Self-deploying tree system
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional artificial Christmas trees require time-consuming assembly and disassembly, and storage is cumbersome due to the need for repositioning branches, leading to frustration and potential loss of parts.
Innovation Solution
A self-deploying tree system comprising a top tree assembly, a main tree assembly, and a base with a deployment mechanism that automatically converts between a collapsed and deployed configuration, using telescopic pole tubes and flexible tether assemblies to adjust limb positions, allowing for easy handling and storage.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If conventional artificial trees are assembled and disassembled manually, then the tree can be deployed and stored, but the process is time-consuming and labor-intensive
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic limb supports that can automatically transition between deployed and collapsed positions. The limb supports are designed to move radially outward when the tree is assembled and radially inward when collapsed, enabling automatic configuration changes without manual intervention and significantly reducing assembly time
Solution Approach 2:
The tree assembly system performs self-configuration through automated mechanisms. When trunk sections are connected, the limb supports automatically deploy to their operational positions, and when sections are disconnected, they automatically retract, eliminating the need for manual assembly/disassembly operations
2Volume of moving object
If branches are removed for storage, then the tree can be compacted, but repositioning branches each time causes confusion and potential loss of parts
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements nesting of limb supports within concentric cones during collapsed storage. Each limb support is received within a corresponding cone, and multiple cones are nested within each other, creating a compact storage configuration that maintains organized positioning of all components without requiring removal or repositioning
Solution Approach 2:
The limb supports are pre-positioned within the cones in their collapsed state, maintaining their relative positions and associations with specific trunk sections. This preliminary arrangement ensures that when the tree is reassembled, components are already in their correct positions, eliminating confusion and preventing loss of parts
3Ease of operation
If the tree is kept in deployed configuration, then it is ready for display, but storage becomes cumbersome and space-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The tree system employs dynamic limb supports that can automatically transition between deployed and collapsed configurations. When the tree is assembled, limb supports extend radially outward to form the display configuration; when stored, they retract radially inward to minimize volume, enabling the tree to adapt its form based on operational needs
Solution Approach 2:
During collapsed storage, limb supports are nested within concentric cones that are themselves nested within the trunk structure. This multi-level nesting arrangement reduces the overall volume of the tree to a fraction of its deployed size, making storage and transportation highly efficient
Data Source
AI summary
Apparatuses and methods for a self-deploying tree are disclosed. In an exemplary embodiment, a self-deploying tree system comprises a top tree assembly, a main tree assembly, and a base. The lower end of the top tree assembly may be coupled to the upper end of the main tree assembly, and the lower end of the main tree assembly may be coupled to the base, providing a vertical orientation of the self-deploying tree system. The self-deploying tree system further comprises a deployment mechanism which may be activated to automatically convert the tree from a collapsed configuration to a deployed configuration or from a deployed configuration to a collapsed configuration. The collapsed configuration comprises a reduced height and a reduced circumference to allow for ease of handling and storage. The deployed configuration provides for the tree to be extended to a desired height and for deployment of the limbs as desired for display.