New Invention:RoboReel

RoboReel pulls in its power cord at the touch of a button

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The RoboReel is a motorized extension cord winder, that incorporates several safety and convenience features

The winding up of extension cords is something that most of us probably don’t give a lot of thought to – we loop them on the ground, spool them around our forearm, or perhaps use a spring-activated or hand-cranked winder. If you’re someone who spends a lot of time putting cords away, however, you might want to make the job safer and easier. That’s where Great Stuff’s RoboReel comes in. It’s a portable motorized cord winder, with some interesting features.
The 15-amp RoboReel comes with a user-replaceable 50-foot (15.24-meter) 12-gauge electrical cord and can be set on any flat surface, or hung on a wall or ceiling using optional mounts. It will begin winding that cord in at high speed, with the touch of either of two buttons – one is located on the uptake device itself, and one is on the three-appliance outlet at the end of the cord. To keep the tail of the cord from madly whipping around, however, the winder automatically slows down as it nears the end. The point at which it begins to slow can be programmed in by the user.

Additionally, it won’t wind as long as the cord is in use, and will stop winding if the cord is obstructed – such as, say, by being wrapped around someone’s ankle. It will also automatically shut off the electrical current in less than a second if the cord is severed, and has an integrated thermostat, to help prevent overheating.
The device’s housing is made from high impact plastic that is resistant to oil, gas, chemicals and UV rays. Oh yes, and it can rotate 360 degrees.
All these features come at a price, however – a RoboReel will set you back US$329. A HoseReel should also be available soon.