CH707097A1 - Device for storing and delivering cable e.g. patch cable, for data transmission in e.g. notebook, has housing comprising rollers for holding cable under stress load such that cable is extracted from housing against stress load during usage - Google Patents

Abstract

The device (10) has a housing (G) comprising rollers (16, 17, 18) for holding a cable (K) under stress load such that the cable is extracted from the housing against the stress load of the rollers during usage and roped into the housing for storage by the stress load of the rollers after the usage. An opening (14) is formed at the housing for extracting the cable from the housing. Fastening elements (13', 13'') are arranged at the housing and designed as perforated latches for fastening the housing to a working surface, where the housing is inserted into a retaining tray.

Description

Field of the invention

The present invention relates to a device for storing and dispensing a cable, in particular a cable for data transmission. Such a cable is often known as patch cords, jumper cables, network cables, or the like. The present invention relates specifically to such a device, which is either non-movable with respect to a work surface, as well as to a device which can move with respect to the work surface.

State of the art

Mobility of workers has been steadily increasing for some time. For this reason, more and more portable work tools, such as notebooks, laptops or tablet PCs are used. In order to avoid a constant change from one device to the other, today jobs are increasingly no longer equipped with "classic" desktop computers. Rather, only connections are provided at the workstations so that portable devices can be connected, for example, to the electricity or to the Internet.

These connections then usually require several cables, which are typically on the work surface. In certain cases, although the workstations also have special cable guides, only these are firstly not available everywhere and secondly, such cable guides in turn restricts the mobility of workers. In addition, the effective work surface is significantly reduced in this way. Particularly problematic is the cable, which connects a portable computer with the (internal) company network and the Internet (the so-called patch cable), because today's work without a reliable network access is practically unthinkable.

Thus, such a workstation solves a problem to simultaneously create other disadvantages. As a result, these workplaces often cause the various cables (e.g., network cables) to become entangled, severely hampering the efficient use of these cables. In addition, such a "cable salad" also makes it much more difficult to clean the work surfaces. In order to solve this problem, cables are no longer placed on the work surfaces in certain cases but stowed under the work surfaces. However, this solution is even less practical, because finding the cable connections and the connection of the cables to the respective device thereby advanced to a difficult and, above all, unpleasant undertaking.

Disclosure of the invention

It is therefore an object of the present invention to solve this problem and to propose a new way to store the cable on a work surface, which is user-friendly, and which creates no hygiene or safety concerns.

According to the present invention, these objects are achieved primarily by the elements of independent claim 1. Further advantageous embodiments also emerge from the dependent claims and the description.

The objects of the invention are specifically achieved in that a device for storing and dispensing a cable, in particular a cable for data transmission, comprising a housing with a retraction arrangement, which holds the cable under tensile load, that the cable for use against the Tensile load of the retraction assembly is pulled out of the housing, and that the cable is drawn after use by the tensile load of the retraction assembly in the housing for storage. Thanks to this invention, the cable, in particular the network cable mentioned above, can be stored in such a way that it does not overload the work station unnecessarily, but nevertheless is always at hand. The tensile load of the retraction assembly can be chosen so that the cable can be pulled out by a relatively small force from the housing. At the same time, this tensile load should be sufficient to pull the cable back into the housing automatically if the cable is no longer needed. In addition, a blocking element can also be provided to block the cable in the pulled-out state, so that after pulling out and plugging into the mobile device no unnecessary train is exerted on the device. In any case, thanks to the present invention, the workstations can be freed of unnecessary cables without missing the required functionalities.

In one embodiment of the invention, the cable is completely stowed in the housing in the retracted state. In this way, it can be guaranteed in particular that the entire length of the cable is in the device when not in use. Any damage is therefore practically impossible.

In order to simplify the use of the cable, an opening is provided in a preferred embodiment of this invention on the housing, through which the cable out of the housing and can be retracted into the housing again. The dimensions of this opening can also be chosen so that the cable end (e.g., the appropriate network connector) can not be drawn into the housing through that opening, leaving it readily accessible. The pulling out of the cable can thus be accomplished very easily by pulling the protruding cable end until the required cable length has been pulled out of the housing.

The advantages of the inventive device can be observed in particular in a variant in which at least one fastening element is provided on the housing, by means of which the housing can be fastened to a work surface in such a way that the housing can not move with respect to the work surface. Preferably, this fastener is designed as a perforated tab. Thanks to the fastening element, the housing can be fixed to the working surface (for example on a table top) so that it can not slip when the cable is pulled out. In this way, it is possible to extract the cable with a single hand for use.

Preferably, the housing of the device via the perforated tabs on the lower side of the table top at the workplace by screws or other suitable fastening means attached. In this way, the work surface can be completely freed without hindering the grip of the cable. The cleaning of the workplace is not affected. Thanks to this simple fastening method, existing workstations can in particular be "retrofitted" by simply screwing or nailing the device according to the invention with the cable stored therein on to the lower side of the work surface.

The present invention can also be further developed. Thus, in another preferred embodiment of the invention, the housing can be inserted into a receiving tray, wherein the receiving tray has fastening means by means of which fastening means the receiving tray can be fastened to the working surface in such a way that the receiving tray can be moved with respect to the working surface.

In this embodiment of the invention, for example, attached to the lower side of the work surface device can be placed slightly further back compared to the embodiments described above, so that it affects the user even less. In fact, in this embodiment of the invention not only the work surface can be kept free as such, but also the front area of the lower side of the work surface. In this way, it can be prevented, for example, that a user pushes with his knee against the housing of the device. In this sense, this embodiment of the invention offers an additional user-friendliness.

In a preferred manner, at least one locking element may be provided, by means of which the movement of the receiving tray in relation to the work surface can be limited. This can in particular be prevented that the housing is pulled too far forward, which could then possibly lead to overvoltage of the terminals and a corresponding damage to the housing.

Also, it is conceivable in a further embodiment of this invention, in the receiving tray next to the housing use a connection, for example, a power connector and / or a connection for an external device. For example, screen projectors (also called projectors), printers and similar devices can be connected as external devices. It is also quite conceivable to install a charger (or a power supply) for a mobile computer or for a smartphone in the receiving tray, so that these connections are always within reach.

Finally, it is provided in a further embodiment of the invention on the receiving tray a pull-out. Thanks to this pull-out handle, the device can be easily pulled forward for use, and moved back to use after use.

Brief description of the drawings

Hereinafter, the embodiments of the present invention will be described by way of examples. The examples of the embodiments are illustrated by the following enclosed figures: <Tb> FIG. 1 shows a perspective schematic view of a device for storing and delivering a cable according to a first embodiment of the present invention, with the housing closed. <Tb> FIG. Figure 2 shows a perspective schematic view of the inverted device of Figure 1 with the housing open. <Tb> FIG. 3 shows a perspective schematic view of the device for storing and delivering a cable according to a second embodiment of the present invention. <Tb> FIG. 4 shows a perspective exploded perspective view of the inverted device of FIG. 3.

Embodiments of the invention

In Fig. 1, a device 10 for storing and dispensing a cable according to a first embodiment of the present invention is schematically illustrated.

In Fig. 1, the device 10 is shown in the closed housing G. The housing G consists essentially of an upper flat part 11, various side walls (of which only two are visible in Fig. 1 and one is provided with the reference numeral 12), and a not visible in Fig. 1 lower flat part, also with corresponding side walls. This housing G thus has a shape which essentially corresponds to a cuboid. In this case G, the cable (not visible in Fig. 1) stowed for storage, as will be explained later.

On a front wall of the housing G, an opening 14 is provided. In Fig. 1, the opening 14 is shown with a round profile, but of course, another, for example, oval, triangular or rectangular profile can also be used. It is also possible and conceivable to provide a plurality of such openings. Through this opening 14, the cable K can be pulled out of the housing G as needed, and be pulled back into the housing G. For this purpose, it is advantageous that the profile of the opening 14 is selected so that the end (the terminal) of the cable K does not fit through the opening 14, and the cable K is thereby automatically prevented from disappearing completely in the housing G. On the housing G also small holes 15 are visible, through which the interior of the housing G is released.

The upper flat part 11 in Fig. 1 extends to the two perforated tabs 13, 13th These tabs 13, 13 are fasteners by means of which the housing G can be attached to a work surface to make movement of the housing G with respect to the work surface impossible. In the simplest case, the housing G of the device 10 is fastened by screws, nails or other suitable means on the two tabs 13, 13 "on the lower side of the table top at a workplace, in such a way that the front side of the housing G ( with the mentioned opening 14 for the removal of the cable) can be achieved by the user of the device 10 without much difficulty. For example, the device 10 may be secured about ten centimeters from the front edge of the table so that the user can access the cable directly when needed. However, it is of course possible to attach the device 10 at a different distance from the edge of the table. Moreover, it is also possible to fix the device 10 not on a lower side of the work surface but on the work surface (i.e., on the upper side) or on a side surface or even completely independently of the work surface itself.

In Fig. 2, the device 10 of Fig. 1 is now shown in the open housing G (and vice versa). The two fastening elements 13, 13 and the opening 14 are shown again. As can be seen in Fig. 2, the housing G includes a number of different rollers 16, 17, 18. These three rollers 16, 17, 18 together constitute a retraction assembly which removes the cable K (only part of which is shown in Figs 2 schematically illustrates) under tensile load so that the cable K can be pulled out of the housing G for use against the tensile load of this retraction assembly, and that the cable K then reuses after use by the tensile load of this retraction assembly 16, 17, 18 is pulled into the housing G so that it can be stored in the housing G until a next use. The pulling out and retraction of the cable K are shown schematically in FIG. 2 by a two-headed arrow in the vicinity of the opening 14.

Thus, the retraction assembly 16, 17, 18 can exert on the cable K the required tensile load, the three rollers each comprise return springs or other similar elements, under whose influence a rotational movement of the rollers 16, 17, 18 in a particular direction is sought , When pulling out the cable K, these springs are gradually tightened, so that upon release of the cable K corresponding withdrawal forces arise, which pull the cable K back into the housing G. As can be seen, the rollers 16, 17, 18 comprise different levels, on which the cable K can be rolled up with its entire length. A more detailed illustration of the rollers 16, 17, 18 is shown in FIG.

The number and dimensions of the individual roller elements are chosen so that the cable K in the retracted state is completely stowed in the housing G (i.e., completely rolled up on the rollers 16, 17, 18) except for the tail. It should also be mentioned at this point that the present invention is in no way limited exclusively to the illustrated number, shape and dimensions of the rollers 16, 17, 18 and their position shown in the housing G, and that (as needed) many others Implementation possibilities of the withdrawal arrangement within the meaning of the invention are absolutely conceivable.

Fig. 3 shows schematically the inventive device 10 according to a second embodiment. In Fig. 3, the housing G of the device 10 is inserted into a receiving tray 20. The receiving tray 20 has substantially the shape of an upwardly open parallelepiped having a bottom wall (bottom) and four side walls (one of which is designated by reference numeral 21). In principle, it is also possible to design the receiving tray 20 so that it likewise comprises a lid, in which case at least the front part of the receiving tray 20 (as will be explained later) must remain free.

Just like the device 10 according to the first embodiment of the invention (Figures 1 and 2), also the device 10 according to the second embodiment of the invention fastening means (23, 23), by means of which it attaches to a work surface can be. As can be seen in Figure 3, however, the attachment means 23, 23 are configured to allow movement of the receiving tray 20 with respect to the work surface. Concretely, these attachment means 23, 23 are guide rails which allow sliding movement of the receiving tray 20 in the longitudinal axis (i.e., parallel to the side wall 21).

The rails 23, 23 have a certain length, so that, this movement of the receiving tray 20 is not unlimited, but only within a predetermined range is possible. If, for example, a maximum movement of the receiving tray 20 of 15 centimeters is required, the guide slots on the guide rails 23, 23 may have the corresponding length, so that the receiving tray 20 can not be moved later than this distance. Of course, it is also possible to use another, e.g. Provide attached to the work surface locking element so that the movement of the receiving tray 20 can be limited with respect to the work surface.

In the receiving tray 20, two power connections 22, 22 are visible in addition to the housing G. In the present case, these are ordinary 3-pole power sockets, although it is of course possible to provide other types of connections as well. Also conceivable are not only electrical connections, but also connections for external devices such. Screen projectors (projectors), printers, etc. In addition to these connections, other elements can be placed in the receiving tray, such as a power supply with power conversion or similar other devices.

Thanks to this second embodiment of the present invention, the ease of use is further increased. In fact, the device 10 according to this embodiment preferably via the two guide rails 23, 23 attached to the lower side of the workplace plate, so that the receiving tray 20 forward or backward (this is also possible, not shown Provide handle on the receiving tray 20) can be moved.

If now no cables or no connections are needed, the receiving tray 20 can be moved to the stop of the guide rails 23, 23 to the rear. As a result, the front region of the lower side of the worktop is freed, so that the device 10 does not stand in the way of a user. Then, when one or more terminals are needed, the receiving tray 20 can be slid forwardly to at least the front portion of the receiving tray 20 (eg, to the front wall of the housing G where the opening contacts the end of the cable located) under the work surface emerges. As a result, the two terminals 22, 23 and the end of the cable (and the other elements possibly present) visible, so that they can then be used. After no more cables or connections are needed, the receiving tray 20 can be pushed back to make it back out of the user's workspace.

In Fig. 4, the device 10 of Fig. 3 is shown again, this time in an exploded view, from a different perspective. The already explained elements of the device 10 bear the same reference numerals and need not be explained again at this point. Well visible are the various elements of the rollers 16, 17, 18 (all labeled with the same reference numerals as the roles, but with the "gestricht" numbers). In addition, a terminal box 28 is visible, in which the various terminals 22, 22 can be summarized in a practical manner and the connecting cable 26, 27 for these connections 22, 22nd For this purpose, openings 24 are respectively provided on the rear wall of the receiving tray 20 into which e.g. terminals 25 are again fitted to ensure the supply of electricity or the connection to the terminals 22, 22.

Finally, it should be noted that the embodiment variants described here by way of example only represent a selection of possible implementations of the inventive concept and should in no way be regarded as limiting. Those skilled in the art will understand that many other implementations of the invention, including the addition of many other functions, are possible without neglecting the essential features of the invention.

Claims (10)

Device (10) for storing and dispensing a cable (K), in particular a cable for data transmission, characterized in that the device (10) comprises a housing (G) with a retraction assembly (16, 17, 18), which the Holding the cable (K) under tensile load so that the cable (K) can be withdrawn from the housing (G) for use against the tensile load of the return assembly (16, 17, 18), and that the cable (K) after use passes through the housing Tensile load of the retraction assembly (16, 17, 18) is drawn into the housing (G) for storage. 2. Apparatus according to claim 1, characterized in that in the retracted state, the cable (K) is completely stowed in the housing (G). 3. Apparatus according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that on the housing (G) an opening (14) is provided, through which the cable (K) out of the housing (G) out and back into the housing (G) can be pulled , 4. Device according to one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that the housing (G) at least one fastening element (13, 13) is provided, by means of which the housing (G) can be fastened to a work surface such that the housing (G) can not move with respect to the work surface. 5. Apparatus according to claim 4, characterized in that the fastening element (13, 13) is designed as a perforated tab. 6. Device according to one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that the housing (G) in a receiving tray (20) is insertable, wherein the receiving tray (20) fastening means (23, 23), by means of which fastening means ( 23, 23) the receiving tray (20) is attachable to the work surface such that the receiving tray (20) can be moved with respect to the work surface. 7. The device according to claim 6, characterized in that at least one locking element is provided, by means of which locking element, the movement of the receiving tray (20) in relation to the work surface is limited. 8. Apparatus according to claim 6 or 7, characterized in that in the receiving tray (20) adjacent to the housing (G) a connection (22, 22) can be inserted. 9. Device according to claim 8, characterized in that the connection (22, 22) is a power connection and / or a connection for an external device. 10. Device according to one of claims 6 to 9, characterized in that the receiving tray (20) is provided a pull-out.