Collapsible Tree Branch Assembly With Sliding Collar Extension
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing collapsible artificial trees face challenges in easy extension and retraction, requiring manual manipulation of branches and using spring-loaded bases, which can be cumbersome and strain-inducing, and result in deformation and uneven aesthetics.
Innovation Solution
A collapsible artificial tree design featuring an elongated trunk with slidably engaged branch assemblies, adjustable in size, and a motor-operated system allowing remote control of branch configurations, enabling easy extension and retraction without manual branch manipulation and eliminating the need for spring-loaded bases.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a spring-loaded base is used to extend all branches simultaneously, then the tree can be extended automatically, but the user experiences excess force requirements and burden when the spring inadvertently expands
Solution Approach 1:
The invention extracts the spring mechanism from the base and relocates it to individual collar assemblies that attach to branches. This removes the problematic large-force spring from the base while retaining the beneficial automatic extension function at a smaller, more manageable force level at each branch point.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention segments the single large spring force into multiple smaller spring forces distributed across individual collar assemblies. Each collar has its own spring that acts on a single branch, dividing the total force requirement into manageable portions that can be independently controlled.
2Volume of moving object
If manual manipulation of each individual limb is required to collapse the tree structure, then the tree can be stored compactly, but the user experiences excessive time and effort requirements
Solution Approach 1:
The collar assemblies are designed to self-latch and self-latch-release mechanisms. When the tree is extended, the collars automatically latch to hold branches in position. When collapsing, the collars automatically release and allow branches to fold back, eliminating the need for manual manipulation of each limb while maintaining compact storage.
3Device complexity
If branch assemblies are pivotally connected to trunk with linear orientation, then the structure is simple, but great force is required causing unnecessary strain on the device
Solution Approach 1:
The invention replaces static pivotal connections with dynamic collar assemblies that can slide along the trunk. This allows the branch connection point to move vertically along the trunk during extension and retraction, creating a more favorable mechanical advantage and reducing the force required for transition while maintaining structural simplicity.
4Duration of action of stationary object
If the tree structure is collapsed after lengthy storage period, then the tree can be reused, but the branches and structural elements deform making uniform appearance difficult to achieve
Solution Approach 1:
The collar assemblies are pre-configured with latching mechanisms that automatically engage when branches are extended. This preliminary positioning system ensures that branches are held in their correct extended positions, preventing deformation during storage and ensuring uniform appearance when the tree is next used, regardless of storage duration.
Data Source
AI summary
A collapsible artificial tree is provided. The collapsible artificial tree includes one or more branch assemblies extending from an elongated trunk, wherein each branch assembly can transition between an extended configuration and a retracted configuration. Each branch assembly includes a scissor arm having a plurality of beam members pivotally linked to one another, wherein the scissor arm is connected to a first and second collar. The first collar and second collar are disposed in a stacked orientation along the trunk, wherein the second collar is slidably engaged with the trunk. As the second collar slides towards the first collar, the branch assembly extends outward from the trunk to the extended configuration. In the retracted configuration, the plurality of beam members is oriented generally vertical to the elongated trunk. These configurations provide for compact storage when not in use and mimicking of a tree structure when in the extended configuration.