CN114945305A

CN114945305A - Connector system and method thereof

Info

Publication number: CN114945305A
Application number: CN202080084456.4A
Authority: CN
Inventors: 池·因·艾伦·里昂
Original assignee: Belgrade Viawood Ltd
Current assignee: Belgrade Viawood Ltd
Priority date: 2020-04-27
Filing date: 2020-11-12
Publication date: 2022-08-26
Anticipated expiration: 2040-11-12
Also published as: CN114945305B; CN212877779U

Abstract

An artificial tree is disclosed that includes a first torso member and a second torso member. The second torso member may be configured to receive a portion of the first torso member, and may include a sleeve disposed proximate an end of the second torso member. The sleeve may include a lower edge having an angled portion that may interact with a rotational tab disposed on the first torso member. The swivel tab is rotatable upon interaction with the angled portion of the lower edge to guide and assist the second torso member in receiving a portion of the first torso member.

Description

Connector system and method thereof

Cross Reference to Related Applications

The rights of the present application for chinese utility patent No.201921963618.2 entitled "connector system and method therefor" filed on 2019, 11, 14 and 2020, and chinese patent application No.202020658115.0 entitled "connector system and method therefor" filed on 27, 4, 2020, each of which is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety and in essence, in accordance with 35u.s.c. 119 (a).

Technical Field

The subject matter of the present disclosure relates generally to connectors for components of artificial trees and stabilizers therefor.

Background

People celebrating christmas or other holidays are accustomed to bringing natural evergreen trees indoors to decorate the trees with decorations, lights, wreaths, foil, and the like. However, natural trees can be quite expensive and are considered by some to be a waste of environmental resources. Furthermore, natural trees can be intractable, require water to prevent the trees from drying out, and can be messy, leaving sap and/or conifers after removal. Furthermore, if the tree is not watered sufficiently, it can become so dry that it becomes a fire hazard. At each vacation, a new tree must be obtained and decorated, and at the end of the vacation, the decorations must be removed. By then, the needle blade has often dried out and may be quite sharp, so that removal of the decoration may be a painful process. Moreover, natural trees are often disposed of in landfills, further contaminating the flooded environment.

To overcome the disadvantages of natural trees and still celebrate with the christmas tree, a variety of artificial trees are available. In most cases, these artificial trees must be assembled for use and disassembled after use. Artificial trees have the advantage of being usable over a period of several years, thereby eliminating the annual expenses of purchasing live trees for short holidays. Furthermore, they help to reduce: trees are cut down for temporary decoration and then typically disposed of in a landfill.

In general, most artificial christmas trees comprise a multiplicity of individual branches, each formed from a large number of plastic needles that are held together by wrapping a pair of wires around the plastic needles. In other cases, the branches are formed by winding a pair of wires around an elongated sheet of plastic material having a large multiplicity of transverse sipes. In other artificial christmas trees, the branches are formed by injection molding of plastic.

Regardless of the form of the branches, the most common form of artificial christmas tree includes a plurality of torso members connected to one another to form a trunk. For example, the first and second torso members each include an elongated body. Near the first end of the primary torso member, the body of the primary torso member is slightly tapered to reduce the diameter of the body. The second end of the secondary torso member includes a receiving portion (e.g., a female end), and a tapered first end that serves as an extension (e.g., a male end). Typically, the torso has a generally cylindrical shape. In other words, the diameter of the second end (i.e., the receptacle) is larger than the diameter of the tapered first end (extension). The first end is inserted into the second end for attachment to the torso member. For example, the extending portion of the first torso member is inserted into the non-extending portion of the second torso member.

The torso design that extends the extension to the receiving end is still imperfect. Due to the difference in diameter of the tapered end and the receiving end, the extension extending to a certain point can slide into the receiving end to form a continuous torso. However, the first torso member is allowed to move and pivot relative to the second torso member due to the difference between the outer diameter of the received portion and the inner diameter of the receiving end of the extension portion. For example, the extension is allowed to pivot about the top of the receiving end, wherein the diameter of the extension increases to no longer allow reception of the portion beyond that point. This free movement about the pivot point may result in uneven loading as the extension pivots slightly to the side opposite the side that rests evenly about the receiving end. Over time, uneven loading may cause the torso to bend and possibly break over time.

Disclosure of Invention

The above and other concerns are addressed by the subject matter of the present disclosure. Briefly, the subject matter of the present disclosure relates to a connector system for connecting a first torso member to a second torso member. The connector system may include a ferrule. The sleeve may have a substantially cylindrical internal shape or any internal shape that conforms to the external shape of the artificial tree trunk system. The sleeve may have a first end and a second end. The first end may include a lower edge that may be angled downward. The interior of the sleeve may comprise two adjacent portions. The first portion may have an inner wall comprising an axially extending rib. The axially extending ribs may provide a snug fit between the sleeve and the first torso member after the first torso member is inserted into the first portion of the sleeve. The second portion may have an inner wall comprising an annularly extending rib. The annularly extending rib may provide a press fit between the sleeve and the second trunk after the second trunk is inserted into the sleeve. When assembled, the sleeve may provide reinforcement for the connection of the first and second torso members, while also reducing or eliminating movement or pivoting between the two torso members.

In one exemplary and non-limiting embodiment, the subject of the present disclosure is a kit for constructing an artificial tree trunk. The kit has a first tree trunk having a first diameter, the first tree trunk narrowing to form an extension end having a second diameter, and a second tree trunk having a receiving end having a diameter configured to receive the extension end. The kit may have more than two portions, a first torso member and a second torso member. The number of torso members is merely for purposes of describing aspects of the disclosed subject matter and is not intended to limit the present disclosure. The kit also has a generally hollow sleeve having a first sleeve end with a first inner diameter generally equal to the first torso member and a lower edge with an angled portion. The sleeve also has a second sleeve end having a second inner diameter substantially equal to the second torso member. The sleeve also has an inner narrowed region narrowing from a first inner diameter substantially equal to the first torso member to a second inner diameter substantially equal to an extension of the first torso member. The kit also has a swivel tab extending through a wall of the first torso member. During assembly of the artificial tree, the rotating projection may interact with the lower edge at a plurality of points along the angled portion.

Another exemplary and non-limiting embodiment of the present disclosure is a method for assembling a tree trunk of an artificial tree. The receiving end of the second torso member is inserted into the second end of the sleeve. The extended end of the first torso member is inserted into the first end of the sleeve. The angled portion and the rotational tab of the lower edge of the first end of the sleeve facilitate interlocking of the first and second torso members. In this example, the first end has an inner diameter substantially equal to the extended end of the first torso member, and the second end has an inner diameter substantially equal to the receiving end of the second torso member.

The foregoing has outlined only a few aspects of the disclosed subject matter and is not intended to reflect the full scope of the disclosed subject matter as claimed. Additional features and advantages of the disclosed subject matter will be set forth in the description which follows, and in part will be obvious from the description, or may be learned by practice of the disclosed subject matter. Furthermore, the foregoing summary and the following detailed description are exemplary and explanatory and are intended to provide further explanation of the subject matter of the present disclosure as claimed.

Drawings

The accompanying drawings, which are incorporated in and constitute a part of this specification, illustrate several embodiments of the disclosed subject matter and together with the description, serve to explain the principles of the disclosed subject matter; furthermore, the drawings are not intended to limit the scope of the presently disclosed subject matter in any way.

FIG. 1 is a partial cross-sectional view of a prior art artificial tree system having a first torso inserted into a second torso.

Fig. 2 is a partial cross-sectional view of an exemplary artificial tree system including a cannula according to the subject matter of the present disclosure.

Fig. 3 is a top perspective view of a ferrule according to the subject matter of the present disclosure.

Fig. 4 is a bottom perspective view of a cannula according to the subject matter of the present disclosure.

Fig. 5 is a side view of a bushing according to the subject matter of this disclosure.

Fig. 6 is a cross-sectional view of a cannula according to the subject matter of the present disclosure.

Fig. 7 is a top view of a bushing according to the subject matter of this disclosure.

Fig. 8 is a bottom view of a ferrule according to the subject matter of the present disclosure.

Fig. 9 is a cross-sectional view of a bushing having an angled portion according to the subject matter of the present disclosure.

Fig. 10 is a side view of a ferrule having angled portions according to the subject matter of the present disclosure.

Fig. 11 is a side view of a system including a bushing having an angled portion and a rotating protrusion according to the subject matter of the present disclosure.

Fig. 12 is an exploded view of a tree portion having a sleeve system configured to transmit power between the trunk portions according to the subject matter of the present disclosure.

Fig. 13 is an exploded view of a tree portion having a sleeve system configured to transmit power between the trunk portions according to the subject matter of the present disclosure.

Detailed Description

Various embodiments of the subject matter of the present disclosure are described with specificity to meet statutory requirements. However, the description itself is not intended to limit the scope of this patent. Rather, it is contemplated that the claimed subject matter might also be embodied in other ways, to include different steps or elements similar to the ones described in this document, in conjunction with other present or future technologies.

It should also be noted that, as used in the specification and the appended claims, the singular forms "a," "an," and "the" include plural referents unless the context clearly dictates otherwise. When referring to a composition containing "an" ingredient, other ingredients are included in addition to the recited ingredient. Also, in describing the preferred embodiments, terminology will be resorted to for the sake of clarity. Each term is intended to encompass its broadest meaning as understood by those skilled in the art and includes all technical equivalents which operate in a similar manner to accomplish a similar purpose.

Ranges and/or sizes may be expressed herein as from one particular value of "about" or "approximately" and/or to another particular value of "about" or "approximately". When such a range or size is expressed, other exemplary embodiments include from the one particular value and/or to the other particular value. The use of terms such as "having," "including," or "containing" herein is open-ended and is intended to have the same meaning as terms such as "comprising" or "including," and does not preclude the presence of other structure, material, or acts. Similarly, although the use of terms such as "may" or "may" is intended to be open-ended and to reflect that structure, material, or acts are not necessary, the failure to use such terms is not intended to reflect that structure, material, or acts are essential. When structure, material, or acts are presently considered to be essential, they are identified as such.

It should also be understood that the mention of one or more method steps does not preclude the presence of additional method steps or intervening method steps between those steps expressly identified. Moreover, although the term "step" may be used herein to connote different aspects of methods employed, the term should not be interpreted as implying any particular order among or between various steps herein disclosed unless and except when the order of individual steps is explicitly required.

To facilitate an understanding of the principles and features of the present invention, various illustrative embodiments are explained below. In particular, the subject matter of the present disclosure is described in the context of a connector system for assembling an artificial tree. However, embodiments of the presently disclosed subject matter are not limited to use in artificial trees. Of course, embodiments of the present invention may also be used to assemble other objects, such as poles.

Referring now to the drawings, wherein like reference numerals refer to like parts throughout the several views, a connector system will be described in detail.

Typically, a conventional artificial tree comprises a plurality of tree trunks which can be connected to each other. Fig. 1 shows a partial cross-sectional view of a conventional artificial tree system including a hollow first torso member 110, the hollow first torso member 110 being connected to a hollow second torso member 120. For clarity, the first and second torso members are shown without branches, but the branches may extend radially outward from the torso members. The first torso member 110 may include an elongated body 112 and an extension 114. The second torso member 120 may include an elongated body 122 and a receptacle 124. Extension portion 114 of first torso member 110 may be configured to be at least partially inserted into receptacle 124 of second torso member 120. Conversely, the receptacle 124 may be configured to at least partially receive the extension 114. The

torso members

110, 120 may comprise metal (e.g., steel), plastic, or any other useful material.

The

elongated bodies

112, 122 may have a cross-sectional shape that is circular, oval, triangular, rectangular, square, or any other desired shape. As will be appreciated, a trunk having a cylindrical shape (i.e., a circular cross-sectional shape) may be most commonly desired because the cylindrical shape most closely resembles the shape of a natural tree trunk. The extension 114 may be capped or open-ended. First torso member 110 may have a first outer diameter at main body 112 and a second outer diameter at extension 114. The outer diameter (i.e., the second outer diameter) of the extension 114 may be smaller than the outer diameter (i.e., the first outer diameter) of the body portion 112. The outer diameter of the primary torso member may transition between the first and second outer diameters at a tapered region 116, which may separate the elongated body 112 from the extension 114.

The elongated body 122 of the second torso member 120 may have an outer diameter that is substantially equal to the outer diameter (i.e., the first outer diameter) of the elongated body 112 of the first torso member 110. Receiving portion 124 of second torso member 120 may have an inner diameter that is greater than the outer diameter (i.e., second outer diameter) of extension 114 of first torso member 110 such that receiving portion 114 may at least partially receive extension 114 of first torso member 110. For example, receptacle 124 may be configured to receive an end portion of first torso member 110 (i.e., extension 114) until tapered region 116 of first torso member 110 has an outer diameter substantially equal to an inner diameter of receptacle 124 of second torso member 120, such that at least a portion of tapered region 116 may abut an end portion of second torso member 120.

The difference between the inner diameter of receptacle 124 and the second outer diameter of extension 114 (e.g., due to variations during manufacturing) may result in a gap (not shown) being created between the outer surface of extension 114 of first torso member 110 and the inner surface of receptacle 124 of second torso member 120. This gap may allow extension 112 to move freely within receptacle 124 of second torso member 120, which may result in first torso member 110 pivoting relative to second torso member 120 at tapered region 116. Over time, the uneven loading ultimately resulting from the pivoting may cause first torso member 110 and/or second torso member 120 to become bent, skewed, and/or otherwise deformed.

As shown in fig. 2, the techniques of the present disclosure include a connector system 200, and the connector system 200 may include a ferrule 202. As described more fully below, the connector system 200 may provide reinforcement for the connection of the first and

second torso members

110, 120 while also reducing or eliminating movement or pivoting between the two

torso members

110, 120. Thus, the connector system 200 may help prevent uneven loading and/or eventual damage to the

torso members

110, 120.

Further, sleeve 202 may be used to protect the ends of the

torso members

110, 120 during transport or storage. For example, during transport, the

torso members

110, 120 may be subjected to a force that compresses an end of one or more of the

torso members

110, 120. By providing the sleeve 202 on the end of the

body portion

110, 120, the sleeve 202 can protect the end of the

body portion

110, 120 to which the sleeve 202 is attached. Sleeve 202 may be constructed of a stronger or stronger material than

body portions

110, 120 and/or may have a geometry that is more resistant to compressive forces than

body portions

110, 120.

Referring to fig. 2, sleeve 202 may have an internal shape that substantially corresponds to the external shape of first and

second torso members

110, 120. For example, the sleeve 202 may have a substantially cylindrical internal shape. The sleeve 202 may have an outer shape that is the same as its inner shape. For example, the sleeve 202 may have a substantially cylindrical inner shape and a substantially cylindrical outer shape. Alternatively, the sleeve 202 may have an outer shape that is different from its inner shape. For example, the sleeve 202 may have a blocky (i.e., square or rectangular prism) or asymmetric outer shape. The outer surface of the sleeve 202 may be smooth and/or void-free. Alternatively, the outer surface of the sleeve 202 may have ribs or channels, a grid structure, or some other structure in which the material of the outer surface of the sleeve 202 is reduced. Thus, the sleeve 202 may have the same or substantially the same strength, stiffness, and/or structural characteristics as a solid sleeve, while using less material than a solid sleeve, which may reduce manufacturing costs.

Sleeve 202 may facilitate a secure mechanical connection between first torso member 110 and second torso member 120 by providing additional stability at the point of connection of first and

second torso members

110, 120. The sleeve 202 may surround and/or overlap a portion of the elongated body 112 of the first torso member 110 (i.e., proximate the tapered region 116), the tapered region 116 of the first torso member, and a portion of the elongated body 122 of the second torso member 120 (i.e., proximate the receptacle 124). The sleeve 202 may have multiple portions. For example, the sleeve 202 may have a first portion 204, a second portion 206, and an inner protrusion 208. First portion 204 of sleeve 202 may have an inner diameter that is slightly larger than the outer diameter of body 112 of first torso member 110 (i.e., the first outer diameter of first torso member 110). Second portion 206 of sleeve 202 may have an inner diameter slightly larger than the outer diameter of elongated body 122 of second torso member 120. The first portion 204 and the second portion 206 of the sleeve 202 may have the same inner diameter, or they may have different inner diameters.

The inner protrusion 208 may define a variable inner diameter of the cannula 202. By way of non-limiting example, the inner protrusion 208 may taper on one or both sides. The inner protrusion 208 may correspond to the tapered region 116 of the first torso member 110. For example, the inner protrusion may reflect the taper of the tapered region 116. Thus, the inner protrusion 208 may abut a portion of the tapered region 116. The inner protrusion 208 may be configured to also abut a portion of the receptacle 124 of the second torso member 120 (e.g., an edge of the receptacle 124). Additionally, the inner protrusion 208 may be configured to effectively "plug" into any pivot region between the tapered region 116 of the first torso member 110 and the edge of the receptacle 124 of the second torso member 120.

As described herein, the various portions of sleeve 202 may be sized to provide a tight fit with respect to the corresponding portions of first and

second torso members

110, 120, such that sleeve 202 may limit any free movement and/or pivoting between first and

second torso members

110, 120 about tapered region 116. Thus, connector system 200 may provide a more balanced load across the torso of the tree and may reduce any chance of damage and/or distortion to the tree.

Sleeve 202 may include ribs to help promote a desired fit with first and/or

second torso members

110, 120. The sleeve 202 may include a first plurality of ribs and a second plurality of ribs, and the first plurality of ribs may be oriented differently on the sleeve 202 than the second plurality of ribs. For example, referring to fig. 3-5, the sleeve 202 may include a first end 310 including a first plurality of ribs 312 and a second end 320 including a second plurality of ribs 322. The first plurality of ribs 312 may protrude inward from the inner wall of the sleeve 202 and may be substantially axially aligned (i.e., substantially parallel to the central axis of the sleeve 202). Each rib of the first plurality of ribs 312 is substantially parallel. The axial direction of the first plurality of ribs 312 may allow a predetermined amount of sliding relative to the body 112 or some other portion of the first torso member. To allow for enhanced sliding, the number of ribs may be reduced and/or the protrusion distance of some or all of the ribs may be reduced. Conversely, to enhance sliding, the number of ribs may be increased, the protrusion distance of some or all of the ribs may be increased, and/or the angle of some or all of the ribs with respect to the central axis of the cannula 202 may be increased. The sliding between first end 310 and first torso member 110 may allow first torso member 110 to be easily inserted into sleeve 202 and removed from sleeve 202, while also providing a tight enough fit to prevent first torso member 110 from pivoting or jostling relative to second torso member 120.

The second plurality of ribs 322 may protrude inward from the inner wall of the sleeve 202 (e.g., at the second end 320) and may be generally annular (i.e., disposed about the circumference of the inner wall of the sleeve). Each rib of the second plurality of ribs 322 is substantially parallel. Each rib of the second plurality of ribs 322 may extend about a central axis of the sleeve 202. Additionally, each rib of the second plurality of ribs 322 may lie on a plane that is substantially perpendicular to the axis of the cannula 202. The annular positioning of the second plurality of ribs 322 may facilitate a semi-permanent connection between the sleeve 202 and the second torso member. As will be appreciated by those skilled in the art, a "semi-permanent fit" may also be referred to as a "tight fit" and may involve one of the following interference fits: one of the parts may be assembled into the other by hand pressure and/or by hand hammer; the two components will remain connected unless there is a significant pulling force to separate them. To reduce the tightness or permanence of the fit, the annular ring may be angled such that the ribs are no longer substantially perpendicular to the axis of the sleeve 202. To increase the tightness or permanence of the fit, the protruding distance of the second plurality of ribs 322 may be increased and/or the inner diameter of the second end 320 of the sleeve 202 may be decreased to more closely match the outer diameter of the extension 114 of the first torso member 110. For example, the inner diameter of the second plurality of ribs 322 and/or the second end 320 of the sleeve 202 may be sized such that the smallest inner diameter of the second end 320 is slightly smaller than the outer diameter of the second torso member 120. As a non-limiting example, a press fit may be formed when the second torso member 120 is inserted into the second end 320.

Alternatively or additionally, the first plurality of ribs 312 and/or the second plurality of ribs 322 may be provided in a spiral or filamentary form such that the respective first or

second torso member

110, 120 may be inserted and/or removed by a twisting action. Alternatively or additionally, glue, epoxy, or other adhesive may be applied between the inner surface of second end 320 and/or the outer surface of second torso member 120. Alternatively or additionally, mechanical fastening members (e.g., screws, bolts) may attach the ends of sleeve 202 to second torso member 120. One or some of these and other attachment methods may be used to alter the durability of the attachment between sleeve 202 and second body portion 120 as desired.

While sleeve 202 is described herein as having a more permanent connection to second torso member 120 than to first torso member 110, the reverse is also possible. That is, sleeve 202 may be provided to be more permanently attached to first torso member 110 than if sleeve 202 were attachable to second torso member 120.

Alternatively or additionally, either end of the sleeve (i.e., first end 310 or second end 320) may be configured to connect or attach to either end of the torso member (i.e., male or female). That is, both the first end 310 and the second end 320 of the sleeve may be attached to the body 112 of the first torso member 110 or the elongate body 122 of the second torso member 120.

As described above, the inner protrusion 208 may be tapered on one or both sides. With particular reference to FIG. 5, the inner protrusion 208 may be tapered on one side and have a substantially flat step on the opposite side. The tapered sides of the inner protrusion 208 may be configured to mirror the tapered region 116 of the first torso member 110, and the slat step of the inner protrusion 208 may be configured to abut the edge of the receptacle 124 of the second torso member 120. This design may provide the most effective "plugging" of the pivot region between tapered region 116 of first torso member 110 and the edge of receptacle 124 of second torso member 120.

Referring to fig. 6A-8, the connector system 200 may be a multi-piece ferrule system. For example, the connector system 200 may include a male ferrule 610 and a female ferrule 720. The male sleeve 610 may have an outer diameter that is substantially equal to the inner diameter of the extension 114 of the first torso member 110. The male sleeve 610 may have a rim 612, the rim 612 configured to abut and/or overlap the rim of the extension. Rim 612 may have an outer diameter substantially equal to the outer diameter of extension 114. The male sleeve 610 may include an anti-rotation member 614. The anti-rotation member 614 may be a screw or bolt. The anti-rotation member 614 may extend through a wall of the first torso member 110. The anti-rotation member 614 may extend through the wall of the first torso member 110 and the portion of the male sleeve 610 that extends into the interior of the first torso member 110.

The female sleeve 720 may have an inner diameter substantially equal to the outer diameter of the receptacle 124 of the second trunk 120. The female sleeve 720 may include an overlapping portion 722 that abuts the outer surface of the receptacle 124 and an extending portion 724 that extends axially beyond the edge of the receptacle 124. The overlap portion 722 may have an annular rib (e.g., similar to the rib 322 of the second end 320 of the sleeve 202). Alternatively or additionally, the ribs of the overlap portion 722 may be provided in a spiral or wire-like form so that the second torso member 120 may be inserted and/or removed by a screwing action. Alternatively or additionally, glue, epoxy, or other adhesive may be applied on the inner surface of overlap portion 722 and/or the outer surface of second torso member 120, or between the inner surface of overlap portion 722 and/or the outer surface of second torso member 120. Alternatively or additionally, mechanical fastening members (e.g., screws, bolts) may attach overlapping portion 722 to second torso member 120. One or some of these and other attachment methods may be used to change the durability of the connection between the female sleeve 720 and the second torso member 120 as desired.

The extension 724 of the female sleeve 720 may have axially extending ribs (e.g., similar to the ribs 312 of the first end 310 of the sleeve 202). This may provide a snug fit between extension 724 and first torso member 110.

The female sleeve 720 may include a recess 726. The recess 726 may be configured to receive an extension of the anti-rotation member 614. Thus, mating the male sleeve 710 with the female sleeve 720 may limit pivoting of the first torso member 110 relative to the second torso member 120, and vice versa. This is useful in many situations. For example, some artificial trees include internal wiring, and the ends of the respective trunk portions include electrical contacts. The anti-rotation member 614 of the male sleeve 610 and the recess 726 of the female sleeve 720 may serve as an alignment mechanism to align the electrical contacts of the

trunk

110, 120. Further, the anti-rotation member 614 and the recess 726 may prevent subsequent rotation or twisting that may otherwise damage the electrical contacts.

To illustrate the inclusion of such internal wiring and electrical contacts, fig. 6A, 7A, and 8 show the first and/or

second torso members

110, 120 as transparent to reveal the internal electrical contacts.

As shown in fig. 6A, the trunk may include a male sleeve 610 having a rim 612, an anti-rotation member 614, and power system distribution connectors 616A, 616 b. As further depicted, the male sleeve 610 may be inserted into the end of the torso member 110 such that the rim 612 abuts the outer diameter of the end of the torso member 110. Fig. 6B shows a perspective view of the assembled male portion 610.

The male sleeve 610 may be held by the first trunk 110 by a frictional force between the inner wall of the first trunk 110 and the outer wall of the male sleeve 610. Alternatively or additionally, the inner wall of the male sleeve 610 and the inner wall of the first torso member 110 may be threaded such that the male sleeve 610 may be screwed into the first torso member 110, or the male sleeve 610 may be attached to the first torso member 110 by crimping, welding or brazing, or with an adhesive (e.g., glue, epoxy), screws, bolts, one or more rivets, retaining clips, detents, and notch assemblies (e.g., a tab extending from the male sleeve 610 or the first torso member 110, and the rest of the object including a notch, hole, depression, edge, or any other feature configured to retain the tab), or any other known attachment mechanism or method. Further, the anti-rotation member 614 may be attached to the male sleeve 610 through a hole in the trunk 110. As will be appreciated, such a connection provides additional mechanical support between the male sleeve 610 and the torso member 110.

The male sleeve 610 may include a top surface configured to abut a bottom surface of the internal electrical connector 728 of the second torso member 120 when the first and

second torso members

110, 120 are connected. The top surface may extend to the end of second torso member 110 and be flush with the end of second torso member 110. Alternatively, the top surface may extend beyond the end of the second torso member 120, or the end of the second torso member 120 may extend beyond the top surface. Further, as previously described, as shown most clearly in fig. 6A, the male sleeve 610 may include a rim 612 such that the top surface extends beyond the end of the torso member 120, and the rim 612 covers the end of the second torso member 120. The rim 612 may define a bore having a diameter substantially equal to the inner diameter of the inner electrical connector 728.

Further, the male sleeve 610 may include one or more electrical contacts configured to mate with one or more

electrical contacts

730a, 730b, 730c, 730d of the internal electrical connector 728. The one or more electrical contacts of the male cannula 610 may be female electrical contacts configured to receive the one or more male electrical contacts. Alternatively, the one or more electrical contacts of the male sleeve 610 may be male electrical contacts configured to be received by one or more female electrical contacts. One or more electrical contacts of the male sleeve 610 may be in electrical communication with one or more power

system distribution connectors

616a, 616 b. One or more electrical contacts of the male cannula 610 may be located within one or more cavities located within the male cannula 610. For example, the top surface of the male sleeve 610 may include one or more holes, and one or more electrical contacts may be disposed in the one or more holes. In an example, a single aperture may include more than one electrical contact, such as two, three, four, or more electrical contacts. In such an example, the contacts may be oriented such that at least two contacts share a longitudinal axis. Alternatively, one or more electrical contacts of the male cannula 610 may be positioned such that they protrude through one or more cavities located within the male cannula 610.

As shown in fig. 7A, the trunk portion 120 may include a female sleeve 720 and an internal electrical connector 728. As further depicted, the female sleeve 720 may be disposed around an outer portion of the end of the torso member 120, and the internal electrical connector 728 may be disposed at a portion of the interior of the torso member 120. Fig. 7B depicts a perspective view of the torso cavity viewing the torso portion 120.

The internal electrical connector 728 may be retained by the second torso member 120 by friction between the inner wall of the second torso member 120 and the outer wall of the internal electrical connector 728. Alternatively or additionally, an inner wall of internal electrical connector 728 and an inner wall of second torso member 120 may be threaded such that internal electrical connector 728 may be screwed into second torso member 120, or internal electrical connector 728 may be attached to second torso member 120 by crimping, welding, or soldering, or with an adhesive (e.g., glue, epoxy), screws, bolts, one or more rivets, retaining clips, detents, and notch assemblies (e.g., tabs extending from internal electrical connector 728 or second torso member 120, and the rest of the object including notches, holes, recesses, edges, or any other feature configured to retain tabs), or any other known attachment mechanism or method. Further, as shown in fig. 7A and 8, various attachment mechanisms may be attached to the internal electrical connector 728 through a hole in the second torso member 120.

As previously discussed, the male sleeve 610 may be configured to mate with the internal electrical connector 728 of the second torso member 120 when the first and

second torso members

110, 110 are connected. The internal electrical connector 728 may include one or more

electrical contacts

730a, 730b, 730c, 730d configured to mate with one or more electrical contacts of the male cannula 610. The one or more

electrical contacts

730a, 730b, 730c, 730d can be female electrical contacts configured to receive one or more male electrical contacts. Alternatively, one or more of the

electrical contacts

730a, 730b, 730c, 730d may be male electrical contacts configured to be received by one or more female electrical contacts. One or more

electrical contacts

730a, 730b, 730c, 730d may be in electrical communication with one or more power system distribution connectors, such as those previously described with respect to the male cannula 610. One or more

electrical contacts

730a, 730b, 730c, 730d may be located within one or more cavities located within the inner electrical connector 728. For example, the bottom surface of the internal electrical connector 728 may include one or more apertures, and one or more electrical contacts may protrude from the one or more apertures. In an example, a single aperture may include more than one electrical contact, such as two, three, four, or more electrical contacts. In such an example, the contacts may be oriented such that at least two contacts share a longitudinal axis. Alternatively, one or more of the

electrical contacts

730a, 730b, 730c, 730d may be positioned such that they are disposed within one or more cavities located within the internal electrical connector 728.

Fig. 8 depicts a first torso member 110 having a male sleeve 610 and a second torso member 120 having a female sleeve 720 and an internal electrical connector 728. As described, when the first and

second torso members

110, 120 are mated, the male sleeve 610 may be configured to mate with the internal electrical connector 728 of the second torso member 120 and the female sleeve 720 may be configured to mate with the anti-rotation member 614 such that one or more electrical connectors of the male sleeve 610 mate with one or more

electrical contacts

730a, 730b, 730c, 730d of the internal electrical connector 728, thereby allowing power and data signals to be transmitted throughout the torso member.

Referring to fig. 9-11, an alternative embodiment of a sleeve 202 for facilitating assembly of an artificial tree is shown. The sleeve 202 may have a first end 310 and a second end 320. In an exemplary embodiment, the first end 310 of the sleeve 202 may have a lower edge 940, as shown in FIG. 9. The lower rim 940 may have a width that is substantially equal to a difference between an inner diameter of the first end 310 and an outer diameter of the first end 310. The lower edge 940 may have an angled portion 930. The angled portion 930 of the lower edge 940 may slope downward from the longitudinal axis at an angle of less than ninety degrees. In one embodiment, the angled portion 930 may be located at an angle of between approximately thirty and fifty degrees from the longitudinal axis. As shown in fig. 10, the angled portion 930 may include an upper portion 1032, a middle portion 1034, and a lower portion 1036. The lower portion 1036 may be adjacent to the outer protrusion 938 of the sleeve 202. The upper portion 1032 may be opposite the outer protrusion 938.

First end 310 may have an inner diameter substantially equal to the outer diameter of first torso member 110 to allow first end 310 of sleeve 202 to slide over first torso member 110 with minimal space between the inner diameter of first end 310 and the outer diameter of first torso member 110. The second end 320 of the sleeve 202 may have an inner diameter approximately equal to the outer diameter of the second body portion 120. When the inner diameters of first end 310 and second end 320 substantially correspond to the outer diameters of first torso member 110 and second torso member 120, respectively, sleeve 202 may sufficiently interlock first and

second torso members

110 and 120 to facilitate assembly of the tree.

In one embodiment, the sleeve 202 may include an outer protrusion 938. Outer tab 938 may be configured to accommodate extension of swivel tab 1142 during assembly of the artificial tree, particularly when second torso member 120 is interlocked with first torso member 110. Further, the outer protrusion 938 may perpendicularly traverse the first end 310 and the second end 320 of the bushing 202. The outer protrusion 938 may be disposed proximate the lower portion 1032 of the angled portion 930.

Sleeve 202 may be permanently attached to second torso member 120. Permanently attaching may include mechanical fastening means (e.g., screws, bolts). In one embodiment, the permanently attached location may be adjacent the second end 320 of the cannula 202. Alternatively or additionally, glue, epoxy, or other adhesive may be applied between the inner surface of the second end 920 and/or the outer surface of the second torso member 120.

The rotation protrusion 1142 may be provided on the first body part 110. The swivel tab 1142 may extend through the wall of the first torso member 110. The rotation protrusion 1142 may have an extension protruding from the outer wall of the first trunk 110. The extension may extend at a ninety degree angle such that the extension is perpendicular to the outer wall of the first torso member 110. The extension of the swivel tab 1142 may comprise a head. The head may be various shapes including circular, rectangular, pentagonal, and hexagonal. In one embodiment, the head is substantially circular to facilitate rotation of the rotating tab 1142. The head may have a substantially smooth surface to facilitate rotation of the rotating tab 1142. In one embodiment, the extension of the swivel tab 1142 may also include a portion secured to the body of the head. The portion of the body extending from the outer surface of the first torso member 110 may have a generally cylindrical shape to facilitate rotation of the rotation tab 1142. The body may have a substantially smooth surface that is unthreaded to facilitate rotation of the rotating tab 1142. In one embodiment, the rotation projection may be a screw or a bolt.

The sleeve 202 with the lower edge 940 of the angled portion 930 and the swivel tab 1142 may be used in combination to facilitate assembly of the artificial tree. When the receiving portion 124 of the second torso member 120 receives the extension portion 114 of the first torso member 110, the swivel tabs 1142 may interact with the angled portion 930 of the lower edge 940 at multiple points. In one embodiment, the body of the rotating tab 1142 may first interact with the lower edge 940 of the upper portion 1032 proximate the angled portion 930. Alternatively, the extension of the swivel tab 1142 may first interact with the lower edge 940 of the middle section 1034 or the lower section 1036 proximate the angled section 930. When the second torso member 120 rotates clockwise to accommodate the extension portion 114 of the first torso member 110 in the accommodation portion 124 of the second torso member 120, the gravity applied by the second torso member 120 on the extension portion of the swivel tab 1142 may rotate the swivel tab 1142 clockwise. In conjunction with the clockwise rotation of the swivel tab 1142, the angled portion 930 of the lower edge 940 of the sleeve may guide the receiving portion 124 of the second torso member 120 to fully receive the extension 114 of the first torso member 110. As the second torso member 120 rotates to receive the extension 114 of the first torso member 110, the extension of the rotational tab 1142 may continuously interact with the lower edge 940 along the angled portion 938 such that the extension of the rotational tab may interact with the upper portion 1032, the middle portion 1034, and the lower portion 1036 of the angled portion 930. When the extension of the rotating tab 1142 reaches the outer tab 938 adjacent the lower portion 1036, the extension of the rotating tab 1142 may slide into the interior recess of the outer tab 938. The extension of the swivel tab 1142 may be surrounded by an outer tab 938. The outer protrusion 938 may include an internal ridge or thread that may limit the distance that the extension of the rotation protrusion 1142 slides into the internal recess of the outer protrusion 938. When the extension of the swivel protrusion slides into the interior recess of the outer protrusion 938 of sleeve 202, the receptacle 124 of the second torso member and the extension 114 of the first torso member 110 may be properly aligned together, and thus, the first and

second torso members

110, 120 may be fully interlocked.

The combination of the sleeve 202 with the angled portion 930 on the first end 310 and the clockwise rotation of the rotating tab 1142 may facilitate the assembly of the artificial tree. The angled portion 930 of the first end 310 of the sleeve 202 may dissipate the weight of the second torso member 120. Unlike the flat first end 310 of the sleeve 202, which directs the weight of the second torso member 120 directly downward, the angled first end 310 converts a portion of the weight from directly downward to parallel with the angled portion 930. The downward decreasing force of the weight of the secondary torso member 120 may also cause less friction between the swivel tab 1142 and the sleeve 202. This reduced friction may also facilitate rotation of second torso member 120 during assembly of the tree.

Fig. 12 and 13 depict a first torso member 1310 having a male sleeve 1320 and a second torso member 1210 having a female sleeve 1250 and an internal electrical connector 1220. As described, when the first and

second torso portions

1310, 1210 are mated, the male sleeve 1320 may be configured to mate with the internal electrical connector 1220 of the second torso portion 1210 and the female sleeve 1250 may be configured to mate with the anti-rotation member 1350 such that one or more electrical connectors of the male sleeve 1320 mate with one or more electrical contacts 1230 of the internal electrical connector 1220, allowing power and data signals to be transmitted throughout the torso portion.

Fig. 12 is an exploded view of a tree 1200, the tree 1200 having a bushing system and configured to transmit power between the torso members. As depicted, tree 1200 may include a trunk body 1210, a female sleeve 1250, a protective cover 1260, an internal electrical connector 1220, one or more electrical contacts 1230, an internal power distribution system 1240.

The internal electrical connector 1220 may be held by the second body part 1210 by a frictional force between an inner wall of the second body part 1210 and an outer wall of the internal electrical connector 1220. Alternatively or additionally, an inner wall of the internal electrical connector 1220 and an inner wall of the second torso member 1210 may be threaded such that the internal electrical connector 1220 may be screwed into the second torso member 1210, or the internal electrical connector 1220 may be attached to the second torso member 1210 by crimping, welding or soldering or with an adhesive (e.g., glue, epoxy), screws, bolts, one or more rivets, retaining clips, detents, and notch assemblies (e.g., tabs extending from the internal electrical connector 1220 or the second torso member 1210, and the rest including notches, holes, recesses, edges, or any other features configured to retain the tabs), or any other known attachment mechanism or method. Further, as depicted, each attachment mechanism may attach to internal electrical connector 1220 through a hole in second torso member 1210.

As previously discussed, the male sleeve 1320 may be configured to mate with the internal electrical connector 1220 of the second torso member 1210 when the first and

second torso members

1310, 1310 are mated. The internal electrical connector 1220 can include one or more electrical contacts 1230 configured to mate with one or more electrical contacts of the male sleeve 1320. The one or more electrical contacts 1230 may be female electrical contacts configured to receive one or more male electrical contacts. Alternatively, the one or more electrical contacts 1230 may be male electrical contacts configured to be received by one or more female electrical contacts. The one or more electrical contacts 1230 may be in electrical communication with one or more power system distribution connectors, such as those previously described with respect to the male sleeve 1320. One or more electrical contacts 1230 may be located within one or more cavities located within the internal electrical connector 1220. For example, a bottom surface of the internal electrical connector 1220 can include one or more holes, and one or more electrical contacts can protrude from the one or more holes. In an example, a single aperture may include more than one electrical contact, such as two, three, four, or more electrical contacts. In such an example, the contacts may be oriented such that at least two contacts share a longitudinal axis. Further, the contacts may be oriented such that at least two of the contacts are coaxial electrical contacts. Alternatively, the one or more electrical contacts 1230 may be positioned such that they are disposed within one or more cavities located within the internal electrical connector 1220.

Fig. 13 is an exploded view of a tree portion 1300, the tree portion 1300 having a sleeve system and being configured to transmit power between the torso portions. As depicted, tree 1300 may include a torso body 1310, a male sleeve 1320 with one or more electrical contacts, an internal power distribution system 1330, a sleeve cover 1340, and an anti-rotation mechanism 1350.

The male bushing 1320 may be held by the first trunk 1310 by a frictional force between an inner wall of the first trunk 1310 and an outer wall of the male bushing 1320. Alternatively or additionally, the inner wall of the male bushing 1320 and the inner wall of the first torso portion 1310 may be threaded such that the male bushing 1320 may be screwed into the first torso portion 1310, or the male bushing 1320 may be attached to the first torso portion 1310 by crimping, welding or brazing, or with an adhesive (e.g., glue, epoxy), screws, bolts, one or more rivets, retaining clips, detents, and notch assemblies (e.g., a tab extending from the male bushing 1320 or the first torso portion 1310, and the rest of the objects including notches, holes, depressions, edges, or any other features configured to retain the tab), or any other known attachment mechanism or method. Further, the anti-rotation member 1350 may be attached to the male sleeve 1320 through a hole in the stem 1310. As will be appreciated, this connection provides additional mechanical support between the male sleeve 1320 and the body 1310.

The male bushing 1320 may include a top surface configured to abut a bottom surface of the internal electrical connector 1220 of the second torso member 1210 when the first and

second torso members

1310, 1210 are connected. The top surface may extend to the end of second torso member 1210 and be flush with the end of second torso member 1210. Alternatively, the top surface may extend beyond the end of second torso member 1210, or the end of second torso member 1210 may extend beyond the top surface. Further, as previously described, as shown most clearly in fig. 6A, the male sleeve 1320 may include a rim such that the top surface extends beyond the end of the torso portion 1310, and the rim covers the end of the second torso portion 1310. The rim may define a hole having a diameter substantially equal to an inner diameter of at least a portion of the internal electrical connector 1220.

Further, the male sleeve 1320 may include an internal power distribution system 1330, the internal power distribution system 1330 may include one or more electrical contacts configured to mate with the one or more electrical contacts 1230 of the internal electrical connector 1220. The one or more electrical contacts of the male bushing 1320 may be female electrical contacts configured to receive the one or more male electrical contacts. Alternatively, the one or more electrical contacts of the male sleeve 1320 may be male electrical contacts configured to be received by one or more female electrical contacts. One or more electrical contacts of the male cannula 1320 may be located within one or more cavities located within the male cannula 1320. For example, the top surface of the male bushing 1320 may include one or more holes, and one or more electrical contacts may be disposed in the one or more holes. In an example, a single aperture may include more than one electrical contact, such as two, three, four, or more electrical contacts. In such an example, the contacts may be oriented such that at least two contacts share a longitudinal axis. Alternatively, one or more electrical contacts of the male sleeve 1320 may be positioned such that they protrude through one or more cavities located within the male sleeve 1320. Further, the male bushing may include a bushing cover 1340 configured to retain at least a portion of the internal power distribution system 1330 within one or more cavities of the male bushing 1320. It will be appreciated that this design provides additional stability to the electrical components within the torso.

While the present disclosure has been described in connection with a number of exemplary aspects as illustrated in the various figures and discussed above, it should be understood that other similar aspects may be used or modifications and additions may be made to the described aspects for performing the same function of the present disclosure without deviating therefrom. Accordingly, the present disclosure should not be limited to any single aspect, but rather construed in breadth and scope in accordance with the appended claims.

Claims

1. A kit for constructing an artificial tree trunk, the kit comprising:

a first torso member, the first torso member comprising:

a body having a first outer diameter; and

a first end having a second outer diameter less than the first outer diameter;

a second torso member including a second end, the second end having:

an outer diameter; and

an inner diameter greater than the second outer diameter of the first end; and

a cannula, the cannula being generally hollow, the cannula comprising:

a first skirt end having a first inner diameter approximately equal to the first outer diameter of the first torso member; and a lower edge having an angled portion;

a second spigot end having a second inner diameter approximately equal to the outer diameter of the second torso member; and

a swivel tab extending through a wall of the first torso member.

2. The kit of claim 1, wherein the first skirt end is configured to receive at least a portion of the first end of the first torso member and the second skirt end is configured to receive at least a portion of the second end of the second torso member.

3. The kit of claim 1, wherein the angled portion of the lower edge is configured to be at an angle of less than ninety degrees.

4. The kit of claim 2, wherein the angled portion of the lower edge is configured at an angle of between approximately thirty and fifty degrees.

5. The kit according to claim 1, wherein,

the lower edge and the swivel tab interact at a plurality of points along the angled portion when the receiving portion of the second torso member is joined with the extension of the first torso member.

6. The kit of claim 1, wherein the lower edge and the rotational projection interact near an upper portion of the angled portion.

7. The kit of claim 1, wherein the lower edge and the rotational projection interact near a middle of the angled portion.

8. The kit of claim 1, wherein the lower edge and the rotational projection interact near a lower portion of the angled portion.

9. The kit of claim 1, wherein the rotation tab rotates in a clockwise direction when the lower edge interacts with the rotation tab.

10. The kit of claim 1, wherein the sleeve comprises an outer protrusion configured to receive the rotation protrusion.

11. An artificial tree, comprising:

a first torso member, the first torso member comprising:

a body having a first outer diameter;

an extension end having a second outer diameter less than the first outer diameter; and

a transition region in which an outer diameter of the first torso member transitions between the first outer diameter and the second outer diameter; and

a second torso member, the second torso member comprising:

a receiving end having an inner diameter greater than the second outer diameter; and

a sleeve disposed proximate the receiving end, the sleeve comprising:

a first spigot end and a second spigot end, the first spigot end having a lower edge, the lower edge having an angled portion;

a plurality of axially extending ribs disposed on an inner surface of the first portion of the sleeve and extending beyond an edge of the receiving end of the second torso member, the plurality of axially extending ribs being sized so that they slidingly engage a portion of the first torso member when at least a portion of the extending end of the first torso member is inserted into the receiving ends of the sleeve and the second torso member; and

a plurality of annular ribs disposed on an inner surface of the second portion of the sleeve, the plurality of annular ribs abutting an outer surface of the second torso portion proximate the receiving end, and the plurality of annular ribs being sized such that the plurality of annular ribs form a semi-permanent attachment with the second torso portion.

12. The artificial tree of claim 11, further comprising a swivel tab extending through the wall of the first trunk, the swivel tab rotating when an angled portion of the lower edge interacts with the swivel tab.

13. A kit for constructing an artificial tree trunk, the kit comprising:

a first torso member, the first torso member comprising:

a body having a first outer diameter; and

a first end having a second outer diameter less than the first outer diameter;

a second torso member including a second end, the second end having:

an outer diameter; and

an inner diameter greater than the second outer diameter of the first end; and

a cannula, the cannula being generally hollow, the cannula comprising:

a first spigot end having a first inner diameter approximately equal to the first outer diameter of the first torso member; and

a second spigot end having a second inner diameter approximately equal to the outer diameter of the second torso member.

14. The kit of claim 13, wherein the first skirt end is configured to receive at least a portion of the first end of the first torso member and the second skirt end is configured to receive at least a portion of the second end of the second torso member.

15. The kit of claim 13, wherein the generally hollow cannula further comprises an inner protrusion disposed between the first and second cannula ends, the inner protrusion defining a third inner diameter that is smaller than the first and second inner diameters.

16. The kit of claim 15, wherein the inner protrusion gradually and continuously transitions from the first inner diameter to the third inner diameter and gradually and continuously transitions from the second inner diameter to the third inner diameter.

17. The kit of claim 15, wherein the third inner diameter is approximately equal to the second outer diameter of the first end of the first torso member.

18. The kit of claim 15, wherein the first skirt end is configured to receive at least a portion of the first torso member.

19. The kit of claim 13, wherein the first sleeve comprises a plurality of ribs disposed on an inner surface of the first sleeve.

20. The kit of claim 19, wherein the first ferrule includes a first plurality of ribs disposed on an inner surface of the first ferrule end and a second plurality of ribs disposed on an inner surface of the second ferrule end.

21. The kit of claim 20, wherein one of the first and second pluralities of ribs comprises an axially extending rib and the other of the first and second pluralities of ribs comprises an annular rib.

22. The kit of claim 20, wherein one of the first and second pluralities of ribs consists of axially extending ribs and the other of the first and second pluralities of ribs consists of annular ribs.

23. An artificial tree, the artificial tree comprising:

a first torso member, the first torso member comprising:

a body having a first outer diameter;

a second torso member, the second torso member comprising:

a sleeve disposed proximate the receiving end, the sleeve comprising: