Artificial tree storage container system

Abstract

A storage container system for the transport and storage of multiple trunk segment artificial trees. The system takes advantage of the hinged branch or similarly flexible branched artificial trees capability to be disassembled into two or more trunk segments and stored with branches folded against the trunk. The object of the storage container system is to distribute the otherwise heavy and bulky artificial tree trunk segments among multiple storage units. Each storage unit, which varies by size, is comprised of a hollow cylinder body (10) and two end caps (20A) (20B), to form the enclosed storage container. The sturdy, non-flexible, cylindrically shaped storage containers, of varying sizes, are matched by size to the individual trunk segments of the artificial tree, for an orderly, efficient, and flexible use of space for storage.

Description

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application claims the benefit of provisional application Ser. No. 61/208,120, filed 2009 Feb. 20 by the present inventors.

FEDERALLY SPONSORED RESEARCH

Not Applicable

SEQUENCE LISTING OR PROGRAM

Not Applicable

BACKGROUND

1. Field

This application generally relates to a method of storing artificial Christmas trees, specifically for those artificial trees that disassemble into two or more trunk segments.

2. Priorr Art

Artificial Christmas trees have risen in popularity in recent years for safety reasons, ease of use, and environmental concerns. Among the most popular of artificial Christmas tree configurations is the type that breaks down to 2 or more trunk segments to facilitate transport and storage. A large percentage of these multi-segment trees are of the hinged branch style. These include a number of artificial branches circumferentially arranged around a central trunk. Each artificial branch is hinged to the trunk of the tree, whereby the branches are capable of being swung between vertically erect and outwardly disposed, up-swept positions. This type of tree lends itself to quick disassembly and orderly storage when the branches are collapsed inward to the trunk. But it also makes for a heavy tree because of the metal hinge assemblies.

Traditionally a suitable artificial tree storage container for long time use is not provided with the purchase of an artificial tree. Typically the tree comes stuffed into a large cardboard box which does not seem to be large enough to return the tree to for storage after use.

Previously, several types of storage containers have been designed. Most commonly found in stores is a large bag or a very large cumbersome rectangular plastic box. These types of containers have the disadvantage of being unwieldy as the user tries to transport the entire weight and bulk of an artificial Christmas tree. They both tend to flatten out the normal cylindrical shape of the collapsed tree. Because of their large size, they have a large storage area footprint. The box may be too large to fit thru ceiling access attic hatches.

Designers of storage and transport containers for live Christmas trees realize the importance of maintaining the normal shape of the tree. U.S. Pat. No. 4,610,356 to Porter and Williams (1986) and U.S. Pat. No. 1,150,708 to Schlecht (1915) designed elongated storage containers that transported the tree as a single unit. This is also cumbersome, but necessary, for real, live trees.

There is artificial tree storage containers designed for a specific configuration. U.S. Pat. No. 5,652,032 to Kaczor et al (1997) utilizes the base of the artificial tree to close one end of the container. The disadvantage is that most commercially available artificial trees utilize a detachable stand that cannot be used as an end cap to seal the container.

Previous designs have not taken full advantage of an artificial trees capability to disassemble into smaller trunk segments that are more easily lifted, transported and stored, with more efficient and flexible use of space.

Others have invented artificial tree storage containers before, but this artificial tree storage system has the following advantages.

This embodiment allows a multiple trunk segment artificial tree to be taken apart and stored as separate units, thus making moving and lifting of a cumbersome tree easier and more manageable than moving and lifting an entire tree in a single storage container. The size of each cylindrical storage unit can be matched to the size of the artificial tree trunk segment.

Many of the commercially available artificial trees disassemble into 2, 3, or more segments. The largest segment would be matched to the largest cylindrical storage unit, which is both the largest in diameter and longest in length. Each subsequent tree trunk segment, which is a smaller portion of the tree, is matched to a proportionally smaller storage unit. This has the advantage of making efficient use of storage space and distributes the bulk and weight of the tree.

The radially extended branches of the artificial tree, when folded vertically along the length of the trunk, folds into a roughly cylindrical shape, which lends itself to storage in a cylindrically shaped container. Therefore another advantage of this embodiment is that each collapsed trunk segment of the artificial tree maintains its cylindrical shape, with the branches folded against the tree trunk.

Another advantage of this embodiment is that each end of the container can be opened allowing for ease of insertion of the tree trunk segment into one end and easy removal from the opposite end.

The preferred embodiment is made of sturdy, non-flexible material. The advantage is that each storage unit can be stored in an upright position or on its side. When stored in the upright position, the unit rests on one of the end caps. Thereby it makes a smaller storage area footprint when compared to a storage box or bag. The advantage is that it can be stored in small areas such as a closet. When stored on its side, it can be inserted into low clearance areas, such as an attic crawl space.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

In accordance with one embodiment, an artificial tree storage container system comprised of a plurality of elongated cylindrically shaped storage container units of varying sizes with end caps at each end to form enclosed units.

The object of this embodiment is to solve the problem of how to efficiently transport and store an artificial tree, particularly those trees that have the capability of disassembling into multiple tree trunk segments.

It is another object of this embodiment to take advantage of the artificial trees capability to disassemble into smaller trunk segments and store as separate units thus making moving and lifting easier and more manageable than moving and lifting an entire artificial tree as a single unit.

It is another object of this embodiment to provide a storage container that stores the tree segments with branches collapsed against the trunk in a manner which minimizes distortion of their branch configuration.

It is another object of this invention to give the user of this storage system the flexibility to store the container units on their side or upright on their ends.

The novel features that are considered characteristic of the embodiment are set forth in the following detailed description and appended claims taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings. The embodiment itself, however, both as to its structure and operation together with the object and advantages thereof will be best understood from the following description of the preferred embodiment.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

The accompanying drawings, which are incorporated into and form a part of the specification, illustrate one or more of the embodiments of the present invention and, together with the description, serve to explain the principles of the invention. The drawings are only for the purpose of illustrating one or more preferred embodiments of the invention and are not to be construed as limiting the invention. In the drawings:

FIG. 1 is a side view of a first embodiment of the present invention in an unassembled state of one storage container unit.

FIG. 2 is a side view of the first embodiment of the present invention illustrating one assembled storage container unit.

FIG. 3A is a top perspective view of one storage unit without the end cap.

FIG. 3B is a top perspective view of one embodiment of one end cap in a position to enclose the storage container unit.

FIG. 4A is a side view of a commercially available hinged or similarly flexible branched artificial tree segment, collapsed from the extended branch configuration (dot and dash lines).

FIG. 4B is a side view of one storage unit in a position to receive the artificial tree trunk segment of FIG. 4A.

FIG. 5 is a side view of the storage unit of FIG. 4B in a position for removal of the artificial tree trunk segment.

FIG. 6A is a side view of a commercially available disassembled artificial tree, exhibiting 3 trunk segments.

FIG. 6B is a cross-sectional view of a disassembled artificial tree ensconced within the storage unit system.

FIG. 7 is one embodiment of the artificial tree storage container system assembled in accordance with the principles of the present invention.

DRAWINGS-REFERENCE NUMERALS

• 10 cylinder body
• 20A first end cap
• 20B second end cap
• 30 attachment mechanism
• 40 flat end piece
• 50 end piece collar
• 70 largest artificial tree trunk segment
• 71 largest storage container unit
• 80 mid-size artificial tree trunk segment
• 81 mid-size storage container unit
• 90 smallest artificial tree trunk segment
• 91 smallest storage container unit

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

The present invention is a container useful for the transport and storage of artificial trees, which disassemble into two or more trunk segments. The present embodiment may be realized in any number of materials or hardware components figured to form the specified functions.

FIG. 1 depicts a first embodiment of one storage container the present invention in an unassembled state, which is comprised of three parts. The body of the elongated container is preferably a hollow cylinder (10) of non-flexible material. There are two open ends of the cylinder. Two end caps (20A) (20B) are, for the preferred embodiment, of slightly larger diameter, and fit over the end of the hollow cylinder body (10).

FIG. 2 depicts one embodiment of one assembled storage container unit. Each of the two end caps (20A) (20B), are secured over each end of the cylindrical body (10).When all three parts are assembled in this manner, it forms an enclosed storage container unit.

FIG. 3A is a top view perspective of the open end of the cylinder body (10). Shown in FIG. 3B is the end of the cylinder body (10) with one of the end caps (20A) or (20B) in position to close off the open end of the cylinder body (10).

Each of the end caps (20A)(20B) of the preferred embodiment is comprised of a flat circular end piece (40) and a collar (50), that is mounted circumferentially around the flat circular end piece (40). The circular end piece(40), with the mounted collar(50), is slightly larger in diameter than the opening of the cylinder body (10). In this way, the end cap fits snugly over the end of the cylinder body (10). Each end cap may have one or more reusable attachment mechanisms (30) to secure the end cap (20A)(20B) to the cylinder body (10). In an alternate embodiment, said end caps may be of a diameter that is of the same or slightly smaller diameter of the cylinder body (10) diameter (not shown). The end cap (20A)(20B) would then be snapped in, screwed in, or similarly attached to the cylinder body (10). The attachment mechanisms (30) may be of Velcro, hook and loop, clasp, latch, or the like. The attachment mechanisms (30) are used to ensure that the end caps will remain attached.

The materials used for the cylindrical body (10), the two end caps (20A)(20B), and attachment mechanisms (30), may be made of the same material type or different material type. The storage container units maybe contracted in any known and suitable fashion such as those known in the art for making such containers in commercially available form. Heat or adhesive sealing technologies may be utilized to join various components or elements of the container to themselves or to each other. In addition the container bodies, end caps, and attachment mechanisms may be thermoformed, blown, or otherwise molded.

FIG. 4A illustrates a commercially available artificial tree trunk segment of the hinged branch type, or similarly flexible branched type, that collapses from the extended branch configuration (shown in dot and dash lines), thereby lending itself to storage in the present storage container system. FIG. 4B depicts said collapsed artificial tree trunk segment (FIG. 4A) in the process of insertion into the cylindrical body (10) of one storage container unit. The tree trunk segment should have its hinged branches folded against the tree trunk. One end cap (20A) is removed and the tree segment is slid into the cylindrical body (10), trunk end first. This way the tree branches remain aligned with the tree trunk. Each tree segment is matched to its own storage container unit by size, and then inserted the same way. The end cap (20a) is put back on for final transport. An alternative would be to remove both end caps (20A)(20B), with the container on its side, and then insert the tree segment in one end, trunk first. The user would then reach in the opposite end with users arm and pull the tree segment into the cylindrical storage container body (10). Both end caps (20A)(20B) would then be replaced.

Removal of the tree segment is illustrated in FIG. 5. Removal of the tree segment is accomplished by the opposite action. Place the container on its side and remove the end cap (20B) closest to the trunk end of the tree segment. Reach in and pull the tree segment out by the trunk.

FIG. 6A depicts a commercially available artificial tree of 3 trunk segments, suitable for storage in a multiple unit storage container system (FIG. 6B). Illustrated in FIG. 6B is a cross-sectional view of one embodiment in which the artificial tree (FIG. 6A) is stored in said multiple unit storage container system. The largest trunk segment of the artificial tree (70) is matched to and inserted into the largest storage unit (71). Similarly, the midsize artificial tree trunk segment (80) is inserted into the mid-size storage unit (81).The smallest artificial tree trunk segment (90) is matched to and inserted into the smaller storage unit (91). The number of storage units can be varied based on the number of artificial tree trunk segments.

Because the weigh of the artificial tree has been distributed between two or more storage container units, it is easier to carry and transport, thus making it more amenable to attic, basement, or closet storage.

Note that the artificial tree depicted in FIG. 6A and FIG. 6B, does not have an irremovable attached supporting stand. The stand was removed for storage. An alternative is for those artificial trees in which the stand is permanently attached to the lowest trunk section, the segment would be slid in branches first into the storage container body (10) and only one end cap (20A) would be used on top (not shown).

FIG. 7 depicts the artificial tree storage containers according to the present embodiment in their assembled configuration. They configure to different sizes of varying lengths and diameters, which fall within the scope of this disclosure. The container may have additional components to enhance utilization, such as handles, of same or different materials. Also, identification tags or labels so the user can mark the contents for identification and organization. For decoration purposes the container may be screen painted, painted, have adhesive decor, or otherwise decorated.

In another embodiment, end caps may also be adapted with integrated casters, rollers, runners, or the like elements (not shown), to facilitate transport of the container. End caps (20A)(20B) which are shown to be similar in the preferred embodiment, may be dissimilar in another embodiment, while still performing the same function of enclosing the storage container unit. This embodiment is in keeping with the intent and spirit of the present invention.

In another embodiment, there may be additional structural supports, for reasons of flexibility, durability, or transportability.

The description presented above is one embodiment of an artificial tree storage container system configured to be more easily transported and more efficiently organized storage of commonly found, commercially available, artificial trees.

While my above description contains many specifications, these should not be construed limitations on the scope, but as an exemplification of one preferred embodiment thereof. Many other variations are possible.

The foregoing description of our invention is necessary of a detailed nature so that a specific embodiment might be set forth as required, but it is to be understood that various modifications of detail, rearrangement and multiplication of parts might be resorted to without departing from its spirit, essence, or scope.

Claims

1. An artificial tree storage container system comprising

a. a plurality of hollow elongated receptacles of varying sizes and

b. end caps for each end of said hollow elongated receptacles the improvement whereby the weight and bulk of an artificial tree that disassembles into a plurality of trunk segments is distributed among said plurality of hollow elongated receptacles.

2. An artificial tree storage container system of claim 1 wherein said plurality of hollow elongated receptacles of varying sizes are hollow cylindrically shaped bodies.

3. The artificial tree storage container system of claim 2 wherein said hollow cylindrically shaped bodies are made of rigid, non-flexible material.

4. The artificial tree storage container system of claim 3 wherein each of said hollow cylindrically shaped bodies have two of said end caps, that are of varying predetermined diameters as a means for forming enclosed receptacles when positioned on each open end of said hollow cylindrically shaped bodies.

5. The artificial tree storage container system of claim 4 wherein each of said end caps are secured to said hollow cylindrically shaped bodies by means of one or more attachment mechanisms.

6. An artificial tree storage container system comprising

a. a plurality of hollow elongated receptacles of varying predetermined lengths and diameters and

b. end caps for each end of said hollow elongated receptacles.

7. An artificial tree storage container system of claim 6 wherein said plurality of hollow elongated receptacles of varying predetermined lengths and diameters are hollow cylindrically shaped bodies.

8. The artificial tree storage container system of claim 7 wherein said hollow cylindrically shaped bodies are made of rigid, non-flexible material.

9. The artificial tree storage container system of claim 8 wherein each of said hollow cylindrically shaped bodies have two of said end caps that are of varying predetermined diameters as a means for forming enclosed receptacles when positioned on each end of said hollow cylindrically shaped bodies.

10. The artificial tree storage container system of claim 9 wherein each of said end caps are secured to said hollow cylindrically shaped bodies by means of one or more attachment mechanisms.

11. A method of storing artificial trees, that disassembles into a plurality of trunk segments comprising

a. matching artificial tree trunk segments, by size, to a plurality of elongated storage container units of varying predetermined lengths and

b. inserting one of said tree trunk segments per storage container unit whereby distributing the weight and bulk of said artificial tree for easier transport and storage.

12. The method of claim 11 wherein said elongated storage container units are made of rigid non-flexible material.