Table with cable passageways
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing side tables and desks have limited cable routing options, do not provide adequate support for tech accessories, and often require permanent attachment of power sources, limiting user customization and visibility of electronic devices.
Innovation Solution
A side table design featuring a tabletop with grooves and apertures that allow cable passage to a shelf beneath the table, where electronic devices can be hidden from view, with a divider wall providing additional cable access and storage compartments that can hold various power sources and accessories without the need for fasteners.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Area of stationary object
If holes are arranged towards the back corners or edge of side tables to avoid interrupting the main working surface, then the flat working surface is improved, but cable routing flexibility is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The tabletop is segmented with multiple holes distributed across different locations (front, center, back, corners) rather than concentrating all cable access points in one area. This segmentation allows cables to be routed to various positions on the tabletop surface while maintaining large flat working areas between the holes.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent extends cable routing from a two-dimensional surface problem to a three-dimensional solution by adding vertical depth through recessed areas and multiple levels. Cables can pass through holes and be managed in vertical spaces beneath the tabletop surface, freeing up horizontal working surface area while providing extensive routing options.
2Shape
If holes are covered when not in use to maintain appearance, then aesthetic appearance is improved, but cable access convenience is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
Cable management components such as grommets and routing channels are pre-installed around the holes during manufacturing. This preliminary preparation allows cables to be easily inserted and organized without requiring users to modify the tabletop or deal with rough edges, maintaining both aesthetics and convenience.
3Manufacturing precision
If technology troughs are designed for specific types of electronic ports, then manufacturing precision is improved, but adaptability to different power sources is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The tabletop holes and associated cable management features are designed as universal access points that can accommodate various types of cables and electronic devices. Rather than creating specialized troughs for specific port types, the patent provides generic openings with flexible routing options that can serve multiple functions and device types.
4Stability of the object's composition
If electronic ports are permanently attached in technology troughs, then device stability is improved, but user customization ability is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The cable management system transitions from static, permanently attached ports to a dynamic configuration where users can freely position and reposition cables through various holes and routing paths. This allows the system to adapt to different user needs and device arrangements while maintaining stable cable connections through proper routing and securing mechanisms.
Data Source
AI summary
A table has a shelf beneath a tabletop which holds charging strips, communication hubs, cords and/or other equipment in a storage compartment behind a divider wall. The divider wall has an opening forming a passageway for cords from the equipment that are used to power and/or communicate with electronic devices on the tabletop or in a cubby on the shelf ahead of the divider wall. The table also has a groove in the tabletop for holding electronic devices. The groove has one or more apertures through which cords pass from the equipment in the storage compartment to the electronic devices in the groove for providing power and/or communication. The table can be a desk, conference table, side table, end table, night stand, and any other piece furniture that has the tabletop and shelf with a divider wall and opening according to the present invention, such as wall shelves.