CN210095419U - Artificial tree system - Google Patents

Abstract

The utility model discloses an artificial tree system, it is including being used for promoting the power transmission's between the trunk part of artificial tree power transmission system. The power transfer system may advantageously electrically connect adjacent trunk portions without the need to rotationally align the trunk portions. The power distribution system may be disposed within the trunk portion. The power distribution system may include a male terminal, a female terminal, or both.

Description

Artificial tree system

Technical Field

Embodiments of the present invention relate generally to a power transmission system and, more particularly, to a power transmission system for use with an artificial tree, such as an artificial christmas tree.

Background

As part of celebrating christmas, many people traditionally take pine or evergreen trees back into their homes and decorate them with ornaments, lights, wreaths, wires, etc. However, natural trees can be very expensive and some consider a waste of environmental resources. In addition, natural trees can become messy, leave sap and coniferous leaves after removal, and require water to prevent them from drying out and present a fire hazard. The decoration must be done each time a natural tree is picked up and the decoration needs to be removed at the end of the christmas day. Removing the decoration can be a painful process, as the needle may have dried and may be very sharp at this point. In addition, natural trees are often placed in landfills, further contaminating these overburdened environments.

In order to overcome the disadvantages of natural christmas trees, but still add trees in the festival celebration, various artificial christmas trees can be used. In most cases, these artificial trees must be used after assembly and disassembled after use. The advantage of artificial trees is that they can be used for many years, thus eliminating the need to purchase real trees for short holidays each year. Furthermore, they help to reduce the cutting of trees for temporary decoration and their subsequent disposal, which is usually done in landfills.

Generally, an artificial christmas tree includes a plurality of branches, each formed by wrapping a plurality of plastic needles around it by a pair of wires. In other cases, the branches are formed by a pair of wires wrapped around an elongated plastic sheet having a plurality of transverse slits. 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 comprises a plurality of trunk sections that are connectable to each other. For example, in many designs, the first and second trunk portions each include an elongated body. The first end of the body includes a receiving portion (e.g., a female end) and the second end of the body includes an extending portion (e.g., a male end). Typically, the body is a cylinder. Near the second end, the body narrows slightly to reduce the diameter of the body. In other words, the diameter of the first end, i.e. the receiving portion, is larger than the diameter of the second end, i.e. the extension portion. To connect the trunk portions, the first end of the first trunk portion receives the second end of the second trunk portion. For example, the tapered end of the first trunk portion is inserted into the non-tapered end of the second trunk portion. In this way, a plurality of trunk sections can be connected and assembled into a tree.

However, one difficulty encountered during assembly is the rotational alignment of the trunk portion. In some designs, the trunk portion includes an electrical system. The electrical system allows current to flow through the trunk of the tree and into fittings extending from the trunk or plugged into sockets provided on the trunk. However, in order to connect adjacent trunk sections, the electrical prongs of one trunk section must be rotationally aligned with and inserted into the electrical sockets in the other trunk section. This alignment process can be annoying because it is difficult for a user to determine whether the pins are engaged with the slots when the trunk portions are connected together. Thus, the user may not be able to electrically connect the two trunk portions after multiple attempts.

In addition, consumers often desire multiple light combinations, not just traditional white or multi-color light strings. Customers desire artificial trees that can emit thousands of light combinations. In addition to the light combination, customers also desire that the trees be backlit with white light, which helps to magnify the light combination and cause the entire tree to emit pleasing light to supplement the light combination.

Accordingly, there is a need for a power transmission system for artificial trees that supports various lighting designs and implementations and allows a user to connect adjacent trunk sections without having to rotationally align the trunk sections. Embodiments of the present invention address this need, as well as other needs, which will become apparent upon reading the following description in conjunction with the accompanying drawings.

SUMMERY OF THE UTILITY MODEL

Briefly, embodiments of the present subject matter relate generally to a power transmission system, and more particularly, to a power transmission system for use with an artificial tree, such as an artificial christmas tree.

Aspects of the present invention relate to a power transmission system that provides at least four electrical contacts and allows for near 360 ° alignment between the male and female ends of the artificial christmas tree trunk portions to be connected. For example, the power transfer system of the present invention may be used with a LED light string that includes LED lights having four inputs. In some embodiments, the LEDs may be monochromatic, but in other embodiments, the LEDs may be polychromatic (e.g., RGB LEDs). In some embodiments, the power delivery system may include six electrical contacts, such that the power delivery system may also be used with other LED light strings in addition to conventional light strings having two inputs. In addition to the electrical pins (at the male end) and the contact means (at the female end), the respective male and female ends also include engagement members that align with the male and female ends when the user connects them. In addition, the engagement member helps maintain rotational alignment once the male and female ends have been connected.

In some examples, embodiments relate to power transmission systems having four electrical contacts. In some embodiments, the power transmission system includes two artificial tree trunk portions, one having a male end and the other having a female end. For example, in some embodiments, the female end may include four electrically isolated contact arrangements. The contact means of the female end may comprise a central contact means disposed near the center of the central receiving hole of the female end base. Further, the female end contact means may comprise a first channel contact means disposed proximate an exterior of the female end base extension. The female end may further comprise an outer wall and the second and third channel contact arrangements may be provided on an inner surface of the outer wall.

Additionally, in some examples, the male end may include four electrical prongs for electrically connecting with the female end and enabling electrical communication between the male and female ends. In some embodiments, the male end may include a central male terminal pin and first, second, and third channel male terminal pins. In some embodiments, the central male terminal may be adapted to contact a central contact arrangement, and the first, second and third channel male terminal pins may be adapted to contact first, second and third channel contact arrangements of the female end. When the pin and contact arrangement are in contact (i.e., when the male and female ends are connected together), an electrical distribution system may be formed. In some embodiments, the power distribution system may be used to power a string of LED lights (e.g., a string of LED lights including RGB LED lights or single color LED lights). It is understood that LED lamps typically include four leads: one for electronic signal input, one for electronic signal output, and two for power (e.g., AC power voltage). The four-contact design of the utility model can be used in combination with the LED lamp string. Also, in some embodiments, the electrical isolation of the contacts enables 360 ° or near 360 ° compatibility between the male and female ends. In other words, when connecting the male and female ends, the user does not need to pre-align the ends, as electrical communication can be achieved between the pin and the contact regardless of rotational alignment.

In some embodiments, the male and female ends may include radially extending engagement members. These engagement features may include sloped or angled top surfaces (i.e., the engagement features may include first and second heights and angled top surfaces from the first height to the second height). Further, in some embodiments, the top surface may include a plurality of facets. In some embodiments, the facets may be configured such that they are angled away from each other (e.g., similar to the roof of a house), or extend radially and circumferentially downward in a different manner. Thus, due to the configuration of the engagement members in some embodiments, opposing male and female engagement members can be easily disengaged from one another when the male and female ends are brought together, thereby facilitating engagement of the male and female ends by a user. In addition, once the connected male and female ends form the power distribution system, the engagement member may prevent the male and female ends from rotating relative to each other, thereby helping to maintain electrical communication and maintain the trunk portion aligned in the configuration desired by the user.

Drawings

The accompanying drawings, which are incorporated in and constitute a part of this specification, illustrate various embodiments for explaining the principles of the inventive subject matter. The drawings are not intended to limit the scope of the inventive subject matter in any way.

Fig. 1 illustrates a perspective view of a female end of a trunk portion, according to some embodiments of the present disclosure.

Fig. 2 illustrates a perspective view of a male end of a trunk portion, according to some embodiments of the present disclosure.

Fig. 3A illustrates a perspective view of a female end of a trunk portion near a male end of the trunk portion, according to some embodiments of the invention.

Fig. 3B and 3C illustrate cross-sectional views of a female end of a trunk portion coupled to a male end of the trunk portion, according to some embodiments of the present disclosure.

Fig. 4 illustrates a cross-sectional view of a power distribution system assembled with a trunk, according to some embodiments of the present disclosure.

Fig. 5 illustrates a side view of an assembled trunk, according to some embodiments of the present invention.

Fig. 6 illustrates a perspective view of a female end of a trunk portion, according to some embodiments of the present disclosure.

Fig. 7 illustrates a perspective cut-away view of a female end of a trunk portion, according to some embodiments of the present disclosure.

Fig. 8 illustrates a center contact arrangement having contact portions according to some embodiments of the present invention.

Fig. 9 illustrates a perspective view of a male end of a trunk portion, according to some embodiments of the invention.

Fig. 10 illustrates a perspective cut-away view of a male end of a trunk portion, according to some embodiments of the invention.

Fig. 11A-D illustrate cross-sectional views of a male end connected to a female end, according to some embodiments of the present disclosure.

Fig. 12 illustrates a perspective cut-away view of a female end of a trunk portion connected to a male end of the trunk portion, according to some embodiments of the present disclosure.

Fig. 13A illustrates a perspective view of a male end of a trunk portion having an engagement member, according to some embodiments of the invention.

Fig. 13B illustrates a perspective view of the female end of the trunk portion with the engagement member, according to some embodiments of the invention.

Fig. 14 illustrates an exploded view of a female end of a trunk portion having an engagement member and four electrical connections, according to some embodiments of the invention.

Fig. 15A and 15B illustrate perspective views of a female end of a trunk portion having an engagement member and four electrical connections, according to some embodiments of the present invention.

Fig. 16 illustrates an exploded view of a male end of a trunk portion having an engagement member and four electrical connections, according to some embodiments of the invention.

Fig. 17 illustrates a perspective view of a male end of a trunk portion having four electrical connections, according to some embodiments of the invention.

Fig. 18 shows an assembled artificial christmas tree, according to some embodiments of the present invention.

Fig. 19 shows a perspective view of a connection of removable branches on a trunk portion, according to some embodiments of the present invention

Fig. 20A and 20B illustrate exploded views of a branch connector pin and end cap, according to some embodiments of the present invention.

Fig. 21A illustrates an exploded view of a female end of a trunk portion with a single rib and electrical connections, according to some embodiments of the invention.

Fig. 21B illustrates an exploded view of a male end of a trunk portion having a plurality of apertures and an electrical connection, according to some embodiments of the invention.

Detailed Description

While certain embodiments of the invention have been described in detail, it is to be understood that other embodiments are contemplated. Therefore, it is not intended to limit the scope of the invention to the details of construction and the arrangement of components set forth in the following description or illustrated in the drawings. Other embodiments of the invention can be implemented or performed in a variety of ways. Also, in describing embodiments, specific terminology is employed for the sake of clarity. It is intended that each term encompass the broadest meaning understood by those skilled in the art and includes all technical equivalents which operate in a similar manner to accomplish a similar purpose.

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. Reference to an assembly containing "a" or "an" element is intended to include other elements in addition to the element.

Ranges may be expressed herein as from "about" or "approximately" or "substantially" one particular value and/or to "about" or "approximately" or "substantially" another particular value. When such a range is expressed, other exemplary embodiments include from the one particular value and/or to the other particular value.

The use of terms herein, such as "having," "including," or "including," 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 terms such as "may" or "may" are used in an open-ended fashion, and are intended 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. Structures, materials, or acts are identified as essential only if they are presently considered to be essential.

It is also to be understood that the mention of one or more method steps does not preclude the presence of additional or intermediate 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.

The components described hereinafter that form the various elements of the present invention are illustrative and not restrictive. Many suitable components that perform the same or similar functions as the components described herein are included within the scope of the present invention. Such other components not described herein may include, but are not limited to, for example, similar components developed after the subject matter of the present disclosure.

Various illustrative embodiments are described below in order to facilitate an understanding of the principles and features of the invention. In particular, the subject matter of the present invention is described in the context of an artificial tree power system. However, the present invention is not limited thereto, and may be applied to other environments. For example, but not limiting of, some embodiments of the invention may improve other power systems, such as light poles, lights, extension cord systems, power cord connection systems, and the like. Such embodiments are considered to be included within the scope of the present invention. Thus, while the invention is described in the context of having a power transmission system for an artificial christmas tree, it is to be understood that other embodiments may be substituted for those described.

When assembling an artificial tree, decorators typically wish to illuminate the tree with one or more strings of lights (i.e., multiple strings of lights). The light strings require power and are typically connected in series. In many designs, at least one light string is connected to a wall outlet to provide power to all of the light strings. When decorating a tree, the decorator can walk around the tree and place the light string on different positions of the branches. To provide power to all of the strings of lights, a typical string of lights has a first end in the form of a male end and a second end in the form of a female end.

To provide power to multiple strings, the decorator may insert the male end of one string into the female end of another string. In doing so, a light string electrically connected to a wall outlet (or other power outlet) transfers power from the outlet to a subsequent light string. In some conventional systems, the light string may have multiple electrical connection points, providing either parallel or series connection. Even so, current typically flows from one string connected to the power socket to one or more downstream strings.

The act of providing power from the socket to one or more light strings can be cumbersome and frustrating for the decorator. To connect multiple strings of lights together, the decorator either needs to connect the strings of lights before placing them on the tree or after placing them on the tree. If a decorator connects multiple strings of lights together to "wrap" a tree with the strings of lights, the decorator must typically walk around the tree with the multiple strings of lights. If the decorator waits until the light string is placed on the tree, the decorator will need to reach through the tree branches and electrically connect the light string. The decorator may also need to control the string of lights to connect them together. This process can be difficult and takes a long time.

To alleviate the problems associated with providing power to light strings in conventional artificial trees and to provide further advantages, the present invention includes a power transmission system for an artificial tree. In an exemplary embodiment, the artificial trunk comprises trunk portions that are joined to each other to form the trunk of the artificial tree. At least some of the trunk portions may have hollow pores. Components of the power distribution system may be disposed within the hollow aperture. In some embodiments, the female or male end is located near an end of the trunk portion. For example, the trunk portion may have a male end at one end and a female end at the other end. Alternatively, the trunk portion may have a male end or a female end at both ends. In some embodiments, when one tree section is engaged with another tree section, the male end is engaged with the female end and electrically connected to form a power distribution system, which may be a sub-assembly of the overall power distribution system. Thus, by electrically connecting the power distribution system of the trunk section to the power outlets, power flows from the outlets to those trunk sections combined, and also from those trunk sections to other trunk sections.

Various systems exist to facilitate the connection of male and female terminals to form a power distribution system. Although conventional plug and socket systems may be used, such as those manufactured according to the NEMA standard, in some cases it is difficult to align the male pins of one trunk section with the female holes of another trunk section in conventional designs. In order to engage the male end with the female end, the tree assembler must generally align the trunk portion vertically so that the male pin of the male end is not angled with respect to the female end in a manner that would interfere with the insertion of the male pin. The assembler must also rotationally align the two trunk sections to align the pins with the recesses. Even if the trunk portion is perfectly vertical, in conventional systems, the male pin can only be engaged with the female hole when the male pin is rotationally aligned with the female hole. Otherwise, the male pin may abut the area around the recess hole, which may prevent insertion of the male pin. Thus, attempting to align the male pins and recesses can take a significant amount of time and effort, and can be a very glancing experience for the user.

To alleviate this problem, in one embodiment, the present invention includes a female end having a central aperture for receiving a first male pin of a male end and a channel aperture disposed around the central aperture for receiving a second male pin. In this configuration, the assembler of the trunk portion may less consider the rotation or angular displacement of the two trunk portions because the channel provides a condition for engagement with the male end at various angular displacements. In an exemplary embodiment, the channel is disposed about the central aperture 360 such that the male pin may engage the female aperture regardless of the angular displacement between the stem portions. This may make the assembly process easier and more enjoyable for the user. Further, in some embodiments, the power distribution system formed between the male and female ends may include four electrical contacts. Thus, embodiments of the present invention may provide a power distribution system that may be used with LED light strings that include, for example, RGB LED lights (two for AC supply voltage, one for electronic signal input, and one for electronic signal output) that require four contacts.

Embodiments of the present invention may also be used in a variety of systems. For example, some embodiments may be used in low pressure systems, while other embodiments may be used in normal high pressure systems.

Exemplary embodiments will now be described in detail with reference to the drawings, wherein like reference numerals represent like parts throughout the several views.

Fig. 1 depicts an exemplary embodiment of a female end 105 of a power distribution system of a trunk portion 100. In some embodiments, the female end 105 may have one or more electrical apertures for receiving power from or distributing power to the male end of the power distribution system of the trunk portion. The female end 105 may include a central receiving aperture 110 for engaging a pin of the male end and a channel receiving aperture 115 for engaging another pin of the male end.

In some embodiments, the apertures 110, 115 may be hollow or holes that receive and engage with other electrical connectors, such as pins, and enable the electrical connectors to conduct power through the trunk of the tree. In some embodiments, the central receiving aperture 110 may be located near the center of the female end 105. Thus, the channel receiving aperture 115 may be a circular or annular channel surrounding the central receiving aperture 110. Thus, the central receiving aperture 110 may be located near the center of the channel receiving aperture 115.

Fig. 2 depicts an exemplary embodiment of a male end 205 of a power distribution system for a trunk portion. In some embodiments, the male end 205 may have one or more pins for receiving power from or distributing power to the female end 105 of the power distribution system of the trunk portion. In some embodiments, the male end 205 includes two prongs. The first prong may provide a "positive" flow path for current and the second prong may provide a "negative" flow path for current.

As shown in fig. 2, the male end 205 may have a center male pin 210 and a channel male pin 215. In some embodiments, the central male pin 210 is sized and shaped to fit within and engage the interior of the central receiving aperture 110, and the channel male pin 215 is sized and shaped to fit within and engage the interior of the channel receiving aperture 115. In some embodiments, when the central male pin 210 and the channel male pin 215 of the male end 205 are inserted into the central receiving aperture 110 and the channel receiving aperture 115, respectively, of the female end 105, power may be conducted from the male end 205 to the female end 105, and vice versa, depending on the direction of power flow. In this manner, power may be conducted from the first power distribution system to the second power distribution system.

As shown in fig. 1 and 2, by disposing the channel receiving apertures 115 in a circular manner around the central receiving aperture 110 of the female end 105, assembly issues with respect to the angular relationship (i.e., rotational alignment) of the male end 205 and the female end 105 may be reduced or eliminated. In other words, the central male pin 210 may be centered on the male end 205 and the central receiving aperture 210 may be centered on the female end 105 such that the central male pin 210 and the central receiving aperture 210 are aligned regardless of the rotational alignment of the male end 205 and the female end 105. Additionally, the channel male pins 215 of the male end 205 may be inserted into a plurality of locations along the channel receiving apertures 115 of the female end 105 and still establish and maintain an electrical connection between the female end 105 and the female end 205. More specifically, the channel pin 215 may engage the channel receiving aperture 115 in a variety of configurations, and each configuration may provide different rotational alignment between the two trunk portions (i.e., 100 and 200). This design enables the male end 205 and the female end 105 to be electrically engaged regardless of the angular relationship or rotational alignment between the male end 205 and the female end 105.

Thus, in some embodiments, the angular displacement between connecting the trunk portions 100 and 200 is not a problem during assembly, as the trunk portions 100 and 200 may be connected at any number of angular displacements. Thus, a person assembling a christmas tree using embodiments of the present invention may more easily assemble the various trunk portions (e.g., 100 and 200) without having to rotationally align the male end 205 with the female end 105.

Additionally, because some embodiments of the present invention allow for rotation during assembly, the assembler of the christmas tree can rotate the various trunk portions to some extent after assembly to achieve the desired appearance. However, in some embodiments, as shown in fig. 1 and 2, the male end 205 and the female end 105 may include one or more alignment mechanisms 125, 225. The alignment mechanism 125, 225 may include ridges and grooves, or similar structures such as detents, bumps, or teeth. In some embodiments, the ridges and grooves of the alignment mechanism 125 of the female end 105 may engage the ridges and grooves of the alignment mechanism 225 of the male end 205 when the female end 105 and the male end 205 are connected together. This engagement may prevent the trunk portions 100 and 200 from rotating relative to each other. Preventing rotation is advantageous for users who wish to prevent rotation of parts of the tree after assembly, for example when the user adorns the tree with lights and other accessories.

In some embodiments, the center male pin 210 and/or the channel male pin 215 may be spring-loaded. For example, the center male pin 210 and/or the channel male pin 215 may be recessed or retracted when the male end 205 is physically disconnected from the female end 105. Likewise, when the male end 205 is physically connected to the female end 105, the central male pin 210 and/or the channel male pin 215 may extend through a spring action to provide an electrical connection. The use of spring-loaded pins 210, 215 may help reduce wear and tear on the pins 210, 215, and may also help reduce the likelihood of an electrical shock when the center male pin 210 and/or the channel male pin 215 are energized.

Embodiments of the present invention may include a center receiving aperture 110 and/or a channel receiving aperture 115 with a spring safety cover. More specifically, the center receiving aperture 110 and/or the channel receiving aperture 115 may have one or more covers that prevent other objects from entering the apertures when they are not engaged with the prongs of the male end 205. In this manner, the safety cover may prevent a user from inadvertently inserting a finger or other object into the aperture and receiving an electric shock. The cover may be spring loaded so that they may be depressed by the prongs of the male end 205 when the male end 205 and the female end 105 are connected.

In some embodiments, it may be desirable to have a guide system, such as a bushing system, that assists the assembler in aligning the various trunk portions with one another during assembly. In some embodiments, the bushing system may also help secure the trunk portions to each other when assembled, and may prevent the assembled tree from swaying or wobbling.

Fig. 1 shows the outer sleeve 120 and fig. 2 shows the inner sleeve 220 of the sleeve system. As shown in fig. 1 and 2, the outer sleeve 120 is disposed proximate the female end 105 and the inner sleeve 220 is disposed proximate the male end 205. However, in some embodiments, the outer sleeve 120 may be disposed proximate the male end 205 and the inner sleeve 220 may be disposed proximate the female end 105.

When the assembler connects the female end 105 to the male end 205 and thus their respective trunk portions 100 and 200, the outer sleeve 120 and the inner sleeve 220 may engage and act as guides to help connect the two trunk portions 100 and 200 together. Furthermore, the use of a cannula system, such as the outer cannula 120 and the inner cannula 220, may provide additional benefits. For example, the inner diameter of the outer sleeve 120 may be the same or nearly the same size as the outer diameter of the inner sleeve 220 to provide a secure fit between the female end 105 and the male end 205. This may help provide lateral support to the connected trunk portions 100 and 200, thereby reducing forces applied to one of the trunk portions (i.e., 100 and/or 200) that may cause the trunk portions 100 and 200 to swing or separate. An exemplary sleeve system may be found in U.S. patent No. 8,916,242 entitled "connector system," which is owned by the applicant and the contents of which are incorporated herein by reference.

Figures 3A-C illustrate the process of connecting the male end 205 with the female end 105 to form the power distribution system 305. Referring to fig. 3A, the male end 205 of the first trunk portion 100 and the female end 105 of the second trunk portion 200 are shown in a disconnected configuration. When assembling the tree, according to various embodiments of the present invention, a user may connect the trunk portions 100 and 200 by connecting the male end 205 with the female end 105. More specifically, the user may align the trunk portions 100 and 200 vertically, as shown in the cross-sectional view of fig. 3B. Once vertically aligned, or at least sufficiently aligned to enable connection, the assembler may move one trunk portion 100 closer to the other trunk portion 200 until the trunk portions 100 and 200 are engaged and connected together, as shown in fig. 3C. In doing so, the assembler also connects the male end 205 with the female end 105, providing an electrical connection between the two illustrated trunk portions 100 and 200. More specifically, center male pin 210 is inserted into center receiving aperture 110 and channel male pin 215 is inserted into channel receiving aperture 115 such that current flows between male end 205 and female end 105, thereby completing power distribution system 305.

Fig. 4 shows a cross-sectional view of an exemplary embodiment of the present invention. Three trunk sections 100, 200 and 400 are shown, as well as two connection regions 407 and 409. The connection region 407 is the junction of the female end 105 of the trunk portion 100 and the male end 205 of the trunk portion 200. The connection region 409 is the junction of the female end 401 of the trunk portion 200 and the male end 403 of the trunk portion 400. Thus, the connection regions 407 and 409 are regions where the trunk portions 100, 200 and 400 are connected to form the power distribution system 305.

As shown in fig. 4, the power distribution system 305 may include a first female terminal 105 connected to a first male terminal 205, a second female terminal 401 connected to a second male terminal 403, and one or more electrical conductors 410. The conductors 410 enable current to flow through the trunk portions 100, 200, and 400 and to circulate between the first male and female ends 205, 105 and the second male and female ends 403, 401 of the power distribution system 305. Thus, the conductor 410 is part of the power distribution system 305, enabling power to flow from a power source (e.g., a wall outlet) through the tree and to certain accessories, such as one or more lights or one or more strings of lights. Thus, when power is supplied to the tree, the light or string of lights may be illuminated.

In some embodiments, it may be desirable to provide one or more electrical sockets 415 on the trunk portions 100 and 200 along the length of the assembled tree. Accordingly, one or more power distribution systems 305 may include one or more power outlets (e.g., 415a, 415 b). The sockets 415a, 415b, and 415c may be configured to receive power from the wires 410 to provide a user with the ability to plug in devices, such as tree lights or other electronic components. By providing a convenient location for inserting the lights, the sockets (e.g., 415a-c) may minimize the amount of work required to decorate the tree. More specifically, a user may plug a string of lights directly into a socket (e.g., 415a) on trunk portion 100, rather than having to connect a series of strings of lights together, which may be cumbersome and frustrating for the user.

Embodiments of the present invention may further include a light string integrated with the power transmission system. Thus, the lamp may be connected to the wire 410 without the need for sockets (e.g., 415a-c), but may also optionally include sockets 415 a-c. Such an embodiment is desirable for trees that are wrapped with lights, for example.

In some embodiments, one or more trunk portions (e.g., 100, 200, 400) may include a power cord 420 for receiving power from an external power source, such as a wall outlet or a battery. The power cord 420 may be configured to engage a power source and distribute power to the rest of the tree. More specifically, power may flow from the wall outlet, through the power cord, and through the power distribution system 305 to an accessory on the tree, such as a light or string of lights. In some embodiments, the power cord 420 may be located on the lower trunk portion 100 of the tree for convenience and aesthetic reasons (i.e., the power cord 420 is near a wall socket and exits the tree in a location that is not directly visible).

Embodiments of the present invention may also include one or more bottom portions 425 of the trunk portion 100. The base 425 may be substantially conical in shape and may be configured to engage a tree cradle (not shown). Thus, the base 425 may be inserted into a cradle that may support the tree in a generally vertical position.

In some embodiments, as shown in fig. 4, the lowermost trunk portion 100 of the tree includes a female end 105, which is advantageous. During assembly, the male end 205 of an adjacent trunk portion 200 may be connected with the female end 105 of the lowermost trunk portion 100. This may improve safety during assembly, since the exposed male pins are not energized, i.e. no current flows through them before being inserted into the female terminal 105. Conversely, if the lowest tree portion includes a male end (e.g., 205), the powered pins may be exposed and may cause an accidental shock. Ideally, the power cord 420 is not plugged into a wall socket until the tree is assembled, but embodiments of the present invention are designed to minimize the risk of injury from premature tree insertion.

Fig. 5 is an external side view of an assembled trunk according to various embodiments of the present invention. The three trunk portions 100, 200 and 400 are assembled and physically connected to each other to support the tree. As previously mentioned, it may be necessary to secure one trunk portion 100 to another trunk portion 200 using a sleeve system, and the outer sleeve 120 of the sleeve system is also shown in fig. 5. Also shown is a power outlet 415 and a power cord 420.

Other embodiments of the invention may include other features, different features and/or different combinations of features than those described above. Some such embodiments are described below.

Fig. 6 illustrates an exemplary embodiment of a female end 605 of a trunk portion 600 that may be used in an electrical distribution system. Similar to the previously described embodiments, the female end 605 may have one or more power apertures for receiving power from or distributing power to the male end of the trunk portion (e.g., 200). In the embodiment shown in fig. 6, the female end 605 may include a central receiving aperture 608 for engaging a pin of the male end, and a channel receiving aperture 610 for engaging another pin of the male end. In some embodiments, the channel receiving apertures 610 may be protected by a safety cap 615 when they are not engaged with the prongs of the male end. Also shown is a receptacle 620 as described above.

Fig. 7 illustrates a cross-sectional view of a female end 605 suitable for use in an electrical distribution system. The interior of the central receiving aperture 608 and the channel receiving aperture 610 are shown. Also shown are a center contact arrangement 705 and a channel contact arrangement 710.

The center contact arrangement 705 may be at least partially disposed within the center receiving aperture 608 and may be designed to make electrical contact with a pin inserted into the center receiving aperture 608. Similarly, the channel contact arrangement 710 may be at least partially disposed within the channel-receiving aperture 610 and may be designed to make electrical contact with a pin inserted into the channel-receiving aperture 610. In this manner, the center contact arrangement 705 and the channel contact arrangement 710 may transfer power from the male end to the female end 605 or from the female end 605 to the male end, which together form a power distribution system.

A safety cap 615 and a spring member 715 are also shown in fig. 7. The safety cap 615 may cover the channel receiving aperture 610 when the female end 605 is not engaged with the male end. Thus, the safety cap 615 may prevent a person from inadvertently contacting the channel contact arrangement 810, resulting in an electric shock. The safety cap 615 may also prevent various items from entering the channel receiving aperture 610 and causing damage or blocking of the channel contact arrangement 710. The safety cap 615 may be supported by a spring member 715, and the spring member 715 may apply a force to the safety cap 615 to prevent access to the channel receiving aperture 610 when not in use. The push surface 1020 of the male end cylinder 915 may abut the safety cap 615 when the male end is coupled to the female end 605. This causes spring member 715 to bend and depress, depressing safety cap 615, thereby allowing access to channel receiving aperture 610 and channel contact device 710.

The female end 605 may also include a safety door 720 located at the opening of the central receiving aperture 608. The safety door 720 may include an opening 730, and the size of the opening 730 may be the same or nearly the same as the size of the male pin inserted into the safety door 720. Accordingly, in some embodiments, the opening 730 of the safety door 720 may be too small to accommodate a finger, thereby preventing a user's finger from being inserted into the receiving aperture 608 to receive an electric shock. The opening 730 may also be small enough to prevent the insertion of many other foreign objects, such as metal kitchen utensils.

As shown in fig. 8, in some embodiments, the center contact arrangement 705 may have one or more contact portions 805 that contact pins inserted into the center receiving aperture 608 using a spring action. More specifically, the contact portion 805 may be configured to contact a pin when the pin is inserted into the central receiving aperture 608. As the pin is inserted further into the aperture, the pin may abut the contact portion 805, pushing the contact portion 805 outward and causing the contact portion 805 to press against (i.e., spring back against) the pin. In this manner, the spring action of the contact portion 805 may ensure that the electrical connection between the contact portion 805 and the pin efficiently transfers electrical energy. Additionally, the contact portion 805 may be large enough to ensure an effective electrical connection.

Fig. 9 illustrates an exemplary embodiment of a male end 905 of a trunk portion 900 that may be used in an electrical distribution system. Similar to the previously described embodiments, the male end 905 may have one or more pins for receiving power from or distributing power to the female end 605 of the trunk portion 100. As shown in fig. 9, the male end 905 may have a center male pin 908 and a channel male pin 910. In some embodiments, when the central male prong 908 and the channel male prong 910 of the male end 905 are inserted into the central receiving aperture 608 and the channel receiving aperture 610 of the female end 605, power may be conducted from the male end 905 to the female end 605, or vice versa, depending on the direction of power flow. Further, as shown in fig. 9, the male end 905 may include a male end cylinder 915 having an inner wall 920 and an outer wall 925. In one embodiment, the center male prong 908 may be disposed near the center of the barrel, and the channel male prong 910 may be disposed near the inner wall 920 of the barrel 915.

Fig. 10 illustrates a cross-sectional view of a male end 905 suitable for use in an electrical distribution system. A center male pin 908 and a channel male pin 910 are shown. In some embodiments, as shown in fig. 10, the central male pin 908 has a rounded end that enables the central male pin to engage and disengage the contact portion 805 of the central contact arrangement 705. In this way, the contact portion 805 of the central contact arrangement 705 may abut the central male pin 908 after being pushed apart, providing an effective electrical connection.

In some embodiments, the channel male pins 910 may be bendable pins that bend when in contact with the channel contact apparatus 710. More specifically, the channel male pins 910 may flex inward and outward as desired as they slide into the channel receiving apertures 610 and abut the channel contact means 710. The channel male pins 910 may be sufficiently resilient to bend or spring toward the channel contact device 710 to provide an effective electrical connection between the channel male pins 910 and the channel contact device 710.

In some embodiments, the channel male pins 910 may include contact regions 1015 extending from the pins to engage the channel contact device 710, thereby facilitating contact between the channel male pins 910 and the channel contact device 710. In some embodiments, the male end barrel 915 may include a push surface 1020. The push surface 1020 may be configured to apply a force to the safety cap 615 to depress the safety cap 615 when the male end 905 and the female end 705 are connected to form the power distribution system.

Fig. 7 and 10 show that the male 905 and female 605 ends of the power distribution system may include leads 725, 1005. Leads 725, 1005 may be electrically connected to one or more of center male pin 908, channel male pin 910, center contact arrangement 705, and channel contact arrangement 710. Thus, in some embodiments, the leads 725, 1005 may be electrically connected to wires of a power distribution system (e.g., power distribution system 305 shown in fig. 4) to provide an electrical connection between the male end 905 and the female end 605.

Fig. 11A-D show cross-sectional views of the connection of the male end 905 to the female end 605. Referring to fig. 11A and 11B, the female end 905 of the first trunk portion 900 and the male end 605 of the second trunk portion 600 are shown in an open configuration. Fig. 11A shows a front sectional view of the configuration, and fig. 11B shows a side sectional view. When assembling the tree, according to various embodiments of the present disclosure, the assembler may connect the tree sections 600 and 900 by connecting the male end 905 with the female end 605, thereby forming a power distribution system. Initially, the assembler may align the trunk portions 600 and 900 vertically as shown in fig. 11A and 11B. Once vertically aligned, or at least sufficiently aligned to abut, the assembler may move one trunk portion (e.g., 900) closer to the other trunk portion (e.g., 600) until trunk portions 600 and 900 engage, as shown in fig. 11C-D. Fig. 11C shows a side sectional view of this configuration, and fig. 11D shows a front sectional view. By connecting the male end 905 and the female end 605 in the manner described above, the assembler provides an electrical connection between the power distribution system 1105 formed by connecting the male end 905 and the female end 605.

As described above, in some embodiments, the channel receiving aperture 610 is disposed in an annular manner about the central receiving aperture 608, alleviating any problems associated with angular rotation of the male end 905 and the female end 605 during assembly. More specifically, the channel male pin 910 may be inserted anywhere or in an area along the channel receiving aperture 610 and establish and maintain an electrical connection between the female end 605 and the male end 905.

To provide an effective electrical connection, in some embodiments, the center male pin 908, the channel male pin 910, the center contact arrangement 705, and the channel contact arrangement 710 may comprise an electrically conductive material. In some embodiments, for example, the center male pin 908, the channel male pin 910, the center contact arrangement 705, and the channel contact arrangement 710 may comprise one or more of copper, a copper alloy, or any other electrically conductive material.

As shown in fig. 11C and 11D, when male end 905 and female end 605 are connected, safety cap 615 is pressed into the open position. This allows the channel male pins 910 to enter the channel receiving apertures 610 now occupied by the channel male pins 910 and the safety cap 615 and electrically contact the channel contact means 710. Additionally, the central male pin 908 may contact the contact portion 805 of the central contact arrangement 705, thereby completing an electrical connection between the male end 905 and the female end 605 of the power distribution system 1105.

Figure 12 shows a perspective cut-away view of two connected trunk sections 600 and 900. In some embodiments, the connected trunk portions 600 and 900 may include one or more pivot regions. A first pivot region 1205 may be located near the region where the male end 905 and the female end 605 join. The second pivot region 1210 may be located near the region where the outer sleeve 1215 terminates. Thus, the inclusion of two pivot areas may prevent the trunk portions 600 and 900 from rocking when connected. This is advantageous because it allows the assembled tree to be balanced, thereby preventing the tree from accidentally tipping over.

Fig. 13A shows an exemplary embodiment of a male end 905 of a trunk portion 900. In some embodiments, the male end 905 may include one or more first engagement members 1305. In some embodiments, the first engagement member 1305 may be a lateral protrusion that extends inward or outward to near the male end 905. In other embodiments, the first engagement member 1305 may be a detent, slot, tab, slot, or the like. As shown in fig. 13A, in some embodiments, the first engagement member 1305 has a top surface 1310. For example, in one embodiment, top surface 1310 may slope downward from a first height 1315 (represented by dashed lines) to a second height 1320 (similarly represented by dashed lines). In one embodiment, the top surface 1320 sloping from the first height 1315 to the second height 1320 may allow the first engagement member 1305 to disengage from an engagement member of a female end (e.g., female end 605). Further, while the top surface 1320 may be a flat surface, the top surface 1320 may include two or more faces that may be angled with respect to each other (e.g., similar to a roof of a house) to assist the first engagement member 1305 in disengaging an engagement member of a female end (e.g., the female end 605) when the first engagement member 1305 is in contact with the engagement member of the female end.

Fig. 13B illustrates an exemplary embodiment of the female end 605 of the trunk portion 600. As shown, the female end 605 may include one or more second engagement members 1350. In some embodiments, the second engagement member 1350 can be a protrusion that extends inward or outward to a side near the male end 905. In other embodiments, the second engagement member 1350 can be a detent, a slot, a tab, a slot, or the like. As shown in fig. 13B, second engagement member 1350 may include a top surface 1355. Like first engagement member 1305, top surface 1355 may be sloped from a first height to a second height. Additionally, top surface 1355 may be flat or include a plurality of faces to assist in disengaging second engagement member 1350 from first engagement member 1305 when, for example, an assembler assembles the christmas tree of the present invention such that female end 605 is in contact with male end 905.

As described above, the first engagement member 1305 of the male end 905 and the second engagement member 1355 of the female end 605 may engage when the two trunk portions (e.g., 600 and 900) are in electrical communication. Additionally, fig. 21A depicts an embodiment of the male end 905 of the stem portion including a single engagement member 2105, while fig. 21B depicts an exemplary embodiment of the female end 605 inserted into the stem portion 2110. When the two trunk portions are connected such that they are in electrical communication, the single engagement member 2105 of the male end 905 and the second engagement member 1355 of the female end 605 may engage. The engagement of the single engagement member 2105 between the two engagement members of the second engagement member 1355 may prevent the two trunk portions from rotating relative to each other after tree assembly is complete.

As will be appreciated by those skilled in the art, the engagement of the engagement members may prevent the two trunk portions 600, 900 from rotating relative to each other after tree assembly is complete. This is advantageous because it may allow a user to align and maintain the stem portions 600, 900, as well as the branches, in a desired configuration. Thus, when the tree is decorated or touched, pulled, bumped, etc., the trunk portions 600, 900 and the branches do not subsequently rotate out of the configuration.

Furthermore, it is advantageous to use the rotating type trees discussed herein with various LED lights, for example, that allow thousands of color combinations. In some embodiments, a string of LED lights may include a plurality of LED lights. These LED lamps may be referred to as "RGB LED lamps" and may include three LED chips (i.e., red, green, and blue) in addition to an embedded microcontroller unit (MCU). In some embodiments, the embedded MCU includes at least four leads: two for voltage connection, one for electronic signal input and one for electronic signal output. In some embodiments, a separate MCU (i.e., an MCU that is not embedded in the LED lights and that may be mounted near the base of the christmas tree) transmits signals that are received by the embedded MCU at the electronic signal input. The embedded MCU processes and outputs signals to each of the red, green and blue LED chips as needed to enable the LEDs to produce the desired color.

In some embodiments, the RGB LED light strings may be connected in series. Thus, the embedded MCU can send the received signal through the signal output to the next embedded MCU, which receives the signal through its signal input line and so on over a series of lights. Thus, in some embodiments, the male and female components of the power distribution system include at least four electrical connections for compatibility with such LED lamps. Figures 14-17 illustrate an assembly of a power distribution system including four electrical connections.

Figure 14 is an exploded view of the female end 1405 of the trunk portion 1400, according to one embodiment. As shown, the female end may include an outer collar (or outer sleeve) 1415 for connecting the trunk portion 1400 to a second trunk portion (e.g., 900) to form an electrical distribution system. Additionally, the female end 1405 may include a female end base 1420, which may include a plurality of engagement members 1422 that function the same or similar to the first and second engagement members 1305, 1350.

The female end 1405 may also include a female end seat 1448 that includes a central receiving aperture (or central aperture) 1450 and a channel receiving aperture (or channel aperture) 1452, which may be configured similarly to the central receiving aperture 608 and the channel receiving aperture 610 described above. Further, in some embodiments, female end base 1448 may include a female end base extension 1449 and an outer wall 1451. In some embodiments, the central receiving aperture 1450 may be disposed within the female end base extension 1449. Further, in some embodiments, the female end base extension 1449 may be disposed near the center of the channel receiving aperture 1452. The outer wall 1451 may have an outer surface and an inner surface, and the outer wall 1451 may define a perimeter (or circumference) of the channel-receiving aperture 1452 (i.e., the inner surface of the outer wall 1451 may define the perimeter (or circumference) of the channel-receiving aperture 1452).

Further, the female end 1405 may include a safety cap 1425, a safety cap stop 1426, and a spring member 1427 to provide shielding for the central receiving aperture 1450 and the channel receiving aperture 1452 when the female end 1405 is not engaged with a male end (e.g., 905). In some embodiments, the safety cap 1425, the safety cap stop 1426, and the spring member 1427 may provide the same or similar functionality as the safety cap 615, as described above.

To accommodate an RGB LED lamp, the female end 1405 may include four electrical contacts, as described above. As shown in fig. 14, the female end 1405 may include a center contact arrangement 1430 and a first channel contact arrangement 1435, which may be similar to the center contact arrangement 705 and the channel contact arrangement 710 discussed above. As shown in fig. 14, in some embodiments, the center contact arrangement 1430 may be disposed within a circumference, which may be annular, provided by the first channel contact arrangement 1435, and the center contact arrangement 1430 may be spring-loaded (i.e., the center contact arrangement includes one or more spring-actuated contact portions). In addition, the female end 1405 may include a second channel contact arrangement 1440 and a third channel contact arrangement 1440 and 1445, respectively. In some embodiments, the second channel contact arrangement 1440 and the third channel contact arrangement 1445 can each be configured in a semi-circle such that when they are brought together they form a circular housing in which the first channel contact arrangement 1435 and the center contact arrangement 1430 are disposed. Further, as will be appreciated, the second channel contact arrangement 1440 and the third channel contact arrangement 1445 provide nearly 360 ° contact surfaces that may be in electrical communication with one or more male pins, as shown in fig. 14. The second channel contact arrangement 1440 and the third channel contact arrangement 1445 may be made of electrically conductive material and function similarly to, for example, the channel contact arrangement 710. Finally, as shown in fig. 14, in one embodiment, the center contact arrangement 1430 and the first, second and third channel contact arrangements 1435, 1440 and 1445 include lead wires that are connectable to respective male pins to complete the power distribution system.

Fig. 15A and 15B are another perspective view of a female end 1405, according to one embodiment. As shown, the center contact arrangement 1430 is disposed within the center receiving aperture 1450. Additionally, the first channel contact arrangement 1435 may be disposed near an exterior of the female end base extension 1449. Further, as shown, the second and third channel contact arrangements 1440, 1445 may be disposed adjacent to the interior of the outer wall 1451 of the female base 1448. As shown, the second channel contact arrangement 1440 and the third channel contact arrangement 1445 may form an annular structure surrounding the first channel contact arrangement 1435, with the channel receiving aperture 1452 being provided between the ring formed by the second channel contact arrangement 1440 and the third channel contact arrangement 1445 and the first channel contact arrangement 1435. As shown, in one embodiment, the second channel contact arrangement 1440 and the third channel contact arrangement 1445 are electrically isolated, as are the first channel contact arrangement 1435 and the center contact arrangement 1430. Thus, the contact arrangements (i.e., 1430, 1435, 1440, and 1445) are not electrode sensitive and may be configured to carry a low voltage input signal or an AC supply voltage. Thus, they allow for easy connection between the female end 1405 and a male end (e.g., 905).

Fig. 16 is an exploded view of the male end 1605 of the trunk portion 1600 that can be adapted to be inserted into the female end 1405 to form an electrical distribution system. As shown in fig. 16, in some embodiments, the male end 1605 can include a male connector base (or inner collar) 1610, which can be further adapted to engage the female end 1405 and form a connection between the male end 1605 and the female end 1405. In particular, the male connector base 1610 may be adapted to engage an outer collar 1415 of the female end 1405. In addition, the male end 1605 can include various electrical prongs for electrically connecting with the female end 1405 to allow the male and female ends 1605, 1045 to be electrically connected. For example, in one embodiment, the male end 1605 may include a central male connector pin (or central pin) 1615 that may be inserted into the central receiving aperture 1450 to make contact with the central contact arrangement 1430. In some embodiments, the central male connector pin 1615 then contacts the central contact arrangement 1430, the central male connector pin 1615 retracts or recesses the central contact arrangement 1430, and the central contact arrangement 1430 returns to the neutral position when the central male connector pin 1615 disengages the central contact arrangement 1430.

Further, in some embodiments, the male end 1605 can include a first channel male connector pin (or first channel pin) 1620 that can be inserted into the channel-receiving aperture 1452 to make contact with the first channel contact device 1435. Similarly, in some embodiments, the male end 1605 may include second and third channel male connector pins (or second and third channel pins) 1625 and 1630, respectively. The second and third channel male connector pins 1625, 1630 may be configured such that when inserted into the channel receiving apertures 1452, the second and third channel male connector pins 1625, 1630 engage the second and third channel contact arrangements 1440, 1445. Further, in some embodiments, the first, second, and third channel male connector pins 1620, 1625, and 1630 may include contact areas 1640, 1645, and 1650, respectively, that extend from the respective pins to engage channel contact arrangements (e.g., 1435, 1440, and 1445) to facilitate contact between the respective channel male pins and the channel contact arrangements. The respective contact areas 1640, 1645 and 1650 may be flexible such that they may bend towards and away from the contact arrangement (e.g., 1435, 1440, 1445). Additionally, in some embodiments, the first, second, and third channel male connector pins 1620, 1625, and 1630 may be spring loaded. For example, the first, second, and/or third channel male connector pins 1620, 1625, and 1630 may be recessed or retracted when the male end 1605 is physically disconnected from the female end 1405. Likewise, when the male end 1605 is physically connected to the female end 1405, the central first channel male connector pin, second channel male connector pin, and/or third channel male connector pins 1620, 1625, and 1630 may extend through the spring action to provide an electrical connection. It will be appreciated that the use of spring-loaded prongs 1620, 1625, and 1630 may help reduce wear and tear on the prongs 1620, 1625, and 1630, and may also help reduce the likelihood of electrical shock when the male end 1605 and the female end 1405 are energized.

As discussed, because the second channel contact arrangement 1440 and the third channel contact arrangement 1445 are electrically isolated, the second and third male connector pins 1625 and 1630 may contact either of the second channel contact arrangement 1440 and the third channel contact arrangement 1445 to form electrical communication.

Fig. 17 is a perspective view of a male end 1605 according to some embodiments. As shown, the central male connector pin 1615 is disposed near the center of the male end cylinder 1715. Additionally, the first channel male 1620 may be disposed near an inner wall of the male end cylinder 1715. According to one embodiment, the second and third channel male connector pins 1625, 1630 may be disposed adjacent an outer wall of the male end cylinder 1715. As shown, in one embodiment, the second and third channel male connector pins 1625, 1630 may be disposed about 180 ° apart on the surface of the male end cylinder 1715. Additionally, as shown, the male end cylinder 1715 may include various apertures to accommodate various channel male connectors 1620, 1625, and 1630.

As will be appreciated, the female and male ends 1405 and 1605, as well as the electrical contacts (e.g., 1435, 1440, and 1445) and pins (e.g., 1615, 1620, 1625, 1630) that make up the female and male ends 1405 and 1605, respectively, function the same or similar to the components discussed in, for example, 3B and 3C, respectively, and are connected in the same or similar manner to form an electrical distribution system.

Additional embodiments may include a male end (e.g., 1605) and a female end (e.g., 1405) adapted to form an electrical distribution system having six electrical contacts. For example, a consumer may desire a christmas tree that can accommodate LED light strings (e.g., RGB LED light strings) as well as back-fill lights. Thus, in this configuration, four wires are required to power the RGB LED lamps, and two additional wires are required to power the back-fill lamps. Typically, the four conductors are used for signal lines (input and output) and + ve and-ve power connections (e.g., 120V AC). The remaining two wires may be reserved for a back-fill light and power supply, e.g., 29V DC. In one embodiment, four wires are connected to the control box of the tree base, and two wires for the back-fill light are connected to a power adapter for a DC power supply (e.g., 29V DC).

Fig. 18 shows a completed tree 1800, according to some embodiments of the present invention. As described herein, trees are assembled by electrically connecting various trunk portions and have been decorated according to the preferences of the user.

Figure 19 shows a perspective view of a detachable branch assembly, according to an example embodiment of the present invention. According to some embodiments of the invention, the detachable branches on the trunk part are connected by a split pin that can be manually detached.

Fig. 20A and 20B show exploded views of a manually detachable branch connecting pin and end cap, screw and nut, according to some embodiments of the present invention.

While the present invention 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 invention without deviating therefrom. For example, in various aspects of the present invention, methods and assemblies are described in accordance with aspects of the present subject matter. However, other equivalent methods or components of these aspects may also be derived under the teachings herein. The invention, therefore, should not be limited to any single aspect, but rather should be construed in breadth and scope in accordance with the appended claims.

Claims (10)

1. An artificial tree system being a light emitting artificial tree, comprising:

a first tree portion comprising:

a first trunk portion;

a first distribution subsection; and

a first electrical connector, the first power distribution sub-portion and first electrical connector being at least partially received within the first tree portion, wherein the first electrical connector comprises:

a first body portion; and

a first electrical contact arrangement electrically connected with the first power distribution section;

the first body portion comprises a ridge;

a second tree portion comprising:

a second trunk portion;

a second distribution subsection; and

a second electrical connector, the second power distribution portion and second electrical connector at least partially housed within the second tree portion, the second electrical connector comprising:

a second body portion; and

a second electrical contact arrangement electrically connected with the second power distribution section;

the second body portion comprises a plurality of slots;

wherein the first tree portion is configured to be connected to the second tree portion such that the first electrical contact device and the second electrical contact device form an electrical connection and one of the plurality of slots of the second body portion receives the ridge of the first body portion, thereby electrically connecting the first power distribution sub-portion to the second power distribution sub-portion and mechanically connecting the first tree portion to the second tree portion.

2. The artificial tree system of claim 1, wherein: the first electrical contact means and/or the second electrical contact means are coaxial.

3. The artificial tree system of claim 1, wherein: the first end of the first body portion and the first end of the second body portion are substantially circular.

4. The artificial tree system of claim 1, wherein: the second electrical connector is a female electrical connector and the second electrical contact arrangement comprises first and second coaxial electrical contacts, the second electrical connector further comprising an axially extending cylindrical wall disposed about the first and second coaxial electrical contacts.

5. The artificial tree system of claim 4, wherein: the axially extending cylindrical wall is an outer wall, the second electrical connector further comprises an inner wall concentrically disposed within the outer wall, the first coaxial electrical contact is disposed within the inner wall, and the second coaxial electrical contact is disposed between the outer wall and the inner wall.

6. An artificial tree system, comprising:

a first trunk portion including a first electrical connector, the first electrical connector comprising:

a central electrical contact located on a central axis of the first trunk portion;

a first alignment mechanism comprising a radially extending first protrusion;

a plurality of first tree branches, at least one of the plurality of first tree branches being detachable from the artificial tree; and

a second trunk portion including a second electrical connector, the second electrical connector comprising:

a central aperture disposed along a central axis of the second electrical connector and having an electrical contact disposed therein, the central aperture configured to engage the first electrical connector such that the central electrical contact of the first electrical connector engages the electrical contact disposed within the central aperture of the second electrical connector; and

a second alignment mechanism, comprising:

a plurality of distinct radially extending protrusions;

a plurality of first grooves, wherein each groove of the plurality of first grooves comprises a region that spaces adjacent protrusions of the plurality of different radially extending protrusions a predetermined distance; and

a plurality of second branches, at least one of the plurality of second branches being detachable from the artificial tree; and

wherein engagement of the first electrical connector and the second electrical connector forms an electrical connection capable of conducting electricity between the first trunk portion and the second trunk portion; and

wherein engagement of the first electrical connector and the second electrical connector limits rotation of the first trunk portion relative to the second trunk portion.

7. The artificial tree system of claim 6, wherein: the center electrical contact includes a first contact and a second contact, the first contact and the second contact being coaxial.

8. The artificial tree system of claim 6, wherein: the central aperture is substantially cylindrical and is configured to receive the central electrical contact.

9. The artificial tree system of claim 6, wherein: the first trunk portion further includes a first light string disposed around at least one of the first plurality of branches, the first light string including a plurality of light systems, and the second trunk portion further includes a second light string disposed around at least one of the second plurality of branches, the second light string including a plurality of light systems.

10. The artificial tree system of claim 9, wherein: the first trunk portion further includes a first power distribution sub-portion that includes one or more electrical conductors and connects the central electrical contact of the first electrical connector with the first light string.

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