Reachthrough

Reachthrough is a term used in multiple disciplines to describe an opening or method that allows access, manipulation, or extraction through a barrier that would otherwise impede direct contact. The exact meaning depends on the field, but it generally conveys extending reach through a boundary to reach something on the other side.

In architecture and construction, reachthroughs refer to chases, passages, or access panels that extend through walls, floors, or ceilings to reach concealed services such as electrical conduits, plumbing, or HVAC components. They are designed to minimize visible openings while enabling maintenance and upgrades, and they must comply with building codes, fire-stopping, and insulation considerations.

In product design and retail, reachthrough features are openings or slots that let a user reach into a product or display case to retrieve items or interact with interior components without fully opening the enclosure. Such features are used in packaging, display fixtures, and some device housings to improve usability or streamline interactions.

In technical and manufacturing contexts, reachthrough can describe a method for extending a tool, probe, or sensor through an access barrier to perform measurement, testing, or assembly tasks on the far side. This usage appears in lab environments, prototyping, and production settings where complete enclosure removal is impractical.

Safety and reliability considerations for reachthroughs include preserving structural integrity, providing adequate sealing against dust and moisture, and maintaining electrical and fire safety isolation. Clear labeling and regular inspection are commonly recommended.

The term does not have a single standardized definition and its precise meaning varies with industry and project context.