Modular Lighted Artificial Tree with Coaxial Trunk 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 intricate manipulation and handling of tree sections, and lack effective mechanical and electrical connection methods for larger, heavier trees.
Innovation Solution
A modular lighted artificial tree design featuring separable tree portions that are mechanically and electrically connectable along a common vertical axis, utilizing trunk connectors and wiring harnesses to form a secure and efficient electrical connection independent of rotational orientation, simplifying assembly and reducing the need for external fasteners.
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 tree is divided into multiple separable sections, each with integrated lighting. The electrical wiring is segmented and routed through the trunk of each section, with connection points at the base of each section. This allows independent handling and connection of sections without managing complex wiring throughout the entire tree at once.
Solution Approach 2:
The electrical wiring is nested within the trunk structure of each tree section. The wires are concealed inside the trunk, eliminating the need for external wiring management. Connection points are accessible at the base of each section, allowing easy plugging and unplugging without exposing complex wiring.
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 separable sections that can be handled individually. Each section contains a manageable number of lights and branches, reducing the weight of each individual piece. The sections are designed to be assembled vertically, distributing the total weight across multiple manageable components rather than one heavy piece.
3Stability of the object's composition
If traditional mechanical connection methods are used for tree sections, then structural stability is achieved, but rotational alignment is required which complicates the assembly process
Solution Approach 1:
The connection mechanism uses asymmetric features including a square protrusion on the upper section that fits into a corresponding square recess on the lower section. This asymmetric design provides both mechanical stability and automatic orientation, eliminating the need for rotational alignment while ensuring proper positioning of electrical contacts.
4Use of energy by moving object
If electrical wiring is routed externally through extension cords to power light strings, then power distribution is achieved, but the visual appearance is degraded and the system becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The electrical wiring is nested within the trunk structure of each tree section. Wires are concealed inside the trunk, eliminating visible extension cords and external wiring. The wiring system is integrated into the tree's structure, maintaining visual appearance while achieving power distribution to all lights.
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.