Radially uniform spring-biased intra-pole plug connector and transformer outside the trunk configuration for electric artificial tree
US8956183B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventor
Key dates
| Filing date | May 24, 2013 |
| Grant date | Feb 17, 2015 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Oct 22, 2033 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC H)Electricity
- CPC primaryH01R2103/00
- WIPO fieldElectrical machinery, apparatus, energy
- WIPO sectorElectrical engineering
Abstract
A radially uniform spring-biased intra-pole plug connector and transformer outside the trunk configuration for an electric artificial tree is described. The radially uniform plug comprises a springed-tip and a prong, and allows the tree trunk segments to be connected at any point along their 360 degree circumference. The plug connector resembles the structure of a car cigarette lighter. A mold is used to sandwich the plug within the trunk. A plug portion of the plug connector is housed in one trunk segment, and a receptacle portion is housed in a different trunk segment, such that when the trunk segments are assembled, the plug is connected, illuminating the tree. The plug allows the electrical wiring to be hidden and housed within the trunk, providing safety, convenience to the user and giving the tree a cleaner appearance. The transformer outside the trunk configuration makes the trunk safer, more lightweight and less bulky.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.