Modular tree with electrical connector
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Solution Overview
Problem
Assembling and powering large, complex artificial trees with numerous light strings is cumbersome due to the difficulty in connecting and managing multiple light strings and power cords, leading to a complex web of connections that require careful alignment and handling.
Innovation Solution
A modular artificial tree design featuring separable tree portions with multi-terminal electrical connectors and trunk wiring harnesses, allowing for easy alignment and secure electrical connections along a central axis, with 'single-wire' light strings that distribute power efficiently throughout the tree.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Illumination intensity
If multiple light strings are distributed throughout the tree to enhance decorative quality, then the decorative quality is improved, but the complexity of connecting and managing power cords increases
Solution Approach 1:
The tree is divided into multiple modular sections, each with integrated electrical connectors. This segmentation allows the tree to be assembled in manageable parts while maintaining electrical connectivity through standardized interfaces between sections.
Solution Approach 2:
The electrical connector is integrated directly into the trunk structure of each tree section. By merging the electrical connection function with the mechanical trunk structure, the patent eliminates separate power cord management and simplifies the overall system.
2Illumination intensity
If numerous light strings are connected end-to-end to power the tree, then the illumination coverage is improved, but the risk of surpassing current-carrying capacity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The electrical system is segmented into multiple independent circuits within each tree section. Each section has its own electrical connector and wiring harness, distributing the electrical load and preventing any single circuit from exceeding current-carrying capacity.
Solution Approach 2:
The integrated electrical connector acts as an intermediary that manages power distribution between sections. It includes components that facilitate safe electrical connection and prevent overloading of individual circuits.
3Ease of operation
If the tree is designed as a single large structure to reduce assembly pieces, then the assembly simplicity is improved, but the difficulty of alignment and handling increases
Solution Approach 1:
The tree is divided into multiple manageable sections that can be easily handled and transported. Each section is lightweight enough for consumers to assemble without difficulty, yet the modular design allows them to be quickly connected to form a complete tree.
Solution Approach 2:
Electrical connectors and wiring harnesses are pre-assembled and integrated into each tree section during manufacturing. This preliminary action ensures that when consumers assemble the tree, the electrical connections are already prepared and will automatically align when sections are joined.
4Ease of operation
If electrical connectors are integrated into the trunk structure to simplify connections, then the ease of connection is improved, but the manufacturing precision requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The electrical connector incorporates asymmetric features such as positioning protrusions and corresponding recesses. These asymmetric elements guide the alignment of connectors during assembly, ensuring proper electrical contact while maintaining ease of connection for the consumer.
Solution Approach 2:
The electrical connectors are pre-positioned and secured within the trunk structure during manufacturing. This preliminary positioning ensures that when tree sections are assembled, the connectors are already aligned and will automatically mate without requiring precision alignment by the consumer.
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.