When in an operating configuration, the high voltage cable organisers may keep the cable assembly substantially untangled. Further, the cable assembly may be weighed down by the high voltage cable organisers such that it lies along a ground surface. In this way, a risk of tripping over the cable assembly is further reduced compared to a conventional coiled cable, which may comprise loose coils even when in use which stand up from the ground surface and may cause trips or falls. To further reduce a risk of tripping over the cable, the high voltage cable organisers may comprise a highly visible element. For example, a high voltage cable organiser may be formed from a material having a bright colour, e.g. yellow. Further, the high voltage cable organiser may comprise a reflective element such as a reflective strip. By connecting together to fold a flexible cable into a Z-style or concertina folded arrangement, the high voltage cable organiser may be easy to adjust between the storage and operating configurations. In particular, it may be easier for a user to fold up a cable comprising high voltage cable organisers than to coil up a loose cable. In this way, the high voltage cable organiser provides an easy to use high voltage cable assembly. By providing a folded cable arrangement, rather than a coiled arrangement, issues related to overheating in coiled cables are avoided. Subsequent requirements for full unfurling of coiled cables to mitigate overheating issues are therefore eliminated. Further, in normal use, the elongated rigid elements function as spacers and prevent any part of the cable being in direct contact with any other part of the cable, further reducing a risk of overheating. By providing a high voltage cable organiser that may be connected to a flexible cable, the high voltage cable organiser may be retrofitted to any suitable flexible cable. Thus, a user may fit the high voltage cable organiser of the present invention to any flexible cable without damaging the flexible cable, or requiring specialist intervention. Further, the high voltage cable organiser of the present invention is vehicle independent. As such, the high voltage cable organiser may be suitable for use with any flexible cable for any electric vehicle. The cable retaining surface may be a substantially C-shaped channel configured to receive a flexible cable. The C-shaped channel may have an inner diameter sized to suit an outer diameter of a flexible cable. An opening of the C-shaped channel may be sized to allow a flexible cable to be pressed into the C-shaped channel, and to retain the flexible cable in the channel such that the cable may not exit the channel in normal use of the high voltage cable organiser. Alternatively, the C-shaped channel may comprise an opening sized to comfortably accommodate a flexible cable. In other words, a flexible cable may not need to be pressed, e.g. deformed, into the C-shaped channel. For example, the C-shaped channel may have an inner diameter that is large compared to an outer diameter of the flexible cable. Additionally or alternatively, the C-shaped channel may have a semi-circular shape so that an opening of the C-shaped channel is substantially identical to an inner diameter of the C-shaped channel. In this case, a further element such as a protruding portion or a securing element may inhibit the flexible cable exiting the C-shaped channel. The C-shaped channel may extend along a majority of a length of the elongated rigid element, such that the elongated rigid element is removably retained on the cable along a majority of its length. In this way the C-shaped channel may define a cylindrical channel configured to receive a flexible cable. Alternatively, the C-shaped channel may comprise a plurality of C-shaped channels each extending only a short distance along the elongated rigid element and arranged at intervals along the elongated rigid element such that the elongated rigid element is removably retained on the cable along its length. In this way the C-shaped channel may define a plurality of C-shaped clips. The cable retaining surface may comprise a channel having any suitable shape. For example, the channel may comprise an arc of a circle, ellipse or oval shape, the arc may comprise any suitable extent of a circumference of the shape including being defined by an obtuse or acute angle at the centre of the channel shape. Further the opening in the channel may comprise any suitable extent of a circumference of the channel shape, including being defined by an obtuse or acute angle at the centre of the channel shape. The elongated rigid element may comprise a protruding portion disposed opposite an opening of the C-shaped channel and configured to inhibit removal of any flexible cable received in the C-shaped channel. The protruding portion may protrude towards a centre of the C-shaped channel and be disposed opposite an opening of the C-shaped channel. In other words, the protruding portion may protrude radially, i.e. collinear with an extension of a radius of the C-shaped channel, to an opening C-shaped channel. In this way, a distal end of the protruding portion may inhibit removal of any cable from the C-shaped channel. Further, the protruding portion may not inhibit, but not prevent, a flexible cable being pressed into the C-shaped channel. The protruding portion may point substantially into, but not extend into, the channel. Accordingly, once in the C-shaped channel, a flexible cable may be loosely retained between the C-shaped channel and the protruding portion such that the cable is not compressed. A distance provided between an edge of the opening of the C-shaped channel and a distal end of the protruding portion may be sized to allow a flexible cable to be pressed into the C-shaped channel, and to retain the flexible cable in the channel such that the cable may not exit the channel in normal use of the high voltage cable organiser. Accordingly, the protruding portion may be provided to retain the flexible cable securely within the C-shaped channel. By pointing towards a centre of the C-shaped channel, the protruding portion may guide a flexible cable into the C-shaped channel during installation of the elongated rigid element on the flexible cable. During removal of the elongated rigid element from the flexible cable, the protruding portion, by pointing towards a centre of the C-shaped channel, may present an obstacle. A particular tool, process or skill may be required to overcome the obstacle to remove the elongated rigid element from the flexible cable. Accordingly, a risk of the elongated rigid element becoming detached from the flexible cable during normal use may be low. The connector of the connection surface may comprise a magnet. Accordingly, the elongated rigid element may be connected to another such elongated rigid element via magnetic attraction. In this way, a user may find it quick and easy to connect the elongated rigid element to another such elongated rigid element. Further, the user may find that the elongated rigid element may be connected to any other such elongated rigid element, such that a plurality of elongated rigid elements may be connected together in any order. Such a universal connector may be convenient for the user. The magnet may be arranged on the connection surface such that an outer surface of the magnet is flush with the connection surface. In this way, the magnet may not protrude out of the connection surface. Providing a connector that is flush with the connection surface may reduce a risk of damage to the connector. For example, a magnet that is embedded into the connection surface may be at a lower risk of becoming disconnected from the connection surface and lost. Further, a connector that is flush with the connection surface may provide a more compact connection of elongated rigid elements such that a compact and convenient high voltage cable assembly may be provided. The connector of the connection surface may comprise a mechanical interlock configured to connect the elongated rigid element to another such elongated rigid element. For example, the connector may comprise a pin, a socket, a tongue, a groove, or any other suitable mating feature. In some examples, the connector of the connection surface may comprise both a magnet and a mechanical interlock. The connection surface may comprise a plurality of connectors. For example, the connection surface may comprise a plurality of magnets configured to connect the elongated rigid element to another such elongated rigid element. By providing a plurality of connectors, redundancy is provided. Should one connector become dysfunctional or non-functional, the remaining functional connectors may continue to ensure a secure connection is established between high voltage cable organisers. For example, where the plurality of connectors comprises a plurality of magnets, an effect of a lost magnet on the connection between high voltage cable organisers is small. A plurality of connectors may provide a secure and stable connection between high voltage cable organisers. When a plurality of connectors is used, connection forces may be distributed between connectors. Accordingly, a required strength of each connector may be reduced, and therefore small, inexpensive and convenient connectors may be used. The plurality of connectors may be arranged to extend along a length of the connection surface. For example, connectors may be substantially evenly distributed along a length of the connection surface. In this way, connection forces may be substantially evenly distributed along a length of the connection surface, and a consistent and secure connection may be established between high voltage cable organisers. As such, high voltage cable organisers may be securely connected together to inhibit relative movement, such as rotation around a single connection point. By providing a plurality of connectors extending along a length of the connection surface, a high strength connection may be provided to provide a sturdy and secure high voltage cable assembly. The elongated rigid element may comprise: a first connection surface comprising a first connector; and a second connection surface comprising a second connector; wherein the first connector is configured to connect the elongated rigid element to a first adjacent high voltage cable organiser and the second connector is configured to connect the elongated rigid element to a second adjacent high voltage cable organiser. In other words, the elongated rigid element comprises two connectors configured to connect the elongated rigid element of the high voltage cable organiser to two other high voltage cable organisers. In this way, the high voltage cable organiser may be connected to a plurality of other high voltage cable organisers. Thus, a plurality of high voltage cable organisers may be securely and conveniently connected together to provide a compact and tidy high voltage cable assembly. The first connection surface and the second connection surface may each be portions of one surface. For example, the first connection surface may be a right hand half of a large connection surface and the second connection surface may be a left hand half of the large connection surface. Alternatively, the first and second connection surfaces may be separated from one another by a feature of the elongated rigid element such as a corner, a gap, or the cable retaining surface. The first connector may comprise a male part and the second connector may comprise a female part. As an example, a first connector may comprise a pin and the second connector may comprise a socket. In this way, the first connector and the second connector may not be identical. As such, the first connector and the second connector may not be interchangeable, i.e. components configured to mate with the first connector may not mate with the second connector and vice versa. In this way, the elongated rigid element may be configured to mate with other high voltage cable organisers in a specific configuration. By excluding other configurations, a plurality of high voltage cable organisers may not be connected together in an undesirable configuration that may cause damage to the high voltage cable assembly or inconvenience to a user. Alternatively, the first connector and the second connector may be non-identical in any suitable way. For example, the first connector may comprise a magnet having a first polarity, and the second connector may comprise a magnet having a second polarity. Such opposite polarities may produce opposing magnetic fields such that a magnet that is attracted by the first connector may be repelled by the second connector and vice versa. A plurality of high voltage cable organisers comprising such first and second connectors may be magnetically connectable in a specific configuration, while connection in an alternative configurations may be impossible due to magnetic repulsion. In this way, the plurality of high voltage cable organisers may not be connected together incorrectly. The high voltage cable organiser may further comprise an end closure provided at an end of the elongated rigid element when the elongated rigid element is connected to a flexible cable to inhibit disengagement of the elongated rigid element from the flexible cable. In other words, an end cover or closure may be provided over the flexible cable when the elongated rigid element is connected to the flexible cable to retain the elongated rigid element on the flexible cable. The end closure may prevent the elongated rigid element becoming disengaged from a flexible cable at an end of the elongated rigid element in particular. The end closure may be a cap that is configured to press or snap onto the elongated rigid element to cover an opening of the C-shaped channel and / or to cover an opening between a distal end of the protruding portion and an edge of the opening of the C-shaped channel. Alternatively, or in addition, the end closure may be formed through injection moulding and / or may be overmoulded with the elongated rigid element at least a part of the elongated rigid element and at least a part of the cable. In this way, the end closure may further secure the flexible cable within the C-shaped channel. Where the end closure comprises an end cap, the end cap may be manually removable, or may require a tool, such as a screwdriver, or even a specialised tool to disengage the end cap. The end closure may prevent the elongated rigid elements from being easily removed from the flexible cable e.g. by a child. The end closure may prevent the elongated rigid elements from being easily removed from the flexible cable by an unauthorised person, e.g. as vandalism. The high voltage cable organiser may comprise a first end closure and a second end closure; the first end closure being arranged at a first end of the elongated rigid element and the second end closure being arranged at a second, opposite, end of the elongated rigid element. By providing an end closure at each end of the elongated rigid element, the end closures may prevent the elongated rigid element becoming disengaged from a flexible cable at either end of the elongated rigid element in particular. Alternatively, the high voltage cable organiser may comprise a closure that spans a length of the elongated rigid element. In this case, the closure may cover first and second ends of the elongated rigid element. Further, the closure may cover the entire cable retaining surface to prevent access to a portion of the flexible to which the high voltage cable organiser is connected. In this way, an interior of the elongated rigid element and / or the portion of the flexible cable may be protected from damage, dirt and water ingress. The cable retaining surface may comprise a securing portion configured to extend along a portion of the flexible cable; wherein the securing portion is configured to receive a securing element configured to secure a cable to the cable retaining surface. The securing portion and the securing element co-operate to inhibit detachment of the elongated rigid element from the flexible cable. The securing portion may be located at any suitable point along the elongated rigid element. In particular, the securing portion may be located at an end of the elongated rigid element. For example, the securing portion may be located at a same end of the elongated rigid portion as an end closure. The securing element and securing portion may co-operate to provide strain relief to a flexible cable. In this way, the flexible cable may be securely constrained so as to inhibit relative motion of the elongated rigid element and the flexible cable to thereby reduce a risk of the cable becoming damaged through normal use. A plurality of securing portions may be provided. For example, a first securing portion may be located at a first end of the elongated rigid element, and a second securing portion may be located at a second end of the elongated rigid element. A third securing portion may be located between the first and second ends of the elongated rigid element. The plurality of securing portions may be configured to provide strain relief along the flexible cable. The securing element may be one selected from the range: cable tie; hose clamp; strap. The securing element and securing portion may further inhibit a translation of the elongated rigid element with respect to the cable in a radial direction of the cable. Alternatively, the securing element may comprise part of an over moulding of the rigid elongate element that connects the rigid elongate element and the flexible cable. In addition, the securing element and securing portion may inhibit translation of the elongated rigid element with respect to the flexible cable in an axial direction of the cable. Further, the securing element and securing portion may inhibit rotation with respect to the cable in a circumferential direction of the cable. In this way, the securing portion and the securing element may inhibit any relative movement of the high voltage cable organiser and the flexible cable to effectively secure the high voltage cable organiser to the flexible cable. The elongated rigid element may comprise a substantially trapezoidal prism shape such that a plurality of such elongated rigid elements tessellate when connected together to form a compact high voltage cable assembly. By comprising a substantially trapezoidal prism shape, a plurality of elongated rigid elements may tessellate when connected together to form a polygonal prism. A plurality of elongated rigid elements forming a polygonal prism shape may provide the central rigid body of the high voltage cable assembly formed by a plurality of high voltage cable organisers in the storage configuration. Alternatively, the elongated rigid element may comprise a substantially triangular prism shape such that a plurality of such elongated rigid elements tessellate when connected together to form a compact high voltage cable assembly. Alternatively, the elongated rigid element may comprise a substantially rectangular prism shape, having a flat, plate like form, such that a plurality of such elongated rigid elements are stackable to form a stack of elongated rigid elements. The polygonal prism shape may, for example, be a hexagonal prism comprising six high voltage cable organisers, or a pentagonal prism comprising five high voltage cable organisers. The inventors have found a high voltage cable assembly comprising five high voltage cable organisers to be optimal. By providing a high voltage cable assembly comprising an odd number of high voltage cable organisers, the two ends of the high voltage cable assembly may be disposed on opposite sides of the central rigid body of the high voltage cable assembly when in the storage configuration. Further, when the high voltage cable assembly is in a semi-extended configuration where only two of the plurality of high voltage cable organisers are disconnected from the plurality of high voltage cable organisers, the two ends of the high voltage cable assembly remain disposed on opposite sides of the plurality of high voltage cable organisers. This may be convenient for the user as fewer high voltage cable organisers may need to be disconnected from the plurality to achieve a desired cable length, and any folded portions of the high voltage cable assembly may lie compactly along the cable. By connecting together to form a polygonal prism, the high voltage cable organisers may be separated from one another by equal lengths of flexible cable. Further, in this configuration, the high voltage cable organisers may be connected in any order which may be easy and convenient for the user. According to a second aspect of the invention, there is provided a high voltage cable organiser assembly comprising a plurality of high voltage cable organisers, the plurality of high voltage cable organisers being configured to be connected together to provide a compact and tidy high voltage cable organiser assembly. The high voltage cable organiser assembly may comprise five high voltage cable organisers. When in the storage configuration, the high voltage cable organiser assembly may form a polygonal prism. The high voltage cable organiser assembly may comprise a primary release mechanism and a secondary release mechanism. The primary release mechanism may be used to release the high voltage cable organiser assembly from the storage configuration into the partially extended operating configuration. That is to say, the primary release mechanism may be operable to disconnect two high voltage cable organisers from the plurality of high voltage cable organisers, and each other. The secondary release mechanism may be used to release the high voltage cable organiser assembly from the partially extended operating configuration into the fully extended operating configuration. That is to say, the secondary release mechanism may be operable to disconnect the remaining plurality of high voltage cable organisers from each other. For example, where the high voltage cable organiser assembly comprises five high voltage cable organisers, the primary release mechanism may be operable to disconnect a high voltage cable organiser disposed adjacent to a first end of the flexible cable and a high voltage cable organiser disposed adjacent to a second end of the flexible cable from any other high voltage cable organiser. Subsequently, the secondary release mechanism may be operable to disconnect the remaining three high voltage cable organisers from any other high voltage cable organiser such that the high voltage cable organiser assembly is in the fully extended operating configuration. In this way, it may be easy for a user to select which operating configuration is required and operate the correct release mechanisms to achieve said operating configuration. Instead of trying to work out how many high voltage cable organisers should be disconnected, which one are which, and how the chosen high voltage cable organisers are disconnected, a user may simply operate one of two release mechanisms to achieve their desired configuration. In the case where the connectors of the high voltage cable organisers are magnets, the primary release mechanism may comprise merely overcoming attraction forces of the magnets of the two high voltage cable organisers that are disposed adjacent to first and second ends of the flexible cable. The secondary release mechanism may comprise disconnecting a mechanical interlock to allow the other high voltage cable organisers to be separated from one another. According to a third aspect of the invention, there is provided a high voltage cable assembly comprising: the high voltage cable organiser assembly; and a flexible cable comprising: a first connector disposed at a first end and configured to be connected to an electric vehicle; and a second connector disposed at a second, opposite, end and configured to be connected to a power source. The high voltage cable organiser assembly and flexible cable may be assembled together to provide a compact and convenient high voltage cable assembly. Once assembled, the high voltage cable assembly may be stored in a storage configuration, and deployed in an extended or semi-extended configuration. The high voltage cable organisers may be connected to the flexible cable and to one another such that the flexible cable is folded. The second connector of the flexible cable may be a Type 2 connector which is configured to be connected to an electric vehicle charger. Alternatively, the second connector of the flexible cable may be a mains plug connector configured to be connected to a mains alternating current socket. When the second connector of the flexible cable is a mains plug connector, the high voltage cable organiser assembly may comprise an in-line control box configured to control a vehicle charging process. In some embodiments, one of the plurality of elongated rigid elements may comprise an integrated in-line control box, with the control box being integrated into one of the elongated rigid elements and being connectable to the other elongated rigid elements in same manner. For example, the in-line control box may comprise communications modules configured to receive data from a vehicle and transmit data to charging equipment and / or may comprises a current regulator. Accordingly, the high voltage cable organiser assembly may comprise a high voltage cable organiser comprising the in-line control box. Each of the plurality of elongated rigid elements may be secured to the flexible cable at intervals along the flexible cable. The elongated rigid elements may be secured to the flexible cable by virtue of a shape of the elongated rigid element. For example, a C-shaped cable retaining surface and a protruding portion may serve to retain the elongated rigid elements on the flexible cable. Additionally or alternatively, the elongated rigid elements may be secured to the flexible cable by a securing component such as a cap or closure. Such a cap or closure may be an overmoulded part. Further, a securing element, such as a cable tie, clip or strap, may be used to secure the elongated rigid elements onto the flexible cable. The flexible cable may be configured to be folded back on itself in a concertina-style arrangement when the plurality of high voltage cable organisers are connected together to provide a compact and tidy high voltage cable assembly. Specifically, each flexible portion of the flexible cable disposed between adjacent high voltage cable organisers is configured to bend back on itself, i.e. follow a path through approximately 180 degrees, to allow the high voltage cable organisers to connect to one another via the connectors of their connection surfaces. Brief Description of the Drawings Embodiments of the present invention will now be described by way of example only and with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which: Figure 1A illustrates a schematic isometric view of a high voltage cable organiser according to a first embodiment of a first aspect of the invention; Figure 1B illustrates a schematic side view of the high voltage cable organiser of Fig. 1; Figure 2 illustrates a schematic isometric view of a high voltage cable organiser assembly according to a first embodiment of a second aspect of the invention; Figure 3 illustrates a schematic isometric view of a high voltage cable assembly according to a first embodiment of a third aspect of the invention in a fully extended operating configuration; Figure 4 illustrates the high voltage cable assembly of Figure 3 in a partially extended operating configuration; and Figure 5 illustrates the high voltage cable assembly of Figure 3 in a storage configuration. Detailed Description With reference to Figs. 1A and 1B, a high voltage cable organiser 100 is shown. The high voltage cable organiser 100 comprising: an elongated rigid element 102 configured to be connected to a flexible cable and separated from any other such elongated rigid element on the flexible cable; the elongated rigid element 102 comprising: a cable retaining surface 104 configured to retain the elongated rigid element 102 on a flexible cable; and a connection surface 106 arranged substantially parallel to a longitudinal axis 108 of the elongated rigid element 102; wherein the connection surface 106 comprises a connector 110 configured to connect the elongated rigid element 102 to another such elongated rigid element to provide a compact and tidy high voltage cable assembly. As shown in Fig. 1A, the elongated rigid element 102 is many times longer than it is wide or tall. As shown in Fig. 1B, when viewed from one end, the elongated rigid element 102 is substantially trapezium shaped. In other words, the elongated rigid element 102 is substantially trapezoidal prism shaped. The cable retaining surface 104 of the elongated rigid element 102 is a C-shaped channel 112 which is arranged substantially centrally within the elongated rigid element 102. The C-shaped channel 112 has an opening through which the C-shaped channel 112 receives a flexible cable. The opening is defined between a first end 114a of an arc defining the C-shaped channel and a second end 114b of the arc defining the C-shaped channel. The elongated rigid element 102 has a protruding portion 116 which is located opposite to the opening of the C-shaped channel 112 and points towards a centre of the C-shaped channel 112. A distal end 118 of the protruding portion 116 and the first end 114a of the arc defining the C-shaped channel define a restricted opening through which a flexible cable is installed into the C-shaped channel 112. During installation of a flexible cable, the protruding portion 116 may be deformed by a cable being pressed through the restricted opening into the C-shaped channel 112. The protruding portion 116 may be deformed such that the distal end 118 is bent away from the first end 114a of the arc defining the C-shaped channel. In Fig. 1B, the distal end 118 of the protruding portion must be bent downwards to expand the restricted opening. In this way, the restricted opening may be expanded to permit the cable to enter the C-shaped channel 112. During removal of the cable from the C-shaped channel 112, the protruding portion 116 may also need to be deformed, i.e. bent, to expand the restricted opening to permit the cable to exit the C-shaped channel 112. A force required to deform the protruding portion 116 to expand the restricted opening and a force required to install the cable into the C-shaped channel 112 act in substantially similar directions. Whereas, a force required to deform the protruding portion 116 to expand the restricted opening and a force required to remove the cable from the C-shaped channel 112 act in substantially opposite directions. As such, in contrast to installation, the cable may not be used to exert the force required to deform the protruding portion 116 during removal. Accordingly, the protruding portion may act to inhibit removal of the cable from the C-shaped channel during normal use. The connection surface 106 comprises a plurality of magnets 110 which are distributed along the connection surface 106. The magnets are received in recessed formed in the connection surface 106. The elongated rigid element 102 has a first securing portion 120a located at a first end and a second securing portion 120b located at a second end. The securing portions 120a, 120b extend from the cable retaining surface 104 beyond the C-shaped channel 112. The securing portions 120a, 120b are each curved tubes through which a securing element, such as a cable tie, is configured to pass. When the elongated rigid element 102 is installed on a flexible cable, the securing element is passed around the flexible cable and tightened to secure the elongated rigid element 102 to the flexible cable. The securing element inhibits any relative movement of the elongated rigid element 102 and the flexible cable. With reference to Fig. 2, a high voltage cable organiser assembly 200 is shown. The high voltage cable organiser assembly 200 comprises a plurality of the high voltage cable organisers 100 of Figs. 1A and 1B. The plurality of high voltage cable organisers 100 are connected together to provide a compact and tidy high voltage cable organiser assembly 200. Each high voltage cable organiser 100 is connected to two other high voltage cable organisers 100. In Fig. 2, the high voltage cable organiser assembly 200 comprises five high voltage cable organisers 100. Each of the high voltage cable organisers 100 comprises a substantially trapezoidal prism shape such that the five high voltage cable organisers 100 tessellate when connected together to form the high voltage cable assembly 200. The high voltage cable assembly 200 is compact and convenient. The high voltage cable organiser assembly 200 has a substantially pentagonal prism shape. Further, the high voltage cable organiser assembly 200 is hollow, comprising a substantially pentagonal central longitudinal hole. An end closure 202 is shown in Fig. 2. The end closure 202 is located at an end of the elongated rigid element 102 of one of the high voltage cable organisers 100. When the high voltage cable organiser 100 is connected to a flexible cable, the end closure acts to inhibit disengagement of the high voltage cable organiser 100 from the flexible cable. The end closure 202 covers the restricted opening through which a flexible cable is installed on the cable retaining surface 104. In this way, when the end closure 202 is installed on the high voltage cable organiser 100, no cable may be removed from, or installed on the cable retaining surface 104, i.e. in the C-shaped channel 112. The end closure 202 comprises an aperture configured to receive a flexible cable. The end closure is configured to snap or press onto the high voltage cable organiser 100 after the high voltage cable organiser 100 is connected to a flexible cable. With reference to Fig. 3, a high voltage cable assembly 300 is shown. The high voltage cable assembly 300 comprises: the high voltage cable organiser assembly 200 comprising five high voltage cable organisers 100; and a flexible cable 302 comprising: a first connector 304 disposed at a first end and configured to be connected to an electric vehicle; and a second connector 306 disposed at a second, opposite, end and configured to be connected to a power source. In Fig. 3, the high voltage cable assembly 300 is arranged in a fully extended operating configuration. That is to say, none of the high voltage cable organisers 100 are connected to one another. In this configuration, the high voltage cable assembly may extend between an electric vehicle and a power source that are arranged relatively far apart, and convey electricity. With reference to Fig. 4, the high voltage cable assembly 300 is shown in a partially extended operating configuration. Three of the five high voltage cable organisers 100 are connected to one another. Two of the five high voltage cable organisers 100 are not connected to any other high voltage cable organisers and allow the first connector 304 and the second connector 306 to extend between an electric vehicle to a power source that are arranged relatively close together. In this configuration, the high voltage cable assembly 300 may have approximately 60% of a length of the high voltage cable assembly 300 in the fully extended operating configuration. With reference to Fig. 5, the high voltage cable assembly 300 is shown in a storage configuration. Five of the five high voltage cable organisers 100 are connected to one another. None of the five high voltage cable organisers 100 are not connected to any other high voltage cable organisers. The flexible cable 302 is folded in a Z-style arrangement. The first connector 304 and the second connector 306 are not connected to an electric vehicle or a power source. The high voltage cable assembly 300 is compact. In this configuration, the high voltage cable assembly 300 may have approximately 20% of a length of the high voltage cable assembly 300 in the fully extended operating configuration. Further embodiments within the scope of the present invention may be envisaged that have not been described above, for example, the cable retaining surface may comprise any suitable shape including, for example, a substantially U-shaped channel. The high voltage cable organiser may comprise any suitable shape including, for example, any suitable polygonal prism shape. The high voltage cable organiser assembly may comprise any suitable number of high voltage cable organisers. The high voltage cable organiser assembly may comprise any suitable number and type of release mechanisms. The high voltage cable organiser may be installed on a flexible cable in any suitable way. The components of the high voltage cable organiser, high voltage cable organiser assembly and high voltage cable assembly may be formed from any suitable materials. The high voltage cable organiser may be installed on any suitable high voltage cable. The high voltage cable organiser may be sized appropriately for any suitable high voltage cable. The high voltage cable assembly may be used in any suitable high voltage application, and is not limited to use charging an electric vehicle. To provide a compact, convenient and tidy high voltage cable assembly, an innovative high voltage cable organiser is required. The present invention provides improvements over conventional coiled cables in reducing a mess of cables in storage, a burden of uncoiling and recoiling cables, a trip hazard presented by cables in use and a risk of damage to the cable itself, all in a compact and efficient manner. Further, the invention provides a partially extended operating configuration with further reduced set up and set down time, and further reduced trip hazard potential. The invention is not limited to the specific examples or structures illustrated, a greater number of components than are illustrated in the figures could be used, for example.

Claims

1. A high voltage cable organiser comprising:an elongated rigid element configured to be connected to a flexible cable and separated from any other such elongated rigid element on the flexible cable; the elongated rigid element comprising:a cable retaining surface configured to retain the elongated rigid element on a flexible cable; anda connection surface arranged substantially parallel to a longitudinal axis of the elongated rigid element;wherein the connection surface comprises a connector configured to connect the elongated rigid element to another such elongated rigid element to provide a compact and tidy high voltage cable assembly.

2. A high voltage cable organiser according to claim 1, wherein the cable retaining surface is a substantially C-shaped channel configured to receive a flexible cable.

3. A high voltage cable organiser according to claim 2, wherein the elongated rigid element comprises a protruding portion disposed opposite an opening of the C-shaped channel and configured to inhibit removal of any flexible cable received in the C-shaped channel.

4. A high voltage cable organiser according to any preceding claim, wherein the connector of the connection surface comprises a magnet.

5. A high voltage cable organiser according to any preceding claim, wherein the connection surface comprises a plurality of connectors.

6. A high voltage cable organiser according to claim 5, wherein the plurality of connectors is arranged to extend along a length of the connection surface.

7. A high voltage cable organiser according to any preceding claim, wherein the elongated rigid element comprises:a first connection surface comprising a first connector; anda second connection surface comprising a second connector;wherein the first connector is configured to connect the elongated rigid element to a first adjacent high voltage cable organiser and the second connector is configured to connect the elongated rigid element to a second adjacent high voltage cable organiser.

8. A high voltage cable organiser according to claim 7, wherein the first connector comprises a male part and the second connector comprises a female part.

9. A high voltage cable organiser according to any preceding claim, further comprising an end closure arranged at an end of the elongated rigid element when the elongated rigid element is connected to a flexible cable to inhibit disengagement of the elongated rigid element from the flexible cable.

10. A high voltage cable organiser according to claim 9, wherein the high voltage cable organiser comprises a first end closure and a second end closure; the first end closure being arranged at a first end of the elongated rigid element and the second end closure being arranged at a second, opposite, end of the elongated rigid element.

11. A high voltage cable organiser according to any preceding claim, wherein the cable retaining surface comprises a securing portion configured to extend along a portion of the flexible cable;wherein the securing portion is configured to receive a securing element configured to secure a cable to the cable retaining surface.

12. A high voltage cable organiser according to any preceding claim, wherein the elongated rigid element comprises a substantially trapezoidal prism shape such that a plurality of such elongated rigid elements tessellate when connected together to form a compact high voltage cable assembly.

13. A high voltage cable organiser assembly comprising a plurality of high voltage cable organisers according to any preceding claim, the plurality of high voltage cable organisers being configured to be connected together to provide a compact and tidy high voltage cable organiser assembly.

14. A high voltage cable assembly comprising:the high voltage cable organiser assembly according to claim 13; anda flexible cable comprising:a first connector disposed at a first end and configured to be connected to an electric vehicle; anda second connector disposed at a second, opposite, end and configured to be connected to a power source.

15. A high voltage cable assembly according to claim 14, wherein each of the plurality of high voltage cable organisers is secured to the flexible cable at spaced intervals along the flexible cable.

16. A high voltage cable assembly according to claim 14 or claim 15, wherein the flexible cable is configured to be folded back on itself in a concertina-style arrangement when the plurality of high voltage cable organisers are connected together to provide a compact and tidy high voltage cable assembly.

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