Tree lighting system

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing tree lighting systems lack a collar with integral power and interchangeable or replaceable light strands, making installation cumbersome and limiting customization options.

Innovation Solution

A tree lighting system featuring a collar with a light controller and C-shaped rods for secure attachment, along with interchangeable light strands that receive power from the collar, allowing for easy installation, customization, and maintenance.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of operation

If a collar with integral power and interchangeable light strands is implemented, then ease of operation and customization are improved, but device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveinstallation easeVSAvoidsystem complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The lighting system is divided into separate modular components: a collar assembly with integrated power supply and control, and interchangeable light strand modules. Each module can be independently manufactured, tested, and replaced, simplifying installation and maintenance while enabling customization without increasing overall system complexity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The collar assembly serves multiple functions: it provides structural support for the tree, houses the power supply unit, contains the light controller, and provides electrical connections for multiple interchangeable light strands. This multi-functionality consolidates what would otherwise be separate systems into a single integrated unit.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

2Adaptability or versatility

If a collar with integral power and interchangeable light strands is implemented, then adaptability and customization options are improved, but manufacturing complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecustomization optionsVSAvoidmanufacturing complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

The system is segmented into standardized modules with uniform connection interfaces. The collar assembly uses standardized electrical connectors and mounting mechanisms that work with all light strand variants, allowing different light configurations to be produced using the same base components manufactured in high volumes.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The interchangeable light strands allow users to change the optical parameters (color, brightness, pattern) without changing the physical structure or electrical interface. The controller can be programmed with different lighting sequences and patterns, providing versatility through software parameter changes rather than hardware variations.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

3Stability of the object's composition

If C-shaped rods with secure attachment mechanism are used, then stability and security are improved, but device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveattachment stabilityVSAvoidattachment mechanism complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Stability of the object's compositionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

Instead of using complex mechanical fasteners or adhesive systems, the collar uses the natural geometry of the tree trunk. The C-shaped rods wrap around the tree in a simple embrace, using the tree's own cylindrical shape as the anchoring mechanism, thereby achieving stable attachment without adding complex fastening components.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #13The other way round (Inversion)

Solution Approach 2:

The attachment mechanism is designed to be self-adjusting and self-securing. The C-shaped rods can be easily positioned and will naturally conform to the tree trunk diameter, requiring no precise alignment or additional tools for installation, thereby achieving stability through simple, intuitive design.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

Data Source

PatentUS11877683B1Tree lighting system
Publication Date: 2024.01.23 BLUE CROWN LLC
  • US11877683B1 patent drawing
  • US11877683B1 patent drawing
  • US11877683B1 patent drawing

AI summary

A tree lighting system including a support assembly, a lighting assembly, and a hanging assembly. Support assembly includes a collar adapted to sit atop a portion of a Christmas tree by means of rods inserted in the collar to securely place the collar on the branches of an ornamental tree. The collar integrates electrical plugs configured to receive a series of strands. The strands feature lights along thereof to provide an aesthetic lighted appeal to the tree. A light controller connected to the plugs controls and power said lights through the plugs when the strands are connected. Users are capable of conveniently adjusting lighting configurations of the lights with the press of a control means, offering a versatile, and visually appealing solution for installing and illuminating the Christmas tree.