Mathematical theory to reduce knot risk

[Welsh cake]

A mass experiment is underway to rid mankind and beloved gizmos of an age-old nuisance, tangled up wires and cables. Read full story:

Untangling the mystery of knotted flex

The Great British Knot Experiment

Now I've read into topology and knot theory long before this hit the headlines, so it seems that this "Loop Conjecture" theory of Robert Matthews is aiming for prevention rather than an effective solution. Wouldn't making square electrical cables/wires instead simply prevent trefoils from ever occurring in the first place?

Any thoughts? Want to share your frustration on knots?

[Rhizomorph13]

The first thing that came to mind after reading about the problem is climbing rope. I've never "flaked" or "butterfly coiled" my headphone wires but it might be worth a try. I've never done this over my head, but it looks like a good way to avoid mistakes.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hBXGaLHMb...re=related

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=C9Zhv83I2jo

You can toss a properly flaked rope off a cliff with virtually zero risk of a knot. Oh sure, the first person down has to pull the rope off of bushes, trees, and undo any minor tangles, but usually no knots to speak of.

Rhizo