Pivoting Wall Ornamental Tree Assembly for Space-Efficient Storage
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current ornamental tree solutions, such as natural and artificial Christmas trees, are time-consuming to set up and require significant space, with space-saving options like half or quarter trees appearing incomplete and unsightly.
Innovation Solution
An ornamental tree assembly with a base and pivoting walls that convert between storage and display configurations using latches and hinges, creating the appearance of a complete tree by extending the upper portion over the lower portion, allowing for easy setup and space-efficient storage.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Shape
If a full artificial Christmas tree is used, then the tree appears complete and aesthetically pleasing, but it takes up too much floor space and is time-consuming to assemble
Solution Approach 1:
The upper portion of the tree is nested within the enclosure during storage, and the enclosure itself can be nested or folded to reduce footprint. The design allows the tree components to be stored compactly within a confined space structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention transitions from a two-dimensional flat storage configuration to a three-dimensional display configuration. The enclosure pivots from a collapsed state to an extended state that surrounds the tree, creating the appearance of a full tree without requiring the full spatial footprint of a traditional tree.
2Shape
If a full artificial Christmas tree is used, then the tree appears complete, but it is very time-consuming to assemble and decorate
Solution Approach 1:
The tree is pre-assembled in sections (upper and lower portions) and pre-positioned within the enclosure structure. The enclosure itself is pre-configured with hinges and latches, allowing for rapid deployment without requiring time-consuming assembly of individual tree components during setup.
Solution Approach 2:
The tree is divided into upper and lower portions that can be independently positioned and assembled. The enclosure is also segmented into panels that can be independently folded into place, allowing for modular, quick assembly rather than constructing the entire tree at once.
3Area of stationary object
If half or quarter artificial trees are used to save space, then floor space is reduced, but the trees appear incomplete and unsightly
Solution Approach 1:
The enclosure creates a visual copy or illusion of a complete full tree by surrounding the upper portion with walls that mimic the appearance of a complete tree structure. The enclosure panels are designed to visually complete the tree shape, making a space-saving configuration appear as a full tree.
Solution Approach 2:
The enclosure acts as an intermediary structure that bridges the gap between the partial tree (upper portion only) and the appearance of a complete tree. The walls and panels of the enclosure provide the missing visual elements, creating the illusion of a full tree without requiring the actual full tree structure.
4Shape
If traditional tree toppers are used in free-standing trees, then decoration is complete, but the toppers rarely get sufficient support
Solution Approach 1:
The enclosure serves multiple functions: it provides the structural framework for the space-saving design, creates the visual appearance of a full tree, and simultaneously provides structural support for the tree topper through its roof structure. The roof of the enclosure acts as both a visual element and a support mechanism.
Data Source
AI summary
An ornamental tree assembly includes a base defining a presentation surface and at least one base edge defining a base periphery. A lower portion of an ornamental tree is fixedly secured to the presentation surface of the base. A plurality of walls is movable with respect to the base, with at least one of the walls pivotally secured to the base edge. The ornamental tree assembly also includes an upper portion of the ornamental tree fixedly secured to another of the plurality of walls. The upper portion of the ornamental tree is inverted and disposed adjacent the lower portion of the ornamental tree when the plurality of walls are configured in a storage configuration; and the upper portion is upright and extending over the lower portion when the plurality of storage walls are in a display configuration.