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 through the trunk segments, leading to complexity and safety hazards.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of axial electrical connectors that allow trunk segments to connect in any radial orientation, enabling easy assembly and disassembly, and a multi-channel control system that allows independent control of branch segments with integrated power and signal distribution through the tree column.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If traditional electrical connectors are used in artificial tree trunk segments, then electrical signals and power can be transmitted, but assembly and disassembly become complex and time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs asymmetric connector designs where the plug and receptacle have non-matching geometries that guide proper alignment during assembly. The plug features a specific shape with positioning elements that correspond to complementary features in the receptacle, ensuring correct orientation without requiring complex alignment procedures. This asymmetric design simplifies the assembly process while maintaining reliable electrical connections.
Solution Approach 2:
The connector design incorporates self-aligning features where the physical geometry of the plug and receptacle automatically guides them into the correct position during insertion. The asymmetric shapes and positioning elements cause the components to self-correct their orientation, eliminating the need for manual alignment adjustments or complex alignment mechanisms. This self-service approach reduces assembly complexity and time.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple electrical channels are integrated through the tree column, then independent control of branch segments is enabled, but the system complexity and safety hazards increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the electrical control system into separate modular channels, with each channel independently routed through the tree column to specific branch segments. This segmentation allows each branch to be controlled independently through dedicated electrical pathways, enabling versatile lighting and decorative effects while maintaining manageable system complexity through modular architecture.
Solution Approach 2:
The tree column is designed as a universal conduit that can carry multiple types of electrical signals and power through integrated channels. The multi-channel infrastructure supports various functions including lighting control, decorative effects, and power distribution to different branches, all through a single unified system that reduces overall complexity compared to separate wiring for each function.
3Ease of operation
If trunk segments are designed for easy connection in any radial orientation, then assembly is simplified, but ensuring reliable electrical contact becomes more difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The connector design incorporates asymmetric positioning elements and guiding features that ensure proper orientation during connection. The plug and receptacle have complementary asymmetric geometries that physically guide the components into the correct alignment, ensuring reliable electrical contact regardless of the radial orientation of the trunk segments. This asymmetric design maintains connection ease while guaranteeing contact reliability.
Solution Approach 2:
The connector system includes self-aligning features where the physical geometry automatically guides the plug and receptacle into proper alignment during insertion. The asymmetric shapes and positioning elements cause the components to self-correct their orientation, ensuring reliable electrical contact without requiring manual alignment or being dependent on precise radial orientation of the trunk segments.
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.