Modular Floor Runner Power Layout for Reconfigurable Workspaces
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing electrical wiring extensions, such as extension cords, often create tripping hazards when laid across flooring or walking areas, and they lack the flexibility to easily reconfigure power distribution to meet changing needs in workspaces.
Innovation Solution
A modular electrical system that includes a power infeed, distribution assembly, and jumper cables, allowing for customizable routing of electrical power and data with interchangeable connectors and junctions, enabling the creation of a modular floor runner with integrated power outlets that can be assembled to desired lengths and configurations.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If extension cords are laid across flooring or walking areas, then electrical power can be temporarily routed to different locations, but tripping hazards are created
Solution Approach 1:
The system divides the electrical distribution into modular components (outlet assemblies, jumpers, junctions) that can be segmented and reconfigured. Each module can be independently positioned and connected, allowing the power distribution path to be divided into discrete segments rather than requiring a single continuous extension cord across walking areas.
Solution Approach 2:
The system transitions from horizontal surface-level extension cord placement to vertical integration by embedding outlets within floor runners or work surfaces. This dimensional change moves the electrical connection points from the floor plane to integrated housings that protrude minimally or are recessed, eliminating tripping hazards while maintaining power access.
2Adaptability or versatility
If traditional extension cords are used, then power can be extended to different locations, but the system lacks flexibility to easily reconfigure power distribution
Solution Approach 1:
The connector design provides universal compatibility across all system components. The same connector type is used for joining outlet assemblies, jumpers, and junctions, allowing any component to be interchangeably connected to any other. This universal interface enables flexible reconfiguration without requiring different connector types for different functions.
Solution Approach 2:
The system is designed to be dynamically reconfigurable, allowing users to add, remove, or rearrange outlet assemblies, jumpers, and junctions as needs change. The modular architecture with standardized connectors enables the system to adapt its configuration over time rather than being fixed during installation.
3Adaptability or versatility
If modular components are used to enable easy reconfiguration, then adaptability improves, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system extracts the essential function of power distribution into separate modular components that can be used independently or combined. By taking out the outlet functionality from fixed installations and providing it as portable modular units, the system achieves adaptability without requiring a complete complex infrastructure.
Data Source
AI summary
A modular electrical system with electrical and/or data outlets provides an unobtrusive power and/or data source that can be routed along a floor, a table or other work surface in a work area. The modular system includes a plurality of electrical wiring modules, a plurality of junction modules each having multiple outputs, and a plurality of electrical power or data units connected to the junction modules and to surfaces in the work area. Optionally, a modular floor runner system is assembled together from rigid floor runner modules interposed with junction modules, with one or more flexible branch extensions selectively coupled to any desired junction module. The floor runner modules and junction modules include housings that protect electrical wiring held internally, while being minimally intrusive for use in walking areas. Optionally, a table mounted modular electrical system is connectable to a floor runner system, and vice versa.