Decorative Artificial Tree With Removable Branches

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.

1 . A tree and branch system comprising:
 a trunk,   a stand,   a plurality of stems extending generally upwardly from the trunk at an oblique angle and at locations on the trunk intended to approximate living tree branches,   a plurality of branch segments, each having a branch extension at their distal end and an attachment portion having a recess at the proximal end of the branch, said recess sized to receive a portion of said stem so that the branches are attachable to the trunk with the stubs being at least partly covered by the branch recess so that when the branches are affixed to the trunk, the stem are at least partially protected against rain and wherein said recesses are oriented generally downwardly so that rain cannot collect therein.   
     
     
         2 . The tree system of  claim 1 , wherein said branch segment includes a bulging portion which includes said recess. 
     
     
         3 . The tree system of  claim 1 , wherein said recess and said stem have mating cross sections. 
     
     
         4 . The tree system of  claim 1 , wherein said recess and said stem include cross sections, that when mated, prevent rotation of the branch relative to the stem. 
     
     
         5 . The tree system of  claim 1 , further including a lock on said branch to prevent removal thereof once said branch is attached to said stem. 
     
     
         6 . The tree system of  claim 5 , wherein said lock includes a set screw. 
     
     
         7 . The tree system of  claim 5 , wherein said lock includes a spring release locking pin. 
     
     
         8 . A method of preventing water collection in a tree branch joint of an artificial tree having a trunk, a plurality of stems extending from said trunk and a plurality of branches attachable to said stems, comprising the stems of:
 a. orienting the stems such that they generally point upwardly at an oblique angle relative to the trunk;   b. creating a recess in said branches sized to receive and overlie at least a portion of said stem.   
     
     
         9 . The method of  claim 7 , wherein the peripheral cross section of said stem and the interior shape of said recess are generally the same so that the branch is prevented from rotating on said stem. 
     
     
         10 . The method of  claim 7 , wherein the peripheral cross section of said stem and the interior shape of said recess are non circular generally the same so that the branch is prevented from rotating on said stem when inserted thereon.