US20200121109A1

US20200121109A1 - Tube holder

Info

Publication number: US20200121109A1
Application number: US16/657,838
Authority: US
Inventors: Robert C. Chapman, JR.
Original assignee: Individual
Current assignee: Individual
Priority date: 2018-10-18
Filing date: 2019-10-18
Publication date: 2020-04-23

Abstract

An apparatus comprises a tube having a first diameter disposed along a first length thereof. The tube may be open at a first end and at a second end. An axle may couple to the tube, and a plurality of wheels may couple to the axle. A securement strap may be located at the lower portion of the tube perpendicular to the second end of the tube to secure the second end of the tube.

Description

PRIORITY

This application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 62/747,505, filed Oct. 18, 2018, the contents of which are hereby incorporated by reference.

BACKGROUND

Artificial Christmas trees have increased in popularity due to their ease of use and longevity. Due to their ability to be reused, many users of artificial trees put them up around the holidays and keep them in storage for the remainder of the year. Often, storing artificial trees involves disassembling the tree, either in part or entirely, necessitating reassembly whenever the tree is re-erected.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 is an example of a tube holder consistent with the present disclosure.

FIG. 2 is another example of a tube holder consistent with the present disclosure.

FIG. 3 is another example of a tube holder consistent with the present disclosure.

FIG. 4 is another example of a tube holder consistent with the present disclosure.

FIG. 5 is another example of a tube holder consistent with the present disclosure.

FIG. 6 is an example system including a tube holder consistent with the present disclosure.

FIG. 7 is an example stand for use in the system of FIG. 6 consistent with the present disclosure.

FIG. 8 is an example of a tube holder assembly consistent with the present disclosure.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Artificial Christmas trees are used in many homes due to their convenience, their ease of use, and the fact that they are able to be reused for multiple years. An artificial Christmas tree is able to be erected and decorated for the holidays and stored for the remainder of the year. With proper care and storage, an artificial Christmas tree can last many years.
Many artificial Christmas trees are comprised of several pieces that, when assembled, form a traditional tree shape. The pieces may, for example, comprise a set of central poles with branches extending therefrom; the poles may be coupled to one another to create the tree. In some examples, the tree may further include a stand to hold and support the tree, which may be coupled to the base of the lowermost central pole. When disassembling a tree, the central poles may be decoupled from one another and, in some examples, the stand may be removed. The pieces may then be placed into a storage container.
The tube holder of the present disclosure, by contrast, is designed to hold an assembled artificial Christmas tree, including the attached stand. The holder may comprise a tube with a first diameter and a second diameter. Rivets at both an upper portion and a lower portion of the tube may provide additional strength at the points along the tube holder where they are disposed. A securement strap may be included at the bottom of the tube to fasten and secure the otherwise open bottom of the tube. For additional ease of movement and transportation, wheels may be included as part of the tube holder as well.
Due to its design and construction, the tube holder of the present disclosure may be able to receive an assembled artificial Christmas tree, including a stand. Said differently, the tube holder of the present disclosure may not require an artificial Christmas tree to be disassembled for storage. This reduces the time and effort to both store the Christmas tree and reassemble it for the next holiday season. Additionally, by removing the step of disassembly, the pieces and other components of the artificial Christmas tree stay together; since pieces are together, the likelihood of pieces getting lost is reduced.
FIG. 1 is an example of a tube holder 100 consistent with the present disclosure. Tube holder 100, which may be referred to alternately as apparatus 100, comprises a tube 102. Tube 102 may be open at both ends, i.e., not be a closed tube.
Tube 102 may have a first diameter 104 disposed along a first length 106 of the tube 102. The first diameter 104 may be between 18 inches and 24 inches, although examples are not so limited, and any diameter may be used. A second diameter 108 may be disposed along a second length 110 of the tube 102. As shown in FIG. 1, the second diameter 108 may be greater than the first diameter 104. The second diameter 108 may be between 20 inches and 26 inches, although examples are not so limited. The second length 110 of tube 102 may be disposed above first length 106 of tube 102, as shown in FIG. 1, such that second diameter 108 is above first diameter 104. In some examples, the second diameter 108 may decrease, or taper, throughout the second length 110 of tube 102, allowing the second length 110 of tube 102 to smoothly connect with the first length 106 of tube 102.
Tube 102 may further include an integrally formed channel 112. As used herein, a channel refers to a pathway or conduit through which something is able to be passed. Channel 112 may be formed as part of tube 102 and may be disposed at a lower end, i.e., oppose the second length, of tube 102. Channel 112 may extend through the diameter 104 of the tube 102 and may be sized to receive an axle, such as axle 113.
A plurality of wheels 114-1, 114-2 (collectively, wheels 114) may be disposed at the lower portion of the tube 102. Wheels 114 may be coupled to axle 113, which may then be disposed through channel 112. As shown in FIG. 1, wheels 114 may be oriented such that they are substantially perpendicular to tube 102. This may allow tube 102 to be moved via wheels 114.
Apparatus 100 may further include a securement strap 116. As used herein, a securement strap refers to a strap able to be selectively engaged to close or otherwise secure a location. Securement strap 116 may be located at the lower portion of tube 102, and may be in a similar location as wheels 114. The securement strap 116 may further be disposed perpendicular to the second, lower end of the tube 102. A first end of securement strap 116 may be permanently coupled to tube 102, while a second end of securement strap 116 may be removably coupled to the tube 102. Securement strap 116 may be used to secure the second end of the tube 102. Securement strap 116 may be made of nylon, canvas, or another similar material, and may be removably coupled to the tube 102 via the use of hook and loop fasteners or snaps. However, examples are not so limited and any material and/or fastener may be used.
FIG. 2 is another example of a tube holder 200 consistent with the present disclosure. Tube holder 200, also referred to as apparatus 200, may include a tube 202. Tube 202 may be akin to tube 102, discussed previously with respect to FIG. 1. Tube 202 may have a first diameter 204 disposed about a first length 206 thereof, and a second diameter 208 disposed about a second length 210. A plurality of wheels 214 may be coupled to the tube 202 at an axle 213. A single wheel 214 is shown in FIG. 2; the other wheel 214 would be disposed opposite. The axle 213 may be coupled to the tube 202 through an integrally formed channel 212. Further, a securement strap 216 may be located at the lower portion of tube 202 and may be in a similar location as wheels 214. Securement strap 216 may be akin to securement strap 116, described previously with respect to FIG. 1.
A plate 220 may be coupled to tube 202 at an upper portion thereof. Plate 220 may be made of metal, plastic, or another durable and rigid material, and may be coupled to the tube 202 by a plurality of fasteners 222-1, 222-2, 222-3 . . . 222-N (collectively fasteners 222). Fasteners 222 may be rivets, nails, screws, adhesive strips, or any other type of fastener that would bond plate 220 to tube 202. Although four fasteners are shown in FIG. 2, examples are not so limited and other numbers of fasteners may be used.
A peg 224 may extend from plate 220. As used herein, a peg refers to a short, often cylindrical piece of material that is used to join pieces or to hang a piece off of. Peg 224 may be integrally formed with plate 220 or may be a separate piece that is coupled to plate 220, and may extend substantially perpendicularly from the face of plate 220.
A support leg 226 may be coupled to the plate 220. In some examples, support leg 226 may be coupled to the plate 220 at peg 224. In such examples, support leg 226 may be rotatable with respect to peg 224 and plate 220. That is, support leg 226 may be rotated into a variety of positions, based on the desire of a user. In some examples, support leg 226 may be coupled to peg 224 by a friction fit; however, in other examples, a nut or other piece may be coupled to the peg 224 upon the coupling of the support leg 226 such that support leg 226 is prevented from inadvertently sliding off the end of peg 224.
A plurality of handles 228-1, 228-2, 228-3 (collectively, handles 228) may be coupled to tube 202. Although three handles are shown in FIG. 2, examples are not so limited and more or fewer handles may be used. In addition, handles 228 are not limited to the locations shown in FIG. 2 but may be disposed an any location on tube 202. Handles 228 may be made of plastic, metal, or another suitably durable and hard material and may be coupled to tube 202 by rivets, nails, screws, glue, or any other fastening means. In some examples, handles 228 may be integrally formed as part of tube 202. Said differently, handles 228 may be molded as part of tube 202, rather than as separate pieces. In such examples, handles 228 may not use an additional fastener to attach to tube 202. Handles 228 may be disposed such that a user of apparatus 200 is able to tip or otherwise move apparatus 200. For example, handle 228-3, as shown in FIG. 2, may be used to tip tube 202 back with respect to wheels 214, allowing easier access to the opening at the top of tube 202.
FIG. 3 is another example of a tube holder 300 consistent with the present disclosure. Tube holder 300 may also be referred to as apparatus 300 and may include a tube 302. Tube 302 may be akin to tubes 102 and 202, discussed with respect to FIGS. 1 and 2, respectively. Tube 302 may have a first diameter 304 disposed about a first length 306. A second diameter 308 may be disposed about a second length 310. A plurality of wheels 314-1, 314-2 (collectively, wheels 314) may be coupled to the tube 302. In some examples, wheels 312 may be coupled to tube 302 by an axle 313. Axle 313 may be coupled to tube 302 by an integrally formed channel 312. In addition, a securement strap 316 may be located at the lower portion of tube. Securement strap 316 may be akin to securement straps 116, 216, described previously with respect to FIGS. 1 and 2.
Apparatus 300 may further include a bar 332, which may be disposed perpendicular to the length of the tube 302. The bar 332 may be coupled to the tube by, for example, rivets, screws, nails, glue, or another fastening material. In some examples, the length of the bar 332 may be greater than second diameter 308 of tube 302, such that a portion of bar 332 extends beyond tube 302 on one or both ends of the tube 302.
A pair of legs 334-1, 334-2 (collectively, legs 334) may be coupled to the bar 332. In some examples, one leg 334 may be coupled to each end of bar 332; that is, legs 334 may be disposed parallel to one another with bar 332 disposed between them. Legs 334 may be rotatably coupled to bar 332 by, for example, a hinge, or a ball joint, although examples are not so limited. As a result, legs 334 may rotate with respect to bar 332. In some examples, legs 334 may rotate outwardly with respect to bar 332, and thus with respect to tube 302. In such examples, legs 334 may be rested upon a floor or other surface to support tube 302.
A crosspiece 336 may be disposed between legs 334. Crosspiece 336 may be permanently coupled to legs 334 by, for example, glue or a weld joint, or may be removably coupled to legs 334 by a screw or similarly removable joiner. As shown in FIG. 3, crosspiece 336 may be disposed toward a lower end of legs 334. As a result, crosspiece 334 may serve to provide additional stability and strength to legs 332, particularly when legs 332 are rotated away from tube 302 and resting on a floor or similar surface.
A securement mechanism 337 may be coupled to the tube 302. As used herein, a securement mechanism refers to a device or mechanism able to be selectively engaged to secure a movable piece, such as crosspiece 336. Securement mechanism 337 may be a hook and loop fastener, a fabric fastener secured by snaps, or any other securement mechanism. Securement mechanism 337 may be disposed such that crosspiece 336 is able to be secured to tube 302. In some examples, the securement mechanism 337 may be engaged to prevent legs 334 from rotating with respect to bar 332 by preventing crosspiece 336 (which is coupled to legs 334) from moving.
A plurality of straps 338-1, 338-2 (collectively, straps 338) may be disposed along the sides of the tube 302. As used herein, a strap refers to a piece or strip of material used to carry or hold something. Straps 338 may be disposed along the sides of tube 302 such that a user is able to carry tube 302 by straps 338. In some examples, the straps 338 may be manufactured of leather, nylon webbing, canvas, or a similar fabric; however, examples are not so limited and other materials may be used. Straps 338 may couple to tube 302 by rivets, screws, or another fastening mechanism, and may be removable or may be permanently attached.
FIG. 4 is another example of a tube holder 400 consistent with the present disclosure. Tube holder 400 may also be referred to as apparatus 400 and may include a tube 402. Tube 402 may be akin to tubes 102, 202, and 302, discussed with respect to FIGS. 1-3, respectively. Tube 402 may have a first diameter 404 disposed about a first length 406. Unlike tubes 102, 202, 302, discussed with respect to FIG. 103, tube 402 may have a single diameter 404; that is, tube 402 may lack an upper portion having a second length and second diameter. A plurality of wheels 414-1, 414-2 (collectively, wheels 414) may be coupled to the tube 402. In some examples, wheels 412 may be coupled to tube 402 by an axle 413. Axle 413 may be coupled to tube 402 by an integrally formed channel 412. In addition, a securement strap 416 may be located at the lower portion of tube 402. Securement strap 416 may be akin to securement straps 116, 216, and 316, described previously with respect to FIGS. 1-3.
Tube 402 may include a plurality of legs 434-1, 434-2 (collectively, legs 434) coupled to a crosspiece 435. Legs 434 may be akin to legs 334, discussed with respect to FIG. 3, and may be disposed such that the legs 434 are parallel to the tube 402 when not extended.
Crosspiece 435 may be disposed between legs 434, with legs 434 being attached thereto. Crosspiece 435 may be curved, or be substantially U-shaped, as shown in FIG. 4, or may be straight. In some examples, crosspiece 435 may be coupled to the tube 402 such that crosspiece 435 is rotatable with respect to the tube 402. That is, crosspiece 435 may be coupled to tube 402 such that the crosspiece 435, and thus legs 434, are able to rotate outwardly, away from the tube 402, to allow tube 402 to be supported by a floor surface. This may be used, for example, when placing an artificial tree into or removing an artificial tree from tube 402.
Crosspiece 435 may be selectively secured to tube 402 by a securement mechanism 437. Securement mechanism 437 may be akin to securement mechanism 337, discussed with respect to FIG. 3. As with securement mechanism 337, securement mechanism 437 may be a hook and loop fastener, a fabric fastener secured by snaps, or any other securement mechanism such that crosspiece 435 is able to be secured to, and thus prevented from rotating with respect to, the tube 402.
A pair of straps 439-1, 439-2 (collectively, straps 439) may be coupled to legs 434 and to tube 402. Straps 439 may provide additional resistance and stability to legs 434 when legs 434 are extended (i.e., rotated away from the tube 402), but may be made of a flexible material, such as canvas or nylon, such that straps 439 are able to “fold” back when legs 434 are rotated into a rest position (i.e., when legs 434 are not being used as a stand for tube 402). Straps 439 may be attached at one end to a leg of legs 434 by, for example, a rivet, glue, or other suitable bonding agent. Similarly, straps 439 may be attached at the opposite end to the body of tube 402, again using a rivet, glue, or any other suitable bonding agent.
A handle 428 may further be coupled to tube 402. Handle 428 may be akin to handles 228, discussed with respect to FIG. 2, in that handle 428 may facilitate tipping or moving apparatus 400. Although only one handle is shown in FIG. 4, examples are not so limited, and any number of handles may be used. In addition, the location of handle 428 is not limited to the location shown in FIG. 4; handle 428 may be located at any point on apparatus 400. Handle 428 may be made of metal, plastic, wood, or any other suitable material, and may be coupled to tube 402 by rivets, nails, screws, integral formation, or any other attachment means.
FIG. 5 is another example of a tube holder 500 consistent with the present disclosure. Tube holder 500 may also be referred to as apparatus 500 and may include a tube 502. Tube 502 may be akin to tubes 102, 202, 302, and 402, discussed with respect to FIGS. 1-4, respectively, and may have a first diameter 504 disposed about a first length 506. Like tube 402, tube 502 may have a single diameter 504 throughout length 506, with no upper portion having a second length and a second diameter. A securement strap 516 may be located at the lower portion of tube 502. Securement strap 516 may be akin to securement straps 116, 216, 316, and 416, described previously with respect to FIGS. 1-4.
A plurality of protrusions 553-1, 553-2 (collectively, protrusions 553) may be disposed at a lower end of tube 502. As used herein, a protrusion refers to a piece or object that protrudes or extends from another object. Protrusions 553 may extend from tube 502 and may extend so as to be substantially perpendicular with respect to the tube 502. Protrusions 553 may be integrally formed as part of tube 502 by, e.g., being molded as part of tube 502, or may be attached to the tube 502 by, for example, rivets, nails, glue, or any other fastening material.
Each protrusion of protrusions 553 may include a hole disposed therein. The hole may be sized to receive an axle 513. Axle 513 may be akin to axle 113, 213, 313, 413, discussed with respect to FIGS. 1-4; however, as shown in FIG. 5, axle 513 may be received through protrusions 553 and not through an integrally formed channel within tube 502. In this manner, axle 513 may be disposed external to the body of tube 502; that is, axle 513 may be situated outside of tube 502.
A plurality of wheels may be coupled to the axle 513. The wheels may be circular wheels such as wheels 114, 214, 314, 414, discussed with respect to FIGS. 1-4, or may be tri-lobe wheels 554-1, 554-2 (collectively, tri-lobe wheels 554). Tri-lobe wheels 554 is comprised of a set of three circular wheels 556-1, 556-2, 556-3 (collectively, circular wheels 556). Circular wheels 556 are coupled to a hub portion 558. As shown in FIG. 5, hub portion 558 is substantially triangular in shape, allowing circular wheels 556 to be disposed in a triangle. This may assist in moving apparatus 500 over rough or bumpy surfaces, or may allow apparatus 500 to be moved up and down stairs. Hub portion 558 is coupled to an axle, such as axle 513.
FIG. 6 is an example system 640 including a tube holder 602 consistent with the present disclosure. System 640 may include an artificial tree 642. Artificial tree 642 may be an artificial Christmas tree or another variety of artificial tree. Artificial tree 642 may include a central pole 644 and a stand 646 disposed at the end of the central pole 644. The central pole 644 may extend upwardly from the stand 646 and may be perpendicular to the stand 646.
Extending outwardly from the central pole 644 may be a plurality of branches 648-1, 648-2, 648-3 . . . 648-N (collectively, branches 648). Branches 648 may be comprised of a central rod, which may be metal, plastic, or another rigid or semi-rigid material. Needles, made of plastic or a similar material, may extend outwardly from the central rod, giving branches 648 an appearance similar to that of a natural fir tree. Branches 648 may extend from central pole 644 at an angle or may extend in a substantially perpendicular direction. In some examples, branches 648 may be movable with respect to central pole 644; that is, branches 648 may be moved into a variety of positions with respect to the central pole 644.
Stand 646 may be disposed at an end of central pole 644. Stand 646 may be manufactured of metal, plastic, or a similar rigid material. In some examples, stand 646 may be removable with respect to central pole 644. That is, stand 646 may be selectively engaged and disengaged with the central pole 644 by, for example, screwing the stand 646 onto or off of the central pole 644. In other examples, stand 646 may be permanently coupled to the lower end of central pole 644 such that stand 646 is not removable without breaking. Stand 646 is further discussed herein with respect to FIG. 7.
System 640 may further include a tubular holder 649. Tubular holder 649 may further comprise a body 650. Body 650 may have a first diameter 604 and a first length 606. First diameter 604 and first length 606 may be akin to first diameter 102, 204, and 304, and first length 606 may be akin to first length 106, 206, and 306, discussed with respect to FIGS. 1-3. In some examples, first length 606 may be sufficient to receive artificial tree 642. That is, tubular holder 649 may be sized to receive and hold artificial tree 642. In other examples, tubular holder 649 may be of a size that is less than the size of artificial tree 642, such that artificial tree 642 may be collapsed or shortened to fit within tubular holder 649. The shortening of artificial tree 642 is discussed further herein with respect to FIG. 7. A lower end of the body 650 may be open; that is, body 650 may not have a sealed lower end.
Tubular holder 649 may further comprise an upper portion 652. Upper portion 652 may be disposed above body 650 and may be coupled to body 650. In some examples, upper portion 652 and body 650 may be formed from a singular piece of material; in other examples, upper portion 652 and body 650 may be formed separately and then joined together. Upper portion 652 may be open; that is, upper portion 652 may not have sealed ends. Further, upper portion 652 may have a second diameter 608 and a second length 610. Second diameter 608 may be akin to second diameter 108, 208, and 308, and second length 610 may be akin to second length 110, 210, and 310 discussed with respect to FIGS. 1-3. In some examples, the upper opening of upper portion 652 may have the second diameter 608. Upper portion 652 may then taper in diameter along length 610, resulting in the bottom portion of upper portion 652 having a diameter substantially the same as first diameter 604. This may allow upper portion 652 to connect with or couple to body 650.
A securement strap 616 may be coupled to the body 650 at a lower end. As described previously, the lower end of body 650 may be open; thus, securement strap 616 may aid in preventing an object, such as artificial tree 642 from accidentally falling out of the tubular holder 649. As described with respect to FIG. 1, a first end of securement strap 616 may be permanently coupled to body 650, while a second end of securement strap 616 may be removably coupled to the body 650.
Disposed at a lower portion of body 650 may be a plurality of wheels. The wheels may be circular wheels such as wheels 114, 214, 314, discussed with respect to FIGS. 1-3, or may be tri-lobe wheels 654. Tri-lobe wheels 654 may be akin to tri-lobe wheels 554, discussed with respect to FIG. 5. Although only a single tri-lobe wheel 654 is shown in FIG. 6, another tri-lobe wheel would be located opposite tri-lobe wheel 654. The hub portion 658 of tri-lobe wheel 654 may be coupled to body 650 by an axle, such as axle 113, 213, 313, 414, discussed with respect to FIGS. 1-4. The axle may further be engaged with an integrally formed channel such as channel 112, 212, 213, 413, discussed with respect to FIGS. 1-4, or may be engaged with a plurality of protrusions such as protrusions 553, discussed with respect to FIG. 5.
FIG. 7 is an example stand 746 for use in the system of FIG. 6 consistent with the present disclosure. FIG. 7 further shows a portion of central pole 744. Central pole 744 may be akin to central pole 644, discussed with respect to FIG. 7. Central pole 744 may include a portion 757 to sildably engage with stand 746. Portion 757 may slide vertically with respect to stand 746, as shown by arrow 758. A locking button 760 may selectively engage with slidable portion 757 at a locking hole 762. Locking button 760 may engage when aligned with locking hole 762 and may otherwise be in a compressed state. In some examples, locking button 760 may engage to retain slidable portion 757 in an extended position with respect to stand 746. Said differently, slidable portion 757 may be extended by moving it away from stand 746, thus increasing the height of central pole 744; locking button 760 may be engaged at locking hole 762 to retain slidable portion 757 in this position. By contrast, when slidable portion 757 is to be retracted, or brought closer to stand 746, locking button 760 may be disengaged from locking hole 762, allowing movement of slidable portion 757. Slidable portion 757 may be retracted when, for example, the length of the tubular holder (such as the tubular holder discussed with respect to FIG. 6) is not great enough to accommodate the artificial tree including the stand 746 and central pole 744 in its extended form.
Stand 746 may further comprise a pair of extendable leg portions 764-1, 764-2 (collectively, extendable leg portions 764). Extendable leg portions 764 may slidably engage with stand 746 to selectively increase the diameter of stand 746. Extendable leg portions 764 may be stored within stand 746 when not in use, and may extend outwardly from stand 764 when in use.
Extendable leg portions 764 may engage with stand 746 at pair of locking buttons 766-1, 766-2 (collectively, locking buttons 766). Locking buttons 766 may be disposed on extendable leg portions 764; that is, one locking button of the pair of locking buttons 766 may be disposed on each leg portion of extendable leg portions 764. Locking buttons 766 may selectively engage with stand 746 at a pair of locking holes located on a surface of stand 746 (not shown). In some examples, locking buttons 766 may be engaged with corresponding locking holes when extendable leg portions 764 are extended. By contrast, when extendable leg portions 764 are retracted, locking buttons 766 may be disengaged from the locking holes.
Extendable leg portions 764 may permit a variable diameter of stand 746. When extendable leg portions 764 are fully retracted, i.e., not extended, stand 746 may have a diameter 768. Diameter 768 may be the smallest diameter of stand 746. By contrast, when extendable leg portions 764 are fully extended, stand 746 may have a diameter 770. Diameter 770 may be the greatest diameter of stand 746. In some examples, diameter 768 may allow insertion of stand 746 into the tubular holder, while diameter 770 may be greater than the diameter of the tubular holder. Further, stand 746 may have additional diameters between the minimum diameter 768 and the maximum diameter 770; such additional diameters may be achieved though partial extension of extendable leg portions 764.
FIG. 8 is an example of a tube holder assembly 872 consistent with the present disclosure. Assembly 872 may include a first tubular body portion 874. First tubular body portion 874 may further include an upper portion 876 and a lower portion 878. Upper portion 876 may have a first diameter 808 and a first length 810. First diameter 808 may be akin to diameter 108, 208, 308, discussed with respect to FIGS. 1-3, and first length 810 may be akin to length 110, 210, 310, discussed with respect to FIGS. 1-3. Lower portion 878 may have a second length 880 and a second diameter 882. As shown in FIG. 8, upper portion 876 may be disposed above lower portion 878, and may be formed as a single piece of material, or may be joined together. A first support leg 898-1 may be coupled to lower portion 878. In some examples, first support leg 898-1 may be rotatably coupled to lower portion 878, such that first support leg 898-1 is able to move with respect to first tubular body portion 874.
Assembly 872 may further include a second tubular body portion 884. Second tubular body portion 884 may have a third length 886 and a third diameter 888. In some examples, third diameter 888 may be the same as second diameter 882; in other examples, third diameter 888 may be greater than or less than second diameter 882. A second support leg 898-2 may be coupled to second tubular body portion 884. As with first support leg 898-1, second support leg 898-2 may be rotatably coupled to second tubular body portion 884 such that second support leg 898-2 is able to move with respect to second tubular body portion 884.
Assembly 872 may further comprise a third tubular body portion 890. Third tubular body portion 890 may have a fourth length 892 and a fourth diameter 894. In some examples, fourth diameter 894 may be the same as second diameter 882 and/or third diameter 888; in other examples, fourth diameter 894 may differ from second diameter 882 and/or third diameter 888. Third tubular body portion 890 may further include a third support leg 898-3, which may be rotatably coupled thereto. A first pair of wheels 816-3 may be disposed at a lower end of third tubular body portion 890. Although only a single wheel 816-3 is shown in FIG. 8, a second wheel 816 may be disposed opposite. In some examples, wheels 816-3 may be coupled to third tubular body portion 890 at an axle. In such examples, third tubular body portion 890 may further comprise an integrally formed channel to receive an axle. Wheels 816-3 may be coupled to third tubular body portion 890 at the axle, which is in turn received by the integrally formed channel.
A second pair of wheels 816-1 and a third pair of wheels 816-2 may be coupled to a lower portion of first tubular body portion 874 and second tubular body portion 884, respectively. As with wheels 816-3, wheels 816-1 and 816-2 may be coupled to their respective tubular body portions 874, 884 by an axle, which may be received by the tubular body portions 874, 884 at an integrally formed channel. Wheels 816-1, 816-2 may allow be utilized when the third tubular body portion 890 is not in use, i.e., when assembly 872 is receiving an artificial tree that requires fewer tubular body portions.
In some examples, the first tubular body portion 874, the second tubular body portion 884, and the third tubular body portion 892 may slidably engage with one another. In such examples, second diameter 882, third diameter 888, and fourth diameter 894 may all be different, such that fourth diameter 894 has the greatest value and second diameter 882 has the smallest value. First tubular body portion 874 may be slidably engagable with second tubular body portion 884, and may be coupled to second tubular body portion 886 at 896-1. The coupling at 896-1 may be, for instance, a flexible fabric material, a strap material, or any other material able to be compressed and extended. The second tubular body portion 884 may further be slidably engagable with third tubular body portion 890, and may be coupled to third tubular body portion 890 at 896-2. The coupling at 896-2 may be the same as the coupling at 896-1, or may be a different material; regardless, couplings 896-1, 896-2 may allow the selective collapse and extension of apparatus 872. For example, apparatus 872 may be extended when storing an artificial tree and may be collapsed when an artificial tree is not being stored.
Apparatus 872 may further include a plurality of handles. A first plurality of handles may be coupled to first tubular body portion 874, a second plurality of handles may be coupled to second tubular body portion 884, and a third plurality of handles may be coupled to third tubular body portion 890. The handles may akin to handles 228, discussed with respect to FIG. 2, or may be akin to straps 338, discussed with respect to FIG. 3. The plurality of handles may aid in moving and transporting apparatus 872, particularly when an artificial tree is being stored therein.
In the foregoing detailed description of the present disclosure, reference is made to the accompanying drawings that form a part hereof, and in which are shown by way of illustration how examples of the disclosure may be practiced. These examples are described in sufficient detail to enable those of ordinary skill in the art to practice the examples of this disclosure, and it is to be understood that other examples may be utilized and that process and/or structural changes may be made without departing from the scope of the present disclosure.
The figures herein follow a numbering convention in which the first digit corresponds to the drawing figure number and the remaining digits identify an element or component in the drawing. Elements shown in the various figures herein can be added, exchanged, and/or eliminated so as to provide a number of additional examples of the present disclosure. In addition, the proportion and relative scale of the elements provided in the figures are intended to illustrate the examples of the present disclosure and should not be taken in a limiting sense.

Claims

1. An apparatus, comprising:

a tube, wherein:

the tube has a first diameter disposed along a first length of the tube; and

the tube is open at a first end and at a second end;

an axle to couple with the tube;

a plurality of wheels disposed at the lower portion of the tube, wherein the plurality of wheels are coupled to the axle; and

a securement strap located at the lower portion of the tube perpendicular to the second end of the tube, wherein the securement strap is to secure the second end of the tube.

2. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the tube further comprises a second length of tube having a second diameter.

3. The apparatus of claim 1, further comprising an integrally formed channel, wherein:

the integrally formed channel is disposed at a lower end of the tube; and

the axle couples with the tube at the integrally formed channel.

4. The apparatus of claim 1, further comprising a plurality of protrusions, wherein:

the plurality of protrusions is disposed at a lower end of the tube;

each protrusion of the plurality of protrusions includes a hole disposed therein; and

the axle couples to the tube at the plurality of protrusions.

5. The apparatus of claim 1, further comprising:

a plate coupled to an upper portion of the tube, wherein the plate is coupled to the tube by a plurality of fasteners;

a peg extending perpendicularly from the plate; and

a support leg rotatably coupled to the plate at the peg; and

a plurality of handles coupled to the tube.

6. The apparatus of claim 1, further comprising:

a bar disposed perpendicular to the length of the tube and coupled to the tube;

a pair of legs rotatably coupled to the bar; and

a plurality of straps disposed along sides of the tube.

7. The apparatus of claim 6, further comprising:

a crosspiece disposed between the pair of legs; and

a securement mechanism coupled to the tube to secure the crosspiece.

8. The apparatus of claim 6, further comprising:

a plurality of straps coupled to the pair of legs and to the tube; and

a securement mechanism coupled to the tube to secure the bar.

9. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein:

the securement strap includes a first end and a second end;

the first end of the securement strap is permanently coupled to the tube; and

the second end of the tube is removably coupled to the tube.

10. A system, comprising:

an artificial tree, the artificial tree further comprising:

a central pole;

a stand disposed at an end of the central pole and having a width; and

a plurality of branches extending outwardly from the central pole at an angle; and

a tubular holder, the holder further comprising:

a body having a first diameter and a first length, wherein a lower end of the body is open;

an upper portion, wherein:

the upper portion is coupled to the body;

the upper portion is open;

a plurality of wheels coupled to a lower portion of the body at an axle, wherein the axle is disposed within an integrally formed channel; and

a securement strap coupled to the body, wherein the securement strap is perpendicular to the lower end of the body.

11. The system of claim 10, wherein the plurality of wheels comprise a plurality of tri-lobe wheels.

12. The system of claim 8, wherein the tubular holder is sized to receive the artificial tree.

13. The system of claim 12, wherein:

the first diameter is greater than the width of the stand such that the stand slidably engages with the tubular holder; and

the second diameter is greater than the first diameter.

14. The system of claim 8, wherein:

the central pole further comprises:

a portion to slidably engage with the stand;

a locking button to selectively engage with the slidable portion; and

a locking hole to engage with the locking button; and

the stand further comprises:

a pair of extendable leg portions;

a pair of locking buttons on the extendable leg portions, wherein:

the pair of locking buttons engage with a pair of locking holes to engage a non-extendable leg portion; and

the pair of locking buttons are engaged with the non-extendable leg portion when the extendable leg portions are extended.

15. An apparatus, comprising:

a first tubular body portion, the first tubular body portion further comprising:

an upper portion having a first diameter and a first length;

a lower portion having a second length and a second diameter; and

a first support leg coupled to the lower portion;

a second tubular body portion, the second tubular body portion further comprising:

a third length;

a third diameter; and

a second support leg coupled to the second tubular body portion; and

a third tubular body portion, the third tubular body portion further comprising:

a fourth length;

a fourth diameter;

a third support leg coupled to the third tubular body portion; and

a first pair of wheels coupled to a lower end of the third body portion.

16. The apparatus of claim 15, wherein the first tubular body portion, the second tubular body portion, and the third tubular body portion slidably engage with one another.

17. The apparatus of claim 16, wherein:

the first tubular body portion is slidably engagable with the second tubular body portion;

the first tubular body is coupled to the second tubular body portion;

the second tubular body portion is slidably engagable with the third tubular body portion; and

the second tubular body portion is coupled to the third tubular body portion.

18. The apparatus of claim 15, wherein:

the third tubular body portion further comprises an integrally formed channel to receive an axle; and

the first pair of wheels are coupled to the third tubular body portion at the axle.

19. The apparatus of claim 15, further comprising:

a second pair of wheels coupled to a lower end of the first body portion; and

a third pair of wheels coupled to a lower end of the second body portion.

20. The apparatus of claim 15, further comprising:

a first plurality of handles coupled to the first body portion;

a second plurality of handles coupled to the second body portion; and

a third plurality of handles coupled to the third body portion.