The purple thing is an industrial wireway, like the
E2 mini from Igus. I am figuring that the reason that this wireway is not extended in this CAD view is because it is difficult to show the wireway in extended and retracted positions. This file simply shows the wireway in a retracted position and the arm in an extended position.
The wireway was modeled in the retracted position, and sized to fit. Then, to show this view, the designer decided to extend the arm without making the significant effort to model the wireway in an extended position.
At least, that is how I see it.
But.. on to the topic at hand... this is a great design. I am excited to see how it works, and will be eager for a up close view in Atlanta.
Andy B.