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 introduction of axial electrical connectors that allow trunk segments to connect in any radial orientation, enabling easy assembly and disassembly, while also facilitating the transmission of multiple independent command signals and power through the tree column, using self-aligning electro-mechanical interfaces and multi-channel electromagnetic coupling systems.
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 process and allows connection in any radial orientation
Solution Approach 1:
The axial electrical connectors incorporate self-aligning interfaces that automatically orient and mate connectors without requiring manual alignment or complex positioning mechanisms. The system serves itself by using the connector geometry and magnetic attraction to achieve proper alignment, eliminating the need for operators to perform complex alignment procedures.
Solution Approach 2:
The axial electrical connectors serve multiple functions simultaneously: they provide electrical connection, mechanical support, and self-aligning capability. The universal design allows trunk segments to be connected in any radial orientation while maintaining reliable electrical contact, combining what were previously separate functions into a single integrated component.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple independent command signals and power are transmitted through the tree column, then signal transmission capability is enhanced, but electrical safety hazards and system complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The axial electrical connectors act as intermediaries that manage multiple electrical channels between trunk segments. By providing dedicated pathways for power and multiple independent command signals through the connector structure, the system enables complex signal transmission while the connector itself serves as a controlled interface that manages electrical safety.
Solution Approach 2:
The electrical connection system is segmented into multiple independent channels within the axial connectors, allowing power and different command signals to be transmitted separately. This segmentation isolates electrical pathways, reducing the risk of interference and safety hazards while maintaining versatility in signal transmission.
3Loss of time
If axial electrical connectors allow connection in any radial orientation, then assembly time is reduced and ergonomics are improved, but manufacturing precision requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The axial electrical connectors utilize asymmetric magnetic pole arrangements and connector geometries that create a preferred alignment path during assembly. The asymmetric design ensures that even though connection can occur in any radial orientation, the magnetic attraction and mechanical features guide the connectors into proper alignment automatically, reducing the need for high manufacturing precision while maintaining functional accuracy.
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
This solution simplifies the assembly process, reduces complexity and time, enhances ergonomic safety, and reduces electrical hazards by allowing secure and efficient transmission of signals and power within the tree structure, enabling dynamic and complex lighting patterns.
Implementation Method 1
a first set of axially-spaced magnets disposed about an outer surface of the first trunk segment and a second set of axially-spaced magnets disposed about an outer surface of the second trunk segment
Implementation Method 2
couple a plurality of independent information channels and/or command signals via the column
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.