Retractable Power Outlet Cords for Height-Adjustable Worksurfaces
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing electrical power and data distribution systems face challenges in providing flexible and convenient access to outlets along and below work surfaces, especially with height-adjustable furniture, and in routing cords without securing them to surfaces.
Innovation Solution
A flexible electrical power or data distribution system using spaced apart units connected by cords with self-retracting sections, allowing movement and slack management, and featuring brackets for secure mounting to furniture, with pass-through outlets for varied access points.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If electrical outlets are installed to height-adjustable furniture, then power access is provided at work surface locations, but the outlets cannot remain fixed at a single location due to furniture movement
Solution Approach 1:
The outlet unit is designed with dynamic positioning capability through self-retracting cords that allow the outlet to move vertically and horizontally as the furniture height and position change, while maintaining electrical connection through flexible cord sections
2Ease of manufacture
If cords are routed along wall or floor surfaces without securing, then installation is simple, but cord management becomes problematic with excessive slack and tripping hazards
Solution Approach 1:
Self-retracting cord sections are incorporated that automatically retract excess cord length when not in use, eliminating manual cord management while maintaining simple installation. The cords self-regulate their length to prevent slack accumulation and tripping hazards
Solution Approach 2:
The cord system transitions from static routing to dynamic self-adjusting length, where the cord automatically contracts and extends based on the actual distance between outlets, maintaining neat appearance and preventing excessive slack without complex manual management
3Adaptability or versatility
If multiple outlets are spaced apart by flexible cords, then mobility and positioning flexibility are improved, but cord slack and routing organization become problematic
Solution Approach 1:
Self-retracting cord sections automatically manage slack by contracting when outlets move closer and extending when moved apart, eliminating the need for manual slack management while preserving positioning flexibility across multiple outlets
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
Enables convenient access to power and data at multiple locations, accommodating adjustable furniture and reducing cord slack, while maintaining secure and organized routing.
Implementation Method 1
A self-retracting cord section such as an elastic coiled portion may be provided in any of the power or data cords, such as to take up slack between power or data units
Data Source
AI summary
An electrical power or data system includes an electrical power or data supply cord and an intermediate power or data cord, a first electrical power or data outlet receptacle disposed between the supply cord and the intermediate cord, and a second electrical power or data outlet receptacle at a distal end of the intermediate cord. The first electrical power or data outlet is positionable below a work surface, while the second electrical power or data outlet is mountable to the work surface. At least one of the electrical cords may include a self-retracting cord section.