Modular lighted tree
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing artificial trees with complex lighting systems are difficult to assemble and power due to the increased weight and complexity of multiple light strings, requiring intricate manipulation and handling of tree sections, and existing solutions fail to provide effective mechanical and electrical connection methods for larger, heavier trees with numerous lights.
Innovation Solution
A modular lighted artificial tree design featuring trunk portions with integrated connectors that allow for mechanical and electrical coupling along a common vertical axis, independent of rotational orientation, using supporting connectors with positioning features to align and secure the tree sections, and a method for manufacturing involving trunk wiring harnesses and light string connectors for easy assembly and power distribution.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Illumination intensity
If the number of lights and light strings on the pre-lit tree is increased, then the decorative quality is improved, 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 stages. Each section contains a portion of the total light strings, distributing the weight across multiple manageable components rather than one heavy unit. This allows consumers to handle and position sections more easily during assembly.
Solution Approach 2:
The electrical connectors are integrated within the trunk sections themselves, with male connectors embedded in one section fitting into female connectors in adjacent sections. This nesting of electrical connection components within the structural components eliminates the need for separate external wiring and reduces overall complexity.
2Illumination intensity
If the number of light strings on the pre-lit tree is increased, then the decorative quality is improved, but the complexity of interconnecting and powering the numerous light strings increases
Solution Approach 1:
The mechanical connection and electrical connection functions are merged into a single integrated connector assembly. When two trunk sections are joined together mechanically, the embedded electrical connectors automatically align and connect, simultaneously establishing both structural and electrical continuity without requiring separate connection steps.
Solution Approach 2:
The trunk sections are designed with universal connectors that serve dual purposes: providing mechanical support and alignment while simultaneously establishing electrical connections for the light strings. This multi-functionality reduces the number of different component types and simplifies the assembly process.
3Use of energy by moving object
If traditional light string connection methods are used with multiple plugs and receptacles, then power distribution is achieved, but the consumer must follow manufacturer guidelines and not plug too many light strings together surpassing current-carrying capacity
Solution Approach 1:
The integrated connector system automatically manages electrical connections as trunk sections are assembled. The system self-regulates the connection process without requiring the consumer to calculate current loads or follow complex wiring instructions, as the pre-integrated connectors handle power distribution automatically based on the tree's design specifications.
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.