Artificial tree having multiple tree portions with electrical connectors secured therein
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Solution Overview
Problem
Securing electrical connectors within the trunk sections of lighted artificial trees is challenging due to movement and forceful use, leading to unstable mechanical and electrical connections.
Innovation Solution
The design incorporates flared portions and angled transitions in the trunk sections with specific diameter configurations and rotation-locking structures to securely insert and align electrical connectors, forming a snug fit that prevents axial and rotational movement, ensuring a stable connection.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If electrical connectors are inserted into trunk sections for power transmission, then electrical connection between tree sections is enabled, but connectors move with repeated or forceful use leading to unstable connections
Solution Approach 1:
The trunk section is divided into multiple functional zones: a receiving portion with a first diameter to accept the connector, and a flared portion with a second diameter greater than the first. This segmentation allows the connector to be securely held in the narrower receiving portion while the flared portion provides structural support and prevents axial movement, resolving the contradiction between enabling electrical connection and maintaining connector position stability.
Solution Approach 2:
The flared portion acts as an intermediary structural element between the connector and the main trunk body. It provides a transition zone that mechanically anchors the connector through its geometry, preventing both axial and rotational movement while allowing the electrical connection to function properly.
2Stability of the object's composition
If connectors are secured tightly to prevent movement, then connection stability improves, but insertion difficulty increases
Solution Approach 1:
The trunk section is divided into a receiving portion and a flared portion with different diameters. The receiving portion has a first diameter that matches the connector size for secure fitting, while the flared portion has a second diameter greater than the first, creating a tapered entry that guides and facilitates easy insertion of the connector while ensuring tight securing once inserted.
Solution Approach 2:
The flared portion employs a curved, tapered geometry that transitions from a larger diameter at the opening to a smaller diameter at the receiving portion. This curved transition guides the connector during insertion, reducing resistance and making insertion easier while still achieving a secure fit at the narrower receiving portion.
3Stability of the object's composition
If trunk sections are designed with multiple diameter portions for secure connector fitting, then connector stability improves, but manufacturing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The trunk section is segmented into two main diameter portions: a receiving portion and a flared portion. This segmentation into distinct functional zones with different diameters provides a clear manufacturing blueprint that balances structural requirements for connector stability with practical manufacturability through defined geometric transitions.
Solution Approach 2:
The flared portion uses a smooth curved transition between diameters, which can be efficiently manufactured using standard forming or molding techniques. The curved geometry achieves the necessary structural function without requiring complex multi-step machining or assembly processes.
Data Source
AI summary
An artificial tree including a first tree portion including a first trunk and first secured electrical connector. The first trunk comprises a first end, a main portion, and a second flared end defining second-end inside and outside diameters. The first connector is in the main portion and comprises a body with a diameter less than the second-end inside diameter for easy insertion through the second end and into the main portion. A second tree portion couples to the first, and includes a second trunk and a second secured electrical connector. The second trunk comprises a first end, an angled transition portion, a main portion, and a second end, the angled transition portion joining the first end and main portion. The second connector comprises a first portion aligned axially with a second portion, the second portion secured to the main portion, and the first portion inserted into the narrower first end.