Christmas Tree Stand With Velcro Trunk Locking

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing Christmas tree stand designs rely on metal or plastic components like bolts or clamps for securing the tree trunk, lacking the use of Velcro products, particularly Velcro hook and loop straps, which could provide a more secure and user-friendly locking mechanism.

Innovation Solution

A Christmas tree stand utilizing Velcro hook and loop straps to lock sliding members in place, ensuring the tree trunk is securely positioned, with a bowl-shaped base for water reservoir and decorative options, and concave faces for increased stability.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If metal or plastic components like bolts or clamps are used to secure the tree trunk, then the tree trunk can be fixed in place, but the components may cause trunk gouging and require complex assembly

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvetree trunk fixation securityVSAvoidtrunk gouging

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSObject-affected harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The patent introduces a Velcro hook and loop strap as an intermediary between the sliding member and the tree trunk. The strap wraps around the trunk and attaches to the sliding member, distributing the clamping force evenly across the trunk surface rather than concentrating it at single contact points, thereby preventing gouging while maintaining secure fixation

Inventive Principle:

Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent replaces traditional mechanical fastening systems (bolts, clamps) with a Velcro-based fastening system. This substitution eliminates the need for threaded connections or rigid clamping mechanisms that can damage the trunk, while providing sufficient holding force through the hook-and-loop interface

Inventive Principle:

Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

2Reliability

If traditional clamping mechanisms are used, then the tree trunk can be secured, but the assembly and adjustment process becomes complex and difficult

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvetree trunk fixation securityVSAvoidassembly and adjustment simplicity

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The patent divides the clamping mechanism into separate sliding members that can independently adjust along the tree trunk. Each sliding member can be positioned and secured separately using the Velcro strap, allowing for simplified assembly and easy adjustment compared to a single complex clamping system

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The Velcro strap system allows the sliding members to be easily positioned and secured without requiring tools or complex assembly procedures. The strap can be quickly attached and detached, enabling users to easily adjust the position of sliding members along the trunk as the tree grows or is repositioned

Inventive Principle:

Principle #25Self-service

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

The Velcro-based mechanism provides a secure, easy-to-use locking system that enhances tree stability and prevents trunk gouging, offering a novel and effective alternative to traditional clamping methods.

Implementation Method 1

Velcro hook and loop straps to provide the force to lock the tree trunk in place

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectFriction: Friction

Data Source

PatentUS7597304B1Christmas tree stand

Publication Date: 2009.10.06 NOTASULGA ENTERPRISES

AI summary

What is disclosed is an improved Christmas tree stand employing a Velcro® hook and loop strap to lock in place the clamping means for the tree trunk.