Reconfigurable Workstation Beam Structure for Flexible Cable Routing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional workstations lack flexibility in cable management and resource allocation, leading to inefficiencies and waste in open plan office environments, where workers' varying needs for desk height, lighting, storage, and privacy require adaptable solutions without compromising aesthetics.
Innovation Solution
A reconfigurable workstation with a core comprising beam segments supported by legs, connected by an articulated connector with flexible members that allow bending in one plane while resisting bending in another, enabling flexible cable routing and repositionable power/data outlets, along with modular zones for accessory mounting, reducing material usage and visual clutter.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If conventional fixed partition systems with built-in cable channels are used, then cable management is provided, but flexibility in workstation reconfiguration is limited and material waste occurs
Solution Approach 1:
The workstation system is divided into modular components: beam segments, articulated connectors, and accessory modules that can be independently reconfigured. This segmentation enables flexible reconfiguration without wasting materials, as components can be reused in different configurations rather than being discarded.
Solution Approach 2:
The articulated connector introduces dynamic flexibility to the otherwise rigid beam structure. The connector allows the beam segments to pivot and adapt to different angles and positions, enabling the workstation to be reconfigured dynamically without requiring complete disassembly or generating material waste.
2Adaptability or versatility
If long connection cables are used to enable flexibility in desk arrangement, then adaptability is improved, but visual clutter and aesthetic appearance deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The cable management function is extracted from the traditional partition structure and integrated into the beam segments and articulated connectors. Cables are routed through dedicated channels within the structural components themselves, removing the need for long external connection cables that create visual clutter.
Solution Approach 2:
The structural support function and cable routing function are merged into the same components. The beam segments and articulated connectors simultaneously provide mechanical support and serve as cable conduits, eliminating the need for separate cable management elements that would add visual clutter.
3Ease of manufacture
If fixed power and data connection points are built into the partition, then installation is simplified, but flexibility in workstation reconfiguration is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
Power and data connection points are segmented into modular accessory modules that can be independently positioned and reconfigured along the beam segments. This allows the connection points to move with the workstation components rather than being fixed to a permanent partition structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The beam segments and articulated connectors serve multiple functions: structural support, cable routing, and mounting for power/data accessories. This multi-functionality allows the same components to facilitate both installation simplicity and reconfigurability without requiring separate specialized elements.
4Ease of manufacture
If uniform workstation designs are used across all workstations, then manufacturing is simplified, but resource efficiency and adaptability to individual needs deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The workstation is segmented into standardized beam segments and connectors that can be manufactured uniformly, combined with customizable accessory modules. This allows the core structural components to be produced efficiently while the accessories can be tailored to individual worker needs, achieving both manufacturing simplicity and adaptability.
Solution Approach 2:
Different accessory modules with specific functions (storage, privacy screens, power outlets) can be selectively applied to different locations in the workstation system based on individual worker requirements. The standardized beam structure provides the foundation, while local customization is achieved through selective accessory placement.
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 solution provides a flexible and aesthetically pleasing cable management system that adapts to individual worker needs, minimizes resource waste, and allows for efficient reconfiguration without tools, enhancing workspace flexibility and resource allocation.
Implementation Method 1
the flexible members are relatively bendable in one plane but relatively stiff in another to allow bending in one plane but resist bending in a perpendicular plane
Data Source
Figure 1~2
Figure 3~5
Figure 6~7
AI summary
A workstation services support structure (5) including a beam (14) supported at or near desk height on one or more legs (16) is described. The beam (14) includes one or more elongate mounting means (28, 34, 36) extending substantially along its length. Each elongate mounting means (28, 34, 36) corresponds to a zone (Zones 1 to 4) in which one or more accessories (40, 42, 44, 46) to support a workstation service can be movably mounted with respect of the beam to enable service delivery at a user selectable position within the zone. The support structure (5) includes a plurality of zones (Zones 1 to 4) that can be defined to be non-overlapping such that an accessory (40, 42, 44, 46) mounted within one zone does not interfere with an accessory mounted (40, 42, 44, 46) within another zone. Legs (1200), accessories (40, 42, 44, 46) and couplings (390) and systems (1) incorporating such elements are also described.