Under-Cabinet Mobile Device Charging with Automatic Cable Rewind
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing systems for charging and storing mobile broadband devices fail to provide continuous charging while maintaining visual accessibility and aesthetics, often resulting in cluttered spaces due to tangled cords and invasive designs.
Innovation Solution
A system for under-cabinet mounting of mobile broadband devices with an adjustable shelf and automatic cable rewind mechanism, allowing devices to be charged and used while maintaining visual access, with cord management that keeps cables untangled and out of sight.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If devices are placed on countertops for charging and use, then visual accessibility is improved, but space clutter increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system transitions the charging location from the horizontal countertop surface to the vertical under-cabinet space. By utilizing the previously unused vertical dimension beneath upper cabinets, the system provides device placement and charging functionality without occupying valuable countertop area, thereby resolving the contradiction between accessibility and space utilization.
Solution Approach 2:
The charging system is nested within the existing cabinet structure, specifically utilizing the space under upper cabinets. This nesting approach allows the charging station to be housed within an existing architectural element, providing device accessibility while maintaining a compact footprint that does not encroach on functional countertop space.
2Ease of operation
If charging cords are extended for device use, then device accessibility is improved, but cord tangling and aesthetic issues worsen
Solution Approach 1:
The system employs a dynamic cord management mechanism featuring a spring-loaded retractable reel that automatically adjusts cable length. As devices are moved for use, the cord extends to provide necessary reach; when devices return to the charging station, the cord automatically retracts and winds onto the reel. This dynamic adjustment prevents cord tangling and maintains aesthetic appearance throughout device operation cycles.
Solution Approach 2:
The cord management system operates autonomously through a spring-loaded reel mechanism that automatically winds and stores the charging cable when not in use. This self-service cord retraction eliminates the need for manual cord management by users, preventing tangling and maintaining neat appearance without requiring user intervention.
3Shape
If devices are stored in drawers or carrying cases for charging, then cord management is improved, but visual accessibility and space utilization worsen
Solution Approach 1:
The system abandons the traditional horizontal drawer or case storage approach in favor of utilizing the vertical under-cabinet dimension. This dimensional shift allows devices to remain visible and accessible on an open shelf while charging, eliminating the need for enclosing devices in drawers or carrying cases that would block visual access.
Solution Approach 2:
The under-cabinet shelf assembly serves multiple functions simultaneously: it provides device placement, visual display, charging capability, and cord management in a single integrated structure. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for separate storage containers like drawers or cases, as the shelf itself performs all necessary functions while maintaining device visibility.
4Shape
If furniture is modified to include charging drawers, then cord management is improved, but space invasion and aesthetic flexibility worsen
Solution Approach 1:
The system separates cord management functionality from the main shelf structure by using an independent retractable reel mechanism. This segmentation allows the cord management component to operate autonomously within the under-cabinet space without requiring modification of furniture structures, thereby maintaining adaptability to various kitchen layouts and preserving aesthetic flexibility.
Solution Approach 2:
The retractable cord reel acts as an intermediary mechanism that bridges the power source and the mobile device without requiring direct integration into furniture structures. This intermediary approach allows cord management to function independently of any specific furniture modification, enabling the system to adapt to different kitchen configurations and maintain aesthetic versatility.
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 allows for continuous charging and use of mobile broadband devices with full visual access, reduces clutter, and manages cords effectively, accommodating multiple devices and varying dimensions, while being aesthetically pleasing and adaptable to different spaces.
Implementation Method 1
a spring-loaded reel that automatically winds and stores the charging cable
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention provides a system for the charging and use of mobile broadband devices, keeping the devices visually accessible while avoiding infringement of useful space. A user of the system has full operation of their mobile broadband devices where under cabinet mounted. The present invention makes use of a rewind assembly for the organization and use of the charging cable for mobile broadband devices which provides for a winding of the charging cable onto an automatic rewind.