Power pole for artificial tree apparatus with axial electrical connectors
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing artificial tree systems lack efficient mechanisms for easy assembly and disassembly, and effective multi-channel control of electrical signals and power distribution, which complicates the creation of complex lighting and decoration patterns and poses ergonomic and safety hazards.
Innovation Solution
The artificial tree apparatus features axial electrical connectors that allow trunk segments to connect in any radial orientation, enabling easy assembly and disassembly, and incorporates a control system for independent control of branch segments with multi-channel signal distribution, including power and command signals, through a central column, using self-aligning electro-mechanical interfaces and a controller for complex pattern modulation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If traditional artificial tree systems use fixed radial orientation connectors, then assembly requires precise alignment, but this increases assembly complexity and time
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs asymmetric connector design where the male connector has a specific orientation-dependent geometry that only fits into the female connector at certain radial orientations. This asymmetric interface guides proper alignment during assembly while still allowing for some orientation flexibility, resolving the contradiction between assembly ease and alignment precision requirements
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an intermediate alignment mechanism (such as alignment pins, guide features, or orientation markers) that mediates between the connector components. This intermediary element facilitates proper radial orientation alignment during assembly, reducing assembly time while ensuring correct connection geometry
2Adaptability or versatility
If artificial trees use integrated power and signal distribution through trunk segments, then electrical hazards increase, but this enables complex lighting patterns
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the electrical distribution system into segmented trunk sections, each with isolated power and signal circuits. This segmentation allows complex lighting patterns to be controlled through distributed signal channels while isolating electrical hazards to individual segments, preventing system-wide electrical failures and improving safety
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces traditional mechanical electrical connections with non-contact coupling methods (such as magnetic coupling, capacitive coupling, or inductive coupling) between trunk segments. This substitution eliminates exposed electrical contacts that pose safety hazards while maintaining the ability to distribute power and control signals for complex lighting patterns
3Ease of operation
If axial electrical connectors allow connection from any radial orientation, then assembly becomes easier, but connector design complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent designs universal axial electrical connectors that can accommodate multiple radial orientations through features such as rotational symmetry, 360-degree contact surfaces, or orientation-independent mating geometries. This multi-functional connector design enables assembly from any radial orientation while consolidating the complexity into a standardized universal interface rather than requiring multiple orientation-specific connector variants
Data Source
AI summary
Disclosed is an artificial tree having a plurality of electrified tree sections that couple together to provide power and/or command signals to devices connected thereto. One or more tree sections may have a trunk portion, one or more electrical connectors having a plurality of terminals, branches, a light string, and an electrical distribution system located at least partially within the trunk portion. A first tree section may be configured to couple to a second tree section such that an electrical connector of the first tree section is in electrical connection with an electrical connector of the second tree section, thereby mechanically and electrically connecting the first tree section to the second tree section such that power and/or the control data are transmitted to the second tree section. Further, each trunk segment may include an axial electrical connector that permits adjacent trunk segments to connect in a plurality of radial orientations relative to each other.