Central Shaft Power Connector for Automatic Ornament Assembly
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing ornamental lighting systems, such as pre-lit Christmas trees, require manual and cumbersome connections of power strings between sections, which is inefficient and inconvenient for users.
Innovation Solution
A central pole system composed of two segments with a two-part joint that allows automatic physical and electrical connection, featuring a first portion with a central aperture and tubular projection, and a second portion with a central projection and lower aperture, along with orthogonal ledges and connector parts that align and engage electrically, ensuring secure and easy assembly.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If manual power connections are made by digging into dense tree branches, then power strings can be connected between sections, but the operation becomes cumbersome and time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The pole is divided into multiple sections that can be assembled separately, with each section having integrated connector parts. This segmentation allows the power connection to be built into the structure itself rather than requiring manual intervention in the dense branches.
Solution Approach 2:
The connector parts are designed to automatically align and engage with each other when pole sections are assembled. The electrical connectors self-align through the keyed aperture and projection mechanism, eliminating the need for manual connection operations.
2Ease of operation
If simple power plugs are hung from branches, then power connection is achieved, but the connection is not secure and requires manual intervention
Solution Approach 1:
The mechanical pole connection and electrical power connection are merged into a single integrated operation. The connector parts combine structural support functions with electrical connectivity, so that assembling the pole sections automatically establishes both mechanical and electrical connections simultaneously.
Solution Approach 2:
The connector parts serve as intermediary elements between pole sections, providing both mechanical coupling and electrical connectivity. The keyed aperture and projection mechanism acts as an intermediary that ensures proper alignment and secure engagement of both structural and electrical components.
3Volume of moving object
If the pole is divided into multiple sections for shipping, then height is reduced for compact storage, but additional connection mechanisms are required
Solution Approach 1:
The connector parts are designed to perform multiple functions simultaneously: providing mechanical support, enabling structural assembly, and establishing electrical connectivity. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate connection mechanisms for each function, thereby limiting the increase in device complexity despite the segmented design.
Solution Approach 2:
The connector parts are integrated within the pole sections themselves, with connector components nested into the pole structure. This integration allows the connection mechanism to be part of the pole sections rather than separate additions, minimizing the increase in overall device 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 two 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.