Central Shaft Power Connector for Auto-Connecting Lighted Tree Sections
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing ornamental lighting structures, such as pre-lit Christmas trees, require manual and cumbersome connections of power strings between sections, which is inefficient and inconvenient for users.
Innovation Solution
A central pole system composed of two segments with a two-part joint that allows for automatic physical and electrical connection, featuring a first portion with a central aperture and tubular projection, and a second portion with a projection and aperture that align to form an intermediary joint, enabling secure and aligned electrical engagement.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Length of moving object
If the central pole is divided into multiple sections to reduce shipping height, then the shipping convenience is improved, but the complexity of connecting power strings between sections increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the physical connection function and electrical connection function into a single integrated joint mechanism. The electrical connectors are built into the joint structure itself, so that when pole sections are physically assembled together, the electrical connections are automatically made as well. This merging of functions eliminates the need for separate manual wiring steps.
Solution Approach 2:
The joint structure is designed to automatically establish electrical connections when the pole sections are assembled. The electrical connectors are positioned such that the act of joining the pole sections physically causes the electrical contacts to engage, making the system self-connecting without requiring user intervention for wiring.
2Device complexity
If manual power string connections are used between pole sections, then the device structure remains simple, but the ease of operation deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the mechanical assembly operation with the electrical connection operation into a single action. The joint structure integrates both the physical coupling mechanism and the electrical connector, so that one assembly motion accomplishes both tasks simultaneously, greatly improving ease of operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The system performs the electrical connection automatically as a byproduct of the physical assembly process. When users join the pole sections together, the electrical connectors are automatically aligned and engaged, eliminating the need for separate manual wiring operations.
3Ease of operation
If automatic power connection is implemented in the joint, then the ease of operation improves, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The joint structure is designed as a multi-functional component that simultaneously performs mechanical connection and electrical connection functions. This universal design consolidates what would otherwise require separate components, achieving automatic power connection while limiting the increase in overall device complexity.
Data Source
AI summary
A central shaft power connector for lighted ornaments is disclosed. A central support pole, such as for a Christmas tree is made in two parts joinable with an electrical and mechanical connector which joins the pole parts and simultaneously connects power or other circuits from one part to the other. The connector has two engaging sections and an outrigger platform which locates a connector off to the side of the poles but in alignment. Final alignment is obtained by a key and keyway in the connector parts.