Connector system
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional artificial Christmas tree trunk connectors are prone to damage during shipping and storage, leading to assembly issues due to deformed or bent ends, which can prevent the successful assembly of the tree system.
Innovation Solution
A connector system comprising a sleeve with a cylindrical shape and a notch or shoulder to protect the ends of the tree trunk sections, along with a cutout to prevent rotation and secure the sections together, using securement devices like nails or screws for added stability.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If conventional artificial Christmas tree trunk connectors are used without protective features, then the assembly process is simpler, but the connectors are prone to damage during shipping and storage
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by incorporating protective notches and shoulders into the connector design before shipping and storage. These features are pre-formed structural elements that proactively prevent damage during handling and transport, rather than requiring corrective actions after damage occurs. The notches and shoulders are built-in protective features that prepare the connector for potential mechanical stresses during logistics.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements beforehand cushioning through the design of notches and shoulders that act as protective elements against impact and mechanical stress. These features create structural cushioning zones that absorb and distribute forces during shipping and storage, preventing damage to the critical connection interfaces before damage can occur.
2Ease of operation
If the tree trunk sections are designed to be easily assembled, then the assembly process is faster, but rotation during assembly may occur causing misalignment
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies asymmetry by incorporating notches and shoulders at specific asymmetric positions on the tree trunk connectors. These asymmetric features create a unique geometric interface that guides proper alignment during assembly. The asymmetric design allows easy insertion while preventing rotation, as the notches and shoulders only match in one orientation, ensuring precise alignment without requiring complex alignment procedures.
Solution Approach 2:
The notches and shoulders act as intermediary elements that mediate between the two tree trunk sections during assembly. These features serve as alignment guides and mechanical stops that facilitate easy connection while preventing misalignment. The intermediary notches and shoulders translate the simple insertion motion into precise aligned positioning, resolving the contradiction between ease of assembly and alignment precision.
3Adaptability or versatility
If the connector system allows free assembly and disassembly, then the tree can be easily stored, but connection reliability may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies segmentation by dividing the connector interface into distinct functional elements: notches for alignment and positioning, shoulders for mechanical support and load bearing, and securement device receptacles for additional fixation. This segmented design allows the connector to provide reliable, multi-mechanism attachment while maintaining ease of assembly and disassembly. Each segment performs a specific function that contributes to overall connection reliability without compromising flexibility.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements dynamics by designing a connector system that transitions from a simple static insertion to a dynamic multi-stage securement process. The notches and shoulders provide initial dynamic alignment and positioning during insertion, while the securement devices (screws, nails, or clips) provide dynamic adjustment and final locking. This dynamic approach allows the connection to be easily made and taken apart while ensuring reliable attachment during use.
Data Source
AI summary
A connector system facilitates the connection of a first tree trunk to a second tree trunk of an artificial tree system. The connector system can prohibit rotation of the first tree trunk relative to the second tree trunk.


