Tree Limb Hook Connector for Filling Bare Spots
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for addressing bare spots in trees or plants are either impractical, such as using zip ties that require additional branches or cumbersome fasteners, and do not provide long-term support or a full appearance, potentially damaging the plant.
Innovation Solution
A device comprising two interconnected pieces with a hook and receptacle system, featuring positive-locking teeth, allows for secure attachment and adjustment of tree limbs to fill in gaps and provide structural support, mimicking a fuller appearance.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a zip tie fastener is used to attach a branch to fill a bare spot, then the branch can be secured to the tree, but the fastener requires wrapping around the entire trunk which is cumbersome and impractical
Solution Approach 1:
The device is divided into two separate members: a first member with a hook and receptacle that attaches to one branch, and a second member with a hook and threading that attaches to another branch. This segmentation allows each member to be independently attached to branches without requiring a large fastener around the entire trunk, significantly improving ease of operation while reducing device complexity.
2Reliability
If a fastener is used to tie a branch to fill a bare spot, then the branch can be attached, but the attachment is short term and does not hold the branch for long periods due to gravity working against the weight
Solution Approach 1:
The two members are designed to be connected together forming a unified attachment system. The positive-locking teeth on the threading of the second member engage with the receptacle of the first member, creating a merged structure that provides stable, long-term support capable of withstanding gravitational forces on the attached branches.
Solution Approach 2:
The threading with positive-locking teeth acts as an intermediary mechanism between the two members, providing a reliable connection that transfers and distributes the gravitational load on the branches, thereby extending the duration of effective branch support.
3Strength
If a fastener is tied too tight to secure a branch, then the branch attachment is strengthened, but irreparable damage and possible loss of life to the tree can occur due to strangulation and bark harm
Solution Approach 1:
The attachment force is applied locally at specific points where the hooks engage with branches and the threading connects the members, rather than applying circumferential pressure around the entire trunk. This localized application of force provides sufficient attachment strength while avoiding the bark damage and strangulation caused by tight circumferential fastening.
4Ease of operation
If a separate branch is obtained and attached to fill a bare spot, then the appearance can be improved, but the solution requires obtaining a completely separate branch or chopping a branch from a different part of the tree
Solution Approach 1:
The device is designed to work with any two branches already present on the tree, regardless of their size or position. The hooks can accommodate branches of varying diameters, and the adjustable threading allows the attachment point to be positioned optimally. This universality eliminates the need to obtain or prepare separate branches, simplifying both the attachment process and reducing preparation work.
Data Source
AI summary
A tree limb connector and method of use has a first member and second member that, when connected, securely hold two limbs of a tree in place. The device has a first member with a hook at a first end and a hollow receptacle at a second end. A second member has a hook at a first end and a threading on a second end with a length and teeth. Each hook attaches onto one limb of a tree. The threading is pulled into a first end of receptable and out of a second end of the receptacle, held securely in place via a tongue at the second end of the receptacle that catches a rib at a desired length. The present invention and methods may be used to bring two plant limbs closer together to reduce bare spots for ornamental reasons, such as on a Christmas tree, or provide added support.