The Problem: Cable Chaos

WHAT YOU'RE WORKING WITH:

Common desk cables:
  - 2-4 USB cables (different connector types).
  - 1-2 power cables.
  - 1 monitor cable (HDMI/DisplayPort).
  - 1 ethernet cable.
  - 1-3 audio cables.
  - 1-2 charging cables.

Total: 8-15 cables.

EACH CABLE HAS:
  - A specific path (origin to destination).
  - A specific bend radius (avoid kinks).
  - Tension (don't pull too tight).
  - Frequency of disconnect (daily? rarely?).

DESIGN GOALS:

  1. Organize by function (power separate from data).
  2. Allow easy disconnect for frequently used.
  3. Minimize visible mess.
  4. Modular (add/remove as cables change).

SOLUTIONS TYPICALLY OFFERED:

OFF-THE-SHELF:
  - Cable channels (plastic strip on desk underside): $10-30.
  - Cable trays (suspended baskets): $20-50.
  - Cable sleeves (fabric tubes): $5-15.

PROBLEM:
  - Generic; doesn't fit your specific setup.
  - One-size-fits-most; usually 'most' = average size.

3D-PRINTED SOLUTIONS:

  1. Modular clips: snap onto desk edge or back panel.
  2. Cable raceways: covered channels for routing.
  3. Cable bundling sleeves: organic shapes for grouping.

  All: custom-fit to YOUR desk + YOUR cables.

  Cost: ~$2-5 in filament per piece.
  Time: 1-3 hours of design + 1-4 hours of printing.

  Compared to off-the-shelf: similar cost, better fit.

THIS MODULE'S PROJECT:

Design a modular cable management system for your desk.
Components:
  - 3-5 cable clips (snap onto desk edge).
  - 1-2 cable raceways (route along desk back).
  - Optional: cable bundler (organize at routing point).

  All parametric (you can customize for your space).

REQUIREMENTS:

  - Fits your specific desk.
  - Accommodates your specific cables.
  - Modular (can rearrange).
  - Removable (won't damage desk).

WHAT YOU'LL LEARN:

  - Measuring a real space.
  - Designing parts that mate (clips that snap onto edges).
  - Iterating quickly (small parts, fast prints).
  - Multi-part assemblies (3-5 pieces working together).