Central shaft power connector for lighted ornaments
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing ornamental lighting systems, such as pre-lit Christmas trees, face challenges in connecting multiple sections during assembly, requiring manual and cumbersome power connections that are not automatic or efficient.
Innovation Solution
A central pole connector system comprising two segments with interconnected portions, featuring a tubular projection and aperture, and electrical connector parts that align and engage to form a contiguous pole, allowing for both mechanical and electrical joining of sections, with optional keyway alignment and adhesive retention for secure connections.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If manual power connections are used in pre-lit trees, then the tree can be assembled, but the connection process becomes cumbersome and time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the mechanical pole connection and electrical power connection into a single integrated joint mechanism. The electrical connectors are built into the pole segments themselves, so that when the pole sections are mechanically joined, the electrical contacts automatically engage simultaneously, eliminating the need for separate manual wiring operations.
Solution Approach 2:
The joint mechanism is designed to automatically establish electrical connections without user intervention. When the pole segments are assembled together, the electrical contacts self-align and self-engage through the mechanical coupling, allowing the system to service itself rather than requiring manual wiring by the user.
2Ease of operation
If simple power plugs hanging from branches are used, then the tree can be lit, but the user must manually dig into the dense tree to make connections
Solution Approach 1:
The pole joint serves multiple functions simultaneously: it provides mechanical support for the pole structure, enables mechanical connection between segments, and establishes electrical power connections. This multi-functional design eliminates the need for separate hanging plugs and manual branch access, as all connections are made through the single joint mechanism.
3Volume of moving object
If the central pole is divided into multiple sections, then the tree can be shipped in a box, but the pole requires complex joining mechanisms
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the mechanical and electrical connection functions into a single integrated joint, reducing the overall complexity despite the segmented pole design. By combining these functions rather than adding separate mechanisms for each, the system achieves compactness suitable for shipping while maintaining manageable complexity.
Data Source
AI summary
A central shaft power connector for lighted ornaments is disclosed. A central support pole, such as for a Christmas tree is made in multiple parts joinable with an electrical and mechanical connector which joins the pole parts and simultaneously connects power or other circuits from one part to the other. The connector has two engaging sections and an outrigger platform which locates a connector off to the side of the poles but in alignment. Final alignment is obtained by a key and keyway in the connector parts. The connector is friction fit into a slot on each section so that the connector can be removed and replaced.