Modular tree with electrical connector
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing artificial trees with pre-lit configurations face challenges in assembly and powering due to increased complexity and weight, requiring intricate manipulation and handling of multiple tree sections and light strings, especially with large numbers of lights powered by alternating current (AC) sources.
Innovation Solution
The design incorporates modular tree portions with multi-terminal electrical connectors and trunk wiring harnesses, allowing for easy alignment and secure electrical connections along a central axis, simplifying the assembly and powering process by using a power cord that connects to an external power source through an electrical hub, distributing power efficiently to multiple light strings.
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 is improved, but the device complexity and weight increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple light strings into a single integrated light string with multiple branches. Instead of using separate light strings that need to be interconnected through multiple plugs and receptacles, the invention integrates all light strings into one continuous electrical circuit that distributes power through a single cord, thereby reducing the complexity of interconnecting components while maintaining the decorative illumination effect.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates a universal power distribution system where a single light string assembly serves multiple functions: it provides illumination throughout the tree, distributes electrical power to all light bulbs, and eliminates the need for multiple separate electrical connections. The light string assembly acts as both a decorative element and an electrical distribution network, reducing overall system complexity.
2Illumination intensity
If pre-lit artificial trees include a large number of lights (1,000 or 1,500 lights), then the decorative quality is improved, but the weight increases making it difficult to lift and align individual trunk sections
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the artificial tree into multiple separable trunk sections that can be assembled in a modular fashion. Each trunk section contains a portion of the integrated light string and can be handled independently during assembly. This segmentation reduces the weight of individual sections that need to be lifted and aligned, while the continuous light string integrates them into a complete illuminated tree when assembled.
3Ease of operation
If multiple standard light strings are used with bladed power plugs, then power distribution is simplified, but the current-carrying capacity limitations require careful connection planning and stacking of plugs
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple separate light string connections into a single continuous electrical circuit. Instead of requiring users to plug multiple separate light strings together through stacking plugs and receptacles, the invention uses one integrated light string that distributes electrical current through its entire length, eliminating the need for multiple connection points and reducing the complexity of power distribution.
Data Source
AI summary
A lighted artificial tree, including a first tree portion having a first electrical connector having a first electrical terminal positioned in line with a central vertical axis, and a second electrical terminal. The tree also includes a second tree portion that includes a second electrical connector having a first electrical terminal and a second electrical terminal, the second electrical terminal defining a ring shape that encircles the first electrical terminal. When the first tree portion is coupled to the second tree portion, the first electrical connector is coupled to the second electrical connector, such that the first electrical terminal of the first electrical connector is electrically connected to the first electrical terminal of the second electrical connector, and the second electrical terminal of the first electrical connector is electrically connected to the second electrical terminal of the second electrical connector.