Modular lighted tree
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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 sections requires significant manipulation and handling, and existing solutions do not adequately address the need for efficient power distribution and reduced complexity.
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 plug and socket system for secure alignment and power distribution, 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 effect is improved, but the complexity of power distribution and connection increases
Solution Approach 1:
The tree is divided into multiple modular sections, each with integrated lighting. This segmentation allows each section to be independently powered and connected, reducing the overall complexity of power distribution while maintaining decorative lighting effects throughout the entire tree structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The electrical connector is nested within the mechanical connector, with the electrical contacts positioned inside the hollow cylindrical mechanical connector. This nested arrangement integrates power connection with mechanical coupling, simplifying the power distribution system by combining two functions into one component.
2Ease of operation
If the tree is constructed with multiple sections for ease of assembly and storage, then the ease of operation is improved, but the reliability of electrical connection deteriorates due to alignment requirements
Solution Approach 1:
The mechanical connector and electrical connector are merged into a single integrated component. The hollow cylindrical mechanical connector contains the electrical contacts within its structure, so that mechanical coupling and electrical connection occur simultaneously. This eliminates separate alignment requirements for electrical connections, maintaining reliability while preserving assembly convenience.
Solution Approach 2:
The hollow cylindrical mechanical connector acts as an intermediary structure that guides and positions the electrical contacts. By using this intermediary mechanical structure, the electrical connection is automatically aligned during the mechanical coupling process, ensuring reliable electrical connection without requiring separate alignment steps.
3Ease of manufacture
If traditional separate mechanical and electrical connectors are used, then the ease of manufacture is improved, but the device complexity increases due to multiple connection steps
Solution Approach 1:
The mechanical connector and electrical connector are merged into a single integrated component. The hollow cylindrical mechanical connector contains the electrical contacts within its structure, reducing the number of separate parts and connection steps. This integration simplifies the overall connection system while maintaining manufacturing feasibility through modular design.
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.