Remotely activated animal leash release

Abstract

A system and method for remotely releasing an animal leash including triggering a controller by receipt of a wireless signal or interruption of a received wireless signal, and activating a release mechanism thereby releasing either a collar or a leash from a connector therebetween.

Description

[0001] REMOTELY ACTIVATED ANIMAL LEASH RELEASE

[0002] RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0003] This application claims the benefit of priority under 35 USC § 119(e) of U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 674,304 filed on July 23, 2024, the contents of which are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety.

[0004] FIELD AND BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

[0005] The current invention, in some embodiments thereof, relates to a system and method for remotely releasing an animal leash, and, more particularly, but not exclusively, a mechanism for protecting an animal whose leash has gotten caught, for example, in an elevator door.

[0006] Pet leashes are useful, and required in certain countries, for walking a pet. However, the leash can become caught, such as in an elevator door, tangled in an object, or entwined with another animal's leash. This may be dangerous to the pet and, possibly, the owner.

[0007] Several solutions to this problem exist, for example, United States Patent No. 7,574,979 appears to relate to “An animal collar assembly including a wireless receiver, at least one strap and a connection assembly. The at least one strap includes a first end and a second end, and is connected to the wireless receiver. The connection assembly includes an adjustable constraint and a quick release device. The adjustable constraint is adjustably connected between the first end and the second end of the at least one strap. The quick release device is attached proximate to the second end. The quick release device being releasably connectable to the adjustable constraint.”

[0008] Additional solutions appear to be described in United States Patent No. 9,820,534; United States Patent No. 10,117,421; United States Patent No. 6,257,473; United States Patent No. 10,934,671; United States Patent Publication No. 2006 / 0080812; and United States Patent Publication No. 2012 / 0279028.

[0009] Therefore, there is still a need for a rapid release leash to protect a pet in an emergency.

[0010] BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS Some embodiments of the invention are herein described, by way of example only, with reference to the accompanying drawings. With specific reference now to the drawings in detail, it is stressed that the particulars shown are by way of example and for purposes of illustrative discussion of embodiments of the invention. In this regard, the description taken with the drawings makes apparent to those skilled in the art how embodiments of the invention may be practiced.

[0011] Fig. 1: Schematic diagram of a wirelessly releasable leash, in accordance with an embodiment of the current invention.

[0012] Fig. 2: Schematic diagram of a wirelessly releasable leash, in accordance with an embodiment of the current invention.

[0013] Fig. 3: Schematic diagram of a wirelessly releasable leash, in accordance with an embodiment of the current invention.

[0014] Fig. 4: A block diagram describing a wirelessly releasable leash, in accordance with an embodiment of the current invention.

[0015] Fig. 5: A flow chart describing a method of use of a wirelessly releasable leash, in accordance with an embodiment of the current invention.

[0016] Fig. 6: A flow chart describing a method of use of a wirelessly released a leash, in accordance with an embodiment of the current invention.

[0017] Fig. 7: Schematic diagram of an external view of an exemplary wirelessly releasable leash, in accordance with an embodiment of the current invention.

[0018] Fig. 8: Schematic diagram of a view of an exemplary wirelessly releasable leash with outer housing removed, in accordance with an embodiment of the current invention.

[0019] Figs. 9A and 9B: Schematic diagrams of an exploded view and a cross-sectional vies, respectively, of an exemplary wirelessly releasable leash, in accordance with an embodiment of the current invention.

[0020] Fig. 10: A flow chart describing a method of use of a wirelessly releasable leash, in accordance with an embodiment of the current invention.

[0021] Fig. 11 : A block diagram describing an exemplary spring released wirelessly releasable leash, in accordance with an embodiment of the current invention.

[0022] Fig. 12: A block diagram describing an exemplary motor released wirelessly releasable leash, in accordance with an embodiment of the current invention.

[0023] SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION According to an aspect of some embodiments of the invention, there is provided a system for remotely releasing a leash including: a connector including a housing with a connection point for a leash and connection point to a collar; a controller, wherein the controller includes a wireless communication module configured to transmit and receive wireless signals; and a release mechanism configured to release either the collar or the leash from the connector, wherein the release mechanism is configured to be activated by the controller upon receipt of a wireless signal or interruption of a received wireless signal.

[0024] According to some embodiments of the invention, the controller is powered by a rechargeable battery.

[0025] According to some embodiments of the invention, the connector includes a reversibly retractable latching bolt.

[0026] According to some embodiments of the invention, the connector includes a bolt retaining spring biased for release.

[0027] According to some embodiments of the invention, the connector includes a motor configured to retract an actuator.

[0028] According to some embodiments of the invention, the release mechanism includes a latching bolt configured to be released from the connector.

[0029] According to some embodiments of the invention, the wireless signal is a wi-fi signal, Bluetooth signal, Zigbee signal, RFID signal, microwave signal, infrared signal, cellular network signal, etc. or any combination thereof.

[0030] According to some embodiments of the invention, the wireless signal is triggered manually by the user.

[0031] According to some embodiments of the invention, the wireless signal is triggered automatically by the system.

[0032] According to some embodiments of the invention, the wireless signal is triggered automatically when the connector is a pre-defined distance from the signal generator.

[0033] According to some embodiments of the invention, the wireless signal is generated by the connector or an App on a personal computing device. According to some embodiments of the invention, the personal computing device is a cellular phone, tablet, smart watch, smart glasses, or virtual reality (VR) device.

[0034] According to an aspect of some embodiments of the invention, there is provided a method remotely releasing an animal leash, the method including: triggering a controller by receipt of a wireless signal or interruption of a received wireless signal; and activating a release mechanism thereby releasing either a collar or a leash from a connector therebetween.

[0035] According to some embodiments of the invention, the releasing includes releasing a reversibly retractable latching bolt from the connector.

[0036] According to some embodiments of the invention, the releasing includes release of a release spring biased to release the latching bolt.

[0037] According to some embodiments of the invention, the releasing includes release of a bolt retaining spring biased for release.

[0038] According to some embodiments of the invention, the releasing includes retracting an actuator by a motor.

[0039] According to some embodiments of the invention, the wireless signal is a wi-fi signal, Bluetooth signal, Zigbee signal, RFID signal, microwave signal, infrared signal, cellular network signal, etc. or any combination thereof.

[0040] According to some embodiments of the invention, the method further includes triggering the wireless signal manually.

[0041] According to some embodiments of the invention, the method further includes triggering the wireless signal automatically.

[0042] According to some embodiments of the invention, the method further includes triggering the wireless signal automatically when the connector is a pre-defined distance from a signal generator.

[0043] According to some embodiments of the invention, the signal generator is the connector or a personal computing device.

[0044] According to some embodiments of the invention, the method further includes generating the wireless signal by the connector or an App on a personal computing device. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0045] The current invention, in some embodiments thereof, relates to a system and method for remotely releasing an animal leash, and, more particularly, but not exclusively, a connector with a wirelessly release mechanism.

[0046] OVERVIEW

[0047] An aspect of some embodiments of the current invention relate to a system and method for remotely releasing an animal leash is disclosed and described. Some embodiments relate to a connector with a remotely activatable release. Some embodiments relate to a wirelessly releasable leash.

[0048] According to some embodiments, the system may include a remotely releasable mechanism attached to and / or included within an animal leash and / or collar. Optionally, the remote leash release system may be attached to and / or included within a pet collar, leash, a retractable pet leash, lead, harness, etc. Optionally, the remotely activatable release mechanism may be attached to and / or included within a pet collar, leash, a retractable pet leash, lead, harness, etc. Optionally, the remotely activatable release mechanism may facilitate connection between a pet collar and / or harness and a leash and / or a retractable pet leash and / or lead.

[0049] According to some embodiments, the release mechanism may be included in a connector. Optionally, the connector may interconnect between a leash and a collar. Optionally, the connector may be biased to release. Optionally, the connector may include an actuator configured to release the leash from the collar (e.g., split the interconnecting element), thereby separating the leash from the collar. Optionally, the actuator may release the leash from the collar in response to a signal. Optionally, the actuator may release the leash from the collar in response to a signal from a wireless transmitter.

[0050] According to some embodiments, the release mechanism may include and / or be connected to a receiver. Optionally, the receiver may trigger the release mechanism. According to some embodiments, the receiver may be configured to activate the release mechanism upon receipt of a signal and / or interruption of a signal from a transmitter.

[0051] According to some embodiments, the receiver may trigger the release mechanism upon receipt of a signal. Optionally, the receiver may trigger the release mechanism upon interruption of a received signal. Optionally, the receiver may receive a remote signal. Optionally, the remote signal may be a mechanical signal from a remote portion of the system relative to the receiver (e.g., on the handle of the leash, etc.). Optionally, the remote signal may be a wireless signal. Optionally, the receiver may receive a wireless signal. Optionally, the receiver may bounce a wireless signal back to the signal generator. Optionally, the receiver may be a wireless communication module. Optionally, the wireless signal may be a wi-fi signal, Bluetooth signal, Zigbee signal, RFID signal, microwave signal, infrared signal, cellular network signal, etc. or any combination thereof.

[0052] According to some embodiments, a user may manually trigger a wireless signal. Optionally, the wireless signal may be transmitted to the receiver on the push and / or pull of a trigger (e.g., button, trigger mechanism, etc.), and / or by activating an App on a personal computing device. Optionally, the personal computing device may be a cellular phone, tablet, smart watch, smart glasses, virtual reality (VR) device, etc. Optionally, transmission may be triggered automatically. Optionally, transmission may be triggered automatically by separation of the receiver from the signal generator (e.g., transmitter) by a pre-defined distance. Optionally, the pre-defined distance may range between about 1.5 m to about 2.5 m, and / or between about 2.5 m to about 3.5 m, and / or between about 3.5 m to about 5 m.

[0053] Additionally, or alternatively, the wireless signal may be the absence of a continuous signal generated by the system (herein the term continuous signal includes a signal that is recurring for example more than 100 times pers second and / or between 10 to 100 times per second and / or between 10 to 1 time per second and / or every 1 to 10 seconds). Optionally, the continuous signal may be received by the receiver. Optionally, the remote signal may be a wireless signal. Optionally, the receiver may receive a wireless signal. Optionally, the receiver may bounce a wireless signal back to the signal generator. Optionally, the receiver may be a wireless communication module. Optionally, the wireless signal may be a wi-fi signal, Bluetooth signal, Zigbee signal, RFID signal, microwave signal, infrared signal, cellular network signal, etc. or any combination thereof.

[0054] According to some embodiments, the user may manually trigger a break in wireless transmission. Optionally, the break in transmission may be triggered by the push of a trigger, and / or by activating an App on a personal computing device. Optionally, the personal computing device may be a cellular phone, tablet, smart watch, smart glasses, VR device, etc. Optionally, the break in transmission may be triggered automatically. Optionally, the break in transmission may be triggered automatically by separating the receiver from the signal generator by a pre-defined distance. Optionally, the pre-defined distance may range between about 1.5 m to about 2.5 m, and / or between about 2.5 m to about 3.5 m, and / or between about 3.5 m to about 5 m. According to some embodiments, the signal generator (e.g., transmitter) may be attached to and / or included within the handle of a pet collar, leash, lead, harness, retractable pet leash, personal computing device, mounted on and / or within a separate object, etc. Optionally, the signal generator may be located within a connector between a leash and a collar and / or harness. Optionally, the signal generator may be powered by a rechargeable battery.

[0055] According to some embodiments, the signal receiver may be attached to and / or included within the handle of a pet collar, leash, lead, harness, retractable pet leash, personal computing device, mounted on and / or within a separate object, etc. Optionally, the signal receiver may be located within a connector between a leash and a collar and / or harness. Optionally, the signal receiver may be powered by a rechargeable battery.

[0056] According to some embodiments, the signal generator may include a trigger. Optionally, the trigger may be used by the user to trigger the release mechanism. Optionally, the trigger may be attached to and / or included on the leash e.g., near the handle. Optionally, the trigger may be mounted on any object. For example, the trigger may be mounted on the handle of the leash and / or on wearable object (such as, a bracelet, necklace, watch strap, armband, etc.) and / or mounted to a carried object (such as, a handbag, a cellphone, pet waste pouch, etc.). Optionally, pressing the trigger may trigger transmission of a signal to a signal receiver from a signal generator. Optionally, pressing the trigger may interrupt the transmission of a signal to a signal receiver from a signal generator.

[0057] According to some embodiments, the system may include a controller. Optionally, the controller may be configured to include a wireless communication module. Optionally, the wireless communication module may be configured to generate and / or transmit and / or receive wireless signals. Optionally, the controller may be configured to activate a motor and / or actuator of the system. Optionally, the controller may be configured to trigger release of a leash and / or collar and / or harness. Optionally, the controller may be configured to activate a release mechanism. Optionally, the controller may be configured to activate a motor and / or actuator. Optionally, the controller may be powered by a rechargeable battery. Optionally, the battery may be charged by connection to a charging port.

[0058] According to some embodiments, the system may include a release mechanism. Optionally, the release mechanism may include a latching bolt. Optionally, the latching bolt may be releasable. Optionally, the latching bolt may be reversibly released from a leash and / or collar and / or harness. Optionally, the latching bolt may be retracted by an actuator and / or motor. Optionally, the actuator may be biased to release the latching bolt. Optionally, the actuator may include a release spring biased to release the latching bolt. Optionally, the motor may be configured to reversibly retract the latching bolt.

[0059] According to some embodiments, the system may include a detachable ring. Optionally, the latching bolt may be reversibly attached to the detachable ring. Optionally, the detachable ring may be located on the leash and / or collar and / or harness and / or connector.

[0060] According to some embodiments, the trigger mount may be mounted by surface mounting, flush mounting, raised mounting, panel mounting, snap-in mounting, recessed mounting, adhesive mounting, adjustable mounting, swivel mounting, remote mounting, integrated mounting, built-in mounting, etc. Optionally, the mounting may be temporary, permanent, and / or reversible. Optionally, the trigger may be mounted by clipping, adhering (e.g., with adhesive and / or Velcro, etc.), wearing, etc. to an object.

[0061] According to some embodiments, the trigger may include a cover. Optionally, the cover may be configured to prevent accidentally triggering signal generation.

[0062] According to some embodiments, the system may include a housing with a connection point for a leash (e.g., a ring, bolt, clasp, clip, protrusion, tie, etc.) and connection point to a collar (e.g., a ring, bolt, clasp, clip, protrusion, tie, etc.). Optionally, one or more connection points may be reversibly attached to the housing and / or leash and / or collar. Optionally, the housing may include a charging port configured to facilitate charging of one or more components of the system. Optionally, the housing may be composed of metal (e.g., aluminum, zinc, stainless steel, etc.), plastic (e.g., phenolic resin, epoxy resin, polyester resin, polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE), polyphenylene sulfide (PPS), polyether ether ketone (PEEK), polyvinylidene fluoride (PVDF), high-density polyethylene (HDPE), polypropylene (PP), polysulfone (PSU), fluoropolymers (PTFE, ETFE, etc.), or a combination thereof, Optionally, housing may be composed of one or more segments. Optionally, the segments may be attached to each other (e.g., by adhesive, bolt, screw, nails, snap-click system, interference elements, etc.). Optionally, housing may be configured to house one or more components of the system.

[0063] According to some embodiments, the system may include an App on a personal computing device. Optionally, the App may be configured to manually and / or automatically signal the receiver. Optionally, the App may be configured to wirelessly signal the receiver, e.g., by wi-fi, Bluetooth, Zigbee, RFID, microwave, infrared, cellular network, etc. or any combination thereof. According to some embodiments, the remote leash release system may include a means of tracking the animal once the leash has been released, e.g., so that the owner can find their released pet.

[0064] According to some embodiments, the remote leash release system may be attached to an existing leash, collar, harness, etc. Optionally, the remote leash release system may include a specialized collar and / or harness.

[0065] SPECIFIC EMBODIMENTS

[0066] Before explaining at least one embodiment of the invention in detail, it is to be understood that the invention is not necessarily limited in its application to the details of construction and the arrangement of the components and / or methods set forth in the following description and / or illustrated in the drawings and / or the Examples. The invention is capable of other embodiments or of being practiced or carried out in various ways.

[0067] Fig. 1 is a schematic diagram of a wirelessly releasable leash, in accordance with an embodiment of the current invention. For example, the system may include a release mechanism 10 interconnecting between a leash 12 and / or harness (not shown) and / or pet collar (not shown). Optionally, the remote leash release system may be attached to and / or included within a pet collar, leash, a retractable pet leash, lead, harness, etc. The release mechanism 10 may be linked to receiver 14 configured to receive a signal from a transmitter 16. The release mechanism 10 may be activated by the receiver 14. The transmitter 16 may include a trigger 18. The trigger 18 may be configured to manually trigger transmission of a signal and / or interrupt a signal transmitted to the receiver 14. Optionally, trigger 18 may be used by the user to trigger the release mechanism 10.

[0068] Trigger 18 may be attached to and / or included on the leash e.g., near the handle 20. Optionally, trigger 18 may be mounted on any object. For example, the trigger may be mounted on the handle 20 of the leash 12 and / or on wearable object (such as, a bracelet, necklace, watch strap, armband, etc.) and / or mounted to a carried object (such as, a handbag, a cellphone, pet waste pouch, etc.). Optionally, the trigger may include a cover (not shown). Optionally, the cover may be configured to prevent accidentally triggering signal generation.

[0069] Fig. 2 is a schematic diagram of a wirelessly releasable leash, in accordance with an embodiment of the current invention. For example, the system may include a release mechanism 22 interconnecting between a leash 24 and / or harness (not shown) and / or pet collar (not shown). Optionally, the remote leash release system may be attached to and / or included within a pet collar, leash, a retractable pet leash, lead, harness, etc. The release mechanism 22 may be linked to a receiver 26 configured to receive a signal from a transmitter 28. The release mechanism 22 may be activated by the receiver 26. The transmitter (not shown) may include trigger 28. The trigger 28 may be configured to manually trigger transmission of a signal and / or interrupt a signal transmitted to the receiver 26. Optionally, the trigger 28 may be used by the user to trigger the release mechanism 22.

[0070] According to some embodiments, trigger 28 may be attached to and / or included on the leash e.g., near the handle 30. Optionally, trigger 28 may be mounted on any object. For example, the trigger may be mounted on the handle 30 of the leash 24 and / or on wearable object (such as, a bracelet, necklace, watch strap, armband, etc.) and / or mounted to a carried object (such as, a handbag, a cellphone, pet waste pouch, etc.). Optionally, the trigger may include a cover (not shown). Optionally, the cover may be configured to prevent accidentally triggering signal generation.

[0071] Fig. 3 is a schematic diagram of a wirelessly releasable leash, in accordance with an embodiment of the current invention. For example, the system may include a release mechanism 32 interconnecting between a leash 38 and / or harness (not shown) and / or pet collar 40. The release mechanism 32 may include and / or be connected to a receiver 34. Optionally, the receiver 34 may trigger the release mechanism 32. Optionally, the receiver 34 may trigger the release mechanism 32 upon receipt of a transmitted signal. Optionally, the receiver 34 may trigger the release mechanism 32 upon interruption of a transmitted signal. Optionally, the receiver 34 may receive a remote signal. Optionally, the remote signal may be a wireless signal. Optionally, the wireless signal may be a wi-fi signal, Bluetooth signal, Zigbee signal, RFID signal, microwave signal, infrared signal, cellular network signal, etc. or any combination thereof.

[0072] According to some embodiments, a user may manually trigger a wireless signal. Optionally, the wireless signal may be transmitted to the receiver 34 on the push of a trigger, and / or by activating an App on a personal computing device 36. Optionally, the personal computing device 36 may be a cellular phone, tablet, smart watch, smart glasses, VR device, etc. Optionally, transmission may be triggered automatically. Optionally, transmission may be triggered automatically by separation of the receiver from the signal generator (e.g., transmitter) by a pre-defined distance.

[0073] Additionally, or alternatively, the wireless signal may be the absence of a continuous signal generated by the system. Optionally, the continuous signal may be received by the receiver. Optionally, the user may manually trigger a break in wireless transmission. Optionally, the break in transmission may be triggered by the push of a trigger, and / or by activating an App on a personal computing device. Optionally, the personal computing device may be a cellular phone, tablet, smart watch, smart glasses, VR device, etc. Optionally, the break in transmission may be triggered automatically. Optionally, the break in transmission may be triggered automatically by separating the receiver from the signal generator by a predefined distance.

[0074] According to some embodiments, the pre-defined distance may range between about 1.5 m to about 2.5 m, and / or between about 2.5 m to about 3.5 m, and / or between about 3.5 m to about 5 m.

[0075] Fig. 4 is a block diagram describing a wirelessly releasable leash, in accordance with an embodiment of the current invention. For example, system 40 may include a release mechanism 46 interconnecting between a leash 44 and / or harness and / or collar 50. The release mechanism 46 may be linked to a receiver 48 configured to receive a signal from a transmitter 42. The release mechanism 46 may be activated by the receiver 48. The receiver 48 may be configured to activate the release mechanism 46 upon receipt of a signal and / or interruption of a signal from the transmitter 42.

[0076] According to some embodiments, the remote leash release system may be attached to and / or included within a pet collar, leash, a retractable pet leash, lead, harness, etc. Optionally, the remote leash release system may be attached to an existing leash, collar, harness, etc. Optionally, the remote leash release system may include a specialized collar and / or harness.

[0077] Fig. 5 is a flow chart describing a method of use of a wirelessly releasable leash, in accordance with an embodiment of the current invention. For example, in method 52, a pet may need 54 to be rapidly released from their leash, e.g., to prevent a pet from being strangled by their leash, when a pet is separated from their owner (e.g., by elevator doors, traffic, etc.), the leash is tangled in an object or person or entwined with another animal's leash. The transmitter is activated 56, optionally manually by the owner and / or automatically (e.g., when a pre-defined distance between the transmitter and receiver is reached). The receiver receives 58 the transmitted signal. The receiver triggers 60 the release mechanism, thereby separating 62 the leash and the collar.

[0078] Fig. 6 is a flow chart describing a method of use of a wirelessly releasable leash, in accordance with an embodiment of the current invention. For example, in method 64, a pet may need 66 to be rapidly released from their leash, e.g., to prevent a pet from being strangled by their leash, when a pet is separated from their owner (e.g., by elevator doors, traffic, etc.), the leash is tangled in an object or person or entwined with another animal's leash. The transmitter signal is interrupted 68, optionally manually by the owner and / or automatically (e.g., when a pre-defined distance between the transmitter and receiver is reached). The receiver fails 70 to receive the transmitted signal. The receiver triggers 72 the release mechanism, thereby separating 74 the leash and the collar.

[0079] Figs. 7-9B are schematic diagrams of an exemplary wireless leash release, in accordance with an embodiment of the current invention. Fig. 7 is external view of the leash release. For example, the system may include a connector configured to connect a leash (not shown) to a collar (not shown) and / or harness (not shown). The connector may include a housing 76 with a connection point 78 for a leash (e.g., a ring, bolt, clasp, clip, protrusion, tie, etc.) and connection point 80 to a collar (e.g., a ring, bolt, clasp, clip, protrusion, tie, etc.). Optionally, one or more connection points 78, 80 may be reversibly attached to the housing 76 and / or leash and / or collar. Optionally, the housing may include charging port 82 configured to facilitate charging of one or more components of the system. Optionally, the housing 76 may be composed of metal (e.g., aluminum, zinc, stainless steel, etc.), plastic (e.g., phenolic resin, epoxy resin, polyester resin, polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE), polyphenylene sulfide (PPS), polyether ether ketone (PEEK), polyvinylidene fluoride (PVDF), high-density polyethylene (HDPE), polypropylene (PP), polysulfone (PSU), fluoropolymers (PTFE, ETFE, etc.), or a combination thereof, Optionally, housing 76 may be composed of one or more segments. Optionally, the segments may be attached to each other (e.g., by adhesive, bolt, screw, nails, snap-click system, interference elements, etc.). Optionally, housing 76 may be configured to house one or more components of the system.

[0080] Fig. 8 is a schematic diagram of a view of an exemplary wireless leash release with outer housing removed, in accordance with an embodiment of the current invention. For example, the housing (not shown) may be configured to house one or more components of the system. Optionally, the housing may include charging port 84 configured to facilitate charging of one or more components of the system. Optionally, the charging port 84 configured to facilitate charging of a rechargeable battery (not shown). Optionally, the rechargeable battery may be configured to power a controller 86. Optionally, controller 86 may be configured to include a wireless communication module. Optionally, the wireless communication module may be configured to generate and / or transmit and / or receive wireless signals. Optionally, controller 86 may be configured to activate a motor 88 and / or actuator 90 of the system. Optionally, controller 86 may be configured to trigger release of a leash and / or collar and / or harness. Optionally, controller 86 may be configured to activate a motor 88 and / or actuator 90. Optionally, the actuator 90 may include and / or be included within the release mechanism. Optionally, controller 86 may be configured to activate a release mechanism. Optionally, the release mechanism may include a reversibly retractable latching bolt 92. Optionally, the release mechanism may include a collar connector 94, e.g., detachable ring. The release mechanism may be linked to a receiver configured to receive a signal from a transmitter. The release mechanism may be activated by the receiver. The transmitter may include a trigger. The trigger may be configured to manually trigger transmission of a signal and / or interrupt a signal transmitted to the receiver. Optionally, the trigger may be used by the user to trigger the release mechanism. Optionally, activation of the release mechanism may trigger the actuator 90 to withdraw and / or release the reversibly retractable latching bolt 92 from the collar connector 94, thereby separating the collar from the leash. Optionally, on separation of the collar from the leash, the connector may remain attached to the leash and the collar connector may remain attached to the collar. Alternatively, on separation of the collar from the leash, the connector may remain attached to the collar and the leash connector may remain attached to the leash.

[0081] A user may manually trigger a wireless signal. Optionally, the wireless signal may be transmitted to the receiver on the push of a trigger, and / or by activating an App on a personal computing device. Optionally, the personal computing device may be a cellular phone, tablet, smart watch, smart glasses, VR device, etc. Optionally, transmission may be triggered automatically. Optionally, transmission may be triggered automatically by separation of the receiver from the signal generator (e.g., transmitter) by a pre-defined distance.

[0082] Additionally, or alternatively, the wireless signal may be the absence of a continuous signal generated by the system. Optionally, the continuous signal may be received by the receiver. Optionally, the user may manually trigger a break in wireless transmission. Optionally, the break in transmission may be triggered by the push of a trigger, and / or by activating an App on a personal computing device. Optionally, the personal computing device may be a cellular phone, tablet, smart watch, smart glasses, VR device, etc. Optionally, the break in transmission may be triggered automatically. Optionally, the break in transmission may be triggered automatically by separating the receiver from the signal generator by a predefined distance.

[0083] The pre-defined distance may range between about 1.5 m to about 2.5 m, and / or between about 2.5 m to about 3.5 m, and / or between about 3.5 m to about 5 m.

[0084] Figs. 9A and 9B are schematic diagrams of an exploded view and a cross-sectional views, respectively, of an exemplary wireless leash release, in accordance with an embodiment of the current invention. For example, the system may include a housing 96 including a leash connection point 98 (e.g., leash connector) and a collar connection point 100 (e.g., collar connector, harness connector, etc.). Optionally, the housing may include an opening for charging port 102. The charging port 102 may be configured to facilitate charging of a rechargeable battery (not shown). The battery may be configured to power a controller 104.

[0085] Controller 104 may be configured to include a wireless communication module. Optionally, the wireless communication module may be configured to generate and / or transmit and / or receive wireless signals. Optionally, controller 104 may be configured to activate a motor 108 and / or actuator 90 of the system. Optionally, controller 104 may be configured to trigger release of a leash and / or collar and / or harness. Optionally, controller 104 may be configured to activate a motor 108 and / or actuator 90. Optionally, motor 108 may include a bolt retaining spring 106. Optionally, bolt retaining spring 106 may be configured to facilitate movement of the release mechanism. Bolt retaining spring 106 may be biased to release a component of the release mechanism. Optionally, the actuator 110 may include and / or be included within the release mechanism. Optionally, controller 104 may be configured to activate a release mechanism.

[0086] The release mechanism may include a latching bolt 112. Optionally, latching bolt 112 may be releasable. Optionally, latching bolt 112 may be reversibly released from a leash and / or collar and / or harness. Optionally, latching bolt 112 may be retracted by an actuator 110 and / or motor 108. Motor 108 may actuate actuator 110 to release latching bolt 112. Optionally, the actuator 110 may be biased to release latching bolt 112. Optionally, the actuator 110 may include a release spring 114 biased to release latching bolt 112. Optionally, the motor 108 may be configured to reversibly retract the latching bolt.

[0087] The release mechanism may include a collar connector 100, e.g., detachable ring. The release mechanism may be linked to a receiver configured to receive a signal from a transmitter. The release mechanism may be activated by the receiver. The transmitter may include a trigger. The trigger may be configured to manually trigger transmission of a signal and / or interrupt a signal transmitted to the receiver. Optionally, the trigger may be used by the user to trigger the release mechanism. Optionally, activation of the release mechanism may trigger the motor 108 to withdraw and / or release the actuator 110 from the latching bolt 112, thereby separating the collar from the leash. Optionally, on separation of the collar from the leash, the connector may remain attached to the leash and the collar connector may remain attached to the collar. Alternatively, on separation of the collar from the leash, the connector may remain attached to the collar and the leash connector may remain attached to the leash.

[0088] A user may manually trigger a wireless signal. Optionally, the wireless signal may be transmitted to the receiver on the push of a trigger, and / or by activating an App on a personal computing device. Optionally, the personal computing device may be a cellular phone, tablet, smart watch, smart glasses, VR device, etc. Optionally, transmission may be triggered automatically. Optionally, transmission may be triggered automatically by separation of the receiver from the signal generator (e.g., transmitter) by a pre-defined distance.

[0089] Additionally, or alternatively, the wireless signal may be the absence of a continuous signal generated by the system. Optionally, the continuous signal may be received by the receiver. Optionally, the user may manually trigger a break in wireless transmission. Optionally, the break in transmission may be triggered by the push of a trigger, and / or by activating an App on a personal computing device. Optionally, the personal computing device may be a cellular phone, tablet, smart watch, smart glasses, VR device, etc. Optionally, the break in transmission may be triggered automatically. Optionally, the break in transmission may be triggered automatically by separating the receiver from the signal generator by a predefined distance.

[0090] Fig. 10 is a flow chart describing a method of use of a wirelessly releasable leash, in accordance with an embodiment of the current invention. For example, in method 116, when the leash needs to be released (e.g., the dog is stuck in an elevator, owner is being attacked, leash is tangled in an object, etc.) the controller is activated 118 (e.g., by transmission of a signal, interruption of a signal, manually by a user, etc.). The controller retracts 120 the latching bolt, thereby releasing 122 the detachable ring from the rest of the release mechanism. Optionally, the latching bolt is retracted by the bolt retaining spring when the leash needs to be released. Optionally, the motor pulls the latching bolt causing it to retract. The ring is pushed out of the connector freeing 124 the dog to the leash. Optionally, on separation of the collar from the leash, the ring may remain attached to the leash and the collar may remain attached to the rest of the release mechanism. Alternatively, on separation of the collar from the leash, the ring may remain attached to the collar and the rest of the release mechanism may remain attached to the leash.

[0091] Fig. 11 is ablock diagram describing an exemplary spring released wirelessly releasable leash, in accordance with an embodiment of the current invention. For example, system 126 may include a controller 128 configured to receive and / or transmit a wireless signal. Controller 126 may be configured to release a release mechanism 130 (e.g., latch). Controller 126 may be configured to release a bolt restraining spring 134 biased to release a reversibly retractable latching bolt 132 from a detachable ring 136.

[0092] Fig. 12 is a block diagram describing an exemplary motor released wirelessly releasable leash, in accordance with an embodiment of the current invention. For example, system 138 may include a controller 140 configured to receive and / or transmit a wireless signal. Controller 140 may be configured to trigger a motor 142. Controller 140 may be configured to release a reversibly retractable latching bolt 144 from a detachable ring 146.

[0093] These embodiments are provided by way of example and are in no means intended to limit the scope of the invention.

[0094] While the invention has been described in its preferred form or embodiment with some degree of particularity, it is understood that this description has been given only by way of example and that numerous changes in the details of construction, fabrication, and use, including the combination and arrangement of parts, may be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention.

[0095] GENERAL

[0096] It is expected that during the life of a patent maturing from this application many relevant building technologies, artificial intelligence methodologies, computer user interfaces, image capture devices will be developed and the scope of the terms for design elements, analysis routines, user devices is intended to include all such new technologies a priori.

[0097] Unless otherwise defined, all technical and / or scientific terms used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which the invention pertains. Although methods and materials similar or equivalent to those described herein can be used in the practice or testing of embodiments of the invention, exemplary methods and / or materials are described below. In case of conflict, the patent specification, including definitions, will control. In addition, the materials, methods, and examples are illustrative only and are not intended to be necessarily limiting.

[0098] As used herein the term “about” refers to ± 10%

[0099] The terms "comprises", "comprising", "includes", "including", “having” and their conjugates mean "including but not limited to".

[0100] The term “consisting of’ means “including and limited to”. The term "consisting essentially of means that the composition, method or structure may include additional ingredients, steps and / or parts, but only if the additional ingredients, steps and / or parts do not materially alter the basic and novel characteristics of the claimed composition, method or structure.

[0101] As used herein, the singular form "a", "an" and "the" include plural references unless the context clearly dictates otherwise.

[0102] As used herein, the term “plurality” may relate to 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 10, 20, 50, 100, 1,000 or more, and any sub-value therebetween.

[0103] Throughout this application, various embodiments of this invention may be presented in a range format. It should be understood that the description in range format is merely for convenience and brevity and should not be construed as an inflexible limitation on the scope of the invention. Accordingly, the description of a range should be considered to have specifically disclosed all the possible subranges as well as individual numerical values within that range. For example, description of a range such as from 1 to 6 should be considered to have specifically disclosed subranges such as from 1 to 3, from 1 to 4, from 1 to 5, from 2 to 4, from 2 to 6, from 3 to 6 etc., as well as individual numbers within that range, for example, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, and 6. This applies regardless of the breadth of the range.

[0104] Whenever a numerical range is indicated herein, it is meant to include any cited numeral (fractional or integral) within the indicated range. The phrases “ranging / ranges between” a first indicate number and a second indicate number and “ranging / ranges from” a first indicate number “to” a second indicate number are used herein interchangeably and are meant to include the first and second indicated numbers and all the fractional and integral numerals therebetween.

[0105] It is appreciated that certain features of the invention, which are, for clarity, described in the context of separate embodiments, may also be provided in combination in a single embodiment. Conversely, various features of the invention, which are, for brevity, described in the context of a single embodiment, may also be provided separately or in any suitable subcombination or as suitable in any other described embodiment of the invention. Certain features described in the context of various embodiments are not to be considered essential features of those embodiments, unless the embodiment is inoperative without those elements.

[0106] Although the invention has been described in conjunction with specific embodiments thereof, it is evident that many alternatives, modifications and variations will be apparent to those skilled in the art. Accordingly, it is intended to embrace all such alternatives, modifications and variations that fall within the spirit and broad scope of the appended claims. All publications, patents and patent applications mentioned in this specification are herein incorporated in their entirety by reference into the specification, to the same extent as if each individual publication, patent or patent application was specifically and individually indicated to be incorporated herein by reference. In addition, citation or identification of any reference in this application shall not be construed as an admission that such reference is available as prior art to the present invention. To the extent that section headings are used, they should not be construed as necessarily limiting.

Claims

CLAIMSWHAT IS CLAIMED IS:

1. A system for remotely releasing a leash comprising: a connector including a housing with a connection point for a leash and connection point to a collar; a controller, wherein the controller includes a wireless communication module configured to transmit and receive wireless signals; and a release mechanism configured to release either the collar or the leash from the connector, wherein the release mechanism is configured to be activated by the controller upon receipt of a wireless signal or interruption of a received wireless signal.

2. The system according to claim 1, wherein the controller is powered by a rechargeable battery.

3. The system according to claim 1, wherein the connector includes a reversibly retractable latching bolt.

4. The system according to claim 1, wherein the connector includes a bolt retaining spring biased for release.

5. The system according to claim 1, wherein the connector includes a motor configured to retract an actuator.

6. The system according to claim 1, wherein the release mechanism includes a latching bolt configured to be released from the connector.

7. The system according to claim 1, wherein the wireless signal is a wi-fi signal, Bluetooth signal, Zigbee signal, RFID signal, microwave signal, infrared signal, cellular network signal, etc. or any combination thereof.

8. The system according to claim 1, wherein the wireless signal is triggered manually by the user.

9. The system according to claim 1, wherein the wireless signal is triggered automatically by the system.

10. The system according to claim 9, wherein the wireless signal is triggered automatically when the connector is a pre-defined distance from the signal generator.

11. The system according to claim 1, wherein the wireless signal is generated by the connector or an App on a personal computing device.

12. The system according to claim 11, wherein the personal computing device is a cellular phone, tablet, smart watch, smart glasses, or virtual reality (VR) device.

13. A method remotely releasing an animal leash, the method comprising: triggering a controller by receipt of a wireless signal or interruption of a received wireless signal; and activating a release mechanism thereby releasing either a collar or a leash from a connector therebetween.

14. The method according to claim 13, wherein the releasing includes releasing a reversibly retractable latching bolt from the connector.

15. The method according to claim 14, wherein the releasing includes release of a release spring biased to release the latching bolt.

16. The method according to claim 13, wherein the releasing includes release of a bolt retaining spring biased for release.

17. The method according to claim 13, wherein the releasing includes retracting an actuator by a motor.

18. The method according to claim 13, wherein the wireless signal is a wi-fi signal, Bluetooth signal, Zigbee signal, RFID signal, microwave signal, infrared signal, cellular network signal, etc. or any combination thereof.

19. The method according to claim 13, further comprising triggering the wireless signal manually.

20. The method according to claim 13, further comprising triggering the wireless signal automatically.

21. The method according to claim 13, further comprising triggering the wireless signal automatically when the connector is a pre-defined distance from a signal generator.

22. The system according to claim 21, wherein the signal generator is the connector or a personal computing device.

23. The method according to claim 13, further comprising generating the wireless signal by the connector or an App on a personal computing device.

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