Retractable Power Data Slide for Hidden Desk Cable Access
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional electrical power and data distribution systems face challenges in efficiency and aesthetics, particularly in office environments, due to the need for multiple outlets and cables, which lead to unsightly and entangled arrays, and require complex designs with springs and extrusions that increase costs and maintenance.
Innovation Solution
A power data slide system that includes a power data center with a slide mechanism for extension and retraction from under a work surface, using a coiled spring and latching mechanism for secure positioning, allowing for easy access and concealment of outlets and cables while maintaining functionality.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If multiple receptacle raceways are employed to provide accessible power and data outlets, then convenience and accessibility are improved, but the system creates unsightly and entangled arrays of cords and cables
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the power and data outlets from traditional wall-mounted or floor-based raceways and relocates them to a retractable unit mounted on the underside of the work surface. This extraction allows cords to be routed directly under the surface, eliminating the unsightly and entangled arrays that occur with multiple exposed receptacle raceways while maintaining accessibility when needed.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention moves the outlets from a horizontal plane (floor or wall surfaces) to a vertical dimension by mounting the retractable unit on the underside of the work surface. This dimensional change allows power and data connections to be made from below, organizing cables in a different spatial arrangement that prevents entanglement while preserving ease of access.
2Ease of operation
If receptacles are rigidly mounted above the floor surface for convenience, then accessibility is improved, but cords and cables become unsightly and space-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The patent relocates outlets from the horizontal plane above the floor to the vertical dimension on the underside of the work surface. This allows device cords to be routed directly underneath the work surface rather than across the floor or desk surface, significantly reducing the visible space occupied by cords and cables while maintaining accessibility when the retractable unit is extended.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention extracts the outlets from traditional above-floor mounting positions and relocates them to an underside-mounted retractable unit. This extraction enables cord routing through the work surface structure itself, removing cords from the visible workspace and reducing the area they occupy.
3Device complexity
If receptacles are hidden from view to improve aesthetics, then appearance is improved, but accessibility and ease of use deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a retractable mechanism that allows the outlet unit to dynamically transition between a retracted position (improving aesthetics by hiding outlets and cable routing paths) and an extended position (improving accessibility). This dynamic capability resolves the contradiction by allowing the system to optimize for appearance or accessibility depending on operational needs.
Solution Approach 2:
The outlet unit is nested within the work surface structure when retracted, with the power and data receptacles contained within a housing that sits flush with or below the work surface. This nesting arrangement hides the outlets from view for aesthetic purposes while allowing easy access when the unit is pulled out.
4Ease of manufacture
If conventional wall or floor receptacles are used, then installation is simple, but the outlets are positioned at substantial distances from devices requiring power and data connections
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the power and data connection system into a localized unit mounted directly on the work surface rather than relying on distant wall or floor receptacles. This segmentation allows each work surface to have its own dedicated power and data outlets positioned exactly where needed, eliminating the need for long extension cords or cable runs while maintaining installation simplicity through standardized mounting.
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
The system provides efficient and convenient access to power and data outlets, reduces cable entanglement, and lowers maintenance and initial costs by simplifying the design and hiding excess cable length, while maintaining functionality even in a closed position.
Implementation Method 1
using a coiled spring and latching mechanism for secure positioning
Data Source
AI summary
A power data slide (600) includes a power data center (602) to provide electrical power and communication signals. The power data slide (600) includes a slide mechanism (618) connected to said power data center (602) and connectable to the underside of a work surface. The slide mechanism (618) includes a slide carriage (638) connected to the power data center (602), so that extension and retraction of the slide carriage (638) will cause corresponding extension or retraction of the power data center (602) from beneath the underside of the work surface.