Carrier for pet travel

Abstract

A pet travel vehicle for receiving an animal on a vehicle seat including at least one vehicle seat anchor includes a body defining a housing having an interior within which the animal may be received. At least one rigid latch connector is mounted to the body and is movable relative to the body along a connector path. The at least one rigid latch connector may be connected to the at least one vehicle seat anchor at any location along the connector path.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure generally relates to an animal containment unit or carrier for installation in a vehicle, and more particularly, to an animal containment unit or carrier for installation in a vehicle that includes a connector. Background Art

[0002] A crate or another type of carrier can be used to transport animals in a vehicle (e.g., an automobile, an airplane, a train, a bicycle, etc.). However, many existing carriers have various drawbacks. For example, some carriers are not adequately anchored to contain and protect the animal in the event of a car accident. In another example, the carrier may be difficult to install in a vehicle. In yet another example, the size of the carrier may not be suitable for carry-on travel on an airline (e.g., capable of fitting under a conventional airplane seat). Summary of the Invention

[0003] According to one embodiment, a pet travel carrier for containing an animal on a vehicle seat that includes at least one vehicle seat anchor includes a body that defines a housing having an interior therein where the animal can be received. At least one rigid latch connector is mounted to the body and is movable relative to the body along a connector path. The at least one rigid latch connector can be connected to the at least one vehicle seat anchor at any position along the connector path.

[0004] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in other embodiments, the at least one rigid latch connector can be translated along the connector path.

[0005] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in other embodiments, the body has a front side, a rear side, a left side, and a right side, and the connector path is oriented parallel to at least one of the front and the rear.

[0006] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in other embodiments, a latch position lock can be used to lock the at least one rigid latch connector along the connector path.

[0007] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in other embodiments, the latch position lock and the at least one rigid latch connector are arranged on the same side of the body.

[0008] In addition to, or as an alternative to, one or more of the features described above, in other embodiments, the body includes a lower section having a rigid member and a reinforcement assembly. The reinforcement assembly includes at least one reinforcement member connected to the rigid member.

[0009] In addition to, or as an alternative to, one or more of the features described above, in other embodiments, the body further includes an upper section positioned vertically above the lower section, and the at least one reinforcement member extends around one or more sides of the body.

[0010] In addition to, or as an alternative to, one or more of the features described above, in other embodiments, the at least one reinforcement member extends around the front of the body and the top of the body.

[0011] In addition to, or as an alternative to, one or more of the features described above, in other embodiments, the at least one reinforcement member is attached to the front of the body at an anchoring point.

[0012] In addition to, or as an alternative to, one or more of the features described above, in other embodiments, the at least one reinforcement member surrounds the upper section.

[0013] In addition to, or as an alternative to, one or more of the features described above, in other embodiments, a release mechanism is operatively coupled to the at least one rigid latch connector to unlock the at least one rigid latch connector.

[0014] In addition to, or as an alternative to, one or more of the features described above, in other embodiments, the release mechanism includes a release actuator and at least one transmitter that operatively connects the at least one rigid latch connector to the release actuator.

[0015] In addition to, or as an alternative to, one or more of the features described above, in other embodiments, the release actuator and the at least one rigid latch connector are disposed on opposite sides of the body.

[0016] In addition to, or as an alternative to, one or more of the features described above, in other embodiments, the release actuator is disposed on the front of the body.

[0017] In addition to, or as an alternative to, one or more of the features described above, in other embodiments, the at least one rigid latch connector may be transformable relative to the body between a retracted position and a deployed position. The at least one rigid latch connector may be received within a cavity formed in the body when in the retracted position.

[0018] In addition to, or as an alternative to, one or more of the features described above, in other embodiments, the at least one rigid latch connector may rotate about an axis between the retracted position and the deployed position.

[0019] In addition to, or as an alternative to, one or more of the features described above, in other embodiments, the connector path is parallel to the axis of the at least one rigid latch connector.

[0020] In addition to, or as an alternative to, one or more of the features described above, in other embodiments, at least one biasing mechanism operatively coupled to the at least one rigid latch connector may be used to bias the at least one rigid latch connector to the deployed position.

[0021] In addition to, or as an alternative to, one or more of the features described above, in other embodiments, the body includes a frame, a containment material extending at least partially around the frame, and a base. The frame may be connected to the base.

[0022] In addition to, or as an alternative to, one or more of the features described above, in other embodiments, the cavity is formed in the base.

[0023] In addition to, or as an alternative to, one or more of the features described above, in other embodiments, a latch deployment mechanism may be used to automatically transform the at least one rigid latch connector from the retracted position to the deployed position in response to an input.

[0024] In addition to, or as an alternative to, one or more of the features described above, in other embodiments, the at least one rigid latch connector includes a first rigid latch connector and a second rigid latch connector.

[0025] In addition to, or alternatively to, one or more of the features described above, in other embodiments, the body includes a base, and the first rigid latch connector and the second rigid latch connector are part of a latch assembly. The latch assembly includes: a cover fixedly mounted to the base; and a connecting member operatively coupled to both the first rigid latch connector and the second rigid latch connector and disposed within the interior of the cover. The connecting member can rotate with the first rigid latch connector and the second rigid latch connector between the retracted position and the deployed position.

[0026] In addition to, or alternatively to, one or more of the features described above, in other embodiments, at least one channel is formed in the cover. The at least one channel is configured to guide a transmitter extending from one of the first rigid latch connector and the second rigid latch connector to an actuator.

[0027] In addition to, or alternatively to, one or more of the features described above, in other embodiments, the at least one channel extends axially through an opening formed in the cover.

[0028] In addition to, or alternatively to, one or more of the features described above, in other embodiments, the latch assembly is movably mounted to the base. The base has a slot through which the transmitter extends between the cover and the actuator.

[0029] In addition to, or alternatively to, one or more of the features described above, in other embodiments, the body includes a lower section having a rigid member and at least one tension member coupling the latch assembly to the rigid member.

[0030] In addition to, or alternatively to, one or more of the features described above, in other embodiments, the rigid member is a metal plate.

[0031] In addition to, or alternatively to, one or more of the features described above, in other embodiments, the at least one tension member is configured as a continuous loop.

[0032] In addition to, or alternatively to, one or more of the features described above, in other embodiments, the at least one tension member includes a first tension member and a second tension member spaced apart from each other. A first portion of each of the first tension member and the second tension member is coupled to the latch assembly, and a second portion of each of the first tension member and the second tension member is coupled to the rigid member.

[0033] In addition to, or as an alternative to, one or more of the features described above, in other embodiments, the first portions of the first tension member and the second tension member are connected to the latch assembly between the first rigid latch connector and the second rigid latch connector.

[0034] In addition to, or as an alternative to, one or more of the features described above, in other embodiments, the first portions of the first tension member and the second tension member are coupled to a strap connector located at the rigid member.

[0035] In addition to, or as an alternative to, one or more of the features described above, in other embodiments, the first portions of the first tension member and the second tension member extend from the bottom of the rigid member.

[0036] In addition to, or as an alternative to, one or more of the features described above, in other embodiments, the first portions of the first tension member and the second tension member extend from the top of the rigid member.

[0037] According to one embodiment, a pet travel carrier for containing an animal on a vehicle seat includes a body that defines a housing having an interior in which the animal can be received. The body includes a cavity. At least one rigid latch connector is movably mounted to the body. The at least one rigid latch connector is movable relative to the body between a retracted position and a deployed position in a first direction and is movable relative to the body in a second direction.

[0038] In addition to, or as an alternative to, one or more of the features described above, in other embodiments, the first direction is a rotation about an axis and the second direction is a translation along the axis.

[0039] In addition to, or as an alternative to, one or more of the features described above, in other embodiments, the first direction is a translation along a first axis and the second direction is a translation along a second axis, the first axis having an orientation that is not parallel to the second axis.

[0040] According to one embodiment, a pet travel vehicle for a vehicle includes a base and a frame, the frame including a first frame member and a second frame member. The frame is transformable between a deployed configuration and a stowed configuration. In the stowed configuration, the first frame member and the second frame member are folded against the base. A handle for lifting the pet travel vehicle is connected to the first frame member and the second frame member. The handle has a pivot axis and is rotatable about the pivot axis to transform the frame between the deployed configuration and the stowed configuration. When the frame is transformed between the deployed configuration and the stowed configuration, the handle remains connected to the first frame member and the second frame member.

[0041] In addition to, or as an alternative to, one or more of the features described above, in other embodiments, the pivot axis is located at a position spaced apart from the first frame member and the second frame member.

[0042] In addition to, or as an alternative to, one or more of the features described above, in other embodiments, the handle has a first end connected to the first frame member and a second end connected to the second frame member. The pivot axis is disposed between the first end and the second end.

[0043] In addition to, or as an alternative to, one or more of the features described above, in other embodiments, the first end of the handle is rotatably coupled to the first frame member, and the second end of the handle is rotatably coupled to the second frame member.

[0044] In addition to, or as an alternative to, one or more of the features described above, in other embodiments, when the frame is in the deployed configuration, the handle has a first orientation relative to the base, and when the frame is in the stowed configuration, the handle has a second orientation relative to the base. The second orientation is opposite to the first orientation.

[0045] In addition to, or as an alternative to, one or more of the features described above, in other embodiments, the pivot axis is disposed at a central portion of the handle.

[0046] In addition to, or as an alternative to, one or more of the features described above, in other embodiments, a locking mechanism is operably coupled to the handle. The locking mechanism is configured to restrict rotation of the handle about the pivot axis.

[0047] In addition to, or as an alternative to, one or more of the features described above, in other embodiments, the locking mechanism is disposed inside the handle.

[0048] In addition to, or as an alternative to, one or more of the features described above, in other embodiments, the locking mechanism includes a protrusion and a handle lock. The handle lock can engage with the protrusion to selectively restrict the rotation of the handle about the pivot axis.

[0049] In addition to, or as an alternative to, one or more of the features described above, in other embodiments, the handle lock can move between an engaged position and a disengaged position. In the engaged position, the handle lock is disposed within the movement path of the protrusion about the pivot axis. In the disengaged position, the handle lock is offset from the movement path of the protrusion about the pivot axis.

[0050] In addition to, or as an alternative to, one or more of the features described above, in other embodiments, the locking mechanism includes an actuator operatively coupled to the handle lock to move the handle lock from the engaged position to the disengaged position.

[0051] In addition to, or as an alternative to, one or more of the features described above, in other embodiments, the locking mechanism includes a biasing mechanism operatively coupled to the handle lock to bias the handle lock to the engaged position.

[0052] In addition to, or as an alternative to, one or more of the features described above, in other embodiments, at least one rigid latch connector is coupled to the base. The at least one rigid latch connector can move between a retracted position within the base and an extended position protruding outside the base. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0053] The following description should not be regarded as restrictive in any way. Referring to the accompanying drawings, like element numbers are the same:

[0054] Figure 1A is a front perspective view of a pet travel vehicle according to one embodiment;

[0055] Figure 1B is according to one embodiment of Figure 1A a pet travel vehicle;

[0056] Figure 2A is a front perspective view of a view of a frame and a base of a pet travel vehicle according to one embodiment;

[0057] Figure 2B Rear perspective view of the frame and base of a pet travel vehicle according to one embodiment; Figure 2A of a pet travel vehicle;

[0058] Figure 3 Perspective view of a portion of a pet travel vehicle that can be transformed between an extended configuration and a retracted configuration according to one embodiment;

[0059] Figure 4 Plan view of the frame of a pet travel vehicle according to one embodiment;

[0060] Figure 5A Cross-sectional view of a locking mechanism associated with the frame of a pet travel vehicle in a locked configuration according to one embodiment;

[0061] Figure 5B Cross-sectional view of the locking mechanism of Figure 5A transformed to an unlocked configuration according to one embodiment;

[0062] Figure 5C Cross-sectional view of the locking mechanism of Figure 5A in an unlocked configuration according to one embodiment;

[0063] Figure 6 End view of a pet travel vehicle during transformation between an extended configuration and a retracted configuration according to one embodiment;

[0064] Figures 7A to 7D Various end views showing the progression of a pet travel vehicle as it transforms between an extended configuration and a retracted configuration according to one embodiment;

[0065] Figure 8A Perspective view of a pet travel vehicle having a latch connector in an extended position according to one embodiment;

[0066] Figure 8B Perspective bottom view of a pet travel vehicle having a latch connector in a retracted position according to one embodiment; Figure 8A of a pet travel vehicle;

[0067] Figure 9A Schematic view of the latch release mechanism of a pet travel vehicle in a plan view according to one embodiment;

[0068] Figure 9B Cross-sectional view of the latch release mechanism of a pet travel vehicle according to one embodiment;

[0069] Figure 10A Partially exploded view of the latch assembly of a pet travel vehicle according to one embodiment;

[0070] Figure 10B Another exploded view of a latch assembly according to one embodiment; Figure 10A

[0071] Figure 10C Another detailed view of a portion of a latch assembly according to one embodiment; Figure 10A

[0072] Figure 11 Perspective view of a portion of a latch assembly installed within the base of a pet travel vehicle according to one embodiment;

[0073] Figure 12 Another perspective view of a portion of a latch assembly installed within the base of a pet travel vehicle according to one embodiment;

[0074] Figures 13A to 13C View of the interface between a transmitter and a latch assembly when the latch assembly is transformed from a retracted position to a deployed position according to one embodiment;

[0075] Figure 14A Bottom perspective view of a pet travel vehicle having a latch connector in a deployed position according to one embodiment;

[0076] Figure 14B Cross-sectional view of a pet travel vehicle having a latch connector in a deployed position according to one embodiment;

[0077] Figure 15 Perspective view of a latch deployment mechanism of a pet travel vehicle according to one embodiment;

[0078] Figure 16A Plan view of a latch deployment mechanism in an unactuated configuration according to one embodiment; Figure 15

[0079] Figure 16B Plan view of a latch deployment mechanism in an actuated configuration according to one embodiment; Figure 15

[0080] Figure 16C Perspective view of a latch connector when the latch deployment mechanism of Figure 15 is in an actuated configuration according to one embodiment;

[0081] Figure 17 Plan view of an integrated latch release mechanism and latch deployment mechanism in an unactuated configuration according to one embodiment;

[0082] Figure 18A Bottom view of a pet travel vehicle having an extended latch assembly in a first lateral position according to one embodiment;

[0083] Figure 18B is a bottom view of a pet travel vehicle having an unfolded latch assembly in a second lateral position; Figure 18A ;

[0084] Figure 19 is a perspective view of a portion of the base of a pet travel vehicle according to one embodiment;

[0085] Figure 20 is a detailed view of a latch position lock of a pet travel vehicle according to one embodiment;

[0086] Figure 21A is a side view of the base of a pet travel vehicle including a latch position lock according to one embodiment;

[0087] Figure 21B is according to one embodiment Figure 21A cross-sectional view of a portion of a pet travel vehicle;

[0088] Figure 22 is a perspective view of a pet travel vehicle mounted on a vehicle seat according to one embodiment;

[0089] Figure 23A is a bottom perspective view of a portion of a pet travel vehicle according to one embodiment;

[0090] Figure 23B is according to one embodiment Figure 23A rear view of a portion of a pet travel vehicle;

[0091] Figure 23C is according to one embodiment Figure 23A top perspective view of a portion of a pet travel vehicle;

[0092] Figure 23D is according to one embodiment of the removed frame Figure 23A top perspective view of a portion of a pet travel vehicle;

[0093] Figure 24 is a perspective view of the base of a pet travel vehicle including a reinforcement assembly according to one embodiment;

[0094] Figure 25 is a perspective view of the interface between the latch assembly and the reinforcement assembly of a pet travel vehicle according to one embodiment;

[0095] Figure 26A is a bottom perspective view of a pet travel vehicle including a webbing connected to the latch assembly according to one embodiment;

[0096] Figure 26Bis a bottom perspective view of a pet travel vehicle with the webbing removed according to one embodiment; and Figure 26A and

[0097] Figure 27 is a bottom perspective view of a pet travel vehicle including a latch assembly according to one embodiment. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0098] The present disclosure provides a detailed description of one or more embodiments of the disclosed devices and methods by way of example and not limitation with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0099] Referring now to Figure 1A and 1B , an example of a pet travel vehicle 20 is shown. As shown, the pet travel vehicle 20 can be an enclosed containment device or crate having a bottom side 22, a top side 24, a front side 26, a rear side 28, a left side 30, and a right side 32. In one embodiment, the pet travel vehicle 20 includes a first section 40 and a second section 42. In some embodiments, the first section 40 can be considered an upper section, and the second section 42 can be considered a lower section such that the first section 40 is positioned vertically above or on top of the second section 42. In one embodiment, the first section 40 and the second section 42 can be detachably connected to each other. However, in other embodiments, the first section 40 and the second section 42 are permanently connected. As used herein, the term "permanently connected" refers to embodiments in which the first section 40 is not intended to be detached by the user from the second section 42.

[0100] The first section 40 can define the top 24 of the pet travel vehicle 20, as well as at least a portion of the front side 26, the rear side 28, the left side 30, and the right side 32. In one embodiment, the first section defines substantially all of the front side 26, the rear side 28, the left side 30, and the right side 32 of the pet travel vehicle 20. Referring to Figure 2A and 2B , the first section 40 of the pet travel vehicle 20 can include: a structural frame 44 that defines the interior space of the pet travel vehicle 20; and a covering 46 associated with the frame 44 (see Figure 1A and 1B ). Examples of the covering 46 include, but are not limited to, containment materials or soft goods, such as nylon fabric or semi-rigid materials. The covering 46 can be detachably connected to the frame 44, for example, can be positioned in an overlapping arrangement with the frame 44. In other embodiments, the covering 46 can be permanently attached to the frame 44, for example, by stitching the covering 46 around one or more portions of the frame 44.

[0101] In one embodiment, the cover 46 cooperates with the frame 44 to form an enclosed interior region within which a pet is contained during normal use of the pet travel vehicle 20. The pet travel vehicle 20 may include one or more doors 48 (see Figure 1A ), which can be transformed between an open position and a closed position to selectively provide access to the interior of the pet travel vehicle 20. In one embodiment, one or more doors 48 are formed in the first section 40, for example, within a portion of the cover 46. Alternatively or additionally, one or more windows or viewing panels 50 may be formed in the cover 46 of the first section 40 to allow a user to observe the animal within the pet travel vehicle 20 and to allow the animal within the pet travel vehicle 20 to see its surroundings.

[0102] Continuing to refer to Figures 2A to 2B , the frame 44 may include one or more frame members, such as a first frame member 52 and a second frame member 54 spaced apart from the first frame member 52 along an axis. As shown, the first frame member 52 and the second frame member 54 may be substantially the same, and / or in some embodiments, may be different. In the non-limiting embodiment shown, the first frame member 52 and the second frame member 54 have an inverted U-shaped configuration. It should be understood that embodiments in which a frame member (such as frame member 52 or 54) defines at least one entire side (front side, rear side, left side, and / or right side) of the first section 40 rather than only a portion thereof are also within the scope of the present disclosure. Although the first frame member 52 is shown as generally parallel to the front portion 26 of the pet travel vehicle 20 and the second frame member 54 is shown as generally parallel to the rear portion 28 of the pet travel vehicle 20, embodiments in which one or more of the frame members 52, 54 have another orientation are also contemplated herein.

[0103] Alternatively or additionally, the frame 44 may include additional frame members, such as a third frame member 56 associated with the left side 30 and / or a fourth frame member 58 associated with the right side 32. In one embodiment, the third frame member 56 is oriented substantially parallel to the left side 30, and the fourth frame member 58 is oriented generally parallel to the right side 32. As shown, at least one of the third frame member 56 and the fourth frame member 58 may define the perimeter of a door (such as door 48) through which an animal may enter or exit the interior of the pet travel vehicle 20.

[0104] In some embodiments, for example Figure 2A and 2BAs shown, one or more of the frame members, such as the first frame member 52 and the second frame member 54, are not connected to each other. Instead, the cover 46 of the upper or first section 40 can be connected to the plurality of frame members 52, 54 respectively. In other embodiments, one or more connecting frame members 60 extend between the first frame member 52 and the second frame member 54 and connect the first frame member and the second frame member to each other. For example, as Figures 1A to 2B shown, the connecting frame member 60 extends between the first frame member 52 and the second frame member 54, such as at the central portion of its top. In some embodiments, the connecting frame member 60 can be visible or disposed at the outer surface of the pet travel vehicle 20. In embodiments where the connecting frame member 60 is disposed at the outer surface (such as disposed at the top 24 of the pet travel vehicle 20), the connecting frame member 60 can be configured as a handle for lifting and / or carrying the pet travel vehicle 20. It should be understood that the frame 44 shown and described herein is only intended as an example, and frames 44 having any suitable configuration are within the scope of the present disclosure.

[0105] In embodiments where the first section 40 can be separated from the second section 42, one or more of the plurality of frame members 52, 54, 56, 58 can be releasably connected to the second section 42 to limit the unintended movement of the first section 40 relative to the second section 42. In one embodiment, one or more of the plurality of frame members 52, 54, 56, 58 include frame connectors (not shown in the figures), which can be aligned with corresponding interlocking features (not shown in the figures) formed in adjacent portions of the second section and can be used to engage the corresponding interlocking features.

[0106] The frame 44 can be formed of any suitable material, such as plastic or metal. For example, the frame 44 can be formed of tubes, wiring or another suitable material. In Figure 2A and 2B non-limiting embodiments, at least a portion of the frame 44 is formed of a thermoformed material and can include a soft article laminated thereon. In other embodiments, substantially the entire frame 44 is formed of a thermoformed material, and the soft article can be laminated on a part or substantially all of the frame 44. In such embodiments, the frame 44 can form a semi-rigid envelope that can be at least partially folded to adapt the first section 40 to the space for receiving the pet travel vehicle 20 while remaining attached to the second section 42. This frame 44 can also create a soft restraint for the pet within the pet travel vehicle 20 in the event of a vehicle collision or accident.

[0107] In one embodiment, the plurality of frame members 52, 54, 56, 58 of the frame 44 may be integrally formed as a single body. However, in other embodiments, as shown, for example, Figure 3 at least one frame member of the frame 44, such as the first frame member 52, may be movable relative to at least one other frame member (e.g., the second frame member 54 of the frame 44). In such embodiments, at least one of the frame members 52, 54, 56, 58 may move relative to the second or lower section 42 while remaining connected to the second or lower section to allow the frame to fold for storage or to absorb forces during a collision event.

[0108] Continuing to refer to Figure 3 , in the illustrated non-limiting embodiment, when the frame 44 is in the deployed configuration, the first frame member 52 and the second frame member 54 are arranged in a first position, and when the frame 44 is in the stowed configuration, the first frame member 52 and the second frame member 54 are in a second position. As shown, the first frame member 52 may be configured to fold or rotate about an axis between the first position and the second position, in which the first frame member 52 extends at a non-parallel angle, such as perpendicular to the upper surface of the second section 42, relative to the second section 42, and in which the first frame member 52 is oriented generally parallel to the second section 42. Similarly, the second frame member 54 may also be configured to fold or rotate about an axis between the first position and the second position, in which the second frame member 54 extends at a non-parallel angle relative to the second section 42, and in which the second frame member 54 is oriented generally parallel to the second section 42. When in the second position, the first frame member 52 and the second frame member 54 may be vertically stacked one above the other. When the frame 44 is in the deployed configuration, at least one connecting member 60 operatively coupled to the first frame member 52 and the second frame member 54 may have a first orientation relative to the base 42. As will be described in more detail below, when the frame 44 is in the deployed configuration, at least one connecting member 60 operatively coupled to the first frame member 52 and the second frame member 54 may have a second orientation relative to the base 42. The second orientation is rotated relative to the first orientation and, in some embodiments, may be substantially opposite to the first orientation. In one embodiment, at least one connecting member 60 has a generally linear configuration and faces upward when the frame 44 is deployed, and at least one connecting member 60 has a generally linear configuration and faces downward when the frame 44 is stowed.

[0109] One or more connecting frame members 60, such as handles, may be used to limit the movement of at least one frame member (e.g., the first frame member 52 and / or the second frame member 54) relative to the second section 42. In Figure 4In the non - limiting embodiments shown, the connecting frame member 60 includes a first connector portion 62, a second connector portion 64, and a central connector portion 66 that extends between the first connector portion 62 and the second connector portion 64 and is operatively coupled to the first connector portion and the second connector portion, respectively. The first connector portion 62 may be coupled to a first frame member, such as frame member 52, and the second connector portion 64 may be coupled to a second frame member, such as frame member 54. In one embodiment, the connecting frame member 60 has one or more hinge points or fold points formed therein. The connecting frame member 60 can be bent about these one or more hinge points to transform the frame 44 between an extended configuration and a retracted configuration. As shown, the outer 68 end of the first connector portion 62 can be pivotally coupled to the first frame member 52 for rotation about a first axis X1. The opposite inner end 70 of the first connector portion 62 can be hingedly attached to an adjacent end 72 of the central connector portion 66 about a second axis X2. In operation, the first connector portion 62 is configured to rotate relative to the first frame member 52, and the central connector portion 66 is configured to bend relative to the first connector portion 62 about the second axis X2. Thus, the second axis X2 can be regarded as the pivot axis between the first connector portion 62 and the central connector portion 66.

[0110] In one embodiment, the second connector portion 64 is pivotally or hingedly connected to the second frame member 54 at its middle. Thus, the second connector portion 64 can be divided into two parts: a first part 74, which includes, for example, the outer end 76 of the second connector portion 64 and is fixedly connected to the second frame member 54; and a second part 78, which is connected to the central connector portion 66. As shown, the second part 78 of the second connector portion 64 can rotate relative to the first part 74 of the second connector portion 64 about an axis X3. In the non - limiting embodiment shown, the central connector portion 66 is integrally formed with the second part 78 of the second connector portion 64. However, embodiments are also covered herein where the central connector portion 66 is hingedly or pivotally coupled to the first part 74 or the second part 78 of the second connector portion 64.

[0111] A locking mechanism 80 that can be used to hold the frame in an upright or deployed configuration can be integrated into the connecting frame member 60. This locking mechanism can be used to restrict the transformation of the frame 44 into the retracted configuration by restricting relative movement between one or more parts of the connecting frame member 60. In one embodiment, the locking mechanism 80 is disposed at the interface between the first connector portion 62 and the central connector portion 66. However, embodiments are also covered herein where the locking mechanism 80 is disposed at another hinge within the connecting frame member 60.

[0112] Figures 5A to 5C An example of this locking mechanism 80 is shown in more detail. In the illustrated non-limiting embodiment, the second or inner end 70 of the first connector portion 62 may include a protrusion 82 that is configured to extend beyond the hinge axis X2, which is defined between the first connector portion 62 and the central connector portion 66. When the first connector portion 62 and the central connector portion 66 are arranged in a coplanar configuration, as shown, for example, Figure 5A in, the protrusion 82 overlaps a portion of the body of the central connector portion 66. The locking mechanism 80 may additionally include a handle lock 84, which is disposed, for example, inside the central connector portion 66. The handle lock 84 may move between an engaged position ( Figure 5A ) and a disengaged position ( Figure 5C ). In one embodiment, a biasing mechanism 86, such as a helical spring, is operatively coupled to the handle lock 84 and may be used to bias the handle lock 84 toward the engaged position. When the handle lock 84 is in the engaged position, a portion of the handle lock 84, such as its distal end 88, is positioned adjacent to the protrusion 82 of the first connector portion 62. As shown, the distal end 88 of the handle lock 84 may be positioned upwardly adjacent to the protrusion 82 within the movement path of the protrusion about the axis X2, thereby restricting rotation of the central connector portion 66 relative to the first connector portion 62.

[0113] An actuator 90, such as a button, may be disposed at an outer surface of the connection frame member 60. The actuator 90 may be moved into engagement with a corresponding surface of the handle lock 84 to move the handle lock 84 from the engaged position to the disengaged position. In the illustrated non-limiting embodiment, the handle lock 84 includes a first ramped or inclined surface 92, and the body of the actuator 90 includes a second inclined surface 94 that faces the handle lock 84 and at least partially engages the handle lock. The angle of the first inclined surface 92 may, but need not, be equal to the angle of the second inclined surface 94. When the user operates the actuator 90, for example, by applying a downward force to the actuator 90, the actuator 90 slides relative to the handle lock 84. Since the engagement between the handle lock 84 and the actuator 90 occurs along the inclined surfaces 92, 94, the downward movement of the actuator 90 causes a corresponding lateral translation of the handle lock 84 relative to the central connector portion 66, for example, in a direction away from the first connector portion 62. This translation of the handle lock 84 resists the biasing force of the biasing mechanism 86 such that the handle lock 84 moves out of engagement or alignment with the protrusion 82 of the first connector portion 62. In this retracted or disengaged position, the handle lock 84 is spaced from the movement path of the protrusion 82, thereby allowing the protrusion to pivot about the axis X2. Thus, the central connector portion 66 may rotate relative to the first connector portion 62, for example, in the direction indicated by arrow A ( Figure 5B)。In addition, rotation of the central connector portion 66 relative to the first connector portion 62 will cause a similar rotation about axis X3 relative to the second connector portion 64. For example, the central connector portion 66, and the second portion 78 of the second connector portion 64 can be configured to rotate relative to the first portion 74 of the second connector portion 64 about axis X3.

[0114] Continuing to refer Figures 3 to 5C and further referring Figure 6 and 7A to 7D, once the connecting frame member 60 is in this rotational position, the first frame member 52 can rotate about the axis towards the second stowed position. When the first frame member 52 approaches the second position, where the first frame member 52 is oriented parallel to the second section 42 of the pet travel vehicle 20 (see Figure 7C ), the connecting frame member 60 rotates about one or more of its hinges to a generally coplanar configuration. In the non-limiting embodiment shown, when the first frame member 52 is in the second position and the second frame member 54 is in the first position, the connecting frame member 60 can extend generally vertically therebetween. In this configuration, the second frame member 54, and the parallel connecting frame member 60 coupled thereto rotate about the axis towards the second position. In this configuration, the hinge connection between the second connector portion 64 and the second frame member 54 can be positioned adjacent to the pivot interface between the first frame member 52 and the second section 42.

[0115] Referring again Figures 1A to 3 , the second section 42 of the pet travel vehicle 20 can include a base 100, and in some embodiments, the base 100 can define the general shape of the pet travel vehicle 20. Although the shape of the base 100 shown in the figures is generally rectangular, it should be understood that other shaped bases are also contemplated herein. The second section 42 forms the bottom 22 of the pet travel vehicle 20, and in some embodiments, can additionally form at least a portion of one or more of the front side 26, rear side 28, left side 30, and right side 32 of the pet travel vehicle 20.

[0116] In one embodiment, the base 100 includes a lower bracket 102 and an upper bracket 104, the upper bracket being mounted in an overlapping arrangement with the lower bracket 102 (see Figure 9B ). The lower bracket 102 can form the bottom surface 22 of the pet travel vehicle 20, and the upper bracket 104 can form the surface of the base 100 that faces the interior of the pet travel vehicle 20 and on which the animal lies.

[0117] As described herein, the pet travel vehicle 20 can include one or more latch connectors 120a and 120b, which can be used to engage corresponding anchors of a vehicle seat. In the illustrated non - limiting embodiment, for example Figure 2B and 8A As shown in FIGS. 8A - 8B, the pet travel vehicle 20 has a plurality of latch connectors, which include a first latch connector 120a and a second latch connector 120b. However, embodiments having only a single latch connector or having more than two latch connectors are also covered herein. At least one of the latch connectors 120a, 120b can be integral with the pet travel vehicle. For example, at least one latch connector can be permanently attached to the pet travel vehicle 20. Alternatively, at least one latch connector can be detachably attached to the pet travel vehicle 20.

[0118] In the illustrated non - limiting embodiment, at least one of the latch connectors 120a, 120b is disposed at the second section 42 or the base 100 of the pet travel vehicle 20. It should be understood that embodiments in which the latch connector is disposed at another suitable location around the pet travel vehicle 20 are also within the scope of the present disclosure. Additionally, although the latch connectors 120a, 120b are shown as being positioned adjacent to the rear portion 28 of the pet travel vehicle 20, in other embodiments, one or more of the latch connectors 120a, 120b can be disposed on the other side of the pet travel vehicle 20, such as on the right side 32, the left side 30, or the front portion 26 of the pet travel vehicle.

[0119] In one embodiment, the latch connector or latch connectors 120a, 120b can be transformed between a locked configuration and an unlocked configuration. In the locked configuration, the latching members of the latch connectors 120a, 120b (see Figure 10A and 10B ) are closed or extended, and in the unlocked configuration, the latching members of the latch connectors 120a, 120b are open or retracted (not shown in the figures) and can thus be separated from the vehicle seat anchor. The latch release mechanism 130 that can be used to transform at least one of the latch connectors 120a, 120b to the unlocked configuration can include a release actuator 132, which is disposed, for example, at a location remote from at least one of the latch connectors 120a, 120b. As Figure 9A and 9B shown, the pet travel vehicle 20 can have a latch release mechanism 130 that includes a release actuator 132 and at least one linkage or transmitter 134 that operably couples the release actuator 132 to at least one of the latch connectors 120a, 120b. Although the release actuator 132 is shown in Figure 9A and9B is shown as being disposed at the second section 42, such as on the outer surface of the base 100, but it should be understood that the release actuator 132 can be located at any suitable position around the pet travel vehicle 20 that is accessible to the user, including at a position around the first section 40, for example.

[0120] In embodiments that include a plurality of latch connectors 120a, 120b, a plurality of corresponding transmitters 134 can be operatively coupled to a single release actuator 132. As shown, a first transmitter 134a forms a linkage between the first latch connector 120a and the release actuator 132 and operatively couples the first latch connector to the release actuator, and a second transmitter 134b forms a linkage between the second latch connector 120b and the release actuator 132 and operatively couples the second latch connector to the release actuator. However, embodiments in which each transmitter 134a, 134b is operatively connected to a separate actuator are also within the scope of the present disclosure. It should be understood that the transmitters can be hidden within (or beneath) the hardware of the pet travel vehicle (e.g., hidden within or beneath the frame 44 and / or the base 100 such that the transmitters are not visible from the outside of the pet travel vehicle 20). In one embodiment, at least one of the transmitters 134a, 134b can be at least partially routed through the base, such as routed between the upper bracket 104 and the lower bracket 102.

[0121] In response to the operation of the release actuator 132, force can be transmitted to the latch connectors 120a, 120b via the transmitters 134a, 134b, respectively, such that the latch connectors 120a, 120b are opened or unlocked for detachment from the vehicle seat anchor. Although at least one of the transmitters 134a, 134b is described as providing a mechanical connection, in other embodiments, the transmitters 134a, 134b can provide an electrical connection to the latch connectors. For example, the transmitters 134a, 134b can be one or more wires that are configured to transmit an electrical or electronic signal to an auxiliary actuator (not shown) within the latch connector to release the latch connector. In an alternative embodiment, the transmitters 134a, 134b can represent a wireless signal between the release actuator 132 and an auxiliary actuator (not shown) for the latch connectors 120a, 120b.

[0122] At least one of the latch connectors 120a, 120b can be in a first retracted or stowed position ( Figure 8B ) and a second deployed or extended position ( Figure 2B , 8A) move between, in the first retracted or stowed position, at least one latch connector 120a, 120b is not connectable to a vehicle seat anchor, and in the second deployed or extended position, at least one latch connector 120a, 120b projects from the pet travel carrier 20 for connection to a vehicle seat anchor. A cavity 150 may be formed within the pet travel carrier 20, such as within the base 100 of the pet travel carrier 20, and in one embodiment, at least one latch connector 120a, 120b may be positioned within the cavity 150 when in the stowed position. As shown, the cavity 150 may be formed at the bottom surface 22 of the second section 42 of the pet travel carrier 20. However, embodiments in which the cavity 150 for receiving at least one latch connector 120a, 120b is arranged at another location around the second section 42 are also within the scope of the present disclosure.

[0123] At least one latch connector 120a, 120b may be regarded as a "rigid latch" because the latch connector is not mounted to the pet travel carrier 20 by a flexible structure (e.g., a strap). Additionally, when at least one rigid latch connector 120a, 120b is deployed, the latch connector 120a, 120b extends a fixed distance from the pet travel carrier 20. In this way, when the pet travel carrier 20 is installed in a vehicle and connected to at least one vehicle seat anchor, any relative movement between the pet travel carrier 20 and the vehicle seat is minimized or eliminated.

[0124] Various types of movement of the latch connectors 120a, 120b during transformation between the stowed position and the deployed position are covered herein. In Figure 8A and 8B In the non-limiting embodiment of the pet travel carrier 20 shown, at least one latch connector 120a, 120b may rotate relative to the pet travel carrier 20 about an axis. For example, the first latch connector 120a and the second latch connector 120b may be rotatably mounted at the bottom 22 of the pet travel carrier 20, such as within the cavity 150 near its rear. The latch connectors 120a, 120b may pivot independently about respective axes. In embodiments in which multiple latch connectors 120a, 120b may move independently between the stowed position and the deployed position, the latch connectors 120a, 120b may rotate about the same axis or different axes (e.g., axes that are parallel to each other but offset in orientation from each other or axes that are arranged at non-parallel angles relative to each other). Alternatively, each of the multiple latch connectors 120a, 120b may move between the stowed position and the deployed position in a different manner.

[0125] In other embodiments, the first latch connector 120a and the second latch connector 120b are configured to transform consistently between a stowed position and a deployed position, such as by translation or rotation. In the illustrated non-limiting embodiment, the first latch connector 120a and the second latch connector 120b are coaxially mounted, and the axis of rotation Xr of the first latch connector 120a and the second latch connector 120b is oriented generally parallel to the rear portion 28 of the pet travel vehicle 20. In embodiments where multiple latch connectors 120a, 120b move consistently, the latch connectors 120a, 120b may but need not be mechanically coupled to each other to form an integral body. In the illustrated non-limiting embodiment, the first latch connector 120a and the second latch connector 120b may be part of a latch assembly, where the latch connectors 120a, 120b are rotationally fixed relative to each other and, thus, rotate as an integral body about the axis Xr relative to the pet travel vehicle 20.

[0126] Reference is now made to Figures 10A to 10C , which shows an example of a bracket assembly of the latch assembly 160, the latch assembly including a first latch connector 120a and a second latch connector 120b that are coupled to each other and that may move as an integral body. As shown, a hole or opening 162 may be formed in the body of each latch connector 120a, 120b, such as near its first end 164, opposite the end of each latch connector 120a, 120b that includes a snap. A portion of the connecting member 166, such as its end, may be received within each hole 162. In one embodiment, the connecting member 166 extends through and beyond the hole 162 formed in each latch connector 120a, 120b. In the illustrated non-limiting embodiment, the connecting member 166 is a cylindrical tube. However, it should be understood that a connecting member 166 having another suitable configuration is also within the scope of the present disclosure. When the latch assembly 160 is mounted to the pet travel vehicle 20, the first latch connector 120a, the second latch connector 120b, and the connecting member 166 move consistently between a stowed position and a deployed position. For example, the first latch connector 120a and the second latch connector 120b may rotate about the axis together with the connecting member 166.

[0127] The cover 170 can be positioned around the exterior of the connecting member 166 and is used to mount the latch assembly 160 around the pet travel vehicle 20. As shown, the connecting member 166 can be movably coupled to the cover 170. In the illustrated non - limiting embodiment, the cover 170 is an assembly formed by joining a first or front cover 172 and a second or rear cover 174 to define a hollow interior within which the connecting member 166 can be received; however, embodiments in which the cover 170 is a single body or alternatively formed by connecting more than two parts are also within the scope of the present disclosure. In the illustrated non - limiting embodiment, the axial length of the cover 170 is less than the axial length of the connecting member 166. In such embodiments, the cover 170 can be designed to have an axial length that is approximately equal to or shorter than the distance between the inward - facing surfaces of the corresponding latch connectors 120a, 120b. Thus, the first latch connector 120a is positioned adjacent to the first end of the cover 170, and the second latch connector 120b is positioned adjacent to the second end of the cover 170.

[0128] In one embodiment, the cover 170 includes at least one engagement feature 176, such as a flange that extends radially outward from the cover over a portion of the axial length of the cover 170. As will be described in more detail below, one or more engagement features 176 can engage corresponding portions of the second section 42 of the pet travel vehicle 20 to at least partially connect or mount the latch assembly 160 to the pet travel vehicle 20.

[0129] Continuing to refer Figures 10A to 10C And further referring Figures 11 to 13C , in one embodiment, the cover 170 includes at least one opening or passage 180 through which transmitters associated with the latches of the latch connectors 120a, 120b, such as transmitters 134a, 134b, can extend. In one embodiment, the cover 170 includes a first passage 180a within which the transmitter 134a associated with the first latch connector 120a can be received, and a second passage 180b within which the transmitter 134b for the second latch connector 120b can be received. Although each passage 180a, 180b is shown as being disposed near the ends of the cover 170, it should be understood that in other embodiments, one or more of the passages 180a, 180b can be located at any suitable axial position. When the cover 170 is mounted around the second section 42 of the pet travel vehicle 20, as Figure 12 shown therein, at least one of the passages 180a, 180b can communicate with a corresponding slot 182 formed in the bottom 22 or lower bracket 102 of the second section 42, thereby providing a path for the transmitter 134b to extend into the interior of the second section 42.

[0130] Figures 13A to 13CShows the channel 180b and the transmitter 134b disposed therein when the latch assembly 160 is transformed from the stowed position ( Figure 13A ) to the deployed position ( Figure 13C ). As shown in the cross-sectional view, the channel 180b for receiving the transmitter 134b can surround at least a portion of the inner perimeter of the cover 170. For example, when the latch connectors 120a, 120b are in the stowed position, the transmitters 134, 134b can surround more than 180 degrees about the axes of the latch connectors 120a, 120b. In one embodiment, the ends of the channels 180a, 180b can be defined by a portion of the latch connectors 120a, 120b. Thus, when the latch connectors 120a, 120b are moved relative to the cover 170 toward the deployed position, the channels 180a, 180b surround about the axes, and thus the lengths of the transmitters 134, 134b within the channels 180a, 180b are reduced. When the latch connectors 120a, 120b are in the deployed position, the surround of the channels 180a, 180b can extend about 90 degrees or less about the axes of the latch connectors 120a, 120b. This reduced surround of the channels 180a, 180b positions the transmitters 134, 134b to have a straight path, resulting in their smooth operation while also maintaining full coverage of the transmitters 134, 134b.

[0131] The movement of the one or more rigid latch connectors 120a, 120b can be manually performed by an operator. In such embodiments, a latch deployment mechanism operatively coupled to at least one latch connector can be used to unlock one or more latch connectors from the stowed position in response to an input from a user. Alternatively, the pet travel vehicle 20 can include a latch deployment mechanism 200 ( Figures 15 to 16C ) that can be used to automatically transform at least one latch connector 120a, 120b from the stowed position to the deployed position in response to an input from a user. Examples of this latch deployment mechanism 200 will be described in more detail below.

[0132] In embodiments where the latch deployment mechanism 200 unlocks one or more latch connectors 120a, 120b from a stowed position, the latch connectors 120a, 120b may or may not be automatically biased toward the deployed position. In cases where the latch connectors 120a, 120b are not biased toward the deployed position, it may be necessary for a user to manually apply a force to the latch assembly 160 to move the latch connectors 120a, 120b to the deployed position. In embodiments where the latch connectors 120a, 120b are not biased to the deployed position, in order to hold the latch connectors 120a, 120b in the deployed position, the latch connectors 120a, 120b may have magnets 190 operatively coupled thereto. The magnets 190 may be disposed at an outer surface of the latch connectors 120a, 120b, as shown, or alternatively, may be embedded within the body of the latch connectors 120a, 120b. In such embodiments, corresponding magnetic components 192, such as steel plates, are positioned at a portion of the pet travel vehicle 20 adjacent to the latch connectors 120a, 120b, such as at the lower bracket 102 of the base 100. When the latch assembly 160 moves to the deployed position, the magnetic field of the magnets 190 will interact with the induced magnetic field in the magnetic components 192 to couple the latch connectors 120a, 120b to the magnets. Applying a force greater than the attractive force between the magnets 190 and the magnetic components 192 will separate the magnets 190 from the magnetic components 192, thereby allowing the latch connectors 120a, 120b to move to the stowed position.

[0133] Reference Figures 15 to 16C , an example of a latch deployment mechanism 200 is shown that can be used to unlock at least one latch connector 120a, 120b from a stowed position and, in some embodiments, automatically move at least one latch connector 120a, 120b from the stowed position to the deployed position relative to the pet travel vehicle 20. As shown, the latch deployment mechanism 200 may be embedded within a portion of the base 100 of the pet travel vehicle 20, such as between the upper bracket 102 and the lower bracket 104. The latch deployment mechanism 200 includes a deployment actuator 202 and a deployment assembly 204 that is operatively coupled to at least one latch connector 120a, 120b and operatively coupled to the deployment actuator 202. The configuration of the deployment assembly 204 may depend on the type of movement required of the latch connectors 120a, 120b between the stowed position and the deployed position.

[0134] In the illustrated non-limiting embodiment, the latch connectors 120a and 120b may rotate about a common axis as described above and shown in Figure 8A and 8B as shown in Figures 15 to 16CAs shown, the deployment assembly 204 may include a latch slider 206. The latch slider 206 may be movably mounted, for example, along a first track and generally adjacent to the latch connectors 120a, 120b, the first track being defined by one or more ribs or guides 208 extending from the surface of the base 100. In some embodiments, one or more of the upper bracket 102 and the lower bracket 104 of the base 100 have features 208 formed therein to define a track along which the latch slider 206 may move. Latch engagement features 210 (see Figures 16A to 16C ), such as ribs, may protrude from the surface of the latch slider 206 that is closest to the latch connectors 120a, 120b. In one embodiment, a latch biasing mechanism 212, such as a helical spring, is associated with the latch slider 206. The biasing force of the latch biasing mechanism 212 may be used to bias the latch slider 206 toward and into engagement with at least one of the latch connectors 120a, 120b in the stowed position.

[0135] The connection member 214 operably couples the deployment actuator 202 to the latch slider 206. The connection member 214 may be in a slotted engagement with both the deployment actuator 202 and the latch slider 206. In the non-limiting embodiment shown, a slot 216 formed in the deployment actuator 202 engages a pin 218, such as formed at a first end of the connection member 214. This slot 216 is arranged at a non-parallel angle with respect to the movement axis of the deployment actuator 202. Similarly, a slot 220 formed in the latch slider 206 and engaging a pin 222 (such as formed at a second opposite end of the connection member 214) is arranged at a non-parallel angle with respect to the axis of the track associated with the latch slider 206. Thus, when a force is applied to the deployment actuator 202, such as represented by F1 ( Figure 16A ), the deployment actuator 202 moves relative to the base 100 of the pet travel carrier 20, for example, translates, to the Figure 16B position shown. This translation causes the connection member 214 to translate in a direction toward the deployment actuator 202 via the orientation of the slot 216. When the pin 222 of the connection member 214 translates within the slot 220 formed in the latch slider 206, the engagement between the pin 222 and the angled slot 220 causes the latch slider 206 to translate along its track away from the adjacent latch connectors 120a, 120b. In one embodiment, the latch slider 206 may be configured to translate in the same direction as the deployment actuator 202 during operation. When the latch slider 206 translates, the latch engagement features 210 of the latch slider 206 disengage from the latch connectors 120a, 120b. Thus, in the translated position, the latch slider 206 no longer locks or restricts movement of the latch connectors 120a, 120b from the stowed position.

[0136] In some embodiments, at least one biasing mechanism (not shown in the figures), such as a torsion spring, is operatively coupled to the latch connectors 120a, 120b. The biasing force of the biasing mechanism can be used to bias the latch connectors 120a, 120b towards the deployed position. In such embodiments, the separation of the latch engagement features 210 of the latch slider 206 from the latch connectors 120a, 120b not only unlocks the latch connectors 120a, 120b, but also causes the latch connectors 120a, 120b to automatically move to the deployed position via the biasing mechanism. It should be understood that although the latch deployment mechanism 200 is shown and described herein with respect to a single latch slider 206, embodiments are also contemplated herein that include latch sliders associated with each respective latch connector 120a, 120b. In such embodiments, a single deployment actuator 202 can be operatively coupled to each latch slider 206, or alternatively, each latch slider 206 can be operated via a separate deployment actuator.

[0137] A release actuator associated with the snap for locking and unlocking the latch connectors 120a, 120b, such as release actuator 132, and a deployment actuator associated with unlocking the position and / or movement of the latch connectors 120a, 120b relative to the pet travel carrier 20, such as deployment mechanism 200, are described herein as separate actuators. However, in some embodiments, a single actuator can operate as both a release actuator and a deployment actuator. In such embodiments, the operation of the actuator can simultaneously unlock the snap of the latch connectors 120a, 120b and unlock and / or deploy the latch connectors 120a, 120b relative to the pet travel carrier 20. However, embodiments are also contemplated herein where different operations of the same actuator are required to perform the unlocking of the snap and the unlocking and / or deployment of the latch connectors 120a, 120b relative to the pet travel carrier 20. In such embodiments, applying a force to the actuator in a first direction can perform the unlocking of the snap of the latch connectors 120a, 120b, and applying another force to the actuator in the first direction, or alternatively in a second opposite direction, can unlock and / or deploy the latch connectors relative to the pet travel carrier 20. Additionally, it should be understood that in any of the actuator embodiments described herein, the actuator can include a force multiplier.

[0138] Reference Figure 17 , an example of a release assembly and a deployment assembly operatively coupled to the same actuator is shown. As shown, the latch deployment mechanism 300 is with respect to Figures 15 to 16CThe described latch deployment mechanism 200 is substantially the same. Accordingly, corresponding components are similarly numbered. In a non-limiting embodiment, the release assembly 330 includes a first release link or cable 332a operatively coupled to the first latch connector 120a, and a second release link or cable 332b operatively coupled to the second latch connector 120b. The first release link 332a and the second release link 332b may be directly or indirectly coupled to the deployment mechanism or actuator 302. For example, the first release link 332a may be coupled to a first toggle or cable 334a, and the second release link 332b may be coupled to a second toggle or cable 334b. The first cable 334a and the second cable 334b may be pivotally mounted to the base 100 at a location adjacent to the actuator 302.

[0139] Movement of the actuator 302 causes the first cable 334a and the second cable 334b to pivot about their respective axes to transmit force to the release links 332a, 332b. In the illustrated non-limiting embodiment, the cables 334a, 334b are mounted within the movement path of the actuator 302. For example, at least one engagement feature 336 of the actuator 302 may be configured to engage a portion of each cable 334a, 334b as the actuator 302 moves. In the illustrated embodiment, this engagement causes rotation of the cables 334a, 334b; however, it should be understood that any suitable interface between the actuator 302 and an intermediate component such as the cables 334a, 334b is contemplated herein. Thus, operation of the actuator, such as by applying a pulling force to the actuator 302 (shown at F2), not only operates the latch deployment mechanism 300 as previously described, but also operates the release mechanism such that the latching of at least one latch connector 120a, 120b operatively coupled to the release mechanism is unlocked.

[0140] As previously described, the latch assembly 160 may move, for example, about or along an axis between a stowed position and a deployed position in a first direction. Now referring Figure 18A and 18B , in one embodiment, the latch assembly 160 may also move, for example, about or along the same axis or a different axis in a second direction relative to the pet travel carrier 20. The latch assembly 160 may remain in the deployed position or the stowed position during movement in the second direction. Additionally, it should be appreciated that the latch assembly 160 may move between the stowed position and the deployed position along a connector path in the second direction at each position of the latch assembly 160. However, it should be understood that embodiments in which the orientation of the latch assembly 160 remains fixed relative to the base 100 but may move in at least one direction, such as laterally relative to the base 100, are also within the scope of the present disclosure.

[0141] InFigures 18A to 18B In the non-limiting embodiment shown, the latch assembly 160 can not only rotate between a stowed position and a deployed position about an axis Xr parallel to the rear portion 28 of the pet travel vehicle, but can also translate along the axis of rotation Xr between a first lateral position and a second lateral position. In Figure 18A the first lateral position shown, the latch assembly 160 can be positioned closer to the left side 30 of the pet travel vehicle 20 than to the right side 32 of the pet travel vehicle 20, and in Figure 18B the second lateral position shown, the latch assembly 160 can be positioned closer to the right side 32 than to the left side 30 of the pet travel vehicle 20. In one embodiment, a flange 176 extending from a cover 170 about a connector of the latch assembly 160 is connected to a second section 42 of the pet travel vehicle 20 via a slotted engagement. Although the elongated slot 400 is shown as being formed in the flange 176 and a pin 402 extending from the second section 42 can be received in the slot 400, embodiments in which the slot 400 is formed in the second section 42 of the pet travel vehicle 20 and the pin 402 extending from the flange 176 is received therein are also within the scope of the present disclosure. Thus, for example, the configuration of the slot 400 formed in the flange 176 defines the connector path of the latch assembly 160 in a second direction.

[0142] Refer to Figures 19 to 21B, an example of a latch position lock 420 is shown, which can be used to lock the latch assembly 160 at a position along the connector path in the second direction, such as a translation position along the axis Xr. The latch position lock 420 includes a housing 422 and at least one engaging member 424 protruding from the housing 422. The latch position lock 420 can be movably mounted to the pet travel carrier 20 at a position adjacent to the cover 170 of the latch assembly and, in some embodiments, in front of the cover. In the illustrated non-limiting embodiment, the surface of the cover 170 opposite, for example, the flange 176, such as the surface of the rear cover 174, has one or more receiving features 426, such as a pawl or a groove formed therein. At least one engaging member 424 of the latch position lock 420 can be received within at least one corresponding receiving feature 426 formed in the cover 170, or can engage with the at least one corresponding receiving feature. The profile of the receiving feature 426 can be complementary to the profile of the at least one engaging member 424. The total number of receiving features 426 is greater than the total number of engaging members 424 of the housing 422, and when the latch assembly 160 is centered relative to the base 100, at least one receiving feature and, in some embodiments, a plurality of receiving features, are located outside the at least one engaging member 424 in both directions. In some embodiments, the latch position lock 420 is biased by a biasing mechanism 428, such as a helical spring, to engage with the groove 426 formed in the cover 170 to lock the latch assembly 160 in a lateral position relative to the pet travel carrier 20.

[0143] In Figure 21B the embodiment best shown in, the slot 430 formed in the housing 422 is angularly oriented relative to the axis Xr and the adjacent surface of the cover 170. In the illustrated non-limiting embodiment, the slot 430 is substantially perpendicular to the surface of the cover 170; however, embodiments in which the slot 430 has another orientation relative to the surface of the cover 170. For example, a pin 432 extending from the base 100 is disposed within the slot 430. Thus, the pin 432 and the slot 430 jointly define the connector path of the housing 422 relative to the base 100.

[0144] To adjust the lateral position of the latch assembly 160, the user applies a force to the housing 422 in a direction opposite to the biasing force of the biasing mechanism 428. This force moves the housing 422 along this movement path defined by the slot 430, such that the engaging member 424 moves out of engagement with the receiving feature 426 formed in the cover 170. Once disengaged, the latch assembly 160 can be moved relative to the base 100. When the latch assembly 160 is in the desired position, the force is removed from the housing 422. Accordingly, the biasing mechanism 428 biases the engaging member 424 of the housing 422 into the corresponding receiving feature 426 to lock the latch assembly 160 in place relative to the latch position lock 420. The engagement between the engaging member 424 and the receiving feature 426 can provide the user with audible, visual, and / or tactile feedback to indicate that the latch assembly 160 is locked in place.

[0145] Reference is now made Figures 22 to 23D , to another embodiment of a pet travel vehicle 500. The pet travel vehicle 500 can have an upper section 502 that includes a frame 504 and a lower section 506 that includes a base 508 as previously described herein. In the illustrated non-limiting embodiment, the pet travel vehicle 500 includes a reinforcement assembly 510 that can be used to attach the pet travel vehicle 500 to a vehicle seat 501 ( Figure 22 ). The reinforcement assembly 510 includes at least one reinforcement member configured to wrap around one or more sides of the pet travel vehicle 500. In the illustrated non-limiting embodiment shown in the figures, the reinforcement assembly 510 includes a first reinforcement member 512a and a second reinforcement member 512b; however, embodiments having a single reinforcement member or alternatively having more than two reinforcement members are also contemplated herein. In one embodiment, the reinforcement members 512a, 512b are formed of, for example, a nylon webbing that has a relatively high tensile strength relative to other components of the pet travel vehicle 500. In embodiments that include multiple reinforcement members, the reinforcement members 512a, 512b can be positioned independently, or alternatively, can be connected together by one or more intermediate members 516.

[0146] In the illustrated non-limiting embodiment, at least one of the reinforcement members 512a, 512b can wrap around the front 518 and the top 520 of the pet travel vehicle 500. However, in other embodiments, at least one of the reinforcement members 512a, 512b can be configured to wrap around the exterior of the frame 44 to substantially surround the upper section 502 of the pet travel vehicle 500 (see Figure 22 ). In some embodiments in which one or more of the reinforcement members 512a, 512b are not continuous loops, as Figures 23A to 23DAs shown, one or more reinforcement members 512a, 512b may extend beyond the top 520 of the pet travel vehicle 500 to engage a portion of an adjacent vehicle seat 501, such as the backrest of the vehicle seat 501. In such embodiments, corresponding tethers 514a, 514b that may be connected to an anchor or other interface on the vehicle seat may be mounted at or near a first end of at least one of the reinforcement members 512a, 512b. Thus, the reinforcement assembly 510 may provide crash safety performance by transmitting crash forces from the vehicle anchor around at least a portion of the body of the pet travel vehicle 500 while minimizing any point loads and preventing the pet travel vehicle 500 from folding.

[0147] As shown, the reinforcement members 512a, 512b may be routed between an upper bracket (not shown in the figure) of the base 508 and the lower bracket 522. The upper bracket, the lower bracket 522, or an interface therebetween may have one or more slots formed therein, through which the reinforcement members 512a, 512b are routed into the interior of the base. In one embodiment, a portion of one or more of the reinforcement members 512a, 512b may be attached or fastened to a portion of the base 508, such as at an anchor point. As used herein, the term "anchor point" is intended to define a location where a reinforcement member, such as either of the reinforcement members 512a, 512b, is mechanically or chemically connected to the pet travel vehicle 500. The total number of anchor points and their corresponding locations may depend on the configuration of the reinforcement members and their positioning around the pet travel vehicle.

[0148] In the illustrated non-limiting embodiment, each of the reinforcement members 512a, 512b has an anchor point disposed at its second opposite ends 524a, 524b. The ends 524a, 524b of the reinforcement members 512a, 512b may be mechanically coupled to the base 508, such as may be mechanically coupled to the lower bracket 522 of the base 508 or a corresponding component located at the lower bracket 522. In Figure 19 a non-limiting embodiment, a rigid member 526, such as a structural metal plate, may be disposed at and / or mounted to the base 508 (such as the lower bracket 522), and the ends 524a, 524b of the reinforcement members 512a, 512b may be anchored to the rigid member 526. Although the reinforcement members 512a, 512b are described herein as having a first end and a second end, it should be understood that embodiments in which the reinforcement members 512a, 512b are configured as continuous loops are also contemplated herein. In such embodiments, each loop may be configured to pass through an anchor member disposed at the bottom of the rigid member 526. Similarly, the tethers 514a, 514b may be fixedly or movably connected to each continuous loop.

[0149] ReferenceFigure 24 , one or both of the upper bracket and the lower bracket 522 may have guides or support ribs 527 to properly position the reinforcing members 512a, 512b and their ends 524a, 524b disposed within the base 508. The inclusion of the guides or ribs 527 may also provide additional strength to the lower bracket 522.

[0150] In one embodiment, at least one of the reinforcing members 512a, 512b may be attached to the first frame member 528 at an anchoring point, and the first frame member is disposed at the front portion 518 of the pet travel vehicle 500. When the pet travel vehicle 500 is in an extended configuration, anchoring the reinforcing members 512a, 512b may enable the application of the required tension to the reinforcing members 512a, 512b. Additionally, in such embodiments, the reinforcing members 512a, 512b will be configured to fold relative to the base 508 together with the first frame member 528.

[0151] As previously described, a soft good (not shown in the figures) that can be positioned around the frame 504 may be provided to enclose the pet travel vehicle 500 and provide various features such as ventilation, visibility, UV protection, etc. In one embodiment, the soft good may enclose all or at least a portion of the reinforcing assembly 510. For example, the soft good may extend between the upper bracket (not shown in the figures) and the lower bracket 522. In such embodiments, attachment features of the upper bracket, such as ribs or feet, may extend through the soft good to engage the lower bracket 522. The rigid connection between the upper bracket and the lower bracket 522 creates the entire base 508.

[0152] Continuing to refer Figures 23A to 24 And further referring Figures 25 to 27 , in one embodiment, the pet travel vehicle 500 includes a latch assembly 530, which is substantially the same as the latch assembly 160 described previously herein, for example. As shown, the latch assembly 530 may be coupled to a portion of the base 508 via at least one tension member 532 (such as a length of webbing). Although two tension members 532a, 532b are shown in the figures, it should be understood that embodiments including only a single tension member or alternatively including more than two tension members are covered herein.

[0153] In one embodiment, a first portion of each of the first tension member 532a and the second tension member 532b is connected to the latch assembly 530, such as by surrounding the latch assembly 530. A second portion of each tension member 532a, 532b may be connected to corresponding strap connectors 534a, 534b located at the base 508. The tension members 532a, 532b may be configured as continuous loops, or alternatively, may be straps with one or both ends disposed at the corresponding strap connectors 534a, 534b. As shown, the second portions of the tension members 512a, 512b may pass through a first opening of the strap connectors 534a, 534b from the bottom of the rigid member 526 and may further extend back to the bottom of the rigid member 526 through a second opening of the strap connectors 534a, 534b from the top of the rigid member 526. In such embodiments, the first portions of the tension members 512a, 512b extend from the bottom of the rigid member 526. However, embodiments are also contemplated herein where the first portions of the tension members 532a, 532b extend from the top of the rigid member 526.

[0154] In the illustrated non - limiting embodiment, the tension members 532a, 532b are configured to surround the latch assembly 530, such as around the cover 538 of the latch assembly 530, at a position between the first latch connector 536a and the second latch connector 536b. In such embodiments, the strap connectors 534a, 534b may be located at the base 508, at a position between the anchor points of the ends 524a, 524b of the reinforcement members 512a, 512b. For example, both the anchor points of the ends 524a, 524b of the reinforcement members 512a, 512b and the strap connectors 534a, 534b may be located at the rigid member 526. However, in other embodiments, at least one of the tension members 532a, 532b may be located between the outward - facing surfaces 540a, 540b of the latch connectors 536a, 536b and the adjacent surface of the base 508. In such embodiments, the tension members 532a, 532b may be configured to surround the connecting member 542 of the latch assembly 530 rather than the cover 538. In such embodiments, the strap connectors 534a, 534b may also be located laterally outside of the ends 524a, 524b of the reinforcement members 512a, 512b relative to the base 508. As Figure 26B shown, the connecting member 542 may span the entire width of the cavity 531, and the latch connectors 536a, 536b may be retracted and configured to be received within the cavity. In some embodiments, the ends of the connecting member 542 may be received within corresponding compartments or recesses 533 formed at the base 508 and may be installed in the compartments or recesses via end caps 543 fastened to the base at the recesses 533.

[0155] In one embodiment, to properly position with respect to the base 508 a rigid member 526 that forms an anchor point or connection member for at least one of the reinforcement members 512a, 512b and the tension members 532a, 532b, the base includes one or more positioning features 544, such as protrusions or ridges. The structural plate may have corresponding or complementary receiving features, such as pawls or grooves that cooperate with the positioning features to position the rigid member 526. Although the positioning features are shown as received within the receiving features 546, in other embodiments, the features may be arranged in any other suitable configuration, such as an overlapping arrangement that restricts movement of the rigid member 526 relative to the base 508 in at least one direction. In one embodiment, the positioning feature 544 snaps into engagement with the receiving feature 546 of the rigid member 526.

[0156] Reference Figure 27 , in one embodiment, the cover 550 may be positioned in an overlapping arrangement with at least a portion of the latch assembly 530. The cover 550 may alternatively or additionally be positioned in an overlapping arrangement with the rigid member 526. The cover 550 may be permanently or removably attached to an adjacent portion of the base 508, such as a portion that protrudes or deviates from the cavity 531. In embodiments where the cover 550 is removably connected to the base 508, the connection mechanism may be disposed at the interface between at least one adjacent surface of the cover 550 and the base 508. The connection mechanism may include a first portion and a complementary second portion, one of which is disposed at the cover 550 and the other is disposed at the base 508. In one embodiment, the connection mechanism forms a snap-fit engagement between the cover 550 and the base 508. However, embodiments including different types of connection mechanisms (such as fasteners, magnets, or hook-and-loop fasteners) are also within the scope of the present disclosure.

[0157] The term "about" is intended to encompass the degree of error associated with the measurement of a particular quantity based on the available equipment at the time of filing the application.

[0158] The terms used herein are for the purpose of describing particular embodiments only and are not intended to limit the present disclosure. As used herein, unless the context clearly dictates otherwise, the singular forms "a / an" and "the" are intended to include the plural forms as well. It should be further understood that the terms "comprises and / or comprising," when used in this specification, specify the presence of the stated features, integers, steps, operations, elements, and / or components, but do not preclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, integers, steps, operations, elements, components, and / or groups thereof.

[0159] Although the present disclosure has been described with reference to one or more exemplary embodiments, those skilled in the art will understand that various changes can be made and elements of the present disclosure can be replaced with equivalents without departing from the scope of the present disclosure. Additionally, many modifications can be made to adapt a particular situation or material to the teachings of the present disclosure without departing from the basic scope thereof. Accordingly, it is intended that the present disclosure not be limited to the particular embodiments disclosed as the best mode contemplated for carrying out the present disclosure, but that the present disclosure will include all embodiments falling within the scope of the claims.

Claims

1. A vehicle for pet travel, for accommodating an animal on a vehicle seat including at least one vehicle seat anchor, wherein, The pet travel vehicle includes: a main body that defines a housing having an interior therein capable of receiving an animal; and at least one rigid latch connector mounted to the main body, the at least one rigid latch connector being movable relative to the main body along a connector path, wherein the at least one rigid latch connector is capable of connecting to the at least one vehicle seat anchor at any position along the connector path.

2. The pet travel vehicle according to claim 1, wherein the at least one rigid latch connector is capable of translating along the connector path.

3. The pet travel vehicle according to claim 1, wherein the main body has a front side, a rear side, a left side, and a right side, and the connector path is oriented parallel to at least one of the front and the rear.

4. The pet travel vehicle according to claim 1, further comprising a latch position lock that can be used to lock the at least one rigid latch connector along the connector path.

5. The pet travel vehicle according to claim 4, wherein the latch position lock and the at least one rigid latch connector are arranged on the same side of the main body.

6. The pet travel vehicle according to claim 1, wherein the main body further comprises a lower section having a rigid member and a reinforcement assembly, the reinforcement assembly including at least one reinforcement member connected to the rigid member.

7. The pet travel vehicle according to claim 6, wherein the main body further comprises an upper section positioned vertically above the lower section, and the at least one reinforcement member extends around one or more sides of the main body.

8. The pet travel vehicle according to claim 7, wherein the at least one reinforcement member extends around the front of the main body and the top of the main body.

9. The pet travel vehicle according to claim 8, wherein the at least one reinforcement member is attached to the front of the main body at an anchor point.

10. The pet travel vehicle according to claim 7, wherein the at least one reinforcement member surrounds the upper section.

11. The pet travel vehicle according to claim 1, further comprising a release mechanism operatively coupled to the at least one rigid latch connector to unlock the at least one rigid latch connector.

12. The pet travel vehicle according to claim 11, wherein the release mechanism further comprises: a release actuator; and at least one transmitter that operatively connects the at least one rigid latch connector to the release actuator.

13. The pet travel vehicle according to claim 12, wherein the release actuator and the at least one rigid latch connector are arranged on opposite sides of the main body.

14. The pet travel vehicle according to claim 12, wherein the release actuator is arranged at the front of the main body.

15. The pet travel vehicle according to claim 1, wherein the at least one rigid latch connector is capable of being transformed between a retracted position and a deployed position relative to the body, and when in the retracted position, the at least one rigid latch connector can be received within a cavity formed in the body.

16. The pet travel vehicle according to claim 15, wherein the at least one rigid latch connector is capable of rotating about an axis between the retracted position and the deployed position.

17. The pet travel vehicle according to claim 16, wherein the connector path is parallel to the axis of the at least one rigid latch connector.

18. The pet travel vehicle according to claim 15, further comprising at least one biasing mechanism operatively coupled to the at least one rigid latch connector to bias the at least one rigid latch connector to the deployed position.

19. The pet travel vehicle according to claim 15, wherein the body includes a frame, a containment material at least partially surrounding the frame, and a base, and the frame is capable of being connected to the base.

20. The pet travel vehicle according to claim 19, wherein the cavity is formed in the base.

21. The pet travel vehicle according to claim 15, further comprising a latch deployment mechanism capable of automatically transforming the at least one rigid latch connector from the retracted position to the deployed position in response to an input.

22. The pet travel vehicle according to claim 15, wherein the at least one rigid latch connector includes a first rigid latch connector and a second rigid latch connector.

23. The pet travel vehicle according to claim 22, wherein the body includes a base, and the first rigid latch connector and the second rigid latch connector are part of a latch assembly that further includes: a cover fixedly mounted to the base; and a connecting member operatively coupled to both the first rigid latch connector and the second rigid latch connector and disposed within the interior of the cover, the connecting member being capable of rotating with the first rigid latch connector and the second rigid latch connector between the retracted position and the deployed position.

24. The pet travel vehicle according to claim 23, wherein the pet travel vehicle further includes at least one channel formed in the cover, the at least one channel being configured to direct a transmitter extending from one of the first rigid latch connector and the second rigid latch connector to an actuator.

25. The pet travel vehicle according to claim 24, wherein the at least one channel extends axially through an opening formed in the cover.

26. The pet travel vehicle according to claim 24, wherein the latch assembly is movably mounted to the base, the base having a slot, and the transmitter extends through the slot between the cover and the actuator.

27. The pet travel vehicle according to claim 23, wherein the body further includes a lower section having a rigid member and at least one tension member coupling the latch assembly to the rigid member.

28. The pet travel vehicle according to claim 27, wherein the rigid member is a metal plate.

29. The pet travel vehicle according to claim 27, wherein the at least one tension member is configured as a continuous loop.

30. The pet travel vehicle according to claim 27, wherein the at least one tension member includes a first tension member and a second tension member spaced apart from each other, wherein a first portion of each of the first tension member and the second tension member is coupled to the latch assembly, and a second portion of each of the first tension member and the second tension member is coupled to the rigid member.

31. The pet travel vehicle according to claim 30, wherein the first portions of the first tension member and the second tension member are connected to the latch assembly between the first rigid latch connector and the second rigid latch connector.

32. The pet travel vehicle according to claim 30, wherein the first portions of the first tension member and the second tension member are coupled to a strap connector located at the rigid member.

33. The pet travel vehicle according to claim 32, wherein the first portions of the first tension member and the second tension member extend from the bottom of the rigid member.

34. The pet travel vehicle according to claim 32, wherein the first portions of the first tension member and the second tension member extend from the top of the rigid member.

35. A vehicle for pet travel, used to accommodate an animal on a vehicle seat, wherein, The pet travel vehicle includes: a body defining a housing having an interior therein capable of receiving an animal, the body including a cavity; and at least one rigid latch connector movably mounted to the body, wherein the at least one rigid latch connector is capable of moving relative to the body between a retracted position and a deployed position in a first direction, and is capable of moving relative to the body in a second direction.

36. The pet travel vehicle according to claim 35, wherein the first direction is a rotation about an axis, and the second direction is a translation along the axis.

37. The pet travel vehicle according to claim 35, wherein the first direction is a translation along a first axis, and the second direction is a translation along a second axis, the first axis having an orientation non-parallel to the second axis.

38. A vehicle for pet travel, which is used in a means of transportation, wherein, Comprising: a base; A frame including a first frame member and a second frame member, the frame being transformable between a deployed configuration and a stowed configuration, and in the stowed configuration, the first frame member and the second frame member are folded against the base; A handle for lifting the pet travel carrier, the handle being connected to the first frame member and the second frame member, the handle having a pivot axis and being rotatable about the pivot axis to transform the frame between the deployed configuration and the stowed configuration; And wherein when the frame is transformed between the deployed configuration and the stowed configuration, the handle remains connected to the first frame member and the second frame member.

39. The pet travel carrier according to claim 38, wherein the pivot axis is located at a position spaced apart from both the first frame member and the second frame member.

40. The pet travel carrier according to claim 38, wherein the handle has a first end connected to the first frame member and a second end connected to the second frame member, and the pivot axis is disposed between the first end and the second end.

41. The pet travel carrier according to claim 40, wherein the first end of the handle is rotatably coupled to the first frame member, and the second end of the handle is rotatably coupled to the second frame member.

42. The pet travel carrier according to claim 40, wherein when the frame is in the deployed configuration, the handle has a first orientation relative to the base, and when the frame is in the stowed configuration, the handle has a second orientation relative to the base, the second orientation being opposite to the first orientation.

43. The pet travel carrier according to claim 38, wherein the pivot axis is disposed at a central portion of the handle.

44. The pet travel carrier according to claim 38, further comprising a locking mechanism operatively coupled to the handle, wherein the locking mechanism is configured to restrict rotation of the handle about the pivot axis.

45. The pet travel carrier according to claim 44, wherein the locking mechanism is disposed inside the handle.

46. The pet travel carrier according to claim 44, wherein the locking mechanism further comprises: A protrusion; And A handle lock, wherein the handle lock is capable of engaging with the protrusion to selectively restrict the rotation of the handle about the pivot axis.

47. The pet travel carrier according to claim 46, wherein the handle lock is movable between an engaged position and a disengaged position, in the engaged position, the handle lock is disposed within a movement path of the protrusion about the pivot axis, and in the disengaged position, the handle lock is offset from the movement path of the protrusion about the pivot axis.

48. The pet travel vehicle according to claim 47, wherein the locking mechanism further includes an actuator operatively coupled to the handle lock to move the handle lock from the engaged position to the disengaged position.

49. The pet travel vehicle according to claim 47, wherein the locking mechanism further includes a biasing mechanism operatively coupled to the handle lock to bias the handle lock to the engaged position.

50. The pet travel vehicle according to claim 38, further comprising at least one rigid latch connector coupled to the base, wherein the at least one rigid latch connector is movable between a retracted position within the base and an extended position protruding outside the base.

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