Artificial Tree Pole Connectors With Self-Aligning Electrical Contacts
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing artificial Christmas trees face challenges in securely connecting electrical signals between trunk sections, leading to unreliable power transmission and control of lights.
Innovation Solution
A system utilizing plugs and sockets with inclined surfaces and central contacts that align and engage to create radial forces, ensuring a stable electrical connection, and embodiments featuring rotational alignment surfaces and connector pins for secure signal transmission.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If conventional connectors are used to connect trunk sections, then assembly is simple, but electrical signal transmission is unreliable
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs inclined surfaces (sloped engagement surfaces) on the plug and socket connectors that curve toward each other, creating a radial forcing action when engaged. This curved geometric interaction ensures reliable electrical contact by automatically centering and securing the connector elements during assembly.
Solution Approach 2:
The connector design incorporates pre-positioned electrical contacts on the inclined surfaces that are prepared for engagement before assembly. The plug and socket are designed with predetermined contact points that automatically align and establish electrical connection as the trunk sections are joined.
2Manufacturing precision
If trunk sections are connected without alignment features, then manufacturing is simpler, but electrical contact alignment is poor
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs asymmetric inclined surfaces on the plug and socket connectors that are designed to mate together in a specific orientation. These non-symmetric engagement surfaces guide the connectors into proper alignment during assembly, ensuring that electrical contacts meet precisely without requiring complex alignment features or additional manufacturing steps.
3Strength
If radial forcing action is not implemented, then connector design is simpler, but electrical contact stability is poor
Solution Approach 1:
The inclined surfaces are designed to converge radially toward a central axis, creating a forcing action that pushes electrical contacts together with stable radial pressure when the plug and socket are engaged. This geometric convergence ensures firm electrical contact without requiring additional locking mechanisms or complex spring systems.
Data Source
AI summary
Disclosed are embodiments for providing electrical connection between trunk sections of an artificial tree. In some embodiments, forces are created between electrical connectors on plugs and sockets to ensure a secure electrical connection. In other embodiments, pins and sockets are used in conjunction with rotational orientation devices to ensure proper orientations of the pins and sockets.