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On 20/03/2019 16:59, Robin wrote:
On 20/03/2019 16:15, wrote:
On 20/03/2019 15:41, Robin wrote:
On 20/03/2019 15:09, wrote:
As part of re-wiring the workshop I want to be able to pull down a
socket (on a flex) from the ceiling when required and then to have it
retract when not needed. The action would be something like a roller
blind: pull and let go to latch down, pull again to unlatch and
retract. The roller blind mechanisms are quite long and fit in a tube
whereas I need something that winds a string.
What do I need?

Is

https://www.sealey.co.uk/search?q=ca...el+retractable

what you want?

(Only cheaper!)
Nearly. It doesn't need to reel-in the cable, only lift a flying socket
a few feet.

is it OK if it leaves a loop of flex dangling a few/2 feet?

My hope is that, if the retraction device is in-line with the cord
(forming a triangle with sides: ceiling, cable, flex), it will/should keep
the cable under light tension when retracted and prevent a significant
dangle.

But you need some dangle to grab when you want to use
it to pull it down with unless you have a more fancy system
that runs out enough to grab on command from Siri or Alexa.