Collapsible Artificial Tree Assembly for Compact Storage and Transport
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional artificial trees are heavy, difficult to store and transport, and expensive due to their size, shape, and material requirements, making them impractical for repeated use throughout multiple holiday seasons.
Innovation Solution
An artificial tree assembly composed of lightweight materials like polypropylene or foam, with a conical configuration and removable connectors, allowing for easy assembly and disassembly, storage, and transportation in a compact state, while maintaining decorative elements in both orientations.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Shape
If conventional artificial trees are made large and realistic, then decorative appearance is improved, but weight and storage difficulty increase
Solution Approach 1:
The artificial tree is divided into multiple collapsible segments that can be folded inward toward the central axis. Each segment contains branches that pivot to align with the trunk, allowing the tree to collapse into a compact cylindrical form while maintaining full size when assembled. This segmentation enables the tree to be lightweight yet visually substantial when deployed.
2Shape
If conventional artificial trees are made large and realistic, then decorative appearance is improved, but storage space requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The tree segments are designed to nest within each other during collapse, with branches folding inward to occupy the space of the trunk. The segmented structure allows each section to be contained within the previous section, creating a compact cylindrical storage form that minimizes volume while preserving the ability to expand to full tree size during assembly.
3Shape
If conventional artificial trees use realistic materials, then decorative appearance is improved, but manufacturing cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs synthetic materials with modified physical parameters to achieve realistic appearance at lower cost. The collapsible segments use lightweight foams and plastics that can be molded into branch and needle shapes, providing visual realism without the weight and cost of traditional materials. The segmented design allows for standardized manufacturing of repeating units.
4Shape
If conventional artificial trees are made large, then decorative appearance is improved, but assembly difficulty increases
Solution Approach 1:
The tree is constructed from multiple identical or similar segments that can be assembled in a standardized sequence. Each segment contains pre-configured branches that fold inward during collapse and extend outward during assembly. The segmentation allows for modular construction where segments are connected through simple interfaces, reducing assembly complexity despite the tree's large overall size.
Data Source
AI summary
An improved artificial tree of the present invention is directed to a decorative artificial tree assembly which may be dimensioned and configured to fit on any supporting surface including, but not limited to, an interior floor, outside grounds, etc. The artificial tree may be disposed in an assembled or collapsed state. As such, the artificial tree may include a plurality tree segments and a cap member, vertically interconnected or stacked upon each other via a plurality of connectors. The artificial tree may be constructed from lightweight materials with decorative items attached to its outer surface.