Tree Top Ornament Support Conduit for Branch Load Distribution
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Solution Overview
Problem
The top of natural and artificial trees often lacks the structural capacity to bear the weight of traditional tree top ornaments, making it difficult to securely attach illuminated decorations.
Innovation Solution
An illuminated tree top ornament apparatus featuring an LED or light array attached to a sleeve that fits over the tree branch, supported by a rigid or semi-rigid conduit clamp positioned below the top of the tree, distributing the weight to a stronger section of the trunk or branch, allowing for secure attachment without putting strain on the top branch.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If traditional tree top ornaments are attached directly to the top branch, then the ornament can be positioned at the desired location, but the top branch lacks sufficient structural strength to bear the weight
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an intermediary support structure consisting of a conduit and clamp assembly that acts as a mediator between the ornament and the tree. The conduit extends from the top branch down to a stronger section of the trunk, and the clamp provides a secure attachment point, allowing the ornament to be supported by a stronger part of the tree while maintaining proper positioning at the top.
2Reliability
If the ornament weight is supported by the top branch, then the ornament can be securely attached, but the top branch may break or become damaged
Solution Approach 1:
The conduit and clamp assembly serves as an intermediary support system that transfers the load from the fragile top branch to the stronger trunk. The clamp secures the conduit to the trunk at a point where the tree has sufficient structural integrity, while the conduit extends upward to support the ornament, thereby protecting the top branch from excessive stress and potential damage.
3Stability of the object's composition
If a rigid support structure is used to bear the ornament weight, then the attachment becomes stable, but the installation becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The support structure is segmented into distinct functional components: the conduit (which provides structural support and weight bearing), the clamp (which provides secure attachment to the trunk), and the connection interface (which interfaces with the top branch). This segmentation allows each component to be optimized for its specific function while simplifying the overall installation process, as each piece can be independently positioned and secured.
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
Enables the secure and stable placement of tree top ornaments on both natural and artificial trees, including smaller or weaker ones, by distributing the weight effectively, and allows for customizable illumination options.
Implementation Method 1
The illuminated tree top ornament apparatus provides a tree top ornament with one or an array of LED or other lights
Data Source
AI summary
A tree top ornament with one or an array of lights, with an attachment mechanism for releasable attachment to the top branch or trunk of artificial and natural trees. The lights are connected to a sleeve designed to fit over the top vertical branch of the tree, but which is supported by a rigid conduit that clamps to the tree branch some distance below the top, so that the top of the branch does not itself bear any of the tree top ornament's weight. The user may selectively attach a variety of clear and semi clear acrylic or glass ornamental tree toppers for illumination by the lights.