WO2010082049A1 - Improvements in and relating to tree stands - Google Patents

Improvements in and relating to tree stands Download PDF

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Publication number
WO2010082049A1
WO2010082049A1 PCT/GB2010/050044 GB2010050044W WO2010082049A1 WO 2010082049 A1 WO2010082049 A1 WO 2010082049A1 GB 2010050044 W GB2010050044 W GB 2010050044W WO 2010082049 A1 WO2010082049 A1 WO 2010082049A1
Authority
WO
WIPO (PCT)
Prior art keywords
tree
stand
receiving portion
retaining means
insert
Prior art date
Application number
PCT/GB2010/050044
Other languages
French (fr)
Inventor
Joseph Noblett
Original Assignee
Joseph Noblett
Priority date (The priority date is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the date listed.)
Filing date
Publication date
Application filed by Joseph Noblett filed Critical Joseph Noblett
Publication of WO2010082049A1 publication Critical patent/WO2010082049A1/en

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Classifications

    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A47—FURNITURE; DOMESTIC ARTICLES OR APPLIANCES; COFFEE MILLS; SPICE MILLS; SUCTION CLEANERS IN GENERAL
    • A47G—HOUSEHOLD OR TABLE EQUIPMENT
    • A47G33/00—Religious or ritual equipment in dwelling or for general use
    • A47G33/04—Christmas trees 
    • A47G33/12—Christmas tree stands
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A47—FURNITURE; DOMESTIC ARTICLES OR APPLIANCES; COFFEE MILLS; SPICE MILLS; SUCTION CLEANERS IN GENERAL
    • A47G—HOUSEHOLD OR TABLE EQUIPMENT
    • A47G33/00—Religious or ritual equipment in dwelling or for general use
    • A47G33/04—Christmas trees 
    • A47G33/12—Christmas tree stands
    • A47G2033/1286—Christmas tree stands comprising watering means, e.g. a water reservoir

Definitions

  • the present invention relates to tree stands, and in particular, but not exclusively to Christmas tree stands.
  • the invention also extends to a kit of parts; and a method of securing a tree to a tree stand.
  • stands available for securing a Christmas tree.
  • One commonly used type of stand is a cut-out section of a tree trunk which has a recess cut or bored partway through the section. The cut trunk end of a Christmas tree is simply inserted into the recess in the stand. The weight of the cut-out section effects stabilization of the Christmas tree and reduces the chance of the tree toppling.
  • the circumference of the Christmas tree is usually chosen to be substantially identical or slightly larger than the circumference of the recess in the stand, to enable a snug fit of the tree in the stand.
  • a problem with the above mentioned type of stand is that, due to the snug fit of the Christmas tree in the recess, there is no provision for a water reservoir which will enable the cut end of the tree to draw water and increase the working lifetime of the tree.
  • a second known type of stand comprises a generally cylindrical tube, usually located within a water reservoir, having a plurality of vertically-oriented projections arranged around an interior of the tube.
  • a cut tree is inserted into the tube and is gripped between the projections so as to be held in the tube.
  • a disadvantage with this type of stand is that the tree must be prepared before insertion into the tube. A cut end of the tree must be machined to have a predetermined diameter, corresponding to a space between opposed projections. Otherwise, it is not possible to insert the cut end of the tree into the tube or the projections will not hold the tree sufficiently. The machining operation is troublesome and increases a cost of a cut tree.
  • a tree stand comprising: a tree receiving portion arranged to receive an end of a cut tree trunk; the tree stand comprising at least one tree retaining means that is mounted to the tree receiving portion and arranged to flex in response to an end of a cut tree trunk received in the tree receiving portion and to thereby apply a gripping force to an end of a cut tree trunk, wherein the tree retaining means is arranged with a relatively fixed upper portion and a relatively free lower portion.
  • the relatively free lower portion is an unsupported end portion.
  • the tree retaining means is cantilever mounted to the tree receiving portion.
  • the tree retaining means is cantilever mounted to extend generally downward from a fixed end.
  • the tree retaining means comprises a fixed end towards the top of the tree receiving portion and a free end towards the bottom of the tree receiving portion.
  • the tree retaining means is cantilever mounted such that a lower portion thereof moves more than an upper portion thereof in response to an end of a cut tree trunk received in the tree receiving portion.
  • the tree retaining means is arranged to flex elastically in response to an end of a cut tree trunk received in the tree receiving portion.
  • the tree stand comprises a plurality of tree retaining means as described.
  • the tree stand further comprises a tree retaining means rigidly mounted on the tree receiving portion.
  • the tree stand further comprises a tree retaining means supported at both ends by the tree receiving portion.
  • the tree stand further comprises a tree retaining means supported along its length by the tree receiving portion.
  • the tree stand comprises a plurality of tree retaining means as described.
  • the tree stand comprises a first plurality of tree retaining means that are cantilever mounted on the tree receiving portion and a second plurality of tree retaining means that are rigidly mounted on the tree receiving portion.
  • the tree stand comprises tree retaining means that are cantilever mounted on the tree receiving portion and tree retaining means that are rigidly mounted on the tree receiving portion, in interspersed or alternating arrangement around the tree receiving portion.
  • the second plurality of tree retaining means are relatively longer than the first plurality of tree retaining means.
  • the second plurality of tree retaining means are arranged with other portions relatively higher than the upper portions of the tree retaining means of the first plurality of tree retaining means.
  • the tree receiving portion comprises a mouth to receive the cut end of a tree therethrough, and the tree retaining means that is cantilever mounted to the tree receiving portion is arranged to flex radially outward relative to the mouth in response to an end of a cut tree trunk received in the tree receiving portion.
  • the tree retaining means that is cantilever mounted to the tree receiving portion is able to flex toward and/or beyond the perimeter of the mouth in response to an end of a cut tree trunk received in the tree receiving portion.
  • the tree receiving portion comprises a removable insert.
  • the tree retaining means is mounted on the insert.
  • the insert is a push fit with the tree stand.
  • the insert comprises a lip to limit its insertion into the tree stand.
  • the tree retaining means comprise at least one projection.
  • at least one projection has a depth which varies along the length thereof.
  • the projections grip a tree inserted therein.
  • the projections may be known as gripping means.
  • the insert comprises legs for locating in the tree stand.
  • the gripping means of the insert is centring means to force the tree towards a central position relative to the insert.
  • the gripping means extend through apertures in the insert.
  • the tree receiving portion is mounted within a base of the tree stand, preferably within a fluid reservoir.
  • the plurality of projections are arranged on the interior surface of the tree receiving portion, preferably in radial fashion.
  • the projections comprise veins running substantially axially with the tree receiving portion.
  • the tree gripping means comprises two or more, more preferably three or more, still more preferably five or more and most preferably ten or more veins.
  • the veins are arranged to maintain a degree of separation between the tree trunk and portions of the interior surface of the tree receiving portion.
  • the projections may include a sharp or pointed portion arranged in use to at least partially penetrate the trunk of a tree inserted into the tree receiving portion.
  • a tree inserted into the tree receiving portion is solely retained by abutment of the tree with the interior surface of one or more of the tree receiving portion, the insert and the gripping means.
  • the tree receiving portion nor the insert comprise mechanical means to retain a tree.
  • a user does not have to effect operation of any mechanical means such as screws or bolts, and does not therefore have to kneel or bend to the ground level to insert and retain the tree.
  • a fluid reservoir is arranged about the tree receiving portion.
  • strengthening means are provided between the fluid reservoir and the tree receiving portion.
  • the fluid reservoir comprises a cylindrical or frustoconical member being closed at one end thereof, and the tree receiving portion is connected to the closed end of the cylindrical or frustoconical member.
  • the tree receiving portion comprises a cylindrical member, and may be connected concentrically within the fluid reservoir to the closed end thereof.
  • the cylindrical length of the tree receiving portion is substantially identical to or less than the cylindrical length of the fluid reservoir.
  • the fluid reservoir and tree receiving portion both comprise generally cylindrical members with the tree receiving portion being connected concentrically within the fluid reservoir to the closed end of the fluid reservoir.
  • the fluid reservoir and tree receiving portion are in fluid communication.
  • the tree receiving portion comprises an aperture therein which effects fluid communication between the tree receiving portion and the fluid reservoir.
  • the aperture is formed at or near to the portion of the tree receiving portion connected to the fluid reservoir.
  • each aperture effecting fluid communication between the reservoir and tree receiving portion.
  • the tree stand comprises strengthening means which include one or more ribs.
  • the strengthening means comprises a plurality of ribs.
  • the strengthening means comprises at least three, preferably at least four ribs.
  • the ribs are disposed at substantially even intervals about the tree receiving portion.
  • the ribs are substantially identical.
  • the ribs extend from the tree receiving portion toward the fluid reservoir.
  • the ribs connect between the tree receiving portion and the fluid reservoir.
  • the ribs protrude from the closed end of the fluid reservoir.
  • the ribs comprise sheet material.
  • the ribs may be plastic or sheet material to include plastic or sheet material.
  • the ribs may comprise substantially planar pieces of sheet material.
  • the ribs may comprise open channels.
  • the open channels may comprise a curved end portion.
  • the ribs may comprise tubes, or bars of material.
  • the ribs may comprise at least part of the fluid reservoir; and may be formed from part of the base of the fluid reservoir.
  • the ribs may comprise hollow ribs.
  • the hollow ribs may be in fluid communication with the tree receiving portion, preferably by means of a mutual aperture.
  • the hollow rib comprises means to effect fluid communication between the fluid reservoir and the tree receiving portion.
  • the means may comprise one or more aperture in the rib wall.
  • the hollow ribs may be formed from shaped portions of the fluid reservoir, preferably shaped portions of the base of the fluid reservoir.
  • the ribs may comprise guiding means arranged to in use assist in the association of a tree with the tree receiving portion.
  • the guiding means comprise at least one guiding surface arranged at an angle to the tree receiving portion.
  • the or each guiding surface comprises a substantially planar surface.
  • the or each guiding surface projects upward and outward from the tree receiving portion.
  • a guiding surface is associated with each rib.
  • the spacing means comprises at least one projection arranged to protrude from the base of the tree receiving portion.
  • the projection comprises a domed projection.
  • the projection is arranged concentrically with the tree receiving portion.
  • the tree stand may further comprise weighting means.
  • the weighting means comprises a base member which may be connected to the fluid reservoir or formed integrally with the fluid reservoir.
  • the base member comprises a plurality of legs, which in use, are arranged to engage a surface on which the tree stand is mounted.
  • the tree stand may be of any suitable material, but is preferably a polymeric material, plastic, composite material, metal (including alloy), iron, cast iron, aluminium or stainless steel.
  • kits comprising a tree stand of the first aspect of the invention and a tree, or a kit comprises an insert of the second aspect of the present invention and a tree stand base.
  • the tree is a cut tree suitable for use as a Christmas tree.
  • a method of securing a cut tree in a tree stand comprising the steps of: providing a tree stand comprising a tree receiving portion and inserting an insert into the tree receiving portion to thereby provide at least one tree retaining means with a relatively fixed upper portion and a relatively free lower portion; and inserting an end of a cut tree trunk in the tree receiving portion to thereby flex the tree retaining means and thereby grip the end of the cut tree trunk.
  • the method further comprises pushing the insert into the tree stand up to a stop.
  • the method further comprises the step of adding water to the fluid reservoir, and water may be added to partly or completely fill the reservoir. Water may be added when the stand is used in a retail display or in a home over the Christmas period.
  • the tree stand is as described for the first aspect of the invention.
  • cut tree we mean a tree which has been cut by any suitable means to provide a cut end of the trunk of the tree distal to the apex of the tree.
  • trees may be cut by chopping, cutting, sawing and the like for example.
  • machined tree we mean a tree which has had a machining operation carried out to its trunk, such as a milling or turning operation, to trim a diameter of the cut end of the tree.
  • Figure 1 is a perspective view of a tree stand according to a first embodiment of the present invention
  • Figure 2 is a cross-sectional and perspective view of an insert of the tree stand of Figure 1 ;
  • Figure 3 is a perspective view from above an insert according to a second example embodiment of the present invention.
  • a tree stand 2 of the present invention comprises a tree receiving portion 6 arranged to receive an end of a cut tree trunk and to retain a cut tree inserted therein.
  • the tree stand 2 comprises tree retaining means 8 that are cantilever mounted to the tree receiving portion 6, with a relatively fixed upper portion 12 and a relatively free lower portion 18. That is, relative to one another the upper portion 12 is more firmly fixed than the lower portion 18, and the lower portion 18 is freer to flex than the upper portion 12.
  • the tree retaining means 8 are arranged to flex elastically in response to an end of a cut tree trunk received in the tree receiving portion 6 and to thereby apply a gripping force to an end of a cut tree trunk. By flexing in this way it is possible to retain and support a range of cut tree trunk sizes in the tree stand 2. Furthermore, it is possible to retain and support cut tree trunks which are wide at cut end and which reduce in width at away from the cut end.
  • the tree receiving portion 6 shown in the example embodiments comprises a removable insert 100.
  • the tree retaining means 8 of this embodiment shown is mounted on the insert 100.
  • One advantage of using an insert 100 is to enable a single type of tree stand base to be easily adapted to retain and support an even wider range of cut tree trunk sizes, but selecting an insert 100 appropriate to the particular tree trunk dimensions. These tree trunks may be machined e.g. by millings or un-machined.
  • the base 10 may itself operate as a tree stand without an insert 100, and indeed other embodiments may include the features of the base 10 and insert 100 described herein in a single formed piece or otherwise in combination.
  • Figure 3 shows an insert usable in the same type of tree stand base, but adapted to retain larger trunks.
  • the tree receiving portion 6 comprises a generally cylindrical or frustoconical tube.
  • the tube comprises a mouth 24 at an open upper end, and a closed lower end 26.
  • the tube is arranged to be vertically oriented in the tree stand 2 to receive a tree therein.
  • the tree receiving portion 6 comprises a plurality of projections 14 arranged around an interior surface of the tube as part of the tree retaining means 8.
  • the projections 14 comprise veins running substantially axially within the tree receiving portion 6 arranged to maintain a degree of separation between the tree trunk and portions of the interior surface of the tree receiving portion 6.
  • the veins can grip the surface of a tree trunk to prevent rotation of the tree about its axis relative to the tree stand 2, and resist lifting of the tree relative to the tree stand 2.
  • the insert 100 comprises legs 110 which locate in the tree receiving portion 6. In this embodiment the legs 110 locate between adjacent projections 14. The legs 100 help to resist twisting of the insert 100 in any direction relative to the tree receiving portion 6. A lip 120 of the inset 100 engages the open end of the tree receiving portion 6 to help positioning of the insert 100 in the tree receiving portion. In particular the lip 120 stops the insert 100 from entering too far into the tree receiving portion 6.
  • the tree retaining means 8 are cantilever mounted on the tree receiving portion 6 and further comprise parts that in the form of projections 14 are rigidly mounted on the tree receiving portion 6. Such parts are provided interspersed with one another around the tree receiving portion 6, and form or carry the projections 14.
  • the mouth 24 of the tree receiving portion receives the cut end of a tree there-through, and the flexible tree retaining means 8 flex radially outward in response.
  • the tree retaining means 8 may flex toward and/or beyond the perimeter of the mouth 24 in response to an end of a cut tree trunk received in the tree receiving portion, which allows the tree retaining means to accommodate trunks with irregularities in width and to support such trunks in a generally vertical arrangement.
  • the projections 14 have a first, uppermost, section 32 having a first depth and a second, lowermost, section 34 having a second depth, wherein the second depth is greater than the first.
  • the first section 32 comprises a portion having a downwardly and inwardly angled surface, in other words, one which slopes downward into the tree receiving portion.
  • the second section 34 comprises a vertical surface at an inner-most edge.
  • the angled portion is suitable to locate a tree being inserted therein, whilst the vertical portion is suited to grip a trunk. It will be realised that the angled portion may also be suitably curved or straight.
  • At least some of the projections 14 are arranged to resist the insertion of the tree and to cut into the cut end of the tree trunk such that vertically oriented cuts are made into the tree trunk around an outer periphery thereof. It is desired that such one or more projections cut into and penetrate the Cambrian layer of the tree.
  • the effect of penetrating the tree surface is to increase a water take-up of the tree when the tree receiving portion 6 is arranged in a water reservoir.
  • These projections may have an increased thickness to resist insertion and to aid penetration of the tree surface.
  • the tree receiving portion also comprises a plurality of apertures (not shown) arranged at a base of the tree receiving portion to allow water to enter therein.
  • the projections 14 used within the present invention are suitable to retain a tree which does not have a machined cut end and a tree which has a machined cut end. Trees having cut ends of varying diameters and irregularly shaped cut ends are able to be retained therein. Typically around 100mm of cut end is inserted into the tree stand, giving stable support for trees of around 2m.
  • the tree stand of the present invention further comprises a weighting means in the form of the base 10 forming a fluid reservoir 4 which is generally cylindrical in shape.
  • An upper rim 22 is provided about the fluid reservoir.
  • the tree receiving portion 6 Connected concentrically within the fluid reservoir 4 on the base 10, is the tree receiving portion 6.
  • ribs 20 made up from substantially planar sheet material, such as plastic.
  • the tree receiving portion 6 comprises one or more apertures which allows fluid communication between the receiving portion 6 and the fluid reservoir 4.
  • a tree such as a Christmas tree is cut down by any suitable means.
  • the cut end of the tree is then inserted into the tree receiving portion 6.
  • one or more tree retaining means flexes to grip the tree trunk.
  • one or more projections may cut into a surface of the tree.
  • the tree is held tight in the tree stand 2 without the need to use any mechanical means such as screws, bolts or the like, to secure the tree in the stand and prevent it moving about within the stand.
  • the tree stand 2 shown in Figure 1 is easy to use and a tree can be inserted without the user having to bend down to ground level and actuate mechanical means.
  • the tree stand 2 is particularly suited for use by elderly and infirm persons.
  • the separation between certain portions of the tree trunk and the tree receiving portion 6 allows fluid to move within the tree receiving portion 6.
  • water is then poured into the fluid reservoir 4 to a desired level.
  • the presence of the aperture(s) in the receiving portion 6 allows water to flow into the interior of the tree receiving portion 6 around the cut end of the tree. Thus water can be absorbed through the cut end of the tree in order to increase the useful life of the tree, and reduce dehydration of the tree.
  • the base 10 of the tree stand 2 helps to weight the tree stand 2 and tree to prevent the tree from toppling in use.
  • the ribs 20 strengthen the stand 2, and reduce the likelihood that the tree receiving portion is damaged when the tree is inserted, or when the tree is agitated or accidentally knocked.
  • the fluid reservoir 4 is closed at one end by the base 10, and open at the other end.
  • the ribs 20 are disposed at right angles to one another around the tree receiving portion 6, and extend across the base 10 to couple the tree receiving portion 6 to the fluid reservoir 4.
  • the ribs 20 comprise hollow, arched channels of sheet material such as plastic to give strength without adding significantly to the amount of material needed to form the tree stand 2.
  • the ribs 20 may be connected between the tree receiving portion 6 and the fluid reservoir 4 without contacting the base, or with cut-out sections arranged to allow fluid free passage around the base 10.
  • the ribs 20 may include means to effect fluid communication between the reservoir 4 and tree receiving portion 6, such as an aperture for example.

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Abstract

A tree stand (2) comprising: a tree receiving portion (6) arranged to receive an end of a cut tree trunk; the tree stand comprising at least one tree retaining means (8) that is mounted to the tree receiving portion(6) and arranged to flex in response to an end of a cut tree trunk received in the tree receiving portion (6) and to thereby apply a gripping force to an end of a cut tree trunk, wherein the tree retaining means (8) is arranged with a relatively fixed upper portion(12) and a relatively free lower portion(18). The tree receiving portion (6) may be provided on an insert (100) for the tree stand, enabling the tree stand to be used with trees having trunks of various sizes.

Description

IMPROVEMENTS IN AND RELATING TO TREE STANDS
The present invention relates to tree stands, and in particular, but not exclusively to Christmas tree stands. The invention also extends to a kit of parts; and a method of securing a tree to a tree stand.
It is known to place cut trees in holders or stands to present the tree and enable it to be decorated with any desired items.
Particularly it is known at Christmas time to place cut trees, usually fir or spruce trees, in Christmas tree stands so that the Christmas tree may be presented in a domestic environment and decorated with appropriate Christmas decorations.
There are various types of stands available for securing a Christmas tree. One commonly used type of stand is a cut-out section of a tree trunk which has a recess cut or bored partway through the section. The cut trunk end of a Christmas tree is simply inserted into the recess in the stand. The weight of the cut-out section effects stabilization of the Christmas tree and reduces the chance of the tree toppling. The circumference of the Christmas tree is usually chosen to be substantially identical or slightly larger than the circumference of the recess in the stand, to enable a snug fit of the tree in the stand.
A problem with the above mentioned type of stand is that, due to the snug fit of the Christmas tree in the recess, there is no provision for a water reservoir which will enable the cut end of the tree to draw water and increase the working lifetime of the tree.
A second known type of stand comprises a generally cylindrical tube, usually located within a water reservoir, having a plurality of vertically-oriented projections arranged around an interior of the tube. In use, a cut tree is inserted into the tube and is gripped between the projections so as to be held in the tube.
A disadvantage with this type of stand is that the tree must be prepared before insertion into the tube. A cut end of the tree must be machined to have a predetermined diameter, corresponding to a space between opposed projections. Otherwise, it is not possible to insert the cut end of the tree into the tube or the projections will not hold the tree sufficiently. The machining operation is troublesome and increases a cost of a cut tree.
Furthermore, when considering mass production and ease of packing stands for low cost bulk transportation it is desirable for stands to stack, which is not always possible with stands as outlined above. In particular, there are conflicting requirements between achieving good support and maintaining the high packing density.
It is therefore an aim of preferred embodiments of the present invention to overcome or mitigate a problem of the prior art, whether expressly stated herein or not.
It is an aim of the present invention to provide a tree stand for holding cut trees having a wide variety of differently sized tree trunks while at the same time allowing stacking to achieve a high packing density.
It is an aim of the present invention to provide a tree stand which improves water uptake of a tree held therein.
According to the present invention in a first aspect there is provided a tree stand comprising: a tree receiving portion arranged to receive an end of a cut tree trunk; the tree stand comprising at least one tree retaining means that is mounted to the tree receiving portion and arranged to flex in response to an end of a cut tree trunk received in the tree receiving portion and to thereby apply a gripping force to an end of a cut tree trunk, wherein the tree retaining means is arranged with a relatively fixed upper portion and a relatively free lower portion.
Suitably the relatively free lower portion is an unsupported end portion. Suitably, the tree retaining means is cantilever mounted to the tree receiving portion. Suitably, the tree retaining means is cantilever mounted to extend generally downward from a fixed end. Suitably, the tree retaining means comprises a fixed end towards the top of the tree receiving portion and a free end towards the bottom of the tree receiving portion. Suitably, the tree retaining means is cantilever mounted such that a lower portion thereof moves more than an upper portion thereof in response to an end of a cut tree trunk received in the tree receiving portion. Suitably, the tree retaining means is arranged to flex elastically in response to an end of a cut tree trunk received in the tree receiving portion. Suitably, the tree stand comprises a plurality of tree retaining means as described.
Suitably, the tree stand further comprises a tree retaining means rigidly mounted on the tree receiving portion. Suitably, the tree stand further comprises a tree retaining means supported at both ends by the tree receiving portion. Suitably, the tree stand further comprises a tree retaining means supported along its length by the tree receiving portion. Suitably, the tree stand comprises a plurality of tree retaining means as described. Suitably, the tree stand comprises a first plurality of tree retaining means that are cantilever mounted on the tree receiving portion and a second plurality of tree retaining means that are rigidly mounted on the tree receiving portion. Suitably, the tree stand comprises tree retaining means that are cantilever mounted on the tree receiving portion and tree retaining means that are rigidly mounted on the tree receiving portion, in interspersed or alternating arrangement around the tree receiving portion. Suitably, the second plurality of tree retaining means are relatively longer than the first plurality of tree retaining means. Suitably, the second plurality of tree retaining means are arranged with other portions relatively higher than the upper portions of the tree retaining means of the first plurality of tree retaining means.
Suitably, the tree receiving portion comprises a mouth to receive the cut end of a tree therethrough, and the tree retaining means that is cantilever mounted to the tree receiving portion is arranged to flex radially outward relative to the mouth in response to an end of a cut tree trunk received in the tree receiving portion. Suitably, the tree retaining means that is cantilever mounted to the tree receiving portion is able to flex toward and/or beyond the perimeter of the mouth in response to an end of a cut tree trunk received in the tree receiving portion.
Suitably, the tree receiving portion comprises a removable insert. Suitably, the tree retaining means is mounted on the insert. Suitably, the insert is a push fit with the tree stand. Suitably, the insert comprises a lip to limit its insertion into the tree stand.
Suitably the tree retaining means comprise at least one projection. Suitably at least one projection has a depth which varies along the length thereof.
Suitably, the projections grip a tree inserted therein. The projections may be known as gripping means.
Suitably, the insert comprises legs for locating in the tree stand. Suitably the gripping means of the insert is centring means to force the tree towards a central position relative to the insert. Suitably, the gripping means extend through apertures in the insert.
Suitably, the tree receiving portion is mounted within a base of the tree stand, preferably within a fluid reservoir.
Suitably, the plurality of projections are arranged on the interior surface of the tree receiving portion, preferably in radial fashion.
Suitably, the projections comprise veins running substantially axially with the tree receiving portion. Suitably, the tree gripping means comprises two or more, more preferably three or more, still more preferably five or more and most preferably ten or more veins. Suitably, the veins are arranged to maintain a degree of separation between the tree trunk and portions of the interior surface of the tree receiving portion. The projections may include a sharp or pointed portion arranged in use to at least partially penetrate the trunk of a tree inserted into the tree receiving portion.
Preferably, a tree inserted into the tree receiving portion is solely retained by abutment of the tree with the interior surface of one or more of the tree receiving portion, the insert and the gripping means. Thus preferably neither the tree receiving portion nor the insert comprise mechanical means to retain a tree. Thus in order to retain a tree in the tree stand a user does not have to effect operation of any mechanical means such as screws or bolts, and does not therefore have to kneel or bend to the ground level to insert and retain the tree.
Preferably, a fluid reservoir is arranged about the tree receiving portion. Preferably, strengthening means are provided between the fluid reservoir and the tree receiving portion.
Preferably the fluid reservoir comprises a cylindrical or frustoconical member being closed at one end thereof, and the tree receiving portion is connected to the closed end of the cylindrical or frustoconical member. Preferably the tree receiving portion comprises a cylindrical member, and may be connected concentrically within the fluid reservoir to the closed end thereof.
Preferably the cylindrical length of the tree receiving portion is substantially identical to or less than the cylindrical length of the fluid reservoir.
In a preferred embodiment the fluid reservoir and tree receiving portion both comprise generally cylindrical members with the tree receiving portion being connected concentrically within the fluid reservoir to the closed end of the fluid reservoir.
Suitably, the fluid reservoir and tree receiving portion are in fluid communication. Preferably the tree receiving portion comprises an aperture therein which effects fluid communication between the tree receiving portion and the fluid reservoir.
Suitably, the aperture is formed at or near to the portion of the tree receiving portion connected to the fluid reservoir.
There may be a plurality of apertures in the tree receiving portion, each aperture effecting fluid communication between the reservoir and tree receiving portion.
Suitably, the tree stand comprises strengthening means which include one or more ribs. Suitably, the strengthening means comprises a plurality of ribs. Suitably, the strengthening means comprises at least three, preferably at least four ribs. Suitably, the ribs are disposed at substantially even intervals about the tree receiving portion. Suitably, the ribs are substantially identical.
Suitably, the ribs extend from the tree receiving portion toward the fluid reservoir. Suitably, the ribs connect between the tree receiving portion and the fluid reservoir. Suitably, the ribs protrude from the closed end of the fluid reservoir.
Suitably, the ribs comprise sheet material. The ribs may be plastic or sheet material to include plastic or sheet material. The ribs may comprise substantially planar pieces of sheet material. The ribs may comprise open channels. The open channels may comprise a curved end portion. The ribs may comprise tubes, or bars of material. The ribs may comprise at least part of the fluid reservoir; and may be formed from part of the base of the fluid reservoir.
The ribs may comprise hollow ribs. The hollow ribs may be in fluid communication with the tree receiving portion, preferably by means of a mutual aperture. Preferably the hollow rib comprises means to effect fluid communication between the fluid reservoir and the tree receiving portion. The means may comprise one or more aperture in the rib wall.
The hollow ribs may be formed from shaped portions of the fluid reservoir, preferably shaped portions of the base of the fluid reservoir.
Suitably, the ribs may comprise guiding means arranged to in use assist in the association of a tree with the tree receiving portion. Suitably, the guiding means comprise at least one guiding surface arranged at an angle to the tree receiving portion. Suitably, the or each guiding surface comprises a substantially planar surface. Suitably, the or each guiding surface projects upward and outward from the tree receiving portion. Suitably, a guiding surface is associated with each rib.
Suitably, the spacing means comprises at least one projection arranged to protrude from the base of the tree receiving portion. Suitably, the projection comprises a domed projection. Suitably, the projection is arranged concentrically with the tree receiving portion.
The tree stand may further comprise weighting means. Preferably the weighting means comprises a base member which may be connected to the fluid reservoir or formed integrally with the fluid reservoir.
Preferably the base member comprises a plurality of legs, which in use, are arranged to engage a surface on which the tree stand is mounted. The tree stand may be of any suitable material, but is preferably a polymeric material, plastic, composite material, metal (including alloy), iron, cast iron, aluminium or stainless steel.
According to a second aspect of the present invention there is provided an insert as described above in relation to the first aspect of the invention.
According to other aspects of the present invention there is provided a kit comprising a tree stand of the first aspect of the invention and a tree, or a kit comprises an insert of the second aspect of the present invention and a tree stand base.
Preferably the tree is a cut tree suitable for use as a Christmas tree.
According to another aspect of the present invention there is provided a method of securing a cut tree in a tree stand, the method comprising the steps of: providing a tree stand comprising a tree receiving portion and inserting an insert into the tree receiving portion to thereby provide at least one tree retaining means with a relatively fixed upper portion and a relatively free lower portion; and inserting an end of a cut tree trunk in the tree receiving portion to thereby flex the tree retaining means and thereby grip the end of the cut tree trunk.
Suitably the method further comprises pushing the insert into the tree stand up to a stop.
Preferably the method further comprises the step of adding water to the fluid reservoir, and water may be added to partly or completely fill the reservoir. Water may be added when the stand is used in a retail display or in a home over the Christmas period.
Preferably the tree stand is as described for the first aspect of the invention.
By "cut tree" we mean a tree which has been cut by any suitable means to provide a cut end of the trunk of the tree distal to the apex of the tree. Thus trees may be cut by chopping, cutting, sawing and the like for example.
By "machined tree" we mean a tree which has had a machining operation carried out to its trunk, such as a milling or turning operation, to trim a diameter of the cut end of the tree.
Brief Description of the Drawings
For a better understanding of the various aspects of the invention, and to show how embodiments of the same may be put into practice, a specific embodiment will now be described, with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which: Figure 1 is a perspective view of a tree stand according to a first embodiment of the present invention;
Figure 2 is a cross-sectional and perspective view of an insert of the tree stand of Figure 1 ; and
Figure 3 is a perspective view from above an insert according to a second example embodiment of the present invention.
Description of the Preferred Embodiment
Referring to Figures 1 and 2, a tree stand 2 of the present invention comprises a tree receiving portion 6 arranged to receive an end of a cut tree trunk and to retain a cut tree inserted therein. The tree stand 2 comprises tree retaining means 8 that are cantilever mounted to the tree receiving portion 6, with a relatively fixed upper portion 12 and a relatively free lower portion 18. That is, relative to one another the upper portion 12 is more firmly fixed than the lower portion 18, and the lower portion 18 is freer to flex than the upper portion 12. The tree retaining means 8 are arranged to flex elastically in response to an end of a cut tree trunk received in the tree receiving portion 6 and to thereby apply a gripping force to an end of a cut tree trunk. By flexing in this way it is possible to retain and support a range of cut tree trunk sizes in the tree stand 2. Furthermore, it is possible to retain and support cut tree trunks which are wide at cut end and which reduce in width at away from the cut end.
The tree receiving portion 6 shown in the example embodiments comprises a removable insert 100. The tree retaining means 8 of this embodiment shown is mounted on the insert 100. One advantage of using an insert 100 is to enable a single type of tree stand base to be easily adapted to retain and support an even wider range of cut tree trunk sizes, but selecting an insert 100 appropriate to the particular tree trunk dimensions. These tree trunks may be machined e.g. by millings or un-machined. However, the base 10 may itself operate as a tree stand without an insert 100, and indeed other embodiments may include the features of the base 10 and insert 100 described herein in a single formed piece or otherwise in combination. Figure 3 shows an insert usable in the same type of tree stand base, but adapted to retain larger trunks.
The tree receiving portion 6 comprises a generally cylindrical or frustoconical tube. The tube comprises a mouth 24 at an open upper end, and a closed lower end 26. The tube is arranged to be vertically oriented in the tree stand 2 to receive a tree therein. The tree receiving portion 6 comprises a plurality of projections 14 arranged around an interior surface of the tube as part of the tree retaining means 8. The projections 14 comprise veins running substantially axially within the tree receiving portion 6 arranged to maintain a degree of separation between the tree trunk and portions of the interior surface of the tree receiving portion 6.
In use the veins can grip the surface of a tree trunk to prevent rotation of the tree about its axis relative to the tree stand 2, and resist lifting of the tree relative to the tree stand 2.
The insert 100 comprises legs 110 which locate in the tree receiving portion 6. In this embodiment the legs 110 locate between adjacent projections 14. The legs 100 help to resist twisting of the insert 100 in any direction relative to the tree receiving portion 6. A lip 120 of the inset 100 engages the open end of the tree receiving portion 6 to help positioning of the insert 100 in the tree receiving portion. In particular the lip 120 stops the insert 100 from entering too far into the tree receiving portion 6.
The tree retaining means 8 provided are cantilever mounted on the tree receiving portion 6 and further comprise parts that in the form of projections 14 are rigidly mounted on the tree receiving portion 6. Such parts are provided interspersed with one another around the tree receiving portion 6, and form or carry the projections 14.
The mouth 24 of the tree receiving portion receives the cut end of a tree there-through, and the flexible tree retaining means 8 flex radially outward in response. The tree retaining means 8 may flex toward and/or beyond the perimeter of the mouth 24 in response to an end of a cut tree trunk received in the tree receiving portion, which allows the tree retaining means to accommodate trunks with irregularities in width and to support such trunks in a generally vertical arrangement.
In the preferred embodiment the projections 14 have a first, uppermost, section 32 having a first depth and a second, lowermost, section 34 having a second depth, wherein the second depth is greater than the first. The first section 32 comprises a portion having a downwardly and inwardly angled surface, in other words, one which slopes downward into the tree receiving portion. The second section 34 comprises a vertical surface at an inner-most edge.
In this way, the angled portion is suitable to locate a tree being inserted therein, whilst the vertical portion is suited to grip a trunk. It will be realised that the angled portion may also be suitably curved or straight.
At least some of the projections 14 are arranged to resist the insertion of the tree and to cut into the cut end of the tree trunk such that vertically oriented cuts are made into the tree trunk around an outer periphery thereof. It is desired that such one or more projections cut into and penetrate the Cambrian layer of the tree. The effect of penetrating the tree surface is to increase a water take-up of the tree when the tree receiving portion 6 is arranged in a water reservoir. These projections may have an increased thickness to resist insertion and to aid penetration of the tree surface.
The tree receiving portion also comprises a plurality of apertures (not shown) arranged at a base of the tree receiving portion to allow water to enter therein.
The projections 14 used within the present invention are suitable to retain a tree which does not have a machined cut end and a tree which has a machined cut end. Trees having cut ends of varying diameters and irregularly shaped cut ends are able to be retained therein. Typically around 100mm of cut end is inserted into the tree stand, giving stable support for trees of around 2m.
Referring again to Figure 1 , the tree stand of the present invention further comprises a weighting means in the form of the base 10 forming a fluid reservoir 4 which is generally cylindrical in shape. An upper rim 22 is provided about the fluid reservoir. Connected concentrically within the fluid reservoir 4 on the base 10, is the tree receiving portion 6. Between the tree receiving portion 6 and the outer walls of the fluid reservoir 4 are ribs 20 made up from substantially planar sheet material, such as plastic. The tree receiving portion 6 comprises one or more apertures which allows fluid communication between the receiving portion 6 and the fluid reservoir 4.
In use, a tree, such as a Christmas tree is cut down by any suitable means.
The cut end of the tree is then inserted into the tree receiving portion 6. During insertion, one or more tree retaining means flexes to grip the tree trunk. Furthermore, one or more projections may cut into a surface of the tree. The tree is held tight in the tree stand 2 without the need to use any mechanical means such as screws, bolts or the like, to secure the tree in the stand and prevent it moving about within the stand. As mechanical means are not needed to secure the tree, the tree stand 2 shown in Figure 1 is easy to use and a tree can be inserted without the user having to bend down to ground level and actuate mechanical means. Thus the tree stand 2 is particularly suited for use by elderly and infirm persons.
Furthermore, the separation between certain portions of the tree trunk and the tree receiving portion 6 allows fluid to move within the tree receiving portion 6. When the tree has been inserted into the stand 2, water is then poured into the fluid reservoir 4 to a desired level.
The presence of the aperture(s) in the receiving portion 6 allows water to flow into the interior of the tree receiving portion 6 around the cut end of the tree. Thus water can be absorbed through the cut end of the tree in order to increase the useful life of the tree, and reduce dehydration of the tree.
The base 10 of the tree stand 2 helps to weight the tree stand 2 and tree to prevent the tree from toppling in use.
The ribs 20 strengthen the stand 2, and reduce the likelihood that the tree receiving portion is damaged when the tree is inserted, or when the tree is agitated or accidentally knocked.
The fluid reservoir 4 is closed at one end by the base 10, and open at the other end.
The ribs 20 are disposed at right angles to one another around the tree receiving portion 6, and extend across the base 10 to couple the tree receiving portion 6 to the fluid reservoir 4. The ribs 20 comprise hollow, arched channels of sheet material such as plastic to give strength without adding significantly to the amount of material needed to form the tree stand 2.
In alternative embodiments the ribs 20 may be connected between the tree receiving portion 6 and the fluid reservoir 4 without contacting the base, or with cut-out sections arranged to allow fluid free passage around the base 10. The ribs 20 may include means to effect fluid communication between the reservoir 4 and tree receiving portion 6, such as an aperture for example.
The reader's attention is directed to all papers and documents which are filed concurrently with or previous to this specification in connection with this application and which are open to public inspection with this specification, and the contents of all such papers and documents are incorporated herein by reference.
All of the features disclosed in this specification (including any accompanying claims, abstract and drawings), and/or all of the steps of any method or process so disclosed, may be combined in any combination, except combinations where at least some of such features and/or steps are mutually exclusive.
Each feature disclosed in this specification (including any accompanying claims, abstract and drawings), may be replaced by alternative features serving the same, equivalent or similar purpose, unless expressly stated otherwise. Thus, unless expressly stated otherwise, each feature disclosed is one example only of a generic series of equivalent or similar features.
The invention is not restricted to the details of the foregoing embodiment(s). The invention extend to any novel one, or any novel combination, of the features disclosed in this specification (including any accompanying claims, abstract and drawings), or to any novel one, or any novel combination, of the steps of any method or process so disclosed.

Claims

Claims:
1. A tree stand comprising: a tree receiving portion arranged to receive an end of a cut tree trunk; the tree stand comprising at least one tree retaining means that is mounted to the tree receiving portion and arranged to flex in response to an end of a cut tree trunk received in the tree receiving portion and to thereby apply a gripping force to an end of a cut tree trunk, wherein the tree retaining means is arranged with a relatively fixed upper portion and a relatively free lower portion.
2. The tree stand of claim 1 , wherein the relatively free lower portion is an unsupported end portion.
3. The tree stand of claim 1 or 2, wherein, the tree retaining means is cantilever mounted to the tree receiving portion.
4. The tree stand of claim 1 , 2 or 3, wherein, the tree retaining means is cantilever mounted to extend generally downward from a fixed end.
5. The tree stand of any preceding claim, wherein, the tree retaining means comprises a fixed end towards the top of the tree receiving portion and a free end towards the bottom of the tree receiving portion.
6. The tree stand of any preceding claim, wherein the tree retaining means is cantilever mounted such that a lower portion thereof moves more than an upper portion thereof in response to an end of a cut tree trunk received in the tree receiving portion.
7. The tree stand of any preceding claim, wherein the tree retaining means is arranged to flex elastically in response to an end of a cut tree trunk received in the tree receiving portion.
8. The tree stand of any preceding claim, wherein the tree stand further comprises a tree retaining means rigidly mounted on the tree receiving portion.
9 The tree stand of any preceding claim, wherein the tree stand further comprises a tree retaining means supported at both ends by the tree receiving portion.
10. The tree stand of any preceding claim, wherein the tree stand further comprises a tree retaining means supported along its length by the tree receiving portion.
11. The tree stand of any preceding claim, wherein the tree stand comprises a plurality of tree retaining means as described in any one claims 1-10.
12. The tree stand of any preceding claim, wherein the tree stand comprises a first plurality of tree retaining means that are cantilever mounted on the tree receiving portion and a second plurality of tree retaining means that are rigidly mounted on the tree receiving portion.
13. The tree stand of claim 12, wherein the tree stand comprises tree retaining means that are cantilever mounted on the tree receiving portion and tree retaining means that are rigidly mounted on the tree receiving portion, in interspersed or alternating arrangement around the tree receiving portion.
14. The tree stand of claim 12 or 13, wherein, the second plurality of tree retaining means are relatively longer than the first plurality of tree retaining means.
15. The tree stand of claim 12, 13 or 14, wherein, the second plurality of tree retaining means are arranged with other portions relatively higher than the upper portions of the tree retaining means of the first plurality of tree retaining means.
16. The tree stand of any preceding claim, wherein the tree receiving portion comprises a mouth to receive the cut end of a tree there-through, and the tree retaining means that is cantilever mounted to the tree receiving portion is arranged to flex radially outward relative to the mouth in response to an end of a cut tree trunk received in the tree receiving portion.
17. The tree stand of claim 16, wherein the tree retaining means that is cantilever mounted to the tree receiving portion is able to flex toward and/or beyond the perimeter of the mouth in response to an end of a cut tree trunk received in the tree receiving portion.
18. The tree stand of any preceding claim, wherein the tree retaining means comprise at least one projection.
19. The tree stand of claim 18, wherein the at least one projection has a depth which varies along the length thereof.
20. The tree stand of claim 18 or 19, wherein, the projections grip a tree inserted therein, and are therefore gripping means.
21. The tree stand of any preceding claim, wherein the tree receiving portion comprises a removable insert.
22. The tree stand of claim 21 , wherein the tree retaining means is mounted on the insert.
23. The tree stand of claim 21 or 22, wherein, the insert is a push fit with the tree stand.
24. The tree stand of claim 21 , 21 or 23, wherein, the insert comprises a lip to limit its insertion into the tree stand.
25. The tree stand of any one of claims 21-24, wherein the insert comprises legs for locating in the tree stand.
26. The tree stand of any one of claims 20-25, wherein the gripping means of the insert is centring means to force the tree towards a central position relative to the insert.
27. The tree stand of any one of claims 21-26, wherein, the gripping means extend through apertures in the insert.
28. The tree stand of any preceding claim, wherein the tree receiving portion is mounted within a base of the tree stand, preferably within a fluid reservoir.
29. The tree stand of any preceding claim, wherein the plurality of projections are arranged on the interior surface of the tree receiving portion, preferably in radial fashion.
30. The tree stand of any preceding claim, wherein the projections comprise veins running substantially axially with the tree receiving portion.
31. The tree stand of claim 30, comprising: two or more; or three or more; or five or more; or ten or more veins.
32. The tree stand of claim 29, 30 or 31 , wherein the projections are arranged to maintain a degree of separation between the tree trunk and portions of the interior surface of the tree receiving portion.
33. The tree stand of any one of claims 29-32, wherein the projections include a sharp or pointed portion arranged in use to at least partially penetrate the trunk of a tree inserted into the tree receiving portion.
34. The tree stand of any preceding claim, wherein a tree inserted into the tree receiving portion is solely retained by abutment of the tree with the interior surface of one or more of the tree receiving portion, the insert and the gripping means.
35. An insert as described above in any preceding claim as dependent on claim 21.
36. A kit comprising: a tree stand of any one of claims 1-34, and a tree; or comprising an insert of claim 35 and a tree; or comprising an insert of claim 35 and a tree stand base.
37. The kit of claim 36, when comprising a tree comprises a tree suitable for use as a Christmas tree.
38. A method of securing a cut tree in a tree stand, the method comprising the steps of: providing a tree stand comprising a tree receiving portion and inserting an insert into the tree receiving portion to thereby provide at least one tree retaining means with a relatively fixed upper portion and a relatively free lower portion; and inserting an end of a cut tree trunk in the tree receiving portion to thereby flex the tree retaining means and thereby grip the end of the cut tree trunk.
39. The method of claim 38, wherein the method further comprises pushing the insert into the tree stand up to a stop.
40. The method of claim 38 or 39, further comprising the step of adding water to the fluid reservoir, and water may be added to partly or completely fill the reservoir.
41. The method of any one of claims 38, 39 or 40, wherein the step of inserting an end of a cut tree trunk in the tree receiving portion to thereby flex the tree retaining means and thereby grip the end of the cut tree trunk is performed before the step of inserting the insert into the tree receiving portion.
42. The method of any one of claims 38-41 , wherein the tree stand is that of any one of claims 1-34.
43. A tree stand, insert, kit or method substantially as described herein, with reference to the accompanying drawings.
PCT/GB2010/050044 2009-01-14 2010-01-14 Improvements in and relating to tree stands WO2010082049A1 (en)

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EP3167773A1 (en) * 2015-11-11 2017-05-17 Green Team Holding AS Holder for a tree, such as a christmas tree
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FR3057452A1 (en) * 2016-10-14 2018-04-20 Jean Michel Laperche WATER RESERVE SUPPORT FOR CUTTING SHAFT
GB2555648A (en) * 2016-11-08 2018-05-09 Plantopia Ltd A tree stand
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US11013356B2 (en) 2009-07-14 2021-05-25 Belgravia Wood Limited Power pole for artificial tree apparatus with axial electrical connectors
US10973355B2 (en) 2009-07-14 2021-04-13 Belgravia Wood Limited Power pole for artificial tree apparatus with axial electrical connectors
US10939777B2 (en) 2009-07-14 2021-03-09 Belgravia Wood Limited Power pole for artificial tree apparatus with axial electrical connectors
US10893768B2 (en) 2009-07-14 2021-01-19 Belgravia Wood Limited Power pole for artificial tree apparatus with axial electrical connectors
US10765244B2 (en) 2009-07-14 2020-09-08 Belgravia Wood Limited Power pole for artificial tree apparatus with axial electrical connectors
US11096512B2 (en) 2009-07-14 2021-08-24 Belgravia Wood Limited Power pole for artificial tree apparatus with axial electrical connectors
US11712126B2 (en) 2009-07-14 2023-08-01 Belgravia Wood Limited Power pole for artificial tree apparatus with axial electrical connectors
US10765245B2 (en) 2009-07-14 2020-09-08 Belgravia Wood Limited Power pole for artificial tree apparatus with axial electrical connectors
US10993571B2 (en) 2009-07-14 2021-05-04 Belgravia Wood Limited Architecture for routing multi-channel commands via a tree column
US11096511B2 (en) 2009-07-14 2021-08-24 Belgravia Wood Limited Power pole for artificial tree apparatus with axial electrical connectors
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US10404019B2 (en) 2011-10-28 2019-09-03 Polygroup Macau Limited (Bvi) Powered tree construction
US10522954B1 (en) 2011-10-28 2019-12-31 Polygroup Macau Limited (Bvi) Powered tree construction
US10777949B2 (en) 2011-10-28 2020-09-15 Polygroup Macau Limited (Bvi) Powered tree construction
US9912109B2 (en) 2011-10-28 2018-03-06 Polygroup Macau Limited (Bvi) Powered tree construction
US9843147B2 (en) 2011-10-28 2017-12-12 Polygroup Macau Limited (Bvi) Powered tree construction
US11967790B2 (en) 2011-10-28 2024-04-23 Polygroup Macau Limited (Bvi) Powered tree construction with rotation limiting
US10985513B2 (en) 2011-10-28 2021-04-20 Polygroup Macau Limited (Bvi) Powered tree construction with rotation limiting
US9867490B2 (en) 2013-03-27 2018-01-16 Polygroup Macau Limited (Bvi) Stand with inserts
US10478003B2 (en) 2013-03-27 2019-11-19 Polygroup Macau Limited (Bvi) Tree stand
US10213042B2 (en) 2013-03-27 2019-02-26 Polygroup Macau Limited (Bvi) Tree stand
US20160037952A1 (en) * 2013-03-27 2016-02-11 Polygroup Macau Limited (Bvi) Stand with inserts
US9894949B1 (en) 2013-11-27 2018-02-20 Willis Electric Co., Ltd. Lighted artificial tree with improved electrical connections
US9883566B1 (en) 2014-05-01 2018-01-30 Willis Electric Co., Ltd. Control of modular lighted artificial trees
US10842306B2 (en) 2015-03-27 2020-11-24 Polygroup Macau Limited (Bvi) Multi-wire quick assemble tree
US9839315B2 (en) 2015-03-27 2017-12-12 Polygroup Macau Limited (Bvi) Multi-wire quick assemble tree
EP3167773A1 (en) * 2015-11-11 2017-05-17 Green Team Holding AS Holder for a tree, such as a christmas tree
CN105615595A (en) * 2016-01-12 2016-06-01 宁波基盛休闲用品有限公司 Christmas tree leg
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US10989374B1 (en) 2017-12-11 2021-04-27 Willis Electric Co., Ltd. Decorative lighting control
US10683974B1 (en) 2017-12-11 2020-06-16 Willis Electric Co., Ltd. Decorative lighting control
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