Artificial Tree Trunk Sleeve Connector for Damage-Free Assembly
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional artificial Christmas tree trunk connectors are prone to damage during shipping and storage, leading to assembly issues due to deformed or bent ends, which can prevent the successful assembly of the tree system.
Innovation Solution
A connector system comprising a sleeve with a cylindrical shape and a notch or shoulder to protect the ends of the tree trunk sections, featuring a cutout to prevent rotation and secure the sections together, using securement devices like nails or screws for added stability.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If conventional artificial tree trunk connectors are used without protective features, then the assembly process is simple, but the connectors are prone to damage during shipping and storage leading to assembly issues
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies beforehand cushioning by incorporating protective features into the connector design prior to shipping and storage. The connector includes a body with a first end and a second end, where the first end is configured to receive the second end of another connector. The protective features are integrated into this receiving structure to prevent damage during handling and storage, thereby improving reliability without significantly increasing complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements preliminary action by pre-configuring the connector ends with specific receiving and extending portions before assembly. The first end of a connector is designed to receive the second end of another connector, creating a pre-established connection mechanism that prevents damage during shipping and storage while maintaining simple assembly procedures.
2Ease of operation
If tapered ends are used for connector insertion, then assembly is facilitated, but the connectors may become deformed or bent during handling
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies beforehand cushioning by designing the connector body with reinforced structural features that protect the tapered ends from deformation during handling. The receiving portion at the first end and the extending portion at the second end are configured to maintain their shape stability while still facilitating easy insertion through the tapered geometry.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs composite materials or composite structural design in the connector body to achieve both ease of assembly and shape stability. The connector is designed with a body that combines different structural elements or material properties to maintain the integrity of the tapered ends while allowing smooth insertion and connection.
Data Source
AI summary
A connector system facilitates the connection of a first tree trunk to a second tree trunk of an artificial tree system. The connector system can prohibit rotation of the first tree trunk relative to the second tree trunk.