Modular Leg Frame with Snap Connectors for Ornamental Assembly
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional methods for assembling tabletop Christmas trees using coat hangers are frustrating, time-consuming, and provide inconsistent results due to their complexity and assembly challenges.
Innovation Solution
A frame comprising a plurality of legs with connectors and holders that can be easily snapped together using a molding process, allowing for quick assembly and secure attachment of lights and decorations, with flexible design options for various ornamental arrangements.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If conventional coat hangers are bent into a frame, then a tabletop Christmas tree structure can be created, but the assembly process becomes frustrating and time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The frame is divided into multiple separate legs that can be manufactured independently using molding processes. Each leg is a discrete component that can be easily assembled with others through connectors, eliminating the need to manually bend and shape a single continuous coat hanger into the frame structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention changes the physical state and form of the frame components from bent metal wire (coat hanger) to molded plastic or composite legs. This parameter change allows for standardized, pre-formed components that are easier to manufacture and assemble, directly addressing the ease of assembly and time loss issues.
2Ease of manufacture
If conventional coat hangers are used to form the frame, then a simple structure can be created, but the results are inconsistent
Solution Approach 1:
By segmenting the frame into standardized legs with integrated connectors, each component can be manufactured with precise dimensions and connection features. This ensures consistent assembly results across multiple units, eliminating the variability inherent in manually bending coat hangers.
Solution Approach 2:
The connectors are designed to self-align and self-secure the legs together during assembly. This self-service mechanism ensures that even users with varying skill levels can achieve consistent, precise assembly results without requiring manual adjustment or bending techniques.
3Ease of operation
If a molded frame structure is used, then easy assembly is achieved, but the ability to secure lights and decorations must be integrated
Solution Approach 1:
The holders for lights and decorations are merged with the leg structures themselves rather than being separate components. This integration allows the frame to maintain its simple, easy-to-assemble nature while incorporating the necessary functionality to secure ornamental elements.
Solution Approach 2:
The legs are designed with multiple functions: structural support, connection to other legs via connectors, and attachment of lights/decorations via integrated holders. This multi-functionality reduces the overall device complexity by eliminating the need for separate components for each function.
Data Source
AI summary
An apparatus comprising a plurality of legs. Each of the legs may have a plurality of holders and a base. The base may comprise (i) a first connector on one side of the base and (ii) a second connector on another side of the base. Each of the plurality of legs may be configured to (i) connect to the second connector of one of the plurality of legs using the first connector, (ii) connect to the first connector of another of the plurality of legs using the second connector, (iii) be flexible about an axis and (iv) be arranged in a circular fashion. The holders may be configured to secure one or more lights of a strand of lights.