Architecture for routing multi-channel commands via a tree column
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing artificial tree systems lack efficient mechanisms for easy assembly, disassembly, and multi-channel signal transmission across trunk segments, leading to complex and time-consuming setup processes, and pose electrical safety hazards due to alignment requirements and external wiring.
Innovation Solution
An artificial tree apparatus with self-aligning electro-mechanical interfaces and multi-channel electromagnetic coupling systems allows trunk segments to connect easily in any radial orientation, enabling independent control of branch segments with internal signal pathways, reducing assembly complexity and enhancing safety by integrating electrical conductors within the tree column.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional external wiring and alignment mechanisms are used for trunk segments, then electrical connections can be established, but assembly complexity increases and safety hazards arise
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines mechanical coupling and electrical connection functions into a single integrated interface. The trunk segments feature integrated contacts that automatically engage when segments are coupled together, eliminating the need for separate external wiring and alignment procedures. This merging of functions reduces assembly steps and improves safety by containing all electrical components within the tree structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The self-aligning interface with integrated contacts allows the system to automatically establish electrical connections without external intervention. When trunk segments are mechanically coupled, the integrated contacts self-align and engage automatically, performing the electrical connection function without requiring separate alignment procedures or external wiring operations.
2Manufacturing precision
If alignment mechanisms are required for trunk segment connections, then electrical contacts can be properly connected, but assembly time increases
Solution Approach 1:
The self-aligning interface design allows trunk segments to automatically find and establish proper contact alignment through the coupling mechanism itself. The integrated contacts are positioned and oriented such that mechanical coupling of segments inherently brings the contacts into alignment, eliminating the need for separate alignment steps and significantly reducing assembly time while maintaining connection precision.
3Adaptability or versatility
If multiple signal channels are transmitted through external wiring, then independent control of branch segments is achieved, but the system becomes more complex and less safe
Solution Approach 1:
The patent integrates multiple signal channels into the internal structure of the trunk segments. Multiple contacts are incorporated within the coupling interface, allowing power, data, and control signals to be transmitted through internally contained pathways. This merging of multiple functions into a unified internal system eliminates external wiring while maintaining multi-channel control capability and improving safety.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements a nested structure where multiple signal channels are contained within the trunk segment hierarchy. Electrical conductors and contacts are nested within the segment walls and coupling interfaces, with multiple layers of signal transmission paths embedded in the structure. This nesting approach allows complex multi-channel signaling while keeping all electrical components contained within the tree, eliminating external wiring hazards.
Data Source
AI summary
Apparatus and associated methods may relate to an artificial tree apparatus having a plurality of trunk segments that couple together to provide a plurality of information or command signals to load devices connected thereto. In an illustrative example, one or more branch segments having light emitting devices are connected to the trunk segments to independently receive the electrical power and command signals via a control system. In some implementations, each command signal generated by the control system may include data pertaining to light color and illumination pattern. In some embodiments, each branch segment and associated light emitting devices may be independently controlled via a multi-channel arrangement. In some implementations, each group of light emitting devices may be manually configured via one or more user-interfaces. In various implementations, each trunk segment may include an axial electrical connector which permits adjacent trunk segments from being connected in any radial orientation relative to each other.