Knockdown Patents (Class 428/20)
  • Patent number: 11877682
    Abstract: The invention discloses an artificial tree branch with string lights, comprising a main stem, a wood grain strip and string lights. The wood grain strip comprises a wrapped wire and a plurality of decorated blades. The wrapped wire is spirally wrapped on the main stem. The plurality of the decorated blades is integrally formed with the wrapped wire and extended far away from a side of the main stem. The string lights each comprise a lead and a plurality of lamp beads. Each of the lamp beads is electrically connected to the lead. The lead is spirally wrapped on the main stem and interlaced with the wrapped wire.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 25, 2022
    Date of Patent: January 23, 2024
    Inventor: Ping Yang
  • Patent number: 11779145
    Abstract: The present invention provides a modular Christmas tree (10) comprising three or more sides (12) that rise from a floor to give the tree a tapering shape, and central support structures (14b) that extend outwardly to support the sides. Each side (12) comprises elongate pieces (16a-c) joined together with connectors that allow the series of elongate pieces to be separated for storage of the disassembled Christmas tree. Each central support structures includes a hub that supports each side, and may also comprise spokes that extend from the hub to each side. The hubs, spokes and sides are joined by connectors that allow the tree to be disassembled for storage.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 13, 2020
    Date of Patent: October 10, 2023
    Inventor: Michael James Marchant
  • Patent number: 11576368
    Abstract: Provide herein is a deer rub or lure and a method of luring a deer to a selected area. The deer rub or lure has a trunk or signpost with at least one aperture extending therein. A flexible rod extends into at least one of the apertures. Each of the flexible rods extends from the trunk or signpost at an angle between 90° and 180°. A licking branch is attached to the flexible rod. A flexible support extends from a lower end of the trunk or signpost, and the support is configured to flexibly support the trunk or signpost in a substantially vertical orientation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 4, 2021
    Date of Patent: February 14, 2023
    Inventor: Steve Harp
  • Patent number: 11540656
    Abstract: A connector system facilitates the connection of a first tree trunk to a second tree trunk of an artificial tree system. The connector system can prohibit rotation of the first tree trunk relative to the second tree trunk.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 15, 2020
    Date of Patent: January 3, 2023
    Assignee: POLYGROUP MACAU LIMITED (BVI)
    Inventors: Yong Fu, Chung-Wai (Paul) Cheng
  • Patent number: 11525565
    Abstract: A Christmas tree stand connecting structure and an LED decorative lamp are disclosed. The Christmas tree stand connecting structure includes a fixed disc and an LED decorative lamp, wherein a side wall of the fixed disc is movably connected with a supporting frame. A top of the fixed disc is equipped with a connecting mechanism, wherein an angle adjusting assembly is arranged in the connecting mechanism. The connecting mechanism includes a connecting part, a positioning part, a connecting end, a connecting line, and a connecting port. The connecting part is assembled through the positioning part on a bottom of the connecting part and the positioning slot in a top. In a mounting process, a blocking part inside a matching slot is jacked to two sides through a semicircular structure on the top for a clamping part to clamp and fix a side wall of the blocking part.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 29, 2022
    Date of Patent: December 13, 2022
    Inventor: Haitang Liu
  • Patent number: 11445709
    Abstract: A system of decorating a housing that includes a base and a plurality of decorative elements. The decorative elements are irremovably disposed on or partially in the base. The width and depth of the base is less than or equal to the width and depth of the bottom inner surface dimensions of the housing such that the bottom inner surface area of the housing is entirely covered by one or more bases.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 2, 2019
    Date of Patent: September 20, 2022
    Inventor: Alan J Cohen
  • Patent number: 11311133
    Abstract: A selectively sized artificial tree comprising a frame assembly including an upper frame and body frame. The artificial tree may be configured for trees of different heights, having different radii, and having different sector sizes such as full circle, semicircle for positioning against a wall, and conical for positioning in a corner. The frames which are less than full circle may be combined, such as two semi circles for forming a full tree. A wheel assembly is provided for moving the tree. The wheels are housed with the frame when not engaged.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 11, 2018
    Date of Patent: April 26, 2022
    Assignee: Wintergreen Corporation
    Inventor: William Hale
  • Patent number: 10993572
    Abstract: Apparatus and associated methods may relate to an artificial tree apparatus having a plurality of trunk segments that couple together to provide a plurality of information or command signals to devices connected thereto. In an example, one or more branch segments having light emitting devices are connected to the trunk segments to independently receive the electrical power and command signals via a control system. In some implementations, each command signal generated by the control system may include data pertaining to light color and illumination pattern. In some embodiments, each branch segment and associated light emitting devices may be independently controlled via a multi-channel arrangement. In some implementations, each group of light emitting devices may be manually configured via one or more user-interfaces.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 30, 2019
    Date of Patent: May 4, 2021
    Assignee: Belgravia Wood Limited
    Inventor: Jason Loomis
  • Patent number: 10682003
    Abstract: The artificial tree is collapsible by inverting a main trunk thereof to swap positions of a first end and second end. The limbs are pivotably attached to the main trunk so that they sag under force of gravity from a deployed more horizontally extending orientation to a collapsed more vertically extending orientation when the main trunk is inverted. A base is preferably provided which has wheels and static portions in contact with the ground for supporting the tree thereon. A riser extending up from the base is configured to have an end of the main trunk rest therein. A lock is also preferably provided to hold an end of the trunk within the riser of the base. A separate treetop portion is removably attachable to ends of the trunk to complete the tree when in a deployed configuration and for storage of the treetop when the tree is not collapsed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 22, 2015
    Date of Patent: June 16, 2020
    Assignee: BALSAM INTERNATIONAL UNLIMITED COMPANY
    Inventor: Bruce A. Schooley
  • Publication number: 20150072088
    Abstract: A connector system facilitates the connection of a first tree trunk to a second tree trunk of an artificial tree system. The connector system can prohibit rotation of the first tree trunk relative to the second tree trunk.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 19, 2014
    Publication date: March 12, 2015
    Inventors: Yong FU, Chung-Wai (Paul) CHENG
  • Patent number: 8968843
    Abstract: A decoration holder is disclosed herein. In some embodiments, the decoration holder can hold a card, such as a Christmas card, on a tree, such as a Christmas tree. The holder can therefore provide way to decorate a Christmas tree with Christmas cards, thereby enhancing the festive appearance of the tree. The holder can also provide a way to decorate other portions of a user's home with various festive objects.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 24, 2014
    Date of Patent: March 3, 2015
    Assignee: Polygroup Macau Limited (BVI)
    Inventors: Jessica Madrid, Eric Steinmeyer
  • Patent number: 8932689
    Abstract: An artificial Christmas tree connection structure includes a branch connection base and branch shaft units, the branch connection base coupled at a tubular main trunk body, the branch shaft units being selectively adjusted the orientations thereof to hang at the branch connection base. The branch connection base, having a tubular configuration, has a plurality of first limitation indentions and a plurality of connection slots. The branch shaft unit has a metal shaft, wherein a connecting end portion of the shaft is bent to form a hook connector, wherein tree leaves are provided at the shaft. The hook connector passes through the first limitation indentions, the second limitation indentions, and the connection slots to hang the branch shaft unit at the branch connection base. The connection structure provides an ease of assembling, high production efficiency, low manufacturing cost, reliable connection, detaching prevention, and adjustment of the orientation of the branch.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 24, 2012
    Date of Patent: January 13, 2015
    Assignee: Holiday Designs Crafts Shenzhen Ltd.
    Inventor: Chun Ting Wei
  • Patent number: 8916242
    Abstract: A connector system facilitates the connection of a first tree trunk to a second tree trunk of an artificial tree system, and further protects one or more ends of a trunk when, for example, the artificial tree system is being shipped or stored. The connector system comprises a sleeve. The sleeve comprises a cylindrical shaped body. The outer of the body has a uniform cylindrical shape. The interior of the sleeve has different diameters at its top and bottom. The interior includes a notch or shoulder. The shoulder is in proximity to the top end of the sleeve. The sleeve further comprises a cutout for assisting with connecting and securing the trunks together.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 30, 2010
    Date of Patent: December 23, 2014
    Assignee: Polygroup Macau Limited (BVI)
    Inventors: Yong Fu, Chung-Wai (Paul) Cheng
  • Patent number: 8863416
    Abstract: A power transfer system to facilitate the transfer of electrical power between tree trunk sections of an artificial tree is disclosed. The power transfer system can advantageously enable neighboring tree trunk sections to be electrically connected without the need to rotationally align the tree trunk sections. Power distribution subsystems can be disposed within the trunk sections. The power distribution subsystems can comprise a male end, a female end, or both. The male ends can have prongs and the female ends can have voids. The prongs can be inserted into the voids to electrically connect the power distribution subsystems of neighboring tree trunk sections. In some embodiments, the prongs and voids are designed so that the prongs of one power distribution subsystem can engage the voids of another power distribution subsystem without the need to rotationally align the tree trunk sections.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 24, 2012
    Date of Patent: October 21, 2014
    Assignee: Polygroup Macau Limited (BVI)
    Inventors: Chi Yin Alan Leung, Ricky Tong, Chi Kin Samuel Kwok, Chang-Jun He
  • Publication number: 20140272205
    Abstract: A tree and branch system with a trunk 12, a base 14 and branches 16 is disclosed. The trunk includes a plurality of stems 18 extending from the trunk. Branches include a recess 22 at their proximal end which is sized to receive and overlie at least a portion of the stem. In this arrangement, rain water will not accumulate in the recess and will simply flow down the trunk.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 13, 2013
    Publication date: September 18, 2014
    Inventor: Steven J. Altamura
  • Publication number: 20140004280
    Abstract: Apparatus and associated methods may relate to a collapsible tree system having limbs which automatically pivot from a low-profile position while the tree is in a collapsed state to an in-use position when the tree is in an extended state. In an illustrative example, the system may include limb supports movably disposed along a central support. Movement of the limb supports closer together and further apart may cause the limbs to pivot to and from positions. For example, due to limb contact with an adjacent limb support, the limbs may be caused to pivot to the low-profile position. When no forcible contact is present between an adjacent limb support and limb, gravitational forces may permit the limbs to freely pivot to the in-use position. In an illustrative example, each limb support may include a nesting cup for receiving a proximal end of the limbs while in the stowed position.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 28, 2013
    Publication date: January 2, 2014
    Inventor: Jason Loomis
  • Publication number: 20130301245
    Abstract: A tree trunk system for an artificial decorative tree includes a first trunk body defining a first central axis extending from a distal end to a proximal end, the distal end having an insertable portion defining a plurality of channels, and a second trunk body having a proximal end configured to receive the insertable portion of the first trunk body and having a protuberance extending radially inward. When the trunk bodies are coupled, thereby preventing rotation of the first trunk body relative the second trunk body, about the common central axis.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 14, 2013
    Publication date: November 14, 2013
    Applicant: WILLIS ELECTRIC CO., LTD.
    Inventor: Johnny Chen
  • Publication number: 20130059094
    Abstract: A locking artificial tree trunk including a first generally cylindrical, hollow trunk portion including an upper end, the upper end defining a notch, and a second generally cylindrical trunk portion including a body portion, a lower end having an insertable portion, and an upper end. The locking artificial tree trunk also includes a coupling mechanism having a body portion and an upper portion having a tab, and defining a channel for receiving the insertable portion of the lower end of the second trunk portion. The body portion is inserted substantially into the upper end of the first trunk portion with the tab of the upper portion aligned with the notch, thereby preventing rotation of the coupling mechanism within the upper end of the first trunk portion.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 29, 2012
    Publication date: March 7, 2013
    Applicant: WILLIS ELECTRIC CO., LTD.
    Inventor: Willis Electric Co., Ltd.
  • Patent number: 8323757
    Abstract: An artificial Christmas tree with an array of imitation animal antlers incorporated into the tree to serve as additional branches. The purpose of the incorporated animal antler branches is to provide structural support to the tree so that the device can hold a multitude of Christmas ornaments. The antlers serve as strong branches and can support the weight of several heavy Christmas ornaments at once on each animal antler branch, while providing an ornamental and novel looking tree device for supporting hanging articles and Christmas decoration. Each antler has plurality of elongated prongs, allowing a user to place many ornaments on a single antler without resulting in deflection thereof. The antlers strength keeps the branches from drooping under the weight of the decorations, which leaves the Christmas tree aesthetically pleasing to the eye and particularly attractive for animal hunters and enthusiasts.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 24, 2011
    Date of Patent: December 4, 2012
    Inventor: Benjamin Charles Barto
  • Publication number: 20120295041
    Abstract: A locking artificial tree trunk including a first generally cylindrical, hollow trunk portion including an upper end, the upper end defining a notch, and a second generally cylindrical trunk portion including a body portion, a lower end having an insertable portion, and an upper end. The locking artificial tree trunk also includes a coupling mechanism having a body portion and an upper portion having a tab, and defining a channel for receiving the insertable portion of the lower end of the second trunk portion. The body portion is inserted substantially into the upper end of the first trunk portion with the tab of the upper portion aligned with the notch, thereby preventing rotation of the coupling mechanism within the upper end of the first trunk portion.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 20, 2011
    Publication date: November 22, 2012
    Inventor: Johnny Chen
  • Patent number: 8309188
    Abstract: A pull up artificial tree system is adapted to change from a collapsed storage state to an expanded operable state. The pull up tree system includes a base system, a trunk, and a first tree assembly. The first tree assembly includes a top portion; a plurality of frame assemblies comprising a collar, a plurality of outwardly extending support braces, a perimeter, and branch assemblies; and a connection assembly. The collars are slidably disposed upon the trunk, such that they can be pulled upwardly. The pull up tree system can support a regularly arranged artificial tree and/or an inverted tree. In addition, the pull up tree system can be stored in a shell that is slidably disposable within a storage container.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 30, 2010
    Date of Patent: November 13, 2012
    Assignee: Polygroup Macau Limited (BVI)
    Inventors: Lewis Cheng, Thomas MacMartin Harman, II
  • Patent number: 8298633
    Abstract: A locking artificial tree trunk including a first generally cylindrical, hollow trunk portion including an upper end, the upper end defining a notch, and a second generally cylindrical trunk portion including a body portion, a lower end having an insertable portion, and an upper end. The locking artificial tree trunk also includes a coupling mechanism having a body portion and an upper portion having a tab, and defining a channel for receiving the insertable portion of the lower end of the second trunk portion. The body portion is inserted substantially into the upper end of the first trunk portion with the tab of the upper portion aligned with the notch, thereby preventing rotation of the coupling mechanism within the upper end of the first trunk portion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 20, 2011
    Date of Patent: October 30, 2012
    Assignee: Willis Electric Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Johnny Chen
  • Publication number: 20120219732
    Abstract: An artificial Christmas tree connection structure includes a branch connection base and branch shaft units, the branch connection base coupled at a tubular main trunk body, the branch shaft units being selectively adjusted the orientations thereof to hang at the branch connection base. The branch connection base, having a tubular configuration, has a plurality of first limitation indentions and a plurality of connection slots. The branch shaft unit has a metal shaft, wherein a connecting end portion of the shaft is bent to form a hook connector, wherein tree leaves are provided at the shaft. The hook connector passes through the first limitation indentions, the second limitation indentions, and the connection slots to hang the branch shaft unit at the branch connection base. The connection structure provides an ease of assembling, high production efficiency, low manufacturing cost, reliable connection, detaching prevention, and adjustment of the orientation of the branch.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 24, 2012
    Publication date: August 30, 2012
    Applicant: HOLIDAY DESIGNS CRAFTS SHENZHEN LTD.
    Inventor: Chun Ting WEI
  • Patent number: 8127421
    Abstract: The specification and drawing disclose the steps and structure involved in making one of a wide variety of three-dimensional branching structures that can be individually formed into extremely complex spatial representations of natural or abstract shapes suitable for viewing from many perspectives. A branching structure in the form of a wall-mounted tree is comprehensively disclosed along with means for affixing leaves to the tree to further simulate the form of a tree and for the further (optional) purpose of physically memorializing persons or events. A second embodiment is also disclosed to suggest the wide range of variations possible through employment of the basic method steps and to illustrate a form of branching structure that can be viewed from any horizontal or vertical perspective.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 14, 2006
    Date of Patent: March 6, 2012
    Inventor: Sam Sutton
  • Publication number: 20120027963
    Abstract: A cardboard three-dimensional tree comprises: two primary substantially triangular sheets and four secondary substantially triangular sheets, each having an apex, a base edge opposed to the apex, and two side edges connecting the apex and the base edge. A first primary sheet has a primary slot extending downwardly from the apex and a second primary sheet has a primary slot extending upwardly from the base edge and engageable in the downwardly extending primary slot defined in the first primary sheet. Each primary sheet has two secondary slots extending upwardly from the base edge. Each secondary sheet has a primary slot extending downwardly from the apex and engageable in one of the secondary slots defined in the primary sheets. The primary and the secondary sheets are engageable in an interlocking intersecting relation at the slots and cooperating to form a self-standing generally substantially triangular three-dimensional structure generally in the form of an evergreen tree.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 13, 2011
    Publication date: February 2, 2012
    Applicant: CASCADES CANADA INC.
    Inventors: Christian Dube, Jean Doyon, Francois-Xavier Saint-Georges, Louis Gagnon
  • Patent number: 8105664
    Abstract: An artificial decorative plant assembles multiple branches first which are then assembled with a main stem. Each branch is composed of a rod with resilience, a securing piece and multiple branch strips. The securing piece has two longitudinal sides and multiple clamping pieces alternatively staggered and extended from the two longitudinal sides respectively with multiple intervals and applied to wrap the rod. Additionally, multiple clamping attachments are extended from the two longitudinal sides inside the multiple intervals respectively so that each clamping attachment is between two adjacent clamping pieces to engage a corresponding branch strip with leaves. After completing assembly of the securing piece and the rod, the combination engages the main stem by a hook element on the rod. Because of such structure, it not only enhances the combinational strength but further improves efficiency of assembly convenience.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 16, 2010
    Date of Patent: January 31, 2012
    Inventors: Yuan Loung Tsai, Yuan Lei Tsai
  • Patent number: 8062718
    Abstract: An artificial Christmas tree includes a central trunk broken into at least two separate portions including a fixed trunk portion and at least one rotating trunk portion. The fixed trunk extends up from an underlying base. Rotating trunks rotatably attach at midpoints thereof at least indirectly to an upper end of the fixed trunk. Limbs are pivotably attached to the rotating trunks with optional lights coupled thereto. These limbs pivot between a perpendicular orientation extending from the rotating trunks and a collapsed configuration closer to a centerline of the rotating trunks. The rotating trunks can be pivoted from a first collapsed configuration with a first end above a second end to a deployed configuration with the second end above the first end. During such pivoting, the limbs attached to the rotating trunk transition between a collapsed to a deployed configuration automatically. A wheeled base and cover further facilitate storage and deployment.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 5, 2010
    Date of Patent: November 22, 2011
    Inventor: Bruce A. Schooley
  • Patent number: 8053042
    Abstract: An artificial tree apparatus having a plurality of tree trunk segments that couple together to provide electrical power to receptacles on each of the segments. An electrical line is connected to a first trunk segment electrical connector, such that when the first trunk segment is brought into juxtaposition with the second trunk segment, a detent on the first trunk segment can be brought into alignment with and slidably engage with a guide slot on the second trunk segment to permit connection of the first trunk segment electrical connector (socket) with the second trunk segment electrical connector (plug). The recessed location of the plug on the second segment protects the plug prongs, and connection with the corresponding socket on the first segment is only possible when the detent on the first segment has been aligned with the guide slot on the second segment.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 14, 2010
    Date of Patent: November 8, 2011
    Inventor: Jason Loomis
  • Patent number: 7943211
    Abstract: An improved three dimensional display such as a Holiday decoration having collapsible constructions having a shape memory internal frame. In one embodied form, the unique display includes a collapsible internal frame formed, in part, from metal wire imparted with suitable memory characteristics. Such metals are referred to as “shape memory alloys” (SMAs) because much metals “remember” their original shapes. Accordingly, the present invention uses a deformable internal metal frame supporting an outer sheath formed from suitable materials such as fabric, or plastic film for the skin of the inventive three dimensional displays.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 6, 2007
    Date of Patent: May 17, 2011
    Assignee: Willis Electric Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Johnny Chen
  • Patent number: 7883752
    Abstract: This invention relates to a decorative assembly that is placed above a table to enhance the aesthetic appeal of the surrounding area. The present invention is an assembly that fits through the center hole of a garden or patio table designed to accommodate a center, pole supported umbrella. The invention comprises interchangeable, decorative elements that can be used year round in garden or patio table and has means to provide electricity to the decorative elements through any standard electrical outlet.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 20, 2008
    Date of Patent: February 8, 2011
    Inventor: Tonya Auvil
  • Patent number: 7867583
    Abstract: Embodiments of the present invention address deficiencies of the art in respect to plant hedges or barriers and provide a method, system and apparatus for creating artificial plant hedges or barriers. In one embodiment of the invention, an artificial plant barrier system can be provided. The system can include a starter unit, a middle unit coupled to a top of the starter unit, and a top end unit coupled to a top of the middle unit. The starter unit can include a channel defined between a first opening in a top of the starter unit and a second opening in a bottom of the starter unit, wherein the bottom of the starter unit is coupled to a base support. The middle unit can include a channel defined between a first opening of a top of the middle unit and a second opening of a bottom of the middle unit, wherein the bottom of the middle unit is coupled to the starter unit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 7, 2008
    Date of Patent: January 11, 2011
    Inventor: Robert Lee Garner, II
  • Publication number: 20100323129
    Abstract: A takedown artificial tree includes a plurality of flexible branches, each of the branches including a substantially straight, hollow main stem and a plurality of fronds extending from the main stem; a plurality of fixing brackets made of rigid material, each of the fixing brackets including a hollow cylinder and a hollow branching member obliquely upward extending from the cylinder; and a trunk made of metal, the trunk being frictionally inserted through the fixing brackets to serve as a support of the finished artificial tree. Base of the main stem of each branch can be inserted into the branching member for fastening. No assembly by a buyer is required. There is no worry of the branches falling onto the ground.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 19, 2009
    Publication date: December 23, 2010
    Inventor: Yuan-Lei Tsai
  • Patent number: 7828992
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a composition comprising at least one type of liquid crystal, to a liquid crystal cell and liquid crystal display device comprising such composition and to a method of preparing such a composition and/or such a liquid crystal cell.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 15, 2006
    Date of Patent: November 9, 2010
    Assignee: Sony Deutschland GmbH
    Inventors: Pinar Kilickiran, Anthony Roberts, Akira Masutani, Gabriele Nelles, Akio Yasuda
  • Publication number: 20100196628
    Abstract: An artificial Christmas tree includes a central trunk broken into at least two separate portions including a fixed trunk portion and at least one rotating trunk portion. The fixed trunk extends up from an underlying base. Rotating trunks rotatably attach at midpoints thereof at least indirectly to an upper end of the fixed trunk. Limbs are pivotably attached to the rotating trunks with optional lights coupled thereto. These limbs pivot between a perpendicular orientation extending from the rotating trunks and a collapsed configuration closer to a centerline of the rotating trunks. The rotating trunks can be pivoted from a first collapsed configuration with a first end above a second end to a deployed configuration with the second end above the first end. During such pivoting, the limbs attached to the rotating trunk transition between a collapsed to a deployed configuration automatically. A wheeled base and cover further facilitate storage and deployment.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 5, 2010
    Publication date: August 5, 2010
    Inventor: Bruce A. Shooley
  • Patent number: 7666483
    Abstract: An artificial palm tree assembly for insertion into a table, preferably a patio table, is provided. The artificial palm tree assembly comprises a palm head comprising a crown element and a plurality of tree elements attached to the crown element of the palm head. Each of the tree elements comprises a branch having a plurality of artificial palm tree leaves thereon. In addition, the artificial palm assembly further comprises a trunk element adapted for installation through an opening in the top of the table. The palm head connects to the trunk element via an attachment formed between a bottom area of the crown element and the top end of the trunk element. Moreover, artificial palm assembly preferably further comprises a base portion for providing support for the palm head and the trunk element of the palm tree assembly installed within the patio table.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 22, 2005
    Date of Patent: February 23, 2010
    Assignee: Barcana, Inc.
    Inventor: Peter Barthelmess
  • Patent number: 7641355
    Abstract: The decorative light device has a stylized shape of a Christmas tree, or a snow flake. It comprises a transparent or translucent solid plastic member having an elongated solid plastic main body and a plurality of side branches extending outward therefrom at an angle at a plurality of junctions. A light refraction opening is formed at the main body and located adjacent to each one of those junctions. An LED light source is located at a bottom end of the main body and is operative to provide a single or a series of flashing lights of various sequential colors for illuminating the main body and the side branches. A stylized snow flake can be made with a plurality of these solid plastic members mounted in an evenly spaced manner around the periphery of a center mounting member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 4, 2007
    Date of Patent: January 5, 2010
    Inventor: Kam Cham Lau
  • Patent number: 7601407
    Abstract: An inflatable tree that may be used as an indoor or outdoor decoration, particularly during the Christmas holiday season. In one embodiment, the inflatable tree comprises an inflatable bladder having a substantially conical or cylindrical prism shape, wherein the axial direction of the bladder is oriented along a vertical axis, and a plurality of conical skirts attached to the bladder, wherein the plurality of conical skirts are attached at different points along the vertical axis.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 22, 2006
    Date of Patent: October 13, 2009
    Inventor: Allen Jacob Irvine
  • Patent number: 7585552
    Abstract: A decoration assembly is provided. The decoration assembly includes a tree and a support member coupled to the tree. The support member includes an interior surface and an opposite exterior surface. The interior surface defines a cavity within the support member. The support member further includes an electrical distribution system positioned within a portion of the cavity. The decoration assembly further includes a secondary support member including at least three legs. The secondary support member substantially circumscribes the support member. A method of assembly is also provided.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 15, 2007
    Date of Patent: September 8, 2009
    Inventor: Melinda Joanne Meseke
  • Publication number: 20090061120
    Abstract: An invertible decorative tree having sections that are each provided with complementary receiving portions and/or extending members. The sections include a stand, a trunk segment, at least one tree body, and a tree top. Through the complementary relationships of the receiving and associating mechanisms, the tree can be arranged to provide a triangular appearance with its apex at the top or its apex near the bottom. In order to provide for this inversion, the tree top is equipped to connect with the trunk segment or with a tree body segment.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 4, 2008
    Publication date: March 5, 2009
    Applicant: Cindex Holdings Limited (a Hong Kong corporation)
    Inventors: Alan Leung, Yau-Chuen Ng
  • Publication number: 20090029075
    Abstract: An artificial tropical tree assembly for insertion into a table, preferably a patio table, is provided. The artificial palm tree assembly comprises a palm head comprising a crown element and a plurality of tree elements attached to the crown element of the palm head. The trunk element of the tree assembly is preferably formed of two parts—an upper part and a lower part. The upper part is adapted to have at least a portion thereof be raised or lowered out of the lower part to adjust the height of the tree for patio table heights and this accommodate the tree assembly for use with any patio table. The lighting can be string lighting and can be LED lights, miniature lights or spotlights (near or at the top of the tree trunk).
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 4, 2007
    Publication date: January 29, 2009
    Inventor: Peter Barthelmess
  • Patent number: 7445824
    Abstract: An invertible decorative tree having sections that are each provided with complementary receiving and associating mechanisms. The sections include a stand, a trunk segment, at least one tree body and a tree top. Through the complementary relationships of the receiving and associating mechanisms, the tree can be arranged to provide a triangular appearance with its apex at the top or its apex near the bottom. In order to provide for this inversion, the tree top must be equipped to connect with the trunk segment or with a tree body segment.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 3, 2006
    Date of Patent: November 4, 2008
    Assignee: Cindex Holdings Limited
    Inventors: Alan Leung, Yau-Chuen Ng
  • Patent number: 7445823
    Abstract: An artificial tree according to the present invention includes a tubular trunk with a stand for holding the trunk in an upright position. The artificial tree includes a plurality of branches coupled to the tree, each branch having a hook at an end displaced from the trunk. Each branch presents a length with branches at lower trunk levels having longer lengths than more upwardly positioned branches. The branches may be removably coupled to the trunk and storable within a trunk interior space. The artificial tree may also include ornamentation such as garland or lights and may include an audio device that plays sound in predetermined conditions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 14, 2006
    Date of Patent: November 4, 2008
    Inventor: Lora L. Tennison
  • Publication number: 20080107840
    Abstract: An invertible decorative tree having sections that are each provided with complementary receiving and associating mechanisms. The sections include a stand, a trunk segment, at least one tree body and a tree top. Through the complementary relationships of the receiving and associating mechanisms, the tree can be arranged to provide a triangular appearance with its apex at the top or its apex near the bottom. In order to provide for this inversion, the tree top must be equipped to connect with the trunk segment or with a tree body segment.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 3, 2006
    Publication date: May 8, 2008
    Inventors: Alan Leung, Yau-Chuen Ng
  • Patent number: 7320816
    Abstract: A novel decorative structure includes a length of strand material, having a plurality of individual strands twisted with respect to one another and fixed with respect to one another near a first end of the strands, a twisting member having a plurality of apertures formed therein, each adapted to receive a respective one of the individual strands therethrough, and an anchoring member adapted to support the decorative structure on a support surface. In a particular embodiment the twisting member is a disc, such that when the twisting member is advanced from a second end of the strands to the first end, the strand material is caused to unwind. Similarly, when the twisting member is advanced from the first end to the second end of the strands, the strand material is caused to wind up. When unwound, the strands can support a container within the unwound ends of the strand material.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 15, 2003
    Date of Patent: January 22, 2008
    Inventor: Cameron F. Quigel
  • Patent number: 7267852
    Abstract: A collapsible artificial Christmas tree that opens and retracts like an umbrella has an elongate trunk with a branch hinge connected to a trunk. A tree branch is rotatably connected to the branch hinge. A slide ring is slidably connected to the trunk. A branch lift rod is rotatably connected to the slide ring. The branch lift rod is rotatably connected to the tree branch for moving the tree branch when the slide ring slidably moves on the trunk.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 3, 2006
    Date of Patent: September 11, 2007
    Inventors: Wanda E. Rosado, Luis Leon Perez
  • Patent number: 7232596
    Abstract: The present invention is related to a technological field of decoration, and more particularly to a structure of an artificial tree, wherein the trunk main body has multiple sets of plugging holes, which are circularly arranged, longitudinally mounted thereon and the end terminals of the branches are plugged in the plugging holes. Because the branches are directly plugged into the plugging holes mounted on the trunk main body, the branch connecting elements and rivets which are served as medium components can be saved so that the structure of the artificial Christmas tree can be simplified, and correspondingly, the production procedure and the cost also can be reduced.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 14, 2005
    Date of Patent: June 19, 2007
    Inventor: Chung-Ho Lai
  • Patent number: 7226645
    Abstract: An artificial palm tree constructed from modular components which are combined in various ways to produce a palm tree having different characteristics for use as a beach umbrella. The palm tree consists of a base, a trunk mounted on the base, a tree heart mounted on the trunk, and a leaf/canopy component attached to a collar for opening and closing the leaf/canopy component. The leaf/canopy, the trunk, and the tree heart may be stored in the base.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 11, 2003
    Date of Patent: June 5, 2007
    Inventor: Mary M. Braithwaite
  • Patent number: 7182983
    Abstract: An artificial Christmas tree comprising a plurality of tiers configured to facilitate assembly for use and disassembly for storage including a lower substantially frustum conical tier to support an open mesh substructure to receive and support a plurality of simulated sprays or Christmas tree branches and Christmas decorations, an intermediate substantially frustum conical tier to support an open mesh substructure to receive and support a plurality of simulated sprays or Christmas tree branches and Christmas decorations and an upper substantially conical tier to support an open mesh substructure to receive and support a plurality of simulated sprays or Christmas tree branches and Christmas decorations.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 25, 2004
    Date of Patent: February 27, 2007
    Inventor: Charlene Lenger
  • Patent number: 7163725
    Abstract: A display representing a tree, such as a Christmas tree, has a trunk made of a hollow tube and held by a base in substantially vertical position. A liquid, such as water, is placed in the tube and an air supply in or near the bottom of the tube generates bubbles that rise through the tube. The tube and bubbles therein are preferably illuminated to add to the effectiveness of the display. Illumination can be provided by LED's which avoid the heat of incandescent lamps. Branches are secured to the trunk tube and extend outwardly therefrom to support a foliage garland to provide tree foliage and give the display the appearance of a tree. The tree can be provided as a separate trunk tube portion, base, and foliage garland so the parts can be packed and shipped without the base attached to the tube.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 7, 2003
    Date of Patent: January 16, 2007
    Inventors: R. James Johnson, Robert M. Johnson, Jonathan L. Johnson, Jayson A. Johnson, Susan L. Johnson, Ronald F. Johnson
  • Patent number: 7122230
    Abstract: The invention relates to an artificial tree that can be reduced in diameter by rotating its branches inward and along the length of the tree's trunk. The rotation of the branches is initiated by the rotation of the threaded inner core which is coaxially placed within the tree's outer trunk shell. This rotational motion is translated into a linear motion along the threaded inner core by the restriction of the rotational movement of a threaded branch translator placed on the threaded inner core. The restriction is caused by branch extenders pivotally attached to the branch translator and passing through openings located on the tree's outer trunk shell. The linear motion of the translator causes a multitude of pivotally attached branches radiating from the tree's trunk to rotate inward and along the tree's trunk. Thus, the diameter of the tree is reduced for easier transport and storage.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 12, 2004
    Date of Patent: October 17, 2006
    Inventor: Thomas Joseph Maskell