Type I trekking pole and device for dealing with encounters with harmful animals

Abstract

To provide an I-shaped trekking pole that also functions as a pest control device, which is relatively easy to use, can be used for deterrence, intimidation, and maintaining distance, and provides greater peace of mind when equipped. [Solution] The I-shaped trekking pole combined pest control device 10 comprises: a main body 11 of the pest control device that can be used as an I-shaped trekking pole in normal times (A); an extension piercing part 20 that can be used for stabbing at least when encountering a pest (B); a string 30 connected to the extension piercing part 20 that extends the extension piercing part 20 when pulled; a first stopper (99, etc.) that prevents the extension of the extension piercing part 20 in normal times (A); a first switching means (push button 90) that can switch between the enabled and disabled states of the first stopper; and a second stopper (99, etc.) that prevents the extension piercing part 20 from being retracted after it has been extended (B) and used for stabbing.

Description

Technical Field

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[0001] The present invention relates to a device for intimidating animals and preventing approaches and the like, and particularly to a device for dealing with encounters with harmful animals that can be used as a type I trekking pole under normal circumstances.

Background Art

[0002] In view of laws such as the firearms control law, it is generally considered that an effective measure for dealing with harmful animals, particularly encounters with bears, in outdoor activities such as trekking is to equip a means of repelling by spraying. Furthermore, by applying the technology of Patent Document 1 below, it is possible to reduce the burden of carrying more items and also omit the step of taking it out by hand, so it is effective for using a highly urgent repelling device.

[0003] The "repelling device" according to Patent Document 1 includes a pole part (shaft) that assists the walking when walking, a gripping part (grip) provided at one end in the longitudinal direction of the pole part, a container storage part that stores a spray container provided near the gripping part, an operation part that injects the drug in the spray container provided at a predetermined location of the gripping part, and an injection hole through which the drug in the spray container is injected by an operation by the operation part provided in the gripping part or the container storage part. Therefore, while being used as a trekking pole, it is possible to immediately spray and repel when encountering bees or the like. In order to prevent accidental injection, a hard cover may be provided on the operation part or the operator may be alerted by using a conspicuous color.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0004]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0005] However, bear repellent sprays are generally single-use and disposable, and may not be suitable for use depending on various conditions such as wind direction. Also, it would be desirable to test them beforehand (to check whether they can be operated accurately and quickly in an emergency, how to release the safety device, how to aim, how the contents are sprayed, and the effective range to alleviate anxiety), but this is difficult considering the cost, the surrounding environment, and the risk of personal injury. Furthermore, there were concerns about whether the spray contents would remain effective (concerns about the environment and time elapsed during storage), maintenance, proper disposal when replacing, and the anxiety of not checking the operation, so there were indeed some issues, mainly in terms of peace of mind.

[0006] Furthermore, considering the application of the technology described in the above-mentioned literature to repel bears, even assuming careful design with attention to size, structure, and specifications, there are concerns about the risk of malfunction, and I hesitate to use it in a bear spray that is meant to be a one-shot solution. Even if these concerns are alleviated by having multiple units or multiple methods, it is unfortunate that the benefits of reducing the burden of carrying more items and eliminating the step of taking it out are diminished.

[0007] The applicant considers the ability to provide a sense of security to be of paramount importance, and believes that conventional sprays alone are insufficient as a means of solving this problem. In order to solve this problem, if a means to supplement or replace conventional means is to be considered, the following points are required: that it can be tested and practiced repeatedly without burden or consumption, allowing the user to feel confident in its operation and to immediately confirm that it is functioning without malfunction; and that, unlike sprays which are used as a last resort after a bear has approached, it can also be used to deter bears and intimidate them while maintaining distance.

[0008] As described above, the problem that this invention aims to solve is to provide an I-shaped trekking pole that also functions as a pest control device, which is relatively easy to use, can be used for deterrence, intimidation, and maintaining distance, and provides a greater sense of security when equipped. [Means for solving the problem]

[0009] As a means to solve the above problems, the I-shaped trekking pole combined with a pest encounter countermeasure device according to claim 1 is characterized by comprising: a main body of a pest encounter countermeasure device that can be used as an I-shaped trekking pole under normal circumstances, having an opening through which the extension piercing part passes when extending the extension piercing part, and a space at the back of the opening through which the extension piercing part can be stored; an extension piercing part that can be stored in the space and can be used for piercing at least when encountering a pest; a string connected to the extension piercing part that extends the extension piercing part when pulled; a first stopper that normally prevents the extension of the extension piercing part; a first switching means that can switch between an enabled state and an unlocked state of the first stopper; and a second stopper that prevents the extension piercing part from being re-stored even after it has been extended and used for piercing.

[0010] The I-shaped trekking pole combined with a pest control device according to claim 2 is an I-shaped trekking pole combined with a pest control device according to claim 1, characterized in that it comprises a strap for an I-shaped trekking pole connected to the main body via the first stopper, and the cord is connected to the strap and the extension piercing portion.

[0011] The I-type trekking pole combined with a pest control device according to claim 3 is an I-type trekking pole combined with a pest control device according to claim 1 or 2, characterized by comprising a cover that covers the opening through which the extension piercing portion passes when extended. [Effects of the Invention]

[0012] The objective is to provide an I-shaped trekking pole that also functions as a pest control device, which is relatively easy to use, can be used for deterrence, intimidation, and maintaining distance, and provides a greater sense of security when equipped. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0013] [Figure 1]This is a cross-sectional view showing the internal structure of the main body of the I-type trekking pole / wildlife encounter device described in the embodiment. [Figure 2] This is an explanatory diagram showing the internal structure of the main body of the I-type trekking pole / wildlife encounter device described in the embodiment. [Figure 3] This is an explanatory diagram showing the overall outline of the Type I trekking pole / wildlife encounter response device of the embodiment. [Figure 4] This is an explanatory diagram conceptually showing the state of the Type I trekking pole / wildlife encounter response device in its normal use. [Figure 5] This is a conceptual diagram illustrating the state of use of the Type I trekking pole / wildlife encounter response device described in the embodiment. [Figure 6] This is a conceptual diagram illustrating the state of use of the Type I trekking pole / wildlife encounter response device described in the embodiment. [Figure 7] This is a conceptual diagram illustrating the state of use of the Type I trekking pole / wildlife encounter response device described in the embodiment. [Figure 8] This is a conceptual diagram illustrating the state of use of the Type I trekking pole / wildlife encounter response device described in the embodiment. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0014] The embodiments for carrying out the invention will be described in detail below with reference to the drawings. However, the invention is not limited to the embodiments described below.

[0015] Figure 1 is a cross-sectional view showing the internal structure of the main body of the I-type trekking pole / wildlife encounter device according to an embodiment.

[0016] Figure 2 is an explanatory diagram showing the internal structure of the main body of the I-type trekking pole / wildlife encounter device of the embodiment, with a transparent view of the part provided on the flat side that protects the internal structure from dirt, water, etc. If Figure 1 is a front view, then Figure 2 corresponds to a top view.

[0017] When the main body 11 of the pest encounter countermeasure device 10 that doubles as a type I tracking pole is used as a type I tracking pole, it has an opening 12 through which the extension spike part is passed when extending the extension spike part on the upper side (left side in the figure). At the back of this opening 12, there is a space 13 where the extension spike part can be stored. The extension spike part 20 that can be stored in this space 13 and can be used for at least stabbing when encountering pests is shown in the figure in the stored state in Fig. 1(A). Also, it is made of a hard material (it can be the same as the tracking pole main body, such as aluminum or carbon), and the tip 21 is sharpened, so it is suitable for stabbing when encountering pests.

[0018] In addition, the extension spike part 20 may be configured to be able to perform other actions besides stabbing. If it is to be able to cut, attention needs to be paid to safety on that surface and laws and regulations such as the art of cutting. If it is to be able to strike, in addition to the shape, consideration of weight and hardness is also necessary.

[0019] In the figure, the state when encountering pests is shown in Fig. 1(B). By attaching a ring-shaped stopper 29 to the lower end of the extension spike part 20 to increase the thickness, and a ring-shaped stopper 19 provided near the opening 12 through which the extension spike part is passed when extending the extension spike part to increase the constriction, when they collide, it has a configuration that can be said to be a third stopper to prevent the extension spike part from popping out of the main body 11 with too much momentum when the extension spike part is extended. Such a configuration to prevent popping out may also be achieved by making the lower end side of the extension spike part 20 longer, or by configuring thickness or claws instead of the ring.

[0020] One end of the cord 30 is connected to the vicinity of the lower end of the extended piercing portion 20. In this application, "cord" refers to a cord made of fibers, but the material is not limited to this. For example, it could be a nylon rope, a metal wire, or thread. This does not exclude belts or chains from being considered cords, but it should be noted that when using them, considerations such as snagging and entanglement must be taken in addition to strength and cost. Furthermore, to protect the cord 30 from the part it contacts, it is desirable to smooth and curve the area around the contact point, or to attach a roller.

[0021] Because it is connected to the extension piercing portion 20, when the other end of the cord 30 is pulled, the extension piercing portion 20 is extended. This point and the configuration related to the control of extension will be explained.

[0022] The other end of the cord 30 extends through a hole 31 located near the upper end of the main body 11, slightly towards the back, towards the part of the I-shaped trekking pole that the user grips (grip 40 in this embodiment). A strap 41 is located near the grip 40, and the user uses the I-shaped trekking pole by putting their wrist through the loop of the strap from below and then grasping the grip 40 along with the base of the strap. In this embodiment, the end of the strap 41 further towards the base is a metal ring 49, and the hook portion 99 of the push button 90, which will be described later, fits into this ring 49, securely connecting it to the main body 11 and preventing it from coming off even if the user applies force to the strap 41 of the I-shaped trekking pole. It is desirable that the design also accommodates forces applied from the direction in which the I-shaped trekking pole and pest control device 10 itself may be suspended using the strap 41. The cord 30 is connected to this strap 41.

[0023] Due to the relationships between these components (cord 30, strap 41, and loop 49), the cord 30 is connected not only to the extension piercing portion 20 but also to the strap 41. Furthermore, due to its relationship with the hook portion 99, it is configured to function as a first stopper that normally prevents the extension of the extension piercing portion 20, and the strap 41 is an I-shaped trekking pole strap connected to the main body 11 via the first stopper.

[0024] Figures 1 and 2 show that the hole 31 provided near the upper end of the main body is the turning point of the string 20, and that the range in which the extended piercing part 20 moves when pulled by the string 30 is roughly determined by the range in which this hole and the point where one end of the string 30 is connected near the lower end of the extended piercing part 20 move closer together and further apart.

[0025] Furthermore, in principle, the extension piercing part 20 does not extend unless the string 30 is pulled. However, to address the risk of unintentional extension due to centrifugal force during falls, etc., the extension piercing part 20 is configured such that when the tip 21 of the extension piercing part 20 ends and returns to its original thickness, and the hook portion 99 of the push button 90 come into contact, the extension piercing part 20 can be stopped, and this configuration functions as an additional first stopper.

[0026] In addition, alternative or additional designs may be adopted, such as a configuration in which the string directly functions as a first stopper by connecting it to the hook portion and loop of the push button, or a configuration such as a belt and pin that directly restrains the string. Figures 4 to 8 are conceptual diagrams, but they show examples of designs in which the string 30 is directly restrained by the hook portion of the push button 90.

[0027] Normally, as shown in Figure 1(A), the push button 90 has its hook portion 99 inserted into the ring 49 and a hole in the side of the main body 11 in order to activate the function of the first stopper. Note that in the embodiment shown in Figures 1 and 2, this hole is a different hole from the hole 31 provided near the upper end of the main body, which is the point where the string 30 is folded back.

[0028] The push button 90 is configured such that when pressed, such as when encountering a pest, the hook portion 99 lifts up, releasing the restraint caused by contact with the extension piercing portion 20, and also releasing the connection of the ring 49. Once the connection of the ring 49 is released, the strap 41 and the string 30 can be pulled.

[0029] As an example, these configurations enable the functioning of a first switching means that can switch between the enabled and disabled states of the first stopper.

[0030] As shown in Figure 1, when the push button 90 is pressed, the spring 91 compresses. This allows the button to be automatically released from the pressed state by the repulsive force of the spring 91 as an elastic component after the pressing is finished.

[0031] When the push button 90 is released from the state shown in Figure 1(B), the hook portion 99 is inserted back into the main body 11. The current hook portion 99 is inserted to a depth sufficient to prevent the extension thrust portion 20 from being retracted to its original thickness, but the extension thrust portion 20 is further equipped with a ring-shaped stopper 29 at its lower end to increase its thickness. This allows the extension thrust portion 20 to function more reliably as a second stopper, preventing it from being retracted even after being extended and used for thrusting.

[0032] In this embodiment, a function that can switch between the enabled and disabled states of the aforementioned second stopper, which could be called a second switching means, is provided in conjunction with the push button 90. Furthermore, the design of the first stopper, the first switching mechanism, and all other components except the second stopper does not require much consideration of urgency, and the second and third switching mechanisms, among others, can be designed with a degree of freedom, including whether or not they are included. For example, it is possible to design the system so that the stopper can be removed directly (by the user's hand, for example) without using a switching mechanism.

[0033] The push button 90 may be a button other than a push button, or a switch such as a slide switch. While it is preferable for the operation procedure to position it above the grip 40, it is not limited to this position.

[0034] The cap 50 is attached to the main body 11 via a hinge. The cap 50 functions as a cover that covers the opening 12 through which the extension piercing portion passes when extended. In this embodiment, it also functions as a cover for the push button 90 that constitutes the first switching means, without the need for a separate cover. Having this cover reduces the risk of accidental operation of the push button 90 or contact accidents with obstacles. Of course, a separate dedicated cover for the first switching means may be provided, or both covers may be configured to open together with a single operation. It is desirable to take appropriate measures to prevent the intrusion of dust and water into the internal structure, such as providing a cover or making the opening small and facing downwards, as well as considering design aesthetics, safety, and ease of use.

[0035] Figure 3 is an explanatory diagram showing the overall schematic of the I-type trekking pole / wildlife encounter countermeasure device of the embodiment, in a state where the user is positioned to maintain distance and deter a bear after an encounter. While this application primarily envisions bears as the pest, it does not preclude its application to deer, wild boars, monkeys, and other animals.

[0036] In this application, "trekking pole" refers to a walking stick that can be used primarily for hiking, trekking, mountaineering, etc., as an aid for walking. In this application, an "I-type trekking pole" refers to a trekking pole that can be held by gripping the side from the side. The intention is not to use the resemblance of the external shape of the main body or grip to the letter "I" as the criterion.

[0037] The I-shaped trekking pole and pest control device 10 should be held with the right side facing downwards (towards the ground) when used as an I-shaped trekking pole.

[0038] As an example of the size to be designed for implementation, let's say we want the total length L2 of the device to be 150 centimeters or more, taking into account the attack range L1 of the pest. Also, if the user's height L3 is 160 centimeters, the appropriate length L4 for use as an I-shaped trekking pole is said to be approximately 107 centimeters. The difference between this and the 150 centimeters or more considered for L2 can be filled by designing the extension piercing part and its storage space.

[0039] Here, there is a need to adjust the length L4 to suit the situation, such as whether it is going uphill or downhill, when using it as an I-shaped trekking pole. It is possible to extend the grip downwards, known as an undergrip, but trekking poles are provided with a structure in which the lower part of the trekking pole body is doubled or tripled with varying thicknesses to accommodate a wide range of user heights, thereby allowing for length adjustment. If this structure is to be adopted, it is necessary to design it so that the extension protrusion and its storage space do not interfere with this structure, or even if the space is shared, they can coexist by adjusting the thickness, and it is also necessary to design it so that the desired L2 can be achieved in relation to the shortest L4 that is anticipated.

[0040] Next, we will explain how to use the Type I trekking pole / wildlife encounter countermeasure device according to the example. However, it should be noted that the actions you should NOT take when encountering a bear are turning your back on it and running away. Therefore, it is recommended to calmly and slowly back away from the bear while keeping your eyes on it to create distance.

[0041] Figures 4 to 8 are conceptual explanatory diagrams illustrating the state of use of the I-type trekking pole / wildlife encounter response device according to the embodiment. Figure 4 shows the state before use as a wildlife encounter response device. Note that Figure 1(A) is a cross-sectional view showing the state under the same conditions as Figure 4, but in the same orientation. However, since Figures 4 to 8 are conceptual diagrams, modifications and omissions have been made for the sake of ease of explanation, and they do not have the strict accuracy of drawings, nor are they necessarily consistent with other figures.

[0042] The user should hold the trekking pole as an I-shaped pole, with the right side in Figure 4 facing downwards (towards the ground).

[0043] Figure 5 shows the state after the first step of "removing the cap 50 with the hand not wearing the strap 41" has been taken to begin using the device as a countermeasure when encountering a pest. Figure 2 is an explanatory diagram showing the state under the circumstances of Figure 5.

[0044] Figure 6 shows the state during the second step, which is to "continue pressing the button 90 with the hand that is not wearing the strap 41, while pulling the hand wearing the strap 41 along the main body towards the ground."

[0045] Figure 7 shows the state after performing the second step, "while continuing to press button 90 with the hand that is not wearing strap 41, pull the hand wearing strap 41 along the main body toward the ground." Figure 1(B) is a cross-sectional view showing the state under the conditions of Figure 7.

[0046] Figure 8 shows the state after performing the third step, "Keep the hand with strap 41 gripping the ground-side of the main body, stop pressing button 90 with the hand without strap 41, and grip the main body near the hand with strap 41, assuming a ready stance." This results in the posture and situation shown in Figure 3, allowing you to take the recommended action of "calmly and slowly backing away from the bear while keeping your eyes on it to create distance." If necessary, use deterrents and intimidation, and if unavoidable, repel the bear by thrusting or other means.

[0047] The above describes a possible form for implementing the invention based on one example. However, this is merely an example, and the means of implementation are not limited to this. Modifications and other changes can be made within the scope of the invention's intent.

[0048] The push button 90 was designed to be above the grip 40, taking into consideration factors such as ensuring that the fingers pressing the button do not get in the way when pulling the string 30, but the design is not limited to this example.

[0049] Various types of stoppers can be constructed, for example, by providing a mechanism such as a guide to prevent the extension piercing portion 20 from rotating within the storage space 13, and then inserting a pin or the like into a hole drilled in the extension piercing portion 20.

[0050] To prevent the ring 49 from being lifted along with the hook portion 99, the material (such as a metal with low friction) and shape (such as tapering towards the tip) of the hook portion 99 may be designed accordingly. Furthermore, a structure that allows the ring 49 to be fitted in or held down may be provided, including an effect that guides the reinstallation of the ring 49 after use. In this case, care must be taken not to restrict the movement of pulling the string when needed, and not to impede the function of the hook portion 99, etc. In addition, windows or other features that improve the convenience of reinstallation may be provided.

[0051] Since the cap 50 is attached to the main body 11 via a hinge, it will not fall off when removed, thus preventing loss. Furthermore, due to the hardness and shape of the cap 50 (it has an inner wall of a certain size on the opposite side from the hinge attachment side), if the extension piercing part 20 is extended without opening the cap 50, it will catch and stop, and this can be used to provide an accident prevention function. Conversely, to save the time and effort of opening the cap 50, it is also conceivable to design it so that the cap 50 detaches from the main body 11 when the extension piercing part 20 is extended from the inside.

[0052] Providing this I-shaped trekking pole / wildlife encounter device 10 does not negate the effectiveness, use, or combined use of sprays. However, the fact that this I-shaped trekking pole / wildlife encounter device can be used to deter and create distance provides a sense of security and is considered to have a superior effect.

[0053] Sprays have an effective range and should only be used when the target has approached or closed the distance. Furthermore, due to cost and the number of uses, they are not suitable for testing or deterrence.

[0054] On the other hand, this I-type trekking pole / wildlife encounter device is easy to test and allows for repeated operation verification. If any malfunction occurs during use, it can be quickly noticed through testing, making maintenance decisions easier, which is also considered to provide a sense of security. [Explanation of Symbols]

[0055] 10 Type I Trekking Pole and Pest Control Device 11 Main body 12 Aperture 13 Space 20. Extended piercing section 30 strings 40 Grips 41 Straps 50 caps (covers) 90 Push button (first switching method) 99 Hook section (first stopper, second stopper)

Claims

1. The main body of the pest control device, which can be used as an I-shaped trekking pole under normal conditions, has an opening through which the extension piercing part passes when extended, and a space at the back of the opening through which the extension piercing part can be stored. An extension piercing section that can be stored in the aforementioned space and can be used for piercing at least when encountering a vermin, A string connected to the extension piercing portion, which extends the extension piercing portion when pulled, Under normal circumstances, a first stopper prevents the extension of the aforementioned extended piercing portion, A first switching means that can switch between the enabled state and the released state of the first stopper, A second stopper prevents the extended thrusting portion from being retracted after it has been extended and used for thrusting, An I-shaped trekking pole that also functions as a device for dealing with encounters with harmful animals, characterized by the presence of the following features.

2. The main body is equipped with a strap for an I-shaped trekking pole, which is connected to the first stopper. The aforementioned cord is connected to the strap and the extension piercing portion. The I-type trekking pole combined with a device for dealing with encounters with harmful animals, as described in item 1.

3. Cover that covers the opening through which the extended piercing portion passes when extending the aforementioned extension The I-type trekking pole combined with a pest control device according to claim 1 or 2, characterized by being equipped with the above.

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