Threaded Tree Mount Bracket for Adjustable Fixture Attachment
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for attaching lighting fixtures to trees often damage the trees as they grow, requiring frequent adjustments that are time-consuming, dangerous, and sometimes neglected, leading to tree injury or death due to the use of cables and screws that embed into the trunk.
Innovation Solution
A tree mount bracket with a single-point attachment system using a threaded member and fixture support member, allowing for quick and efficient installation of light fixtures without requiring two hands, featuring a shaft with external threads and a housing that accommodates a wire, and various embodiments including side-mounted and ball-and-socket configurations for secure and adjustable mounting.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If cables or belts are wrapped around tree trunks to attach lighting fixtures, then the fixtures can be easily attached, but the tree grows around the cable causing damage or death to the tree
Solution Approach 1:
The mounting device is divided into separate components: a mounting plate that attaches to the tree, and a fixture holder that attaches to the mounting plate. This segmentation allows the mounting plate to be positioned away from the tree trunk, preventing the tree from growing around it while still providing secure attachment.
Solution Approach 2:
The mounting plate serves as an intermediary between the tree and the lighting fixture. It provides a stable attachment point to the tree while creating space between the tree trunk and the fixture, preventing the tree from growing around the mounting hardware.
2Strength
If screws are used to mount plates to trees, then the lighting device can be supported, but the tree grows into the device requiring frequent adjustments that are time-consuming and dangerous
Solution Approach 1:
The mounting plate is designed with a larger surface area and multiple screw holes that allow it to be positioned away from the tree trunk. As the tree grows, it does not encroach on the mounting plate, eliminating the need for frequent adjustments while maintaining strong attachment.
3Ease of manufacture
If devices require two hands for installation, then proper installation can be achieved, but the installer has no free hands to hold onto the tree creating safety risks
Solution Approach 1:
The device is segmented into a mounting plate and fixture holder that can be assembled in sequence. The mounting plate is first attached to the tree with one hand while holding the tree with the other, then the fixture holder is attached to the mounting plate, allowing safe one-handed operation throughout installation.
4Illumination intensity
If cables are positioned high in trees, then the lighting fixtures can be effectively positioned, but property owners cannot reach the cables to adjust them
Solution Approach 1:
The mounting plate is designed with screw holes arranged in multiple dimensions and orientations, allowing it to be positioned at various heights and angles on the tree. This dimensional flexibility enables effective lighting placement while maintaining accessibility for adjustments.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
Enables secure and adjustable attachment of lighting fixtures to trees without causing damage, allowing for easy adjustment and maintenance while keeping one hand free for safety, thus preventing tree injury and ensuring reliable outdoor lighting.
Implementation Method 1
The threaded member includes a shaft with a tip and external threads at one end and a head at the other end. The housing is threaded to a light fixture
Data Source
AI summary
A tree mount bracket having a threaded member and a fixture support member that are joined to one another. The threaded member includes a shaft with a tip and a head and external threads. The fixture support member has a housing that includes a cylindrical wall and a base wall that defines a base wall opening. The cylindrical wall also defines a wire slot for accommodating a wire. The fixture support member can be embodied as a side mounted fixture support member; two side mounted fixture support members; a fixture support plate; a fixture support assembly; and, a ball shaft and a tightening ring.