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Raceways are channels for routing multiple cables along a path. They hide the cables and protect them. A simple raceway turns chaos into clean lines.
Raceway design.
Use these three in order. Each builds on the one before.
In one paragraph, explain raceway design.
Walk me through making the channel + cover snap-fit.
I have curved desk corners. How do I route a raceway around them?
THE BASIC RACEWAY:
A channel (open trough) that runs along a desk surface or wall.
Cables sit inside.
A cover (optional) hides them.
PARAMETERS:
raceway_length = 200mm # how long
raceway_width = 30mm # how wide
raceway_depth = 15mm # how deep
cable_count = 4 # how many cables
cover_thickness = 2mm # if including cover
DESIGN STEPS:
Step 1: Create the open channel.
A U-shape extruded along the length.
Inside: cavity for cables.
Step 2: Add mounting features.
Holes for screws (to attach to desk surface).
Or: clips that grip the desk edge.
Most common: screw holes spaced every 80mm.
Step 3: Design the cover.
A flat panel that fits over the channel.
Snap-fit or screwed.
Snap-fit: print integrated.
Screwed: separate panel + screws.
Step 4: Add cable entry/exit.
Slots where cables enter and exit.
Typically: one at each end + maybe one in the middle.
EXAMPLE DIMENSIONS:
For a 200mm desk-edge raceway holding 4 cables:
Length: 200mm.
Width: 30mm.
Depth: 15mm.
Cover: 30×200×2mm.
Mounting holes: 4 (every 50mm).
WHAT IT LOOKS LIKE:
A long rectangular box with the top open or covered.
Cables enter on the left; exit on the right.
Mounted to desk edge with screws.
PRINT SETTINGS:
Material: PETG (durable; some flex).
Walls: 3.
Infill: 15% gyroid.
Print orientation: open side facing up (best for adhesion + clean walls).
Time: 60-90 min for a 200mm raceway.
ASSEMBLY:
Drill mounting holes in desk (or use existing edges).
Mount raceway with screws.
Insert cables.
Snap on cover (if applicable).
VARIATIONS:
CABLE LOOP / CIRCLE:
Instead of straight, curved.
Wraps around desk corner.
SLOTTED COVER:
Cover has slots for cable entries.
No need for separate entry/exit slots in channel.
TIERED RACEWAY:
Multiple levels for different cable types.
Power on bottom; data on top.
SINGLE-CABLE RACEWAY:
Very small (10×3×100mm).
For just one cable.
INTEGRATED LIGHTING:
Add slot for LED strip.
Power cable + LED strip in same channel.
Functional + aesthetic.
PRO TIPS:
For wall-mounted raceways:
Use wall anchors + screws.
Distribute load: 1 mount per 30-50cm.
For desk-edge raceways:
Use clamps (no holes in desk).
Or: hot glue (removable; doesn't damage).
Avoid permanent adhesive.
WHEN RACEWAYS DON'T FIT:
Curved desk surface: design custom curves.
Multiple desks: design separate per desk.
Constantly changing cables: skip raceways; use flexible sleeves.