Modular Lighted Tree Trunk Connectors for Fast Section Assembly
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing pre-lit artificial trees face challenges in assembly and power distribution due to their complexity and weight, making it difficult to connect and power numerous light strings efficiently.
Innovation Solution
A modular lighted artificial tree design that allows for mechanical and electrical connection between tree portions, featuring trunk connectors and wiring assemblies that enable easy assembly and power distribution without requiring rotational alignment.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Illumination intensity
If pre-lit artificial trees include multiple standard light strings distributed about the exterior of the tree, then the decorative quality of the tree is enhanced, but the weight of the tree increases making it difficult to lift and align individual trunk sections
Solution Approach 1:
The tree is divided into multiple separate trunk sections that can be assembled in segments. Each section contains integrated lighting elements, allowing the tree to be constructed in manageable portions rather than as a single heavy unit. This segmentation enables easier handling and assembly while maintaining the distributed lighting effect throughout the tree structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent combines the mechanical support structure (trunk sections) with the lighting system into integrated units. The trunk sections incorporate electrical connectors and wiring channels directly within the structural elements, merging the functions of support and illumination delivery into a single integrated component that reduces overall complexity and weight.
2Illumination intensity
If pre-lit artificial trees include an increased number of lights and light strings, then the decorative quality is improved, but the complexity of interconnecting and powering the numerous light strings increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent integrates the electrical wiring and connectors directly into the trunk section structures. Each trunk section contains built-in electrical pathways and mating connectors that automatically align when sections are assembled mechanically. This merging of mechanical and electrical connection functions eliminates the need for separate wiring operations and reduces the complexity of interconnecting multiple light strings.
Solution Approach 2:
The electrical connectors and wiring are pre-positioned within the trunk sections during manufacturing. The connectors are arranged in advance to automatically align with corresponding connectors in adjacent sections when the tree is assembled. This preliminary arrangement of electrical components eliminates the need for complex field wiring operations and simplifies the assembly process.
3Use of energy by moving object
If pre-lit artificial trees use plug ends that dangle throughout the branches, then power can be distributed to light strings, but it becomes difficult to find and properly connect the necessary plugs to power all light strings
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the mechanical assembly operation with the electrical connection operation into a single action. When trunk sections are mechanically joined together through their structural interfaces, the integrated electrical connectors automatically engage and establish electrical continuity between sections. This merging eliminates the separate task of locating and connecting dangling plug ends throughout the branches.
Solution Approach 2:
The electrical connection system is designed to automatically establish connections when the tree sections are properly assembled. The connectors are positioned and oriented within the trunk sections so that mechanical alignment during assembly automatically brings the electrical contacts into engagement. This self-aligning, self-connecting system eliminates the need for manual plug insertion and connection operations.
4Quantity of substance
If pre-lit artificial trees require stacking and plugging multiple light strings and cords into multiple power outlets, then power can be distributed to numerous lights, but the assembly process becomes complex and time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The tree is divided into modular trunk sections that each contain integrated lighting and electrical connection capabilities. This segmentation allows the tree to be assembled in discrete units rather than requiring the step-by-step connection of individual light strings. Each section can be independently prepared and then quickly joined to adjacent sections, dramatically reducing the total assembly time compared to traditional methods.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent merges multiple functions (mechanical support, light string mounting, and electrical connection) into integrated trunk section units. By combining these functions into single modular components, the system eliminates the need for separate operations of stacking light strings and connecting power cords. The integrated design allows all functions to be accomplished simultaneously during the mechanical assembly process.
Data Source
AI summary
A lighted artificial tree includes a first tree portion including a first trunk portion, first branches joined to the first trunk portion, and a first light string. The first trunk portion has a trunk connector and a first trunk wiring assembly, the first trunk wiring assembly is electrically connectable to the first light string and the trunk connector, and at least a portion of the first wiring assembly is located inside the first portion. The second tree portion includes a second trunk portion, second branches, and a second light string. The second trunk portion has a trunk connector and a second trunk wiring assembly, the second trunk wiring assembly electrically connectable to the second lighting string and the trunk connector. The second tree portion may be mechanically coupled and electrically connected to the first tree portion by coaxially coupling the first trunk portion to the second trunk portion.