Illumination system for an artificial tree
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Solution Overview
Problem
Artificial Christmas trees face challenges in illumination, particularly during assembly and disassembly, as existing lighting systems are not effectively integrated into the tree trunk sections, leading to inefficiencies and user discomfort.
Innovation Solution
A system for internally illuminating artificial tree trunk sections using modular lighting modules with a housing, light emitting devices, optical devices, and a controller that can adjust lighting effects based on ambient conditions or user input, allowing for even or uneven distribution along the trunk and multiple color or pattern options.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Illumination intensity
If lighting systems are externally attached to artificial tree trunk sections, then illumination can be provided, but assembly complexity increases and aesthetic appeal is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the lighting system with the tree trunk sections by integrating light emitting devices directly into the trunk structure. The trunk sections are designed with internal cavities or channels that house the lighting components, merging two separate functions (structural support and illumination) into a single integrated unit. This eliminates the need for separate external attachment of lighting systems, thereby reducing assembly complexity while maintaining illumination capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The tree trunk sections are designed to serve multiple functions simultaneously: providing structural support for the tree, containing the lighting system within their internal structure, and distributing electrical power to multiple light emitting devices. This multi-functionality approach allows the same component to fulfill several roles, reducing the overall number of parts and assembly steps required.
2Illumination intensity
If lighting systems are externally attached to artificial tree trunk sections, then illumination can be provided, but aesthetic appeal is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The lighting system is nested within the tree trunk sections, with light emitting devices housed inside internal cavities or channels of the trunk structure. This nesting arrangement allows the lighting components to be concealed within the natural appearance of the tree trunk, eliminating the need for external attachments that would compromise the aesthetic appeal. The light emerges from strategically positioned openings or diffusers that maintain the natural look of the tree.
3Adaptability or versatility
If modular lighting modules are used with adjustable lighting effects, then user experience and aesthetic appeal are improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The lighting system is divided into multiple independent modular units, each containing a light emitting device with its own control circuitry. These modules can be individually controlled to create various lighting effects, patterns, and color combinations. The segmentation allows for programmable control capabilities while maintaining simplicity at the module level, as each module operates independently but can be coordinated through a central controller to achieve complex lighting displays.
4Ease of operation
If trunk sections are connected using tapered male-female ends, then assembly is facilitated, but illumination integration becomes more difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The patent integrates the lighting system along the longitudinal axis of the trunk sections, utilizing the internal length and volume of the tapered structures. The light emitting devices are positioned within the internal cavities of the tapered male and female ends, allowing illumination integration without interfering with the mechanical connection function. This dimensional arrangement enables both easy assembly through the tapered interface and effective lighting integration within the same structure.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
Enhances user experience by providing selective and dynamic internal illumination of artificial trees, improving aesthetic appeal and reducing assembly complexity while minimizing environmental impact.
Implementation Method 1
The lighting module can include a housing operable to attach to or assemble with the tree trunk, a light emitting device disposed in the housing
Data Source
AI summary
The disclosed technology includes an illumination system for a tree trunk of an artificial tree. The system may include a cylindrical shaped body, such that the outer surface of the body has a cylindrical shape. The inner surface of the body may include one or more diameters. One or more lighting modules may be positioned along the tree trunk to impart an internal lighting and/or glowing effect radiating therefrom.