Modular electrical distribution system for an illuminable decoration, and illuminable decoration with modular electrical distribution system
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing electrical distribution systems for illuminable decorations, such as artificial trees, require complex assembly and alignment of electrical connectors, which can be cumbersome and require special knowledge, hindering ease of use and convenience.
Innovation Solution
A modular electrical distribution system where hollow trunk sections with integrated modular electrical connectors allow for automatic electrical connections when assembled, eliminating the need for manual alignment and specialized knowledge, using a cable assembly with inner and outer sockets and plugs that circumscribe each other, ensuring secure and efficient power delivery.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional electrical connectors are used for assembling trunk sections, then electrical connection can be achieved, but the assembly process becomes complex and requires special knowledge for alignment
Solution Approach 1:
The electrical connector is divided into two separate components: an inner connector and an outer connector. The inner connector is integrated into the trunk section, while the outer connector is integrated into the cable assembly. This segmentation allows each connector to be independently positioned and aligned, eliminating the need for complex manual alignment procedures while ensuring reliable electrical contact.
Solution Approach 2:
The inner connector is nested within the outer connector, with the inner connector having a plug that inserts into a socket of the outer connector. This nested configuration ensures that the electrical contacts are pre-aligned and protected, allowing for automatic electrical connection when the trunk section and cable assembly are assembled, thereby improving both reliability and ease of operation.
2Manufacturing precision
If manual alignment of electrical connectors is required, then precise connection can be achieved, but the assembly process becomes cumbersome and time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The inner connector is pre-integrated into the trunk section and the outer connector is pre-integrated into the cable assembly during manufacturing. This preliminary action ensures that the electrical connectors are pre-aligned and positioned correctly, so that when the trunk section and cable assembly are assembled, the electrical connection is automatically established without requiring manual alignment, thereby reducing assembly time while maintaining precision.
Solution Approach 2:
The nested connector design enables self-alignment during assembly. The inner plug and outer socket are configured to automatically align and engage with each other when the trunk section and cable assembly are connected, eliminating the need for manual intervention. This self-service mechanism reduces assembly time while ensuring precise electrical connection.
3Ease of manufacture
If electrical connectors are integrated into trunk sections, then power distribution is simplified, but the device complexity increases due to additional components
Solution Approach 1:
The inner connector is merged with the trunk section as an integrated component, and the outer connector is merged with the cable assembly as an integrated component. This merging simplifies the power distribution system by eliminating the need for separate connector installation steps, while the modular nested design keeps the overall system complexity manageable through standardized interfaces.
Data Source
AI summary
An illuminable decoration comprises at least two trunk sections, each trunk section includes a hollow tube and a cable assembly coupled to each trunk section. Each cable assembly comprises a first modular electrical connector end that has an inner socket and an outer plug that circumscribes the inner socket. Further, each cable assembly comprises a second modular electrical connector end that has an inner plug and an outer socket that circumscribes the inner plug. A first electrical wire electrically couples between the inner socket of the first modular electrical connector and the inner plug of the second modular electrical connector. Also, a second electrical wire electrically couples between the outer plug of the first modular electrical connector and the outer socket of the second modular electrical connector. When two trunk sections are assembled together end-to-end, the trunk sections are mechanically and electrically coupled to form a modular electrical distribution system.