Tree Stand Clamping Linkage for Single-Actuation Trunk Holding
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing Christmas tree stands are labor-intensive and time-consuming to assemble, and the clamping mechanism is complex, requiring multiple actuations to secure trees of varying diameters due to the design of the tensioning cable and lever system.
Innovation Solution
A stand with angularly offset holding elements and a flexible force transmission device, such as a tension cable or chain, that couples with the holding elements to apply force efficiently, featuring a gear-like connection through deployment and support levers, and optional spring devices to reduce the required displacement for securing trees of different diameters.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a tensioning cable runs through upper lever arms of pivotable levers to secure trunks of different diameters, then the stand can accommodate varying trunk sizes, but the assembly work becomes labor-intensive and time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The stand is divided into modular components: a base plate with multiple holding elements that can be independently adjusted, and a separate tensioning device that can be quickly activated. This segmentation allows for rapid assembly while maintaining the ability to accommodate different trunk diameters through individual lever adjustments.
Solution Approach 2:
The holding elements are pre-positioned and pre-adjusted during manufacturing to standard configurations. The tensioning cable is pre-routed through guide devices. This preliminary preparation eliminates the need for complex on-site adjustments, significantly reducing assembly time while preserving adaptability to various trunk sizes.
2Force
If the tensioning device is actuated multiple times in a pump-like manner to tighten the cable, then sufficient clamping force can be achieved, but the operation becomes complex and time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The tensioning device incorporates a ratchet mechanism that allows the cable to be tensioned in periodic, incremental steps. Each activation of the tensioning device advances the cable through a fixed distance, progressively increasing clamping force without requiring continuous manual pumping. This periodic action simplifies operation while achieving the necessary force levels.
Solution Approach 2:
The manual pump-like actuation is replaced with a mechanical advantage system using lever arms and a ratchet mechanism. The user applies force to a handle that rotates a spool or directly tensions the cable through mechanical leverage, converting small input forces into large clamping forces on the trunk in a single or few operations.
3Adaptability or versatility
If the tensioning cable must be rolled up multiple times to accommodate small diameter trunks, then the stand can fit smaller trees, but the actuation process becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The tensioning device features a dynamic cable management system where the cable length and routing can be quickly adjusted. For small trunks, the cable can be partially unwound or rerouted through adjustable guide devices, allowing the mechanism to adapt to different trunk sizes without requiring complete reassembly or complex rolling operations.
Solution Approach 2:
Guide devices and idler pulleys act as intermediaries between the tensioning cable and the holding elements. These intermediaries allow the cable to be routed efficiently around small trunks, maintaining tension and proper cable geometry without requiring the cable to be rolled up multiple times or creating excessive complexity in the tensioning mechanism.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The stand allows for effective and efficient clamping of trees with varying diameters using a single actuation, enhancing stability and reducing assembly complexity by ensuring a consistent clamping force and simplified operation.
Implementation Method 1
The power transmission device, which can be designed, for example, as a cable or chain, in particular as a tension cable, safety cable, steel cable, tension chain and/or safety chain
Implementation Method 2
optional spring devices to reduce the required displacement for securing trees of different diameters
Data Source
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AI summary
The stand for mounting mast- or rod-shaped parts, especially Christmas trees, is characterized, among other things, by...characterized by the following features: - the retaining elements (30) each comprise an upright lever (40) with a guide device (41) and a support lever (42); and - an angle (α) enclosed by the upright lever (40) and the support lever (42) is selected such that pivoting a retaining element (30) in the direction of its release position changes the angle (α) between the upright lever (40) and the support lever (42) such that the upright lever (40) and the force transmission device (70) guided in its guide device (41) are pivoted away from the base plate (3) and a second vertical distance of the force transmission device (70) and/or the guide device (41) to the base plate (3) is greater than the first vertical distance, so that the clamping force of the force transmission device (70) is effectively transmitted to the respective retaining elements (30).