Decorative Light String Shroud Assembly Mechanism
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing light strings are complex to install due to wiring and shroud construction, making assembly inefficient and costly.
Innovation Solution
A light string design featuring mated shroud halves with integral necks and caps that securely hold LED light sources and wiring without separate fasteners, using engaging posts and holes for interlocking, and a switch for power control.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If separate fasteners are used to connect wiring to shrouds, then secure connection is achieved, but assembly complexity and manufacturing cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent integrates the fastening function directly into the shroud structure by forming recesses and protrusions as integral parts of the shroud halves. The wiring is secured through these built-in features rather than separate fasteners, combining the structural and fastening functions into a single component.
Solution Approach 2:
The shroud structure provides its own fastening mechanism through the recess-protrusion interface. The wiring harness automatically engages with these features during assembly without requiring additional fasteners or complex installation steps, making the system self-sufficient.
2Reliability
If complex wiring installation procedures are used, then reliable electrical connection is achieved, but installation time and labor cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The wiring harness is pre-configured with connection points that align with the recesses in the shroud halves. This preliminary preparation allows the wiring to be quickly installed by simply placing it into the predetermined positions, eliminating the need for complex installation procedures.
Solution Approach 2:
The shroud is divided into two halves with corresponding recesses and protrusions that guide the wiring harness into place. This segmentation creates multiple simple connection points that are easier to install than a single complex connection, reducing overall installation time.
3Strength
If multiple separate components are used in shroud construction, then structural integrity is achieved, but manufacturing cost and assembly complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The fastening features (recesses and protrusions) are integrated directly into the shroud half structures rather than being separate components. This merging reduces the total number of parts that need to be manufactured and assembled, lowering manufacturing costs while maintaining structural integrity.
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
Simplifies the assembly of light strings by eliminating the need for separate fasteners, reducing installation complexity and costs while ensuring secure and efficient power delivery to LED elements.
Implementation Method 1
each light element is comprised of an LED light source and a support post for supporting the LED light source
Data Source
AI summary
A light string of ornamental piece is provided wherein each ornamental piece includes electrical wiring that provides electrical power to a light element for each ornamental piece. The ornamental piece includes a shroud that is made up of mated shroud halves that are constructed and arranged to receive the electrical wiring and capture the light element therebetween. The shroud halves are each formed with a decorative base and integral neck having a top surface through which the electrical wiring extends. The light element is supported so as to be disposed within the base of the shroud so as to illuminate the base of the shroud.