Low-Profile Modular Floor Runner for Safe Power Routing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing electrical wiring extensions, such as extension cords, pose tripping hazards when laid across flooring and lack flexibility in length and configuration to accommodate varying power and data needs in reconfigurable spaces.
Innovation Solution
An electrical floor runner that can be customized in length and configuration, featuring a modular design with a low-profile extrusion and integrated power/data outlets, allowing for flexible routing of electrical wiring and easy adaptation to different applications.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If extension cords are laid across flooring to provide electrical power, then power delivery is achieved, but tripping hazards are created
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a low-profile extrusion housing that acts as a protective shell covering the extension cord. This thin-profile structure allows the cord to be safely placed on flooring without creating tripping hazards, while the flexible design enables it to conform to floor surfaces and be easily positioned.
Solution Approach 2:
The extension cord is nested within the extrusion housing, with the cord contained inside the protective shell. This nesting arrangement protects the cord from damage while preventing it from protruding and creating tripping hazards, effectively solving the safety problem.
2Length of stationary object
If extension cords are used to reach distant locations, then power delivery distance is increased, but the cord becomes more visible and creates tripping hazards
Solution Approach 1:
The low-profile extrusion housing maintains a consistent thin profile regardless of length, allowing the extension cord to travel long distances while remaining inconspicuous and safe. The housing conceals the cord throughout its entire length, preventing tripping hazards even over extended distances.
3Ease of manufacture
If a fixed-length extension cord is used, then manufacturing is simplified, but adaptability to different space requirements is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The extrusion housing is designed in modular segments that can be connected end-to-end to create different lengths. This segmentation allows the system to be manufactured using standardized components while providing flexibility to configure the extension cord to match various space requirements and outlet positions.
Solution Approach 2:
The modular design enables the extension cord length to be dynamically adjusted by adding or removing segments. Users can configure the housing to the appropriate length for each specific application, providing adaptability without requiring custom manufacturing for each length.
4Reliability
If extension cords are used in reconfigurable office spaces, then power access is provided, but the cords interfere with space reconfiguration
Solution Approach 1:
The low-profile extrusion housing can be easily moved and repositioned across floor surfaces, allowing power access to follow reconfiguration of office spaces. The flexible, concealable design does not obstruct movement or interfere with furniture rearrangement, maintaining space adaptability.
Solution Approach 2:
The modular segments can be quickly assembled and disassembled, enabling the extension cord to be rapidly reconfigured to match changing space requirements. This dynamic adjustability allows power access to adapt seamlessly to reconfigurable office environments.
5Object-affected harmful factors
If a low-profile extrusion is used to conceal the extension cord, then tripping hazards are reduced, but the structural integrity to resist damage and lifting is challenged
Solution Approach 1:
The extrusion housing is constructed from composite materials that provide high strength-to-weight ratio. This allows the housing to maintain a low, inconspicuous profile while possessing sufficient structural integrity to resist damage from accidental impacts and prevent lifting by foot traffic or furniture movement.
Solution Approach 2:
The segmented modular design distributes structural loads across multiple connection points. The reinforcement elements at segment joints ensure that the low-profile construction does not compromise overall structural strength, maintaining resistance to damage and lifting throughout the entire length.
Data Source
AI summary
A floor runner with electrical and/or electronic or data outlets provides a low-profile, unobtrusive power and/or data source along a floor or other support surface. The electrical floor runner may be a one-piece unit of substantially any desired length, and typically includes a power cord with plug or connector at one end for coupling to a wall outlet or the like, and a power/data block at the other end for receiving power and/or data couplers for other devices, such as computers and electronics, lighting, etc. A middle portion is a strong, low-profile region that houses and protects electrical wiring held internally, and that is minimally intrusive for use in walking areas. Optionally, the floor runner may be modular so that its overall length or configuration (e.g., straight or angled) can be changed as desired.