Spring-Clamped Table-Edge Hinge for Repositionable Cable Routing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing solutions for organizing electrical cords and wires on work surfaces lack flexibility and ease-of-use, particularly when quick repositioning or lengthening is required, leading to clutter and obstruction.
Innovation Solution
A hinge assembly that provides compressive clamping action on the top and bottom surfaces of a table or counter edge, allowing for easy installation, removal, and repositioning, with features like self-closing springs and adjustable tension for securing cords and wires.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If conduits or wireways are used to organize cords and wires, then cord organization is improved, but flexibility and ease-of-use deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The hinge assembly is divided into separate components including first and second angled members, a self-closing spring hinge mechanism, and a cord retention member. This segmentation allows each component to perform its specific function independently while maintaining overall flexibility for easy installation and repositioning.
Solution Approach 2:
The hinge assembly incorporates a self-closing spring hinge that provides dynamic movement between open and closed positions. The spring mechanism automatically returns the assembly to its closed clamping position after being opened for repositioning, enabling quick adjustments without complex fastening or unfastening operations.
2Reliability
If detachable sleeves are used for cords and wires, then ease-of-use is improved, but reliability deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The hinge assembly merges multiple functions into a single integrated structure: the angled members provide both the clamping surfaces and the structural framework, while the self-closing spring hinge combines the closing force mechanism with the positioning function. This integration maintains reliable clamping force without requiring multiple separate components.
Solution Approach 2:
The self-closing spring hinge mechanism automatically generates and applies the clamping force needed to secure the cord retention member and organize cords. The spring provides continuous pressure to maintain reliable clamping without requiring external adjustment or additional fastening components.
3Ease of operation
If a hinge assembly with self-closing spring is used, then ease of operation is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The hinge assembly is designed as a universal mounting solution that can be applied to various table or counter edge portions regardless of thickness. The adjustable spring tension and generic clamping geometry allow the same device to function across different applications, reducing the need for multiple specialized components.
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 hinge assembly effectively organizes cords and wires by compressive clamping, maintaining a clutter-free work surface and allowing for easy repositioning and adjustment, enhancing the utility of the workspace.
Implementation Method 1
a spring element disposed in the aggregate channel bore
Implementation Method 2
the spring element biases the first and second angled members to a closed engagement position
Implementation Method 3
provide compressive clamping action on top and bottom surfaces of such edge portion
Data Source
AI summary
A hinge assembly is described, which includes (i) a first angled member including flanges oriented at substantially right angles to one another and joined to one another at inner edges thereof, (ii) a second angled member including flanges oriented at substantially right angles to one another and joined to one another at inner edges thereof, and (iii) a self-closing spring hinge having leaf elements attached to flanges of the first and second angled members, to provide an assembly that is engageable with an edge portion of a table or counter to provide compressive clamping action on top and bottom surfaces of such edge portion, and which is readily removable and/or repositionable. Such hinge assembly is usefully employed for controlled placement of wires, cords, and cables of devices and appliances positioned on table or counter top surfaces, to improve the organizational utility of such work surfaces.