Modular Artificial Tree Trunk Connector for Rotationless Assembly
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing artificial trees with complex lighting systems face challenges in mechanical and electrical connections, particularly with larger, heavier trees, where aligning and coupling multiple sections is cumbersome and requires significant manipulation, and existing solutions do not adequately address the need for efficient power distribution and alignment without rotational orientation.
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 a supporting connector assembly with a positioning portion and a lumen for secure alignment and electrical connection, and a top connector assembly for linking sections with a thinner diameter for aesthetic appeal.
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 power distribution and the difficulty of connecting plugs increases
Solution Approach 1:
The tree is divided into multiple trunk sections that can be assembled in segments, with each section containing integrated lighting components. This segmentation allows the lighting system to be distributed throughout the tree while maintaining manageable connection points at each section interface.
Solution Approach 2:
The electrical connectors and wiring are nested within the trunk sections themselves, with male and female connectors integrated into the trunk structure. This nesting eliminates the need for external wiring and plug connections, as the electrical connections are built into the tree sections.
2Illumination intensity
If the number of branches and lights is increased to enhance decorative quality, 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 lightweight trunk sections that can be handled and assembled separately. Each section contains a portion of the total lighting load, distributing the weight across multiple manageable units rather than one heavy unit.
Solution Approach 2:
The electrical connectors are pre-positioned and integrated into each trunk section during manufacturing, so that when sections are assembled, the electrical connections are automatically made without requiring additional manipulation or alignment efforts.
3Use of energy by moving object
If traditional plug connections are used for light strings, then power distribution is achieved, but significant manipulation is required to align and couple trunk sections
Solution Approach 1:
The mechanical coupling function and electrical connection function are merged into a single integrated connector system. When two trunk sections are mechanically coupled together, the electrical connectors are simultaneously engaged, combining two functions into one action.
Solution Approach 2:
The electrical connectors are nested within the trunk sections, with male connectors positioned inside one section and female connectors inside the adjacent section. This nesting allows the connectors to be automatically aligned and engaged when the trunk sections are coupled together.
4Stability of the object's composition
If existing connector designs are used that require rotational alignment, then mechanical connection is achieved, but the alignment process becomes cumbersome and time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The connector design incorporates asymmetric features such as keyed protrusions and corresponding grooves that provide automatic orientation. This asymmetry ensures proper alignment of the connectors without requiring rotational manipulation, as the asymmetric features only fit together in one orientation.
Solution Approach 2:
The connector design includes self-aligning features where the male and female connectors automatically orient themselves during the coupling process. The keyed protrusion and groove configuration allows the connectors to self-correct minor misalignments and automatically engage in the correct orientation without user intervention.
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.