Magnetic Pivot Grommet Door for Work Surface Cable Access

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing work surfaces lack an efficient mechanism to route power and data lines from below to above while maintaining a clean, aesthetically pleasing appearance and easy access for utility line management.

Innovation Solution

A work surface assembly with a top having pivotable doors that utilize magnetic connectors to retain the closed position, allowing for easy rotation to access utility lines through a gap created between the door and the top, enabling the routing of electrical cabling and data lines from a utility space below to a location above.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Shape

If a door is used to close the opening for aesthetic purposes, then the appearance is improved, but access to utility lines becomes difficult

Engineering Contradiction:

ImproveappearanceVSAvoidaccess to utility lines

Core Design Contradiction:

ShapeVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The door is designed to be rotatable between a closed position (for aesthetic appearance) and an open position (for accessing utility lines). The magnetic connector allows the door to be easily moved between these positions, transforming a static closure into a dynamic access mechanism.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The magnetic connector replaces traditional mechanical fastening mechanisms (screws, clips, or latches) with a magnetic field-based retention system. This allows the door to be easily opened and closed without complex mechanical operations, improving accessibility while maintaining closure.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

2Stability of the object's composition

If the door is retained in closed position by strong magnetic force, then the closed appearance is maintained, but the door cannot be easily opened

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveclosed position retentionVSAvoiddoor opening

Core Design Contradiction:

Stability of the object's compositionVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The magnetic connector is designed with specific magnetic strength parameters that provide sufficient retention force to maintain the closed position against normal disturbances, but allow the door to be easily opened when deliberate force is applied. The magnetic force parameter is optimized to balance retention and operability.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #35Parameter changes

Applied Scientific Principles

This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.

Function Achieved in This Case

This solution provides a clean and efficient method to manage utility lines by allowing easy access and routing while maintaining a closed appearance, enhancing usability and aesthetics.

Implementation Method 1

First and second magnetic connectors generate magnetic forces tending to retain engagement of the first and second pivot structures with the first and second pivot surfaces

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectMagnetic force: Magnetism

Data Source

PatentUS8925469B2Grommet assembly for work surfaces

Publication Date: 2015.01.06 STEELCASE INC

AI summary

A work surface includes a grommet and door assembly that provides for routing of utility lines through an opening in the work surface. The door pivots in first and second opposite directions about first and second axes, respectively, to first and second open positions. Magnetic connectors retain the door during pivoting about the first and second axes, and also retain the door in a closed position.