Flagpole Light-Strand Tree Base With Stackable Arc Sections

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing string light Christmas trees have a large storage volume due to the design of their round bases, which includes rigid arc bands that require elevation and result in increased storage volume when collapsed, making them less desirable for compact storage and transportation.

Innovation Solution

A string light Christmas tree design featuring a round base with four arc sections that connect to an X-shaped arc support, allowing the flat panel sections to rotate and stack, significantly reducing the storage volume by dividing the circumferential elements and using a bottom support pipe for structural integrity, along with a flagpole support system for tall installations.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Strength

If rigid arc bands are used in the round base design, then structural integrity is maintained, but storage volume increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvestructural integrityVSAvoidstorage volume
Core Design Contradiction:
StrengthVSVolume of stationary object

Solution Approach 1:

The round base is divided into multiple arc sections (typically three) that can be disassembled and stacked separately. Each arc section maintains the necessary structural strength when assembled, but when disassembled they can be stacked vertically to minimize storage volume, transforming the base from a large horizontal footprint to a compact vertical stack.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The design transitions the storage configuration from horizontal (arc bands lying flat) to vertical (arc sections stacked on top of each other). This dimensional change allows the same structural components to occupy significantly less storage space while maintaining their load-bearing capacity when assembled.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #17Another dimension (Dimensionality change)

2Reliability

If arc bands are elevated above floor level, then vertical pole support is adequate, but minimum storage volume increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvepole support adequacyVSAvoidminimum storage volume
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSVolume of stationary object

Solution Approach 1:

The round base design incorporates movable and adjustable components that allow the base to be configured at different heights. The vertical pole support mechanism can be adjusted to provide adequate support while allowing the entire structure to collapse to a minimal height for storage, making the elevation requirement dynamic rather than fixed.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

3Strength

If round bar stock is used for arc bands, then overall structural integrity is ensured, but vertical storage volume is maximized

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvestructural integrityVSAvoidvertical storage volume
Core Design Contradiction:
StrengthVSVolume of stationary object

Solution Approach 1:

The design changes the physical state and configuration of the structural components. Arc sections are designed to be collapsible and stackable, changing from a rigid horizontal configuration to a compact vertical stack. This parameter change in configuration allows the same structural integrity to be achieved with minimal vertical storage volume.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

Data Source

PatentUS8678615B1Light strand Christmas tree for flagpole
Publication Date: 2014.03.25 KO GORDON
  • US8678615B1 patent drawing
  • US8678615B1 patent drawing
  • US8678615B1 patent drawing

AI summary

The present invention is a string light type Christmas tree kit for raising upon and being supported from a flagpole with rope and pulley for raising and lowering a flag. The kit includes a crown connector for connection of ends of multiple string lights and raising to at topmost position by the rope and pulley. A circular hoop structure is connected to lower ends of the string lights and is raised off the ground when the crown connector is raised to the topmost position, forming a conical, lighted structure providing the visual illusion of a lighted Christmas tree supported from a flagpole.