Modular lighted tree with trunk electrical connectors
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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 cumbersome manipulation and handling of tree sections to align and connect them securely.
Innovation Solution
A modular lighted artificial tree design featuring separable tree portions that can be mechanically and electrically connected along a common vertical axis, using trunk connectors and wiring harnesses to simplify assembly and ensure electrical connections without rotational alignment, allowing for easy alignment and secure coupling of tree sections.
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 effect is improved, but the complexity of interconnecting and powering the light strings increases significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple light strings into a single integrated wiring system that runs through the trunk of the tree. Instead of connecting multiple separate light strings end-to-end, the wiring is merged into one continuous pathway that distributes power to all lights along the trunk, eliminating the need for multiple plug-and-receptacle connections.
Solution Approach 2:
The trunk serves multiple functions: it provides structural support for the tree sections and simultaneously houses the electrical wiring conduit. This multi-functional design allows the same structural element to fulfill both mechanical and electrical distribution roles, reducing overall system complexity.
2Illumination intensity
If the number of branches and lights per tree is increased to enhance decorative quality, then the decorative effect 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 detachable trunk sections that can be assembled in stages. Each section contains a portion of the total light load, allowing consumers to handle and position lighter individual sections rather than attempting to lift and align a single heavy entire tree structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The electrical wiring is pre-installed within the trunk sections during manufacturing, with connectors prepared in advance. This preliminary preparation eliminates the need for consumers to handle heavy wiring during assembly, as the electrical connections are already in place and simply need to be joined when trunk sections are connected.
3Reliability
If traditional plug-and-receptacle connections are used for light strings, then electrical connection is achieved, but rotational misalignment between trunk sections prevents proper connection
Solution Approach 1:
The electrical connector design incorporates asymmetric features such as keyed slots or shaped interfaces that guide proper alignment. This asymmetric design prevents rotational misalignment by allowing connection in only one specific orientation, ensuring reliable electrical contact while guiding the user through the assembly process.
Solution Approach 2:
The electrical wiring is nested within the trunk structure, with connectors housed inside the trunk sections. This nesting protects the electrical connections from external damage and ensures that alignment is maintained through the mechanical coupling of the trunk sections themselves, which protectively enclose the wiring.
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.