Interlocking cable protection
The modern office is equipped with more electronic equipment than was used in the Apollo moon landings
Problem: . It seems that for just about every office requirement, there is an electronic gizmo which does it for you.
In general terms this is not such a bad thing, life has never been easier and things can be done far quicker than before but, on the flip side, there are a few problems, one of the most prominent being the supply of power.
Most office desks these days appear to be sprouting due to the shear number of wires emanating from all of our electronic devices. Those of you lucky enough to be pushed up against a wall or have those flashy desks with cable channels are usually OK, but when the desk faces into the office or is across the way from the power or network source, wires can present a hazard which has to be dealt with under health and safety legislation.
Solution: An attractive alternative to a mass of cables is now available in the UK from Wellingborough-based Office Power Systems. The Flexball, developed by Kabelschlepp Metool, comprises a chain of interlocking ball-shaped mouldings connected to each other by a flexible element.
Each ball has a slot through which the cabling can be inserted when all the slots are lined up. Once all the cabling is in place the user simply rotates the balls to stagger the slots – preventing the cabling from leaving the confines of the carrier.
When completed, the links create a spine 760mm high, however, extra elements can be added to increase the length. Special mouldings are also provided top and bottom for attachment to the desk and floor.
Applications: The applications for this product are self evident. However, it is not just office environments which suffer from an excess of cabling. One also has consider laboratories and industrial application. It must also be possible to offer a range of materials which could expand the application base into more demanding environments.
Aesthetics played a large part in the design with the unit being available as silver/black, blue/black or black/black – with these combinations it will suit many modern looking environments. MF
