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, disassembly, and multi-channel signal transmission, leading to complexity and potential electrical safety hazards during the connection of trunk segments and branch segments.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of axial electrical connectors that allow trunk segments to connect in any radial orientation, enabling easy assembly and disassembly while facilitating the transmission of multiple channels of commands and information through self-aligning electro-mechanical interfaces within the tree column.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If traditional connection mechanisms are used for trunk segments, then assembly and disassembly become complex and time-consuming, but using axial electrical connectors with self-aligning interfaces simplifies the connection process and reduces assembly time
Solution Approach 1:
The axial electrical connectors incorporate self-aligning interfaces that automatically orient and connect trunk segments without requiring manual alignment or complex positioning mechanisms. The connectors self-correct for minor misalignments and automatically establish proper electrical contact, making the assembly process intuitive and rapid while reducing assembly time
Solution Approach 2:
The invention merges mechanical connection and electrical connection functions into a single integrated axial connector assembly. This combination eliminates the need for separate mechanical fasteners and electrical connectors, allowing both structural and electrical connections to be established simultaneously in one simple operation
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple independent information channels and command signals are transmitted through trunk segments, then control capabilities are enhanced, but system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system transmits multiple independent information channels and command signals through segmented trunk segments, with each segment containing isolated electrical pathways. This segmentation allows different signal types (power, data, commands) to be transmitted independently through separate conductors within the same physical structure, enhancing control capabilities while maintaining manageable system complexity through modular organization
Solution Approach 2:
The axial electrical connectors are designed as universal interfaces that can transmit multiple types of signals (power, data, control commands) through a single connection point. This multi-functionality allows the same connector structure to handle diverse signal types without requiring separate specialized connectors for each signal type, reducing overall system complexity
3Ease of operation
If axial electrical connectors are used to permit connection from any radial orientation, then ease of assembly is improved, but manufacturing precision requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The axial electrical connectors incorporate asymmetric features such as keyways, cam mechanisms, or spring-loaded contacts that automatically guide and align the connectors during assembly. These asymmetric elements create a preferred orientation that self-corrects for radial misalignments, allowing connection from any starting orientation while maintaining precise electrical contact through the asymmetric alignment features
Solution Approach 2:
The connector design incorporates compliant elements such as spring-loaded contacts or flexible conductors that can accommodate variations in alignment within specified tolerances. These elements dynamically adjust their position or force application to maintain reliable electrical contact despite manufacturing variations, effectively reducing the impact of tolerance accumulation on connection reliability
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.