Christmas tree and method of assembling a tree
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Solution Overview
Problem
Tall artificial Christmas trees require the use of ladders and lift equipment for setup and decoration, increasing setup time and cost.
Innovation Solution
An artificial Christmas tree system that includes a base, an elongated support that can be moved between prone and erect positions, and a hoist to facilitate the assembly of frame sections without the need for ladders or lift equipment.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If ladders and lift equipment are used to set up and decorate tall artificial Christmas trees, then the tree can be assembled at height, but the setup time and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a hoist system as an intermediary device that mechanically lifts frame sections to the required height. This mediator replaces the need for human operators to manually climb ladders or operate complex lift equipment, thereby reducing setup time while maintaining the capability to assemble tall trees.
Solution Approach 2:
The hoist system is integrated directly into the tree assembly structure, allowing the tree itself to serve its own assembly needs. The hoist automatically positions frame sections without requiring external lift equipment or manual intervention at height, enabling the system to assemble itself with minimal human involvement.
2Ease of operation
If ladders and lift equipment are used to set up and decorate tall artificial Christmas trees, then the tree can be assembled at height, but the overall cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The integrated hoist serves as a simplified intermediary mechanism that replaces complex external lift equipment. By incorporating a compact hoist system directly into the tree structure, the patent eliminates the need for expensive cherry pickers or other heavy machinery, thereby reducing overall equipment costs while maintaining assembly capability at height.
Solution Approach 2:
The hoist system performs multiple functions: it lifts frame sections during assembly, positions decorative elements, and can be used for both setup and maintenance operations. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for separate specialized equipment for different tasks, reducing overall device complexity and cost.
3Ease of operation
If the support is kept in prone position for assembly, then safety is improved, but the tree cannot be displayed until fully assembled
Solution Approach 1:
The hoist system is pre-configured and ready for operation before assembly begins. Frame sections can be progressively lifted and positioned as they are attached, rather than requiring the entire tree to be assembled on the ground first. This preliminary preparation of the lifting mechanism enables continuous assembly progress while maintaining safety.
Solution Approach 2:
The support structure transitions dynamically from a prone position during assembly to an erect position for display. The hoist system enables this dynamic transition by facilitating safe assembly in the prone position, then allowing the support to be erected once assembly is complete, thereby eliminating waiting time while maintaining safety throughout the process.
Data Source
AI summary
In a described example, an artificial Christmas tree includes a base and an elongated support. The support has a proximal end portion coupled to the base and an opposite distal end portion. The support is adapted to move relative to the base between a prone position and an erect position, and the distal end portion is above the base in the erect position.