Workstation Utility Hub With HDMI Switching and Cable Management
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing solutions for providing utility receptacles and cables at specific locations on workstations are limited in their ability to integrate multiple types of connectors and HDMI signal management efficiently, often resulting in clutter and inadequate power distribution.
Innovation Solution
A modular apparatus with a housing that fits into a work surface, featuring a receptacle support structure with integrated AC power receptacles, USB ports, telephone jacks, and an HDMI signal switching device, along with cables that connect to external sources, allowing for centralized management of cables and power distribution.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If multiple utility receptacles and HDMI connectors are integrated into a single apparatus, then cable management and power distribution are improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple utility receptacles (AC power, USB, telephone) and HDMI signal management into a single integrated apparatus mounted on the workstation surface. This merging of functions into one device improves cable management by consolidating all connections to one location rather than having separate receptacles distributed throughout the workspace.
Solution Approach 2:
The apparatus serves multiple functions simultaneously: it provides AC power distribution through receptacles, USB charging capabilities, telephone connectivity, and HDMI signal switching. This multi-functionality allows a single device to replace what would otherwise require multiple separate components, improving ease of operation while managing complexity through unified design.
2Productivity
If multiple utility receptacles and HDMI connectors are integrated into a single apparatus, then power distribution and HDMI signal management are improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple utility receptacles (AC power, USB, telephone) and HDMI signal management into a single integrated apparatus mounted on the workstation surface. This merging of functions into one device improves cable management by consolidating all connections to one location rather than having separate receptacles distributed throughout the workspace.
Solution Approach 2:
The apparatus serves multiple functions simultaneously: it provides AC power distribution through receptacles, USB charging capabilities, telephone connectivity, and HDMI signal switching. This multi-functionality allows a single device to replace what would otherwise require multiple separate components, improving ease of operation while managing complexity through unified design.
3Ease of operation
If utility receptacles are provided at a selected location on the workstation surface, then ease of operation is improved, but the work surface area is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The apparatus is mounted on the vertical surface of the workstation rather than occupying horizontal work surface area. By transitioning from a horizontal to vertical mounting orientation, the device provides utility receptacles at an easily accessible location without reducing the宝贵 horizontal workspace needed for equipment and materials.
Solution Approach 2:
The apparatus concentrates all utility functions (power receptacles, USB ports, HDMI connectors) in a single localized mounting position on the workstation surface. This localized consolidation provides ease of operation by having all connections available at one selected location, while the compact footprint minimizes the space occupied on the work surface.
Data Source
AI summary
An apparatus for providing utility receptacles and HDMI cables at a location on a work surface has a bottom panel member and a wall structure attached to the bottom panel member. The wall structure defines an interior region. An interior panel is positioned within the interior region and attached to the wall structure to form upper and lower compartments. An electrical power device is positioned within the interior region and attached to the wall structure. The electrical power device has an electrical power receptacle and device charging ports. A HDMI signal switcher is in the lower compartment and has HDMI input and output connectors. The apparatus includes a plurality of HDMI cables. Each HDMI cable extends from a corresponding opening in the interior panel and has a first HDMI connector connected to a corresponding HDMI input connector and a second HDMI connector for connection to an HDMI signal source device.