Dual-Voltage Artificial Tree Connectors for AC/DC Ornament Power
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Traditional lighted artificial trees often require additional power cords to accommodate AC-powered ornaments when used with LED-based trees that operate on DC power, leading to inefficiencies and increased complexity.
Innovation Solution
The development of dual-voltage lighted artificial trees that can distribute both AC and DC power throughout the tree, with AC power accessible at the top and DC power between tree sections, using a system of electrical terminals and power-conditioning circuitry to ensure compatibility with various ornaments and light strings.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of energy
If LED-based light strings requiring DC power are used in the tree, then power consumption is reduced and energy efficiency is improved, but compatibility with AC-powered ornaments is lost requiring additional power cords
Solution Approach 1:
The electrical connector is designed to provide multiple power types (AC and DC) through the same connection interface. The connector includes multiple terminals that can simultaneously deliver AC power to AC-powered ornaments and DC power to LED light strings, eliminating the need for separate power cords and enhancing universal compatibility.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple power cords are added to accommodate AC-powered ornaments on DC-powered trees, then compatibility is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges AC and DC power delivery capabilities into a single electrical connector system. The connector integrates multiple terminals that can simultaneously provide AC power and DC power through the same physical connection point, consolidating what would otherwise require separate power cords and reducing overall system complexity.
3Adaptability or versatility
If AC power is distributed to the top of the tree for ornaments while DC power is distributed to light strings, then versatility is improved, but electrical connector complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The electrical connector is segmented into multiple independent terminals, with each terminal dedicated to a specific power type (AC or DC). This segmentation allows each terminal to be optimized for its specific function while the overall connector provides dual-voltage support, managing complexity through functional separation.
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
This solution allows for seamless integration of AC and DC-powered ornaments and lights, reducing the need for additional power cords and enhancing the versatility and efficiency of the lighting system.
Implementation Method 1
power-conditioning circuitry, including a power transformer for transforming power of a first type to power of a second type
Data Source
AI summary
An artificial tree having a first tree section including a trunk and a trunk electrical connector, the trunk electrical connector including a first pair of electric terminals and a second pair of electrical terminals; and a second tree section including a trunk, a trunk electrical connector, and a light string, the trunk electrical connector in electrical connection with the light string and including a first pair of electric terminals and a second pair of electrical terminals. The first tree section is configured to electrically connect to the second tree section, such that the first pairs of electrical terminals of the first and second tree sections conduct power of a first type and the second pairs of electrical connectors of the first and second tree sections conduct power of a second type.