Artificial Tree Trunk Segmentation for Multi-Channel Signal Routing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing artificial tree systems lack efficient mechanisms for easy assembly, disassembly, and multi-channel signal transmission through the trunk portions, limiting their ability to display complex patterns and requiring precise alignment of bulky components, which can be hazardous and time-consuming.
Innovation Solution
The artificial tree apparatus features self-aligning electro-mechanical interfaces and multi-channel electromagnetic coupling systems within the trunk segments, allowing for easy connection and disconnection of trunk segments in any radial orientation, enabling independent control of branch segments with complex light patterns and reducing assembly complexity and electrical hazards.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If traditional artificial tree systems use simple mechanical connections for trunk segments, then assembly is straightforward, but multi-channel signal transmission and independent branch control are not achieved
Solution Approach 1:
The trunk is divided into multiple trunk segments that can be independently connected and disconnected. Each segment contains integrated electro-mechanical interfaces that enable multi-channel signal transmission while maintaining modular assembly. This segmentation allows complex functionality to be distributed across multiple simple modules.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent combines mechanical connection and electrical connection into a single integrated electro-mechanical interface. When trunk segments are mechanically coupled, the electrical contacts automatically engage, simultaneously achieving structural support and multi-channel signal transmission without separate connection steps.
2Reliability
If precise alignment mechanisms are used for trunk segment connections, then electrical connections are reliable, but assembly time increases and ergonomic safety decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The electro-mechanical interfaces are designed to self-align and self-connect when trunk segments are brought together. The mechanical coupling structure guides the electrical contacts into proper alignment automatically, eliminating the need for manual precision alignment and reducing assembly time while maintaining connection reliability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent designs the electro-mechanical interfaces with symmetric or radially-oriented contact arrangements that maintain electrical connection reliability regardless of the radial orientation of connected segments. This allows segments to be connected in any orientation without requiring precise angular alignment.
3Ease of operation
If bulky external connectors are used for signal transmission, then connection points are accessible, but ergonomic safety is compromised and assembly becomes hazardous
Solution Approach 1:
The electrical connectors are nested within the trunk segment structures, with male connectors positioned inside female connector housings. This nested arrangement protects exposed electrical contacts from external access while maintaining internal signal transmission pathways, eliminating the need for bulky external connectors.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces insulating materials and protective housings as intermediaries between electrical contacts and the external environment. These intermediaries provide electrical isolation and safety while allowing signal transmission to proceed through protected pathways within the trunk segments.
4Stability of the object's composition
If fixed radial orientation connections are used for trunk segments, then structural stability is maintained, but assembly flexibility and configuration options are limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent enables dynamic reconfiguration of the tree structure by allowing trunk segments to be connected in any radial orientation rather than fixed positions. The electro-mechanical interfaces maintain electrical continuity regardless of orientation, enabling the tree to be assembled in various configurations while preserving structural stability.
Solution Approach 2:
The trunk segment connectors are designed with universal compatibility, allowing any trunk segment to connect to any other segment in any radial orientation. This universal interface design provides assembly flexibility while the internal structural elements maintain the necessary structural stability for the tree column.
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.