Artificial Tree Trunk Coupling for Rotation-Locked Assembly
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing artificial trees face challenges with unstable and difficult-to-assemble trunk sections, which can lead to twisted or tilted trees, risking safety and aesthetics, and require complex alignment for secure locking.
Innovation Solution
A coupling mechanism using a securing sleeve or plug made of malleable materials like plastic or rubber, allowing for a universal fit and secure locking of trunk sections without the need for alignment marks, enabling easy assembly and preventing rotation between sections.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If trunk sections are allowed to spin freely, then assembly is easier and sections can be aligned in any orientation, but the tree becomes unstable and light strings can become twisted causing damage
Solution Approach 1:
A coupling mechanism acts as an intermediary between trunk sections, featuring a receiving portion with a channel and a plug portion with a tab. The tab fits into the channel to prevent rotation, while the coupling mechanism itself provides the locking function without requiring alignment marks on the trunk sections, thus maintaining ease of assembly while ensuring stability.
2Manufacturing precision
If alignment marks are required on trunk sections, then the fit between sections is precise and vertical, but the assembly process becomes more complex and time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The coupling mechanism performs the alignment function automatically through its internal geometry. The channel in the receiving portion and the tab on the plug portion self-align when the plug is inserted, eliminating the need for external alignment marks on the trunk sections. The system serves its own alignment needs through the coupling mechanism's design.
3Reliability
If a friction fit is used to prevent rotation, then the trunk sections are locked in place, but the fit may be sloppy causing wobble and tilt
Solution Approach 1:
The invention replaces the traditional friction fit mechanical system with a positive locking mechanical system. The tab on the plug portion inserts into the channel of the receiving portion, creating a geometric constraint that prevents rotation and wobble. This mechanical interlocking provides precise positioning and vertical alignment without relying on friction alone.
Data Source
AI summary
A locking artificial tree trunk including a first generally cylindrical, hollow trunk portion including an upper end, the upper end defining a notch, and a second generally cylindrical trunk portion including a body portion, a lower end having an insertable portion, and an upper end. The locking artificial tree trunk also includes a coupling mechanism having a body portion and an upper portion having a tab, and defining a channel for receiving the insertable portion of the lower end of the second trunk portion. The body portion is inserted substantially into the upper end of the first trunk portion with the tab of the upper portion aligned with the notch, thereby preventing rotation of the coupling mechanism within the upper end of the first trunk portion.