Fixed-End Retractable Cable Organizer

A compact, 3D-printable cable organizer that allows one end of a cable to remain fixed while the other end can be retracted by simply rotating the organizer. 

This makes it particularly useful for USB cables and other connections where one end should remain plugged in - for example, into a computer, charger, hub, or other device. 

Extra long cables to reach power outlets in the school, office or at coffee shops? Different sizes allow all lengths and thicknesses of cables! Still run into issues? Customize the size with the included Freecad file by adjusting 2 values!

Features

• 🔄 Retracts the cable by rotating the organizer
• 🔌 One cable end remains fixed and can stay connected
• 🔗 Central opening allows the organizer to be mounted anywhere, bag or on a rod
• 🌀 Designed to reduce sharp cable bends and kinking
• 🍩 Donut-shaped design
• 🛠️ Opens with the included 3D-printable Unclipper Tool
• 🔧 Cable can be removed and replaced
• 📏 Three sizes: 80, 100 and 120 mm diameter for all cable lengths!
• 🧩 Customizable using the included FreeCAD file
• 🖨️ Designed for 3D printing
• 🪢 Fixed cable end can be secured with a simple cable tie
• 🧵 A piece of string can also be used for fixation

How it works

The cable organizer has two distinct cable sides:

• One end remains fixed and can stay permanently connected to a device.
• The other end is retractable and can be wound in or out by rotating the organizer.
• The amount of exposed cable can therefore be adjusted to exactly the length that is needed.

The central opening of the donut-shaped design makes it possible to secure the organizer in place. 

More importantly, the fixed cable end is secured with a simple cable tie. A piece of string can also be used as an alternative. This means the fixed side cannot simply be pulled back into the organizer while the other side is being retracted.

Designed to reduce sharp cable bends

Unlike many compact cable reels, the cable is not forced into tight, sharp bends around a small central spool. The geometry of the organizer provides a gentler cable path and is designed to reduce sharp bending and kinking, helping to protect the cable during repeated use.

Easy to open and reuse

The organizer can be opened using the included 3D-printable Unclipper Tool. This allows the cable to be removed and replaced without damaging the organizer.

The same cable organizer can therefore be reused with different cables.

Printing

Print orientation: place all elements on the flat side - the design was made to function without support by placing the models on the flat round side.

Assembly

The Assembly is as easy as it could be:

1. Print the 3 Parts of desired model, the unclipper is optional
2. Insert the cable into the bottom part of the drum. The large opening allows most plugs to easily fit though
3. Use the fixing hole next to the opening to fix the cable at the desired length (with a cable tie, string or tape)
4. close the lid, feeding the cable through the provided notch
5. add the cap from the top, click it into place

To unclip (to change the cable or so):

1. insert the unclipper into the bottom hole
2. put it on a table and push down on the unclipper with the bottom part of the drum
3. the cap now comes off to the top

Please see the pictures :)

Tested Materials

The print and clipping/unclipping mechanism are tested in:

• PLA
• PLA+
• PETG
• PETG-CF
• ABS

RIP to all the plastic used in the past days to find the ideal clipping distance :)

Three available sizes

Three versions are included:

• 80 mm diameter
• 100 mm diameter
• 120 mm diameter

The different sizes allow the organizer to be matched to cables with different lengths and diameters.

Please have a look in the attached files, all are groped into zip flies according to size.

Fully customizable

The included FreeCAD source file makes it possible to create additional sizes.

A global_vars object contains the main dimensions. By adjusting the radius and height, users can easily adapt the organizer to their own cable.

The minimum recommended dimensions are:

• Radius: 37 mm
• Height: 30 mm

The result is a reusable cable organizer that keeps cables tidy while allowing one end to remain connected without having to unplug the cable every time the required cable length changes.