Multi-Contact Tree Trunk Connector for Rotation-Free Assembly
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing artificial Christmas trees require rotational alignment of trunk sections for electrical connection, which is frustrating and time-consuming, and do not offer versatile lighting options beyond traditional white or multicolored string lights.
Innovation Solution
A power transfer system with four electrical contacts and clutch elements that allow near 360° alignment between male and female ends of artificial Christmas tree trunk sections, enabling easy connection and maintaining rotational alignment, and supporting various light designs including LED light strings with RGB LEDs.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If traditional two-wire electrical connection systems are used in artificial Christmas trees, then the structure is simple, but rotational alignment is required during assembly which is frustrating and time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The electrical connection system is segmented into multiple independent contacts (at least four contacts: first positive, first negative, second positive, second negative) instead of a single two-wire connection. This segmentation allows each contact to be independently aligned, eliminating the rotational alignment problem where all wires must align simultaneously.
Solution Approach 2:
The electrical connection system is designed to support multiple lighting configurations and types (traditional white lights, multicolored string lights, LED light strings with RGB LEDs) through a universal multi-contact interface. This multi-functional design allows the same connection system to serve various lighting purposes without requiring different connection methods.
2Adaptability or versatility
If traditional electrical connection systems with limited contacts are used, then the structure is simple, but lighting options are limited to traditional white or multicolored string lights
Solution Approach 1:
The electrical connection system incorporates at least four separate contacts that can universally support multiple lighting types including traditional white lights, multicolored string lights, and LED light strings with RGB LEDs. This universal interface allows diverse lighting functions through a single standardized connection system.
Solution Approach 2:
The electrical system is segmented into multiple independent contact pairs, allowing different lighting circuits to be independently controlled and configured. This segmentation enables versatile lighting options while maintaining manageable system complexity through modular electrical pathways.
Data Source
AI summary
A power transfer system to facilitate the transfer of electrical power between tree trunk sections of an artificial tree is disclosed. The power transfer system can advantageously enable neighboring tree trunk sections to be electrically connected without the need to rotationally align the tree trunk sections. Power distribution systems can be disposed within the trunk sections. The power distribution systems can comprise a male end, a female end, or both. The male ends can have prongs and the female ends can have voids. The prongs can be inserted into the voids to electrically connect the power distribution systems of neighboring tree trunk sections. In some embodiments, the prongs and voids are designed so that the prongs of one power distribution system can engage the voids of another power distribution system without the need to rotationally align the tree trunk sections.