Artificial Tree Pole Connectors for Radial Assembly and Signal Routing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing artificial tree systems lack efficient mechanisms for easy assembly and disassembly, and effective multi-channel control of electrical signals and power distribution, leading to complexity and safety hazards.
Innovation Solution
The artificial tree apparatus features axial electrical connectors that allow trunk segments to connect in any radial orientation, enabling easy assembly and disassembly, and a control system that independently controls branch segments with multi-channel signal modulation for complex lighting and sound effects, with integrated electrical safety features.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If traditional coupling mechanisms are used for trunk segments, then assembly becomes complex and electrical safety hazards increase, but if axial electrical connectors are implemented, then assembly is simplified and electrical safety is enhanced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines mechanical coupling and electrical connection functions into a single axial connector assembly. The connector integrates both structural support and electrical signal/power transmission through coaxial alignment of contact elements, eliminating the need for separate mechanical and electrical coupling steps and reducing overall system complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The axial electrical connector serves multiple functions simultaneously: it provides mechanical support for trunk segments, transmits power signals, carries command signals, and enables data communication. This multi-functional design replaces what would traditionally require multiple separate components, simplifying the coupling mechanism while enhancing operational ease.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple independent information channels and command signals are transmitted through the tree column, then control capabilities are enhanced, but if traditional electrical systems are used, then electrical safety hazards increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs an intermediary isolated grounded conductor that separates different electrical channels within the tree column. This intermediate shielding layer prevents electrical interference and isolation between power, command, and data signals, reducing electrical safety hazards while enabling multiple independent communication channels to operate simultaneously.
Solution Approach 2:
The electrical connection system is segmented into multiple independent coaxial channels, each handling specific signal types (power, command, data). This segmentation isolates high-voltage power transmission from low-voltage control signals, reducing electrical hazards while maintaining versatile control capabilities through dedicated signal paths.
3Adaptability or versatility
If axial electrical connectors with multiple channels are used, then multi-channel control capabilities are provided, but if complex connector designs are implemented, then manufacturing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The connector design nests multiple electrical channels within a coaxial structure, where inner conductors carrying different signals are nested within concentric insulating and shielding layers. This nested arrangement provides multi-channel control capabilities while maintaining a compact, standardized outer geometry that simplifies manufacturing compared to distributed multi-component designs.
Solution Approach 2:
All electrical channels use the same coaxial connector geometry and interface standard, providing homogeneity in the connector design. This uniform approach across all channels simplifies manufacturing processes and quality control while still enabling diverse multi-channel control functions through different signal assignments within the standardized structure.
Data Source
AI summary
Disclosed is an artificial tree having a plurality of electrified tree sections that couple together to provide power and/or command signals to devices connected thereto. One or more tree sections may have a trunk portion, one or more electrical connectors having a plurality of terminals, branches, a light string, and an electrical distribution system located at least partially within the trunk portion. A first tree section may be configured to couple to a second tree section such that an electrical connector of the first tree section is in electrical connection with an electrical connector of the second tree section, thereby mechanically and electrically connecting the first tree section to the second tree section such that power and/or the control data are transmitted to the second tree section. Further, each trunk segment may include an axial electrical connector that permits adjacent trunk segments to connect in a plurality of radial orientations relative to each other.