Load leg for animal containment device

Abstract

An animal containment device for use in a cargo area of a vehicle is disclosed. The animal containment device includes a base, at least one wall extending from the base, and a top brace being removably attachable to the animal containment device. The top brace extends at least partially upwards away from the animal containment device toward a portion of the vehicle. The top brace is configured to reduce a magnitude of an impact force transferred from the portion of the vehicle to the animal containment device during an impact event.

Description

Attorney Docket No. JANLPT015WOLOAD LEG FOR ANIMAL CONTAINMENT DEVICECROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0001] This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Application Nos. 63 / 700,128, filed on September 27, 2024, 63 / 795,979, filed on April 28, 2025, 63 / 796,834, filed on April 29, 2025, 63 / 831,732, filed on June 27, 2025, and 63 / 885,852, filed on September 22, 2025, which are incorporated by reference as if fully set forth.TECHNICAL FIELD

[0002] The present disclosure relates generally to animal containment devices. In particular, the present disclosure relates animal containment devices for securing a pet or an animal in a vehicle.BACKGROUND

[0003] Many pet owners utilize a crate, cage, or other type of traveling carrier to transport animals in a vehicle, such as an automobile, airplane, train, bicycle, or the like. Pet traveling carriers are available that cooperate with safety belts or other anchor points of a vehicle to prevent a pet from roaming within and / or escaping from a vehicle. However, these carriers often do not adequately secure a pet in the case of a sudden change in vehicle speed or direction and can be difficult to install in a vehicle. An improperly restrained pet is more likely to be injured and to injure occupants of a vehicle during a crash.

[0004] Additionally, many existing pet traveling carriers suffer from various other deficiencies. For example, some pet traveling carriers lack safety features and the ability to securely attach them to a vehicle, and carriers that do attach to the vehicle often take up considerable room in the cargo area when not in use and can be difficult to install and remove. In another example, some pet traveling carriers are insufficiently anchored to contain and protect the animal in the event of a vehicle crash. In yet another example, some pet traveling carriers lack safety features relevant to crash performance when installed in the rear cargo area of a vehicle. In still another example, most pet traveling carriers are not crash tested and if they are, they utilize anchor points in the vehicle which are not rated for the weight of the carrier and therefore are likelyAttorney Docket No. JANI-PT015WO to break upon impact.SUMMARY

[0005] Aspects of this disclosure relate to animal containment systems, devices, and methods for securing an animal containment device, such as a crate for a large dog, in the rear cargo area of a vehicle. In some aspects, the animal containment systems, devices, and methods disclosed herein include a load leg for reducing a magnitude of an impact force transferred from a surface of the vehicle, such as the to the animal containment device during an impact event. In some aspects, the animal containment systems, devices, and methods disclosed herein include a tie-down strap assembly having a tie-down strap and a tie-down strap adjuster for securing the animal containment device to a load-bearing mounting structure of the vehicle. In some aspects, the animal containment systems, devices, and methods disclosed herein include a gasket disposed around a portion of the tie-down strap for maintaining a substantially leak-free vehicle seal when using tie-down anchor points located on the exterior of the vehicle, such as cargo door hinges.

[0006] In accordance with an aspect of the disclosure, an animal containment device for use in the cargo area of a vehicle is disclosed. The animal containment device may include a base, at least one wall extending from the base, and a top brace being removably attachable to the animal containment device. The top brace may extend at least partially upwards away from the animal containment device toward a portion of the vehicle. The top brace may be configured to reduce a magnitude of an impact force transferred from the portion of the vehicle to the animal containment device during an impact event.

[0007] In accordance with another aspect of the disclosure, an animal containment device for use in the cargo area of a vehicle is disclosed. The animal containment device may include a base, a plurality of sidewalls, a top panel, and a top rack mounted on the animal containment device and extending above the top panel. The top rack may extend at least partially upwards away from the animal containment device toward a portion of the vehicle. The top rack may be configured to reduce a magnitude of an impact force transferred from the portion of the vehicle to the animal containment device during an impact event.

[0008] In accordance with another aspect of the disclosure, an animal containment device for use in the cargo area of a vehicle is disclosed. The animal containment device may include a base,Attorney Docket No. JANI-PT015WO a plurality of sidewalls, and a top panel extending above the sidewalls. The top panel may extend upwards away from the plurality of sidewalls and toward a ceiling of the vehicle. The top panel may be configured to reduce a magnitude of an impact force transferred from the ceiling of the vehicle to the animal containment device during an impact event.

[0009] In accordance with another aspect of the disclosure, an animal containment system for a cargo area of a vehicle is disclosed. The animal containment system may include a body defining a cavity within which an animal is receivable. The animal containment device may include a tiedown anchor assembly disposed on the body of the animal containment device. The animal containment system may further include a tie-down strap assembly coupled to the animal containment device and a structure of the vehicle. The tie-down strap assembly may include a tiedown strap having a first end attachable to the tie-down anchor assembly and a second end attachable to the load-bearing mounting structure of the vehicle, such as a rear door hinge, cargo area side-wall-mounted anchor, cargo area floor-mounted anchor, or exterior surface of the vehicle (e.g., vehicle frame, cargo rack, tailgate assembly). The tie-down strap assembly further includes a tie-down strap adjuster coupled to the tie-down strap and disposed between the first end of the tie-down strap and the second end of the tie-down strap. The tie-down strap adjuster includes an angle-based locking mechanism and a stationary routing component. A portion of the tie-down strap is positioned between angle-based locking mechanism and the stationary routing component.

[0010] In accordance with another aspect of the disclosure, an animal containment device is disclosed. The animal containment device may include a body defining a cavity within which an animal is receivable. The animal containment device may further include a tie-down anchor assembly disposed on the body of the animal containment device, the tie-down anchor assembly comprising an open loop of webbing providing a webbing connection point for attachment to a fastening mechanism of a tie-down strap assembly.

[0011] In accordance with another aspect of the disclosure, a tie-down strap assembly for a cargo area of a vehicle is disclosed. The tie-down strap assembly may include a tie-down strap having a first end attachable to a tie-down anchor assembly of an animal containment device and a second end attachable to a load-bearing mounting structure of the vehicle. The tie-down strap assembly may further include a tie-down strap adjuster coupled to the tie-down strap and disposed between the first end of the tie-down strap and the second end of the tie-down strap. The tie-downAttorney Docket No. JANI-PT015WO strap adjuster may be configured to adjust a length of the tie-down strap between the first end of the tie-down strap and the second end of the tie-down strap. The tie-down strap assembly may further include a gasket disposed around a portion of the tie-down strap proximate the second end of the tie-down strap. The gasket may include a gasket body having an inner gasket surface defining a gasket opening and an outer gasket surface defining a gasket contact portion. The gasket opening may be sized to receive the portion of the tie-down strap. The gasket contact portion may be located to receive an external force applied to the gasket body by a door of the cargo area of the vehicle. The gasket opening may decrease in size when the external force is applied to the gasket body.

[0012] In accordance with another aspect of the disclosure, a method of forming an animal containment system for a cargo area of a vehicle is disclosed. The method may include forming an animal containment device having a body defining a cavity within which an animal is receivable. The animal containment device may include a tie-down anchor assembly disposed on the body of the animal containment device. The method may further include forming a tie-down strap assembly including a tie-down strap having a first end attachable to the tie-down anchor assembly and a second end attachable to a load-bearing mounting structure of the vehicle.

[0013] In accordance with another aspect of the disclosure, method for installing an animal containment system in a cargo area of a vehicle is disclosed. The method may include disposing an animal containment device in a cargo area of a vehicle, the animal containment device having a body defining a cavity within which an animal is receivable. The animal containment device may include a tie-down anchor assembly disposed on the body of the animal containment device. The method may further include attaching a first end of a tie-down strap of a tie-down strap assembly to a mounting structure of a vehicle. The method may further include attaching a second end of the tie-down strap of the tie-down strap assembly to the tie-down anchor assembly of the animal containment device.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0014] The following description of the illustrative aspects and / or embodiments may be better understood when read in conjunction with the appended drawings. It is understood that potential aspects and embodiments of the disclosure are not limited to those depicted. With reference to theAttorney Docket No. JANI-PT015WO accompanying drawings, like elements are numbered alike.

[0015] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of an example animal containment system including an example animal containment device installed in a cargo area of a vehicle according to aspects of the disclosure;

[0016] FIGS. 2A and 2B are rear and perspective views of another example animal containment system including another example animal containment device having an example top energy-absorption assembly formed as a top wrapping bar according to aspects of the disclosure.

[0017] FIGS. 3A and 3B are rear and perspective views of another example animal containment system including another example animal containment device having another example top energy-absorption assembly formed as a top roof rack according to aspects of the disclosure.

[0018] FIGS. 4A and 4B are rear and perspective views of another example animal containment system including another example animal containment device having another example top energy-absorption assembly formed as pivotable top bars according to aspects of the disclosure.

[0019] FIGS. 5 A and 5B are rear and perspective views of another example animal containment system including another example animal containment device having another example top energy-absorption assembly formed as a humpback structure according to aspects of the disclosure.

[0020] FIGS. 6A and 6B are rear and perspective views of another example animal containment system including another example animal containment device having another example top energy-absorption assembly formed as impact pods according to aspects of the disclosure.

[0021] FIGS. 7A and 7B are rear and perspective views of another example animal containment system including another example animal containment device having another example top energy-absorption assembly formed as a pivotable top roof rack according to aspects of the disclosure.

[0022] FIGS. 8 A and 8B are rear and perspective views of another example animal containment system including another example animal containment device having another example top energy-absorption assembly formed as a see-through spacer bar according to aspectsAttorney Docket No. JANI-PT015WO of the disclosure.

[0023] FIGS. 9A and 9B are rear and perspective views of another example animal containment system including another example animal containment device having another example top energy-absorption assembly formed as one or more foam blocks according to aspects of the disclosure.

[0024] FIGS. 10A and 10B are rear and perspective views of another example animal containment system including another example animal containment device having another example top energy-absorption assembly formed as a semi-pivotable top roof rack according to aspects of the disclosure.

[0025] FIGS. 11A and 11B are rear and perspective views of another example animal containment system including another example animal containment device having another example top energy-absorption assembly formed as a top impact pad according to aspects of the disclosure.

[0026] FIGS. 12A, 12B, 12C, 12D, 12E, 12F, and 12G are perspective and side views of another example animal containment system including another example animal containment device having another example top energy-absorption assembly formed as a top storage device that is removably attachable to the example animal containment device according to aspects of the disclosure.

[0027] FIGS. 13A, 13B, 13C, and 13D are perspective and side views of another example animal containment system including another example animal containment device having another example top energy-absorption assembly formed as a top multi-purpose accessory that is removably attachable to the example animal containment device according to aspects of the disclosure.

[0028] FIG. 14 is a top view of an example tie-down strap assembly according to aspects of the disclosure.

[0029] FIG. 15 is an exploded perspective view of an example tie-down strap adjuster according to aspects of the disclosure.

[0030] FIGS. 16A, 16B, and 16C are top, side, and rear views of the tie-down strap adjuster shown in FIG. 15 in the locked position according to aspects of the disclosure. FIGS. 16D and 16E are side views of the tie-down strap adjuster shown in FIG. 16B in the unlocking and unlockedAttomey Docket No. JANI-PT015WO positions, respectively, according to aspects of the disclosure.

[0031] FIGS. 17A, 17B, and 17C are cross-sectional side views of the tie-down strap adjuster shown in FIG. 15 in the locked, unlocking, and locked positions, respectively, according to aspects of the disclosure.

[0032] FIGS. 18 A, 18B, 18C, and 18D are perspective views of an example animal containment system secured in a cargo area of a vehicle according to aspects of the disclosure.

[0033] FIGS. 19A, 19B, and 19C are top, side, and perspective views of an example gasket of an example tie-down strap assembly according to aspects of the disclosure.

[0034] FIGS. 20A, 20B, 20C, and 20D are top, side, and perspective views of another example gasket of another example tie-down strap assembly according to aspects of the disclosure.

[0035] FIGS. 21A, 21B, and 21C are top, side, and perspective views of another example gasket of another example tie-down strap assembly according to aspects of the disclosure.

[0036] FIGS. 22 A, 22B, and 22C are top, side, and perspective views of another example gasket of another example tie-down strap assembly according to aspects of the disclosure.

[0037] FIGS. 23A, 23B, and 23C are top, side, and perspective views of another example gasket of another example tie-down strap assembly according to aspects of the disclosure.

[0038] FIGS. 24A, 24B, and 24C are top, side, and perspective views of another example gasket of another example tie-down strap assembly according to aspects of the disclosure.DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0039] The present disclosure sets forth various aspects of an animal containment system for a vehicle including an animal containment device for containing a pet. The animal containment system includes one or more tie-down strap assemblies for mounting / securing the animal containment device in a vehicle.

[0040] It should be noted that the illustrations and descriptions of the examples, aspects, and embodiments shown in the figures are for example purposes only, and should not be construed limiting the disclosure. One skilled in the art will appreciate that the present disclosure contemplates various examples, aspects, and embodiments. Additionally, it should be understood that the concepts described above with the above-described examples, aspects, and embodiments may be employed alone or in combination with any of the other examples, aspects, andAttorney Docket No. JANI-PT015WO embodiments described above. It should further be appreciated that the various alternative examples, aspects, and embodiments described above with respect to one illustrated example, aspect, or embodiment can apply to all examples, aspects, and embodiments as described herein, unless otherwise indicated.

[0041] Unless explicitly stated otherwise, each numerical value and range should be interpreted as being approximate, as if the word “about,” “approximately,” or “substantially” preceded the value or range, and is intended to include the degree of error associated with measurement of the particular quantity based upon the equipment available at the time of fding the application.

[0042] The terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing particular aspects and embodiments only and is not intended to be limiting of the present disclosure. As used herein, the singular forms “a,” “an” and “the” are intended to include the plural forms as well, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. Conditional language used herein, such as, among others, “can,” “could,” “might,” “may,” “e.g.,” and the like, unless specifically stated otherwise, or otherwise understood within the context as used, is generally intended to convey that certain aspects and / or embodiments include, while other aspects and / or embodiments do not include, certain features, elements, and / or steps. Thus, such conditional language is not generally intended to imply that features, elements, and / or steps are in any way required for one or more aspects and / or embodiments or that one or more aspects and / or embodiments necessarily include logic for deciding, with or without author input or prompting, whether these features, elements and / or steps are included or are to be performed in any particular embodiment. The terms “comprising,” “including,” “having,” and the like are synonymous and are used inclusively, in an open-ended fashion, and do not exclude additional elements, features, acts, operations, and so forth. For example, it will be understood that the terms “comprises,” “comprising,” etc., when used in this specification, specify the presence of stated features, steps, operations, elements, and / or components, but do not preclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, integers, steps, operations, element components, and / or groups thereof. Also, the term “or” is used in its inclusive sense (and not in its exclusive sense) so that when used, for example, to connect a list of elements, the term “or” means one, some, or all of the elements in the list.

[0043] The example embodiments may be further understood with reference to the followingAttorney Docket No. JANI-PT015WO description and the related appended drawings, wherein like elements are provided with the same reference numerals. The example embodiments describe an animal containment system and / or associated apparatuses for safely transporting animals (e.g., dogs) in a vehicle cargo area. In some embodiments, the animal containment system features an animal containment device (e.g., crate) for holding the animal that can be secured in a cargo area of a vehicle to securely transport the animal in the vehicle.

[0044] The animal containment device may include, or be referred to alternatively as, a crate, a dog crate, a storage device, or another suitable device. Those skilled in the art will understand that the animal containment device is configured to safely hold an animal during, for example, transportation of the animal in a moving vehicle and / or for transportation of the animal outside the vehicle. The animal containment device can include or can be configured to cooperate with one or more load legs and / or tie-down straps or other securing members to position and secure the animal containment device within the vehicle. In some embodiments, the disclosure provides for alternative arrangements and geometries of the load leg, energy redirection techniques for improved safety, and / or various geometries used to strategically weaken portions of the load leg for energy absorption.

[0045] In some embodiments, the disclosure provides for various animal containment devices which can be secured in the cargo space of a vehicle utilizing various tie-down strap assemblies and vehicle anchor points which are rated for the weight of the animal containment device plus its animal occupants and therefore are substantially less likely to fail (e.g., break) upon impact (e.g., vehicular crash). As a result, the animal containment systems, devices, and assemblies disclosed herein provide improved safety for both the animal in the animal containment device and the occupants in the vehicle. In some embodiments, the disclosure provides for mechanisms (e.g., tiedown anchor assemblies, tie-down strap assemblies) which are used to tie the animal containment device in the cargo space more securely than traditional animal crates as well as mechanisms (e.g., gaskets) which are used to maintain a substantially leak-free vehicle when the vehicle anchor points (e.g., cargo door hinges) are located on the exterior of the vehicle.

[0046] The animal containment systems disclosed herein can provide crash safety of rear seat human occupants in a vehicle when an animal, such as a dog, is behind them in the animal containment device in the rear cargo area of the vehicle. The animal containment systems disclosedAttorney Docket No. JANI-PT015WO herein can also provide crash safety for the dog in the rear cargo area. Additionally, the animal containment systems disclosed herein can provide a "universal" fit in many sport utility vehicle (SUV) rear cargo areas. In some aspects, the animal containment devices disclosed herein can be formed of a material that is durable and has the strength of heavy-duty kennels with some of the flexibility and aesthetics of soft-sided crates.

[0047] During a typical crash with impact on the front or rear of the vehicle, when the animal containment device is located in the vehicle cargo area, the impact forces from the crash will tend to cause the animal containment device to move forward (e.g., toward the vehicle seats and occupants), upward toward the ceiling, and / or rotationally forward and up (e.g., sending the top of the animal containment device over the vehicle seatback). Accordingly, features of the present disclosure aid in absorbing and / or counteracting such impact forces. In various embodiments, the animal containment device is part of an animal containment system that may include one or more features (including, but not limited to, a mounting assembly) that positively retain and / or block the animal containment device in the cargo area, preventing the animal containment device from becoming a projectile and / or inducing harm to animal or human occupants. As such, embodiments disclosed herein provide crash safety of rear seat human occupants when an animal (e.g., a dog) or other cargo is behind them in the rear cargo area along with crash safety of the animal or cargo itself.

[0048] In the following description, the terms “front” and “rear” are generally used with respect to a front and rear of a vehicle in which aspects of the present disclosure are used or intended to be used, unless otherwise stated. Thus, for example, a rear of an animal containment device is oriented toward a rear of vehicle or refers to a portion of the animal containment device intended to be orientated towards a rear of a vehicle.

[0049] It should be further understood that reference to a "side" of the animal containment device is provided for ease of explanation, and that multiple different components of the animal containment device can define the exterior of the animal containment device and these exterior components are not necessarily orthogonal to the other "sides." Additionally, the terms "inside" and / or "interior" and / or "internal" may refer to features in a direction toward the center of the animal containment device, relative to a certain component of the animal containment device, and the terms "outside" and / or "exterior" and / or "external" may refer to features in a direction awayAttomey Docket No. JANI-PT015WO from the center of the animal containment device, relative to a certain component of the animal containment device.

[0050] Although the disclosure may illustrate different embodiments, it is contemplated that aspects of individual embodiments may be combined or omitted. Therefore, the disclosure and claims are not intended to be limited to the illustrated embodiments.

[0051] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of an example animal containment system 100 installed in a cargo area of a vehicle according to an embodiment of the disclosure. As shown, the cargo area of the vehicle includes a rear seat surface 2 of a rear vehicle seat 4 (e.g., the “vehicle seatback”), a floor 6, a ceiling 8, and at least one vehicle-mounted anchor, such as one or more load-bearing cargo area floor-mounted tie-down anchor points, cargo area sidewall-mounted tie-down anchor points, cargo area ceiling-mounted tie-down anchor points, rear door hinges, and / or exterior surfaces of the vehicle (e.g., vehicle frame, cargo rack, tailgate assembly).

[0052] The animal containment device 110 may be a portable, enclosed containment assembly or crate that includes a body 112 defining an enclosure having an interior within which an animal is receivable, the body 112 including a cavity 120. The animal containment device 110 may include a base and at least one wall extending from the base upwardly and partially defining the cavity 120. For example, the animal containment device 110 may have a bottom panel 113, top panel 114, front panel 117, rear panel 119, first side panel 116, and second side panel 118 (not shown).

[0053] As shown, the animal containment system 100 may comprise an animal containment device 110 having a body 112 defining a cavity 120 within which an animal is receivable. As shown, the body 112 has a top panel 114 oriented facing a ceiling of the cargo area of the vehicle, a first side panel 116 oriented facing a first side wall of the cargo area of the vehicle, a second side panel 118 (not shown) oriented facing a second side wall of the cargo area of the vehicle opposite the first side wall of the cargo area of the vehicle, a front panel 117 oriented facing a rear seat surface of a vehicle seat (e.g., a “front side” of the cargo area of the vehicle), and a rear panel 119 oriented facing a rear wall or door of the cargo area of the vehicle (e.g., a “rear side” of the cargo area of the vehicle opposite the “front side” of the cargo area of the vehicle).

[0054] The animal containment system 100 further includes at least one tie-down strap assembly coupled to the animal containment device 110 and a load-bearing mounting structure of the vehicle, such as a rear door hinge (e.g., a hinge of the cargo hatch), cargo area side-wall-Attorney Docket No. JANI-PT015WO mounted anchor, cargo area floor-mounted anchor, or exterior surface of the vehicle (e.g., vehicle frame, cargo rack, tailgate assembly). Each tie-down strap assembly includes a tie-down strap having a first end attachable to a respective tie-down anchor assembly and a second end attachable to the load-bearing mounting structure of the vehicle. Each tie-down strap assembly further includes a first fastening mechanism (e.g., a carabiner assembly) fixedly attached to the first end of the tie-down strap and removably attachable to the tie-down anchor, and a second fastening mechanism (e.g., another carabiner assembly)fixedly attached to the second end of the tie-down strap and removably attachable to the load-bearing mounting structure of the vehicle. For example, the animal containment system 100 may include one, two, three, four, five, six, or any other suitable number of tie-down strap assemblies coupled to the animal containment device 110 and one or more load-bearing mounting structures of the vehicle, such as: two top tie-down strap assemblies removably attached to two portions of the top panel 114, respectively, and two top tiedown anchor assemblies (e.g., cargo area ceiling-mounted anchor points and / or rear door hinges), respectively; two left-side tie-down strap assemblies removably attached to two portions of the first side panel 116, respectively, and two first side tie-down anchor assemblies (e.g., left-side cargo area side-mounted anchor points and / or floor-mounted anchor points), respectively; and two right-side tie-down strap assemblies removably attached to two portions of the second side panel 118, respectively, and two second side tie-down anchor assemblies (e.g., right-side cargo area side- mounted anchor points and / or floor-mounted anchor points), respectively.

[0055] In some aspects, the animal containment system 100 further includes at least one load leg. For example, as shown, the animal containment system 100 includes a load leg 140 coupled to the animal containment device 110 and extendable from the body 112 of the animal containment device to a rear seat surface 2 of the rear vehicle seat 4 of the vehicle. The load leg 140 may be may be installed or otherwise provide support against the rear seat surface 2 of the rear vehicle seat 4, which may also be referred to as the “vehicle seatback,” and configured to reduce a magnitude of an impact force transferred from the rear seat surface 2 to the animal containment device 110 during an impact event.

[0056] In some aspects, the load leg 140 may be extendable away from the base of the animal containment device 110 toward a portion of the vehicle. As shown, the load leg 140 may have a proximal portion 142 mounted to the body of the animal containment device 110 and a distalAttorney Docket No. JANI-PT015WO portion 144 configured to be in contact with the rear surface 4 of the vehicle seat 2. The load leg 140 may be configured for movement between a retracted position (e.g., a “stored” position) with the distal portion 144 located proximate to or within the animal containment device 110 and an extended position (e.g., a “deployed” or “use” position) with the distal portion spaced away from the animal containment device. For example, the load leg 140 may be mounted on the front side of the animal containment device 110 toward the bottom side of the animal containment device 110, and this may reduce the amount of force transferred from the vehicle (e.g., through the rear surface 4 of the vehicle seat 2, or through the floor 6) to the animal containment device 110 during a crash. For example, the load leg 140 may be utilized to provide support against the rear surface 4 of the vehicle seat 2 near a bottom area of the vehicle seat 2 and relatively close to where the vehicle seat mounts to the vehicle body.

[0057] In some aspects, the animal containment system 100 further includes at least one top energy-absorption assembly, such as a top brace, top rack, top panel, and / or other structure coupled to or formed (e.g., integrally as a single piece) with the top panel 114. For example, as shown, the animal containment system 100 includes a top energy-absorption assembly 150 that is coupled (e.g., removably attached, fixedly attached) to the animal containment device 110. As shown, the top energy-absorption assembly 150 extends at least partially upwards away from the animal containment device 110 toward a portion of the vehicle, such as the ceiling 8 of the rear cargo area of the vehicle, as shown. The top energy-absorption assembly 150 is configured to reduce a magnitude of an impact force transferred from the portion of the vehicle to the animal containment device 110 during an impact event. In some aspects, the top energy-absorption assembly 150 may be formed as one or more top braces, top racks, top panels, and / or other suitable structures, as described in greater detail below with reference to FIGS. 2-13.

[0058] In some aspects, the top energy-absorption assembly 150 may extend or be extendable away from the animal containment device 110 toward a portion of the vehicle. As shown, the top energy-absorption assembly 150 may have a proximal portion 152 mounted to the body of the animal containment device 110 and a distal portion 154 configured to extend toward, and in some aspects to be in contact with, the ceiling 8. In some aspects, the hatch opening of the rear cargo area can be lower than the ceiling 8 in the rear cargo area of the vehicle, and the top energyabsorption assembly 150 may be retractable for insertion into and removal from the rear cargo areaAttorney Docket No. JANI-PT015WO of the vehicle and extendable for installation and use in the rear cargo area of the vehicle. Additionally, or alternatively, in some aspects, and the top energy-absorption assembly 150 may be substantially flexible to compress to fit through the hatch opening and decompress once in the rear cargo area. Additionally, or alternatively, in some aspects, and the top energy-absorption assembly 150 may be configured to attach to the animal containment device 110 after the animal containment device 110 has been installed in the rear cargo area of the vehicle.

[0059] In some aspects, a user may place the animal containment system 100 on the floor 6 of the cargo area of the vehicle, behind the rear seat surface 2 and under the ceiling 8 of the vehicle. The position of the load leg 140 of the animal containment system 100 may be extended away from the front panel 117 at a distance so when the load leg 140 contacts the rear seat surface 2 of the vehicle seat 4, substantially no other part of the animal containment device 110 is able to contact the vehicle seat 2. The top energy-absorption assembly 150 of the animal containment system 100 may extend from the top panel 114 at a distance so when the top energy-absorption assembly 150 contacts the ceiling 8 of the vehicle, substantially no other part of the animal containment device 110 is able to contact the ceiling 8. The load leg 140 and top energy-absorption assembly 150 may work in conjunction with the tie-down strap assemblies to ensure that the animal containment device 110 does not substantially contact the rear seat surface 2 and the ceiling 8, respectively. By adding energy-ab sorption structures as disclosed herein, the load leg 140, the top energy-absorption assembly 150, and / or the tie-down strap assemblies are configured to absorb at least a portion of the impact forces during a crash and thereby reduce the forces exerted upon the animal contained within the animal containment device 110, further reducing injury.

[0060] FIGS. 2A and 2B are rear and perspective views of an example animal containment system 200 including an example animal containment device 210 having a top energy-absorption assembly 250 formed as a top wrapping bar 256, according to aspects of the disclosure. The animal containment device 210 includes a base and at least one wall extending from the base and at least partially defining an enclosure having an interior within which an animal is receivable. For example, as shown, the animal containment device 210 includes a bottom panel 213, top panel 214, front panel 217, rear panel 219, first side panel 216, and second side panel 218. Optionally, as shown, the animal containment device 210 further includes a load leg 240.

[0061] As shown, the animal containment device 210 further includes a top energy-absorptionAttorney Docket No. JANI-PT015WO assembly 250 formed as a top wrapping bar 256. In some aspects, the top wrapping bar 256 may be formed of metal, plastic, and / or any other suitable material. For example, the top wrapping bar 256 may be a plastic bar and, optionally, may be formed over a tubing structure. In some aspects, the top wrapping bar 256 may be tied in to the animal containment device 210 at one or more pockets thereof, such as a first pocket 286 disposed proximate the first side panel 216, a second pocket 288 disposed proximate the second side panel 218, any other suitable structure, or any combination thereof. In some aspects, the top wrapping bar 256 may be partially resilient or have a resilient section to allow the bar to extend across the top panel 214 and resiliently press (e.g., snap fit) into the pockets 286, 288 without any fasteners such as bolts, buckles, or the like. Additionally, or alternatively, in some aspects, the top wrapping bar 256 may be attached to one or more of the panels 214, 216, 217, 218, and / or 219 of the animal containment device 210 with bolts and / or any other suitable fastening mechanism.

[0062] As shown, the animal containment device 210 in some embodiments further includes right-side tie-down anchor assemblies 222A and 222B (not shown) disposed on first and second portions, respectively, of the first side panel 216 of the animal containment device 210, and leftside tie-down anchor assemblies 222C and 222D disposed on first and second portions, respectively, of the second side panel 218 of the animal containment device 210. In some aspects, each of the tie-down strap assemblies 232A, 232B (not shown), 232C, and 232D has a first end removably attachable to a respective one of the four side tie-down anchor assemblies 222A, 222B, 222C, and 222D, and a second end removably attachable to a respective one of the floor-mounted, si dewall -mounted, ceiling-mounted, hinge, and exterior anchors of the vehicle.

[0063] FIGS. 3A and 3B are rear and perspective views of an example animal containment system 300 including an example animal containment device 310 having a top energy-absorption assembly 350 formed as a top roof rack 355, according to aspects of the disclosure. The animal containment device 310 includes a base and at least one wall extending from the base and at least partially defining an enclosure having an interior within which an animal is receivable. For example, as shown, the animal containment device 310 includes a bottom panel 313, top panel 314, front panel 317, rear panel 319, first side panel 316, and second side panel 318. Optionally, as shown, the animal containment device 310 further includes a load leg 340.

[0064] As shown, the animal containment device 310 further includes a top energy-absorptionAttorney Docket No. JANI-PT015WO assembly 350 formed as a top roof rack 355 having arms 356 and 358 (e.g., substantially rigid arms, semi-rigid arms, flexible arms) extending upwards above the panels 314, 316, 317, 318, and 319 and towards the ceiling of the vehicle. In some aspects, the top roof rack 355 may be formed of metal, plastic, and / or any other suitable material. In some aspects, the top roof rack 355 may be attached to one or more of the panels 314, 316, 317, 318, and / or 319 of the animal containment device 310 with bolts and / or any other suitable fastening mechanism.

[0065] As shown, the animal containment device 310 further includes right-side tie-down anchor assemblies 322A and 322B (not shown) disposed on first and second portions, respectively, of the first side panel 316 of the animal containment device 310, and left-side tie-down anchor assemblies 322C and 322D disposed on first and second portions, respectively, of the second side panel 318 of the animal containment device 310. In some aspects, each of the tie-down strap assemblies 332A, 332B (not shown), 332C, and 332D has a first end removably attachable to a respective one of the four side tie-down anchor assemblies 322A, 322B, 322C, and 322D, and a second end removably attachable to a respective one of the floor-mounted, sidewall-mounted, ceiling-mounted, hinge, and exterior anchors of the vehicle.

[0066] FIGS. 4A and 4B are rear and perspective views of an example animal containment system 400 including an example animal containment device 410 having a top energy-absorption assembly 450 formed as pivotable top bars 456 and 458 according to aspects of the disclosure. As shown, the pivotable top bars 456 and 458 are pivotable about respective pivot axes 496 and 498 that extend substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the carrier. The animal containment device 410 includes a base and at least one wall extending from the base and at least partially defining an enclosure having an interior within which an animal is receivable. For example, as shown, the animal containment device 410 includes a bottom panel 413, top panel 414, front panel 417, rear panel 419, first side panel 416, and second side panel 418. Optionally, as shown, the animal containment device 410 further includes a load leg 440. In some aspects, the top panel 414 may include recessed areas 487 and 489, or be sized to define a recess at the intersection with the front panel 417 and rear panel 419, to allow the pivotable top bars 456 and 458 to at least partially nest in the recessed areas 487 and 489 when in a collapsed position.

[0067] As shown, the animal containment device 410 further includes atop energy-absorption assembly 450 formed as a pivotable top bars 456 and 458. In some aspects, the pivotable top barsAttorney Docket No. JANI-PT015WO456 and 458 may be formed of metal, plastic, and / or any other suitable material. In some aspects, the pivotable top bars 456 and 458 may be installed into receiving hubs mounted to one or more of the panels 414, 417, and / or 419.

[0068] The animal containment device 410 further includes right-side tie-down anchor assemblies 422A and 422B (not shown) disposed on first and second portions, respectively, of the first side panel 416 of the animal containment device 410, and left-side tie-down anchor assemblies 422C and 422D disposed on first and second portions, respectively, of the second side panel 418 of the animal containment device 410. In some aspects, each of the tie-down strap assemblies 432A, 432B (not shown), 432C, and 432D has a first end removably attachable to a respective one of the four side tie-down anchor assemblies 422 A, 422B, 422C, and 422D, and a second end removably attachable to a respective one of the floor-mounted, sidewall-mounted, ceilingmounted, hinge, and exterior anchors of the vehicle.

[0069] FIGS. 5A and 5B are rear and perspective views of an example animal containment system 500 including an example animal containment device 510 having a top energy-absorption assembly 550 formed as a humpback structure 556, according to aspects of the disclosure. The animal containment device 510 includes a base and at least one wall extending from the base and at least partially defining an enclosure having an interior within which an animal is receivable. For example, as shown, the animal containment device 510 includes a bottom panel 513, top panel 514, front panel 517, rear panel 519, first side panel 516, and second side panel 518. Optionally, as shown, the animal containment device 510 further includes a load leg 540. In some aspects, the top panel 514 may be hollow on the interior thereof to provide a greater height for the interior of the animal containment device 510 than, for example, other disclosed embodiments. In an aspect, the top panel 514 may be removably attachable to the animal containment device 510 and may be provided as an optional replacement top panel.

[0070] As shown, the animal containment device 510 further includes a top energy-absorption assembly 550 formed as a humpback structure 556. In some aspects, the humpback structure 556 may be formed of metal, plastic, and / or any other suitable material. In some aspects, the humpback structure 556 may be provided in a plurality of different sizes (e.g., heights) and attached to the one or more of the panels 514, 517, and / or 519. In some aspects, as shown, the top panel 514 extends above (e.g., upwards and away from) the front panel 517, rear panel 519, first side panelAttorney Docket No. JANI-PT015WO516, and second side panel 518 and toward a ceiling of the vehicle, and the top panel 514 is configured to reduce a magnitude of an impact force transferred from the ceiling of the vehicle to the animal containment device during an impact event. For example, as shown, the top panel 514 includes the top energy- absorption assembly 550 formed as the humpback structure 556, and may be one of a plurality of top panels selectively attachable to the animal containment device 510 for different vehicle sizes (e.g., different cargo area heights).

[0071] The animal containment device 510 further includes right-side tie-down anchor assemblies 522A and 522B (not shown) disposed on first and second portions, respectively, of the first side panel 516 of the animal containment device 510, and left-side tie-down anchor assemblies 522C and 522D disposed on first and second portions, respectively, of the second side panel 518 of the animal containment device 510. In some aspects, each of the tie-down strap assemblies 532A, 532B (not shown), 532C, and 532D has a first end removably attachable to a respective one of the four side tie-down anchor assemblies 522 A, 522B, 522C, and 522D, and a second end removably attachable to a respective one of the floor-mounted, sidewall-mounted, ceilingmounted, hinge, and exterior anchors of the vehicle.

[0072] FIGS. 6A and 6B are rear and perspective views of an example animal containment system 600 including an example animal containment device 610 having a top energy-absorption assembly 650 formed as impact pods 656 and 658, according to aspects of the disclosure. The animal containment device 610 includes a base and at least one wall extending from the base and at least partially defining an enclosure having an interior within which an animal is receivable. For example, as shown, the animal containment device 610 includes a bottom panel 613, top panel 614, front panel 617, rear panel 619, first side panel 616, and second side panel 618. Optionally, as shown, the animal containment device 610 further includes a load leg 640.

[0073] As shown, the animal containment device 610 further includes atop energy-absorption assembly 650 formed as impact pods 656 and 658. In some aspects, the impact pods 656 and 658 may be formed of metal, plastic, and / or any other suitable material. In some aspects, the impact pods 656 and 658 may be installed into receiving hubs mounted to one or more of the panels 614, 617, and / or 619. For example, as shown, the impact pods 656 and 658 may be installed into sockets on the top panel 614. In another example, the impact pods 656 and 658 may be integrally formed with the top panel 614 as a single-piece component. In some aspects, the impact pods 656 and 658Attorney Docket No. JANI-PT015WO may be provided in a plurality of different sizes (e.g., heights) that are selectively attachable to the animal containment device 610 for different vehicle sizes.

[0074] The animal containment device 610 further includes right-side tie-down anchor assemblies 622A and 622B (not shown) disposed on first and second portions, respectively, of the first side panel 616 of the animal containment device 610, and left-side tie-down anchor assemblies 622C and 622D disposed on first and second portions, respectively, of the second side panel 618 of the animal containment device 610. In some aspects, each of the tie-down strap assemblies 632A, 632B (not shown), 632C, and 632D has a first end removably attachable to a respective one of the four side tie-down anchor assemblies 622A, 622B, 622C, and 622D, and a second end removably attachable to a respective one of the floor-mounted, si dewall -mounted, ceilingmounted, hinge, and exterior anchors of the vehicle.

[0075] FIGS. 7A and 7B are rear and perspective views of an example animal containment system 700 including an example animal containment device 710 having a top energy-absorption assembly 750 formed as a pivotable top roof rack 755, according to aspects of the disclosure. The animal containment device 710 includes a base and at least one wall extending from the base and at least partially defining an enclosure having an interior within which an animal is receivable. For example, as shown, the animal containment device 710 includes a bottom panel 713, top panel 714, front panel 717, rear panel 719, first side panel 716, and second side panel 718. Optionally, as shown, the animal containment device 710 further includes a load leg 740.

[0076] As shown, the animal containment device 710 further includes a top energy-absorption assembly 750 formed as a pivotable top roof rack 755 having pivotable arms 756 (shown in a lowered or retracted position) and 758 (shown in a raised or extended position). As shown, the pivotable arm 756 extends longitudinally along the first side panel 716 and is pivotable between retracted and extended positions about a first pivot axis 786 that is substantially parallel to a first lateral axis proximate the uppermost portion of the first side panel 716, and the pivotable arm 758 extends longitudinally along the second side panel 718 and is pivotable between retracted and extended positions about a second pivot axis 788 that is substantially parallel to a second lateral axis proximate the uppermost portion of the second side panel 718. As shown, in the extended position, the pivotable arms 756 and 758 extend upwards above the panels 714, 716, 717, 718, and 719 and towards the ceiling of the vehicle. In some aspects, the pivotable top roof rack 755 mayAttorney Docket No. JANI-PT015WO be formed of metal, plastic, and / or any other suitable material. In some aspects, the pivotable top roof rack 755 may be attached to one or more of the panels 714, 716, 717, 718, and / or 719 of the animal containment device 710 with bolts and / or any other suitable fastening mechanism.

[0077] The animal containment device 710 further includes right-side tie-down anchor assemblies 722A and 722B (not shown) disposed on first and second portions, respectively, of the first side panel 716 of the animal containment device 710, and left-side tie-down anchor assemblies 722C and 722D disposed on first and second portions, respectively, of the second side panel 718 of the animal containment device 710. In some aspects, each of the tie-down strap assemblies 732A, 732B (not shown), 732C, and 732D has a first end removably attachable to a respective one of the four side tie-down anchor assemblies 722 A, 722B, 722C, and 722D, and a second end removably attachable to a respective one of the floor-mounted, sidewall-mounted, ceilingmounted, hinge, and exterior anchors of the vehicle.

[0078] FIGS. 8A and 8B are rear and perspective views of an example animal containment system 800 including an example animal containment device 810 having a top energy-absorption assembly 850 formed as a see-through spacer bar 856, according to aspects of the disclosure. The animal containment device 810 includes a base and at least one wall extending from the base and at least partially defining an enclosure having an interior within which an animal is receivable. For example, as shown, the animal containment device 810 includes a bottom panel 813, top panel 814, front panel 817, rear panel 819, first side panel 816, and second side panel 818. Optionally, as shown, the animal containment device 810 further includes a load leg 840.

[0079] As shown, the animal containment device 810 further includes atop energy-absorption assembly 850 formed as a see-through spacer bar 856 having an interior surface 857 defining an pass-through opening 858 to allow the vehicle driver to see out of the rear window of the vehicle. In some aspects, the see-through spacer bar 856 may be formed of metal, plastic, and / or any other suitable material. For example, the see-through spacer bar 856 may be plastic molded over an elastic polymer material such as ethylene-vinyl acetate (EVA). In some aspects, the see-through spacer bar 856 may be attached to one or more of the panels 814, 816, 817, 818, and / or 819 of the animal containment device 810 with bolts and / or any other suitable fastening mechanism.

[0080] The animal containment device 810 further includes right-side tie-down anchor assemblies 822A and 822B (not shown) disposed on first and second portions, respectively, of theAttorney Docket No. JANI-PT015WO first side panel 816 of the animal containment device 810, and left-side tie-down anchor assemblies 822C and 822D disposed on first and second portions, respectively, of the second side panel 818 of the animal containment device 810. In some aspects, each of the tie-down strap assemblies 832A, 832B (not shown), 832C, and 832D has a first end removably attachable to a respective one of the four side tie-down anchor assemblies 822 A, 822B, 822C, and 822D, and a second end removably attachable to a respective one of the floor-mounted, sidewall-mounted, ceilingmounted, hinge, and exterior anchors of the vehicle.

[0081] FIGS. 9A and 9B are rear and perspective views of an example animal containment system 900 including an example animal containment device 910 having a top energy-absorption assembly 950 formed as one or more foam blocks 956, according to aspects of the disclosure. The animal containment device 910 includes a base and at least one wall extending from the base and at least partially defining an enclosure having an interior within which an animal is receivable. For example, as shown, the animal containment device 910 includes a bottom panel 913, top panel 914, front panel 917, rear panel 919, first side panel 916, and second side panel 918. Optionally, as shown, the animal containment device 910 further includes a load leg 940.

[0082] As shown, the animal containment device 910 further includes atop energy-absorption assembly 950 formed as one or more foam blocks 956 placed in a foam-block-receiving tray 957 attached to the animal containment device 910. For example, as shown, the one or more foam blocks 956 may include a first foam block 958 disposed in and attached to the foam-block- receiving tray 957, and a second foam block 959 attached to the first foam block 958. In some aspects, the foam-block-receiving tray 957 may be formed of metal, plastic, EVA, and / or any other suitable material. In some aspects, the one or more foam blocks 956 may be formed of EVA and / or any other suitable material. In some aspects, each of the one or more foam blocks 956 may have a thickness (e.g., height) of about 2.5 inches, and can be attached to the foam-block-receiving tray 957 and / or other foam blocks using one or more hook-and-loop fastening mechanisms to adjust the height of the one or more foam blocks 956 for different vehicle sizes. In some aspects, the foam-block-receiving tray 957 may be attached to one or more of the panels 914, 916, 917, 918, and / or 919 of the animal containment device 910 with one or more bolt-and-grommet fasteners and / or any other suitable fastening mechanisms. In some aspects, the foam block 958 (e g., the bottom-most foam block) may be placed in and attached to the foam-block-receiving tray 957 withAttorney Docket No. JANI-PT015WO one or more hook-and-loop fasteners and / or any other suitable fastening mechanisms. In some aspects, the foam block 959 (e.g., the top-most foam block) may be attached to the foam block 958 with one or more hook-and-loop fasteners and / or any other suitable fastening mechanism. Optionally, in some aspects, the top energy-absorption assembly 950 may omit the foam-block- receiving tray 957, and the foam block 958 may be attached directly to one or more of the panels 914, 916, 917, 918, and / or 919 of the animal containment device 910 with bolts, grommets, hook- and-loop fasteners, and / or any other suitable fastening mechanism. In some aspects, the one or more foam blocks 956 are configured to provide a relatively softer top energy-absorption assembly for vehicles having a ceiling over the animal containment device 910 that is made at least partially of glass (e g. a sun roof) or fabric (e g., a convertible top) and / or for vehicles with relatively small rear cargo areas in which at least a portion of the animal containment device 910 is disposed under the glass of the rear hatch.

[0083] The animal containment device 910 further includes right-side tie-down anchor assemblies 922A and 922B (not shown) disposed on first and second portions, respectively, of the first side panel 916 of the animal containment device 910, and left-side tie-down anchor assemblies 922C and 922D disposed on first and second portions, respectively, of the second side panel 918 of the animal containment device 910. In some aspects, each of the tie-down strap assemblies 932A, 932B (not shown), 932C, and 932D has a first end removably attachable to a respective one of the four side tie-down anchor assemblies 922A, 922B, 922C, and 922D, and a second end removably attachable to a respective one of the floor-mounted, sidewall-mounted, ceilingmounted, hinge, and exterior anchors of the vehicle.

[0084] FIGS. 10A and 10B are rear and perspective views of an example animal containment system 1000 including an example animal containment device 1010 having a top energyabsorption assembly 1050 formed as a semi-pivotable top roof rack 1055, according to aspects of the disclosure. The animal containment device 1010 includes abase and at least one wall extending from the base and at least partially defining an enclosure having an interior within which an animal is receivable. For example, as shown, the animal containment device 1010 includes a bottom panel 1013, top panel 1014, front panel 1017, rear panel 1019, first side panel 1016, and second side panel 1018. Optionally, as shown, the animal containment device 1010 further includes a load leg 1040.Attorney Docket No. JANI-PT015WO

[0085] As shown, the animal containment device 1010 further includes a top energyabsorption assembly 1050 formed as a semi -pivotable top roof rack 1055 having a pivotable arm 1059 (shown in a raised or extended position). As shown, the pivotable arm 1059 extends longitudinally along the rear panel 1019 and is pivotable between retracted and extended positions about a pivot axis 1089 that is substantially parallel to a first longitudinal axis proximate the uppermost portion of the rear panel 1019. As shown, in the extended position, the pivotable arm 1059 extends upwards above the panels 1014, 1016, 1017, 1018, and 1019 and towards the ceiling of the vehicle. In some aspects, the semi-pivotable top roof rack 1055 may be formed of metal, plastic, and / or any other suitable material. In some aspects, the semi-pivotable top roof rack 1055 may be attached to one or more of the panels 1014, 1016, 1017, 1018, and / or 1019 of the animal containment device 1010 with bolts, threaded inserts with reinforced bosses, and / or any other suitable fastening mechanism. In some aspects (not shown), to accommodate different vehicle geometries, the semi-pivotable top roof rack 1055 may be rotated by 180 degrees so that the pivotable arm 1059 extends longitudinally along the front panel 1017 and is pivotable between retracted and extended positions about the pivot axis 1089 that, as a result of the semi-pivotable top roof rack 1055 being rotated by 180 degrees, is substantially parallel to a second longitudinal axis proximate the uppermost portion of the front panel 1017.

[0086] The animal containment device 1010 further includes right-side tie-down anchor assemblies 1022A and 1022B (not shown) disposed on first and second portions, respectively, of the first side panel 1016 of the animal containment device 1010, and left-side tie-down anchor assemblies 1022C and 1022D disposed on first and second portions, respectively, of the second side panel 1018 of the animal containment device 1010. In some aspects, each of the tie-down strap assemblies 1032A, 1032B (not shown), 1032C, and 1032D has a first end removably attachable to a respective one of the four side tie-down anchor assemblies 1022 A, 1022B, 1022C, and 1022D, and a second end removably attachable to a respective one of the floor-mounted, si dewall -mounted, ceiling-mounted, hinge, and exterior anchors of the vehicle.

[0087] FIGS. 11 A and 1 IB are rear and perspective views of an example animal containment system 1100 including an example animal containment device 1110 having a top energyabsorption assembly 1150 formed as a top impact pad 1156, according to aspects of the disclosure. The animal containment device 1110 includes a base and at least one wall extending from the baseAttorney Docket No. JANI-PT015WO and at least partially defining an enclosure having an interior within which an animal is receivable. For example, as shown, the animal containment device 1110 includes a bottom panel 1113, top panel 1114, front panel 1117, rear panel 1119, first side panel 1116, and second side panel 1118. Optionally, as shown, the animal containment device 1110 further includes a load leg 1140.

[0088] As shown, the animal containment device 1110 further includes a top energyabsorption assembly 1150 formed as a top impact pad 1156. In some aspects, the top impact pad 1156 may be formed of plastic, foam (e.g., blue foam), and / or any other suitable material of any suitable . For example, the top impact pad 1156 may include a blue foam pad disposed between two layers of plastic. In some aspects, as shown the top impact pad 1156 may be attached to the side tie-down anchor assemblies 1122A, 1122B, 1122C (not shown), and 1122D of the animal containment device 210 with grommets, clasps, webbing, and / or any other suitable fastening mechanism. In some aspects, the top impact pad 1156 may be one of a plurality of differently- sized top impact pads having different thicknesses for rear cargo areas of different sizes. In some aspects, the top energy-absorption assembly 1150 may include additional top impact pads that are attachable to the top impact pad 1156 and each other using, for example, hook-and-loop fasteners to increase the total thickness of the top energy-absorption assembly 1150 for rear cargo areas of different sizes. In some aspects, the top impact pad 1156 is configured to provide a relatively softer top energy-absorption assembly for vehicles having a ceiling over the animal containment device 1110 that is made at least partially of glass (e.g. a sun roof) or fabric (e.g., a convertible top) and / or for vehicles with relatively small rear cargo areas in which at least a portion of the animal containment device 1110 is disposed under the glass of the rear hatch.

[0089] The animal containment device 1110 further includes right-side tie-down anchor assemblies 1122A and 1122B (not shown) disposed on first and second portions, respectively, of the first side panel 1116 of the animal containment device 1110, and left-side tie-down anchor assemblies 1122C and 1122D disposed on first and second portions, respectively, of the second side panel 1118 of the animal containment device 1110. In some aspects, each of the tie-down strap assemblies 1132A, 1132B (not shown), 1132C, and 1132D has a first end removably attachable to a respective one of the four side tie-down anchor assemblies 1122A, 1122B, 1122C, and 1122D, and a second end removably attachable to a respective one of the floor-mounted, sidewall-mounted, ceiling-mounted, hinge, and exterior anchors of the vehicle.Attorney Docket No. JANI-PT015WO

[0090] FIGS. 12A, 12B, 12C, 12D, 12E, 12F, and 12G are perspective and side views of an example animal containment system 1200 including an example animal containment device 1210 having a top energy-absorption assembly 1250 formed as a top storage device 1256 that is removably attachable to the animal containment device 1210, according to aspects of the disclosure. The animal containment device 1210 includes a base and at least one wall extending from the base and at least partially defining an enclosure having an interior within which an animal is receivable. For example, as shown, the animal containment device 1210 includes a bottom panel 1213, top panel 1214, front panel 1217, rear panel 1219, first side panel 1216, and second side panel 1218. Optionally, as shown, the animal containment device 1210 further includes a load leg 1240.

[0091] As shown, the animal containment device 1210 further includes a top energyabsorption assembly 1250 formed as a top storage device 1256. In some aspects, the top storage device 1256 may be formed of metal, plastic, and / or any other suitable material. For example, the top storage device 1256 may be a plastic bin. In some aspects, the top storage device 1256 may be attached to one or more of the panels 1214, 1216, 1217, 1218, and / or 1219 of the animal containment device 1210 with bolts and / or any other suitable fastening mechanism. For example, as shown in FIGS. 12B-12G, the top storage device 1256 may be removably attached to the top panel 1214 by a locking mechanism 1260.

[0092] As shown, the animal containment device 1210 further includes right-side tie-down anchor assemblies 1222A and 1222B disposed on first and second portions, respectively, of the first side panel 1216 of the animal containment device 1210, and left-side tie-down anchor assemblies 1222C and 1222D disposed on first and second portions, respectively, of the second side panel 1218 of the animal containment device 1210. In some aspects, a respective tie-down strap assembly may be removably attachable at a first end to a respective one of the four side tiedown anchor assemblies 1222A, 1222B, 1222C, and 1222D, and at a second end to a respective one of the floor-mounted, sidewall-mounted, ceiling-mounted, hinge, and exterior anchors of the vehicle.

[0093] In some aspects, as shown in FIGS. 12B-12G, the top storage device 1256 may be removably attached to the top panel 1214 by a locking mechanism 1260. For example, as shown, the top panel 1214 may include a mounting structure 1215 (e.g., a recessed mating structureAttorney Docket No. JANI-PT015WO integrally formed on a portion of the top panel 1214 proximate the front edge of the top panel 1214), and the top storage device 1256 may include a protrusion 1257 formed on a front side of the top storage device 1256 and configured to be inserted into the mounting structure 1215. As shown, the top storage device 1256 may further include a protrusion 1258 formed on a rear side of the top storage device 1256 and configured to be engaged (e.g., secured) by the locking mechanism 1260. Additionally, or alternatively, the top storage device 1256 may be removably attached to the animal containment device 1210 by a rotating lock, a lock which translates about the length (e.g., front to back) of the animal containment device 1210, and / or any other suitable mechanism.

[0094] In some aspects, as shown, the top storage device 1256 may be removably attached to animal containment device 1210 utilizing a process described in connection with as shown in FIGS. 12B-12G. For example, in a first step, the top storage device 1256 is placed atop the animal containment device 1210 as shown in FIG. 12C, which shows a side view of the animal containment system 1200 in which the top storage device 1256 is placed atop the animal containment device 1210 with neither of the protrusions 1257 and 1258 secured on the animal containment device 1210. In a second step, the top storage device 1256 is moved (e.g., slid) forward to secure the front portion of the top storage device 1256 to the animal containment device 1210 as shown in FIG. 12D, which shows a side view of the animal containment system 1200 in which the top storage device 1256 is placed atop the animal containment device 1210 with the protrusion 1257 secured in the mounting structure 1215 of the animal containment device 1210, and the protrusion 1258 not secured on the animal containment device 1210. In a third step, the locking mechanism 1260 is placed over the rear portion of the top storage device 1256 as shown in FIG. 12E, which shows a side view of the animal containment system 1200 in which the top storage device 1256 is placed atop the animal containment device 1210 with the protrusion 1257 secured in the mounting structure 1215 of the animal containment device 1210, the protrusion 1258 not secured on the animal containment device 1210, and the locking mechanism 1260 is placed over the protrusion 1258. In a fourth step, , the locking mechanism 1260 is moved downward to secure the rear portion of the top storage device 1256 to the animal containment device 1210 as shown in FIGS. 12B, 12F, and 12G, which show perspective, side, and close-up side views of the animal containment system 1200 in which the top storage device 1256 is placedAttorney Docket No. JANI-PT015WO atop the animal containment device 1210 with the protrusion 1257 secured in the mounting structure 1215 of the animal containment device 1210, and the protrusion 1258 secured on the animal containment device 1210 by the locking mechanism 1260.

[0095] FIGS. 13A, 13B, 13C, and 13D are perspective and side views of an example animal containment system 1300 including an example animal containment device 1310 having a top energy-absorption assembly 1350 formed as a top multi-purpose accessory, such as a top backpack accessory 1356, that is removably attachable to the animal containment device 1310, according to aspects of the disclosure. The animal containment device 1310 includes a base and at least one wall extending from the base and at least partially defining an enclosure having an interior within which an animal is receivable. For example, as shown, the animal containment device 1310 includes a bottom panel 1313, top panel 1314, front panel 1317, rear panel 1319, first side panel 1316, and second side panel 1318. Optionally, as shown, the animal containment device 1310 further includes a load leg 1340.

[0096] In some aspects, as shown in FIGS. 13 A and 13B, the animal containment device 1310 further includes a top energy-absorption assembly 1350 formed as a top backpack accessory 1356. In some aspects, the top backpack accessory 1356 may be formed of fabric, plastic, metal, and / or any other suitable material. For example, the top backpack accessory 1356 may be formed of a suitably rigid or crushable material (e.g., thermoformed, plastic, or metal subframe with fabric softgoods, etc.) to function as a top brace. In some aspects, as shown, the top backpack accessory 1356 includes one or more locking mechanisms 1370 configured to engage with one or more mounting structures 1360 (e g., posts or other suitable geometric structures) disposed on the top panel 1314 in a recessed portion 1315 of the top panel 1314. In some aspects, the recessed portion 1315 of the top panel 1314 is arranged and sized to receive a bottom portion of the top backpack accessory 1356 to reduce or substantially prevent movement of the top backpack accessory 1356 when attached to the animal containment device 1310.

[0097] In some aspects, as shown in FIGS. 13C and 13D, the top backpack accessory 1356 may be removed from the animal containment device 1310 and attached to a backpack adapter 1380 having shoulder straps 1382 and mounting structures 1384 (e.g., posts or other suitable geometric structures) configured to engage the one or more locking mechanisms 1370 of the top backpack accessory 1356 to form a backpack as shown in FIG. 13D. Additionally, or alternatively,Attorney Docket No. JANI-PT015WO in some aspects, one or more other multi-functional accessories (e.g., storage devices, bins, foam blocks, softgoods assemblies, etc.) may be attached to the one or more mounting structures 1360 of the animal containment device 1310 to provide top energy-absorption functionality. In some aspects, the one or more other multi-functional accessories may be removed from the animal containment device 1310 and attached to one or more other multi-functional accessory adapters, such as a harness adapter to clip the multi-functional accessory (e g., bag) to a pet, a strap to convert the multi-functional accessory to a crossbody or sling bag, or any other suitable component.

[0098] As shown in FIG. 13 A, the animal containment device 1310 further includes right-side tie-down anchor assemblies 1322A and 1322B disposed on first and second portions, respectively, of the first side panel 1316 of the animal containment device 1310, and left-side tie-down anchor assemblies 1322C (not shown) and 1322D (not shown) disposed on first and second portions, respectively, of the second side panel 1318 of the animal containment device 1310. In some aspects, a respective tie-down strap assembly may be removably attachable at a first end to a respective one of the four side tie-down anchor assemblies 1322A, 1322B, 1322C, and 1322D, and at a second end to a respective one of the floor-mounted, sidewall-mounted, ceiling-mounted, hinge, and exterior anchors of the vehicle.

[0099] FIG. 14 is a top view of an example tie-down strap assembly 1400 configured to be coupled to a tie-down anchor assembly of an animal containment device and an anchor point of a vehicle according to aspects of the disclosure. As shown, the tie-down strap assembly 1400 includes a tie-down strap having a first webbing 1410 and a second webbing 1411, a tie-down strap adjuster 1413, a first fastening mechanism 1414, and a second fastening mechanism 1416. As shown, the first webbing 1410 has a first end 1410A that is fixedly attached to (e.g., sewn around) a portion of the first fastening mechanism 1414, and a second end 1410B that is fixedly attached to (e.g., slidably routed through and sewn around) a portion of the tie-down strap adjuster 1413. As shown, the second webbing 1411 has a first end 1411A that remains free and unattached, a second end 141 IB that is fixedly attached to (e.g., sewn around) a portion of the second fastening mechanism 1416, and an adjustable portion 1411C that is slidably routed through the tie-down strap adjuster 1413. The tie-down strap adjuster 1413 is configured to adjust a length of the tiedown strap between the first end of the tie-down strap (e.g., the first end 1410A of the first webbing 1410) and the second end of the tie-down strap (e.g., the second end 141 IB of the second webbingAttorney Docket No. JANI-PT015WO1411) by, for example, adjusting a location of tie-down strap adjuster 1413 along the second webbing 1411, while the location of tie-down strap adjuster 1413 along the first webbing 1410 remains stationary. In some aspects, the tie-down strap adjuster 1413 may include any, some, or all of the aspects described with reference to the tie-down strap adjuster 1513 shown in FIGS. 15, 16A-16E, and 17A-17C.

[0100] As shown, the first fastening mechanism 1414 is fixedly attached to the first end 1410A of the first webbing 1410 and removably attachable to one of a tie-down anchor assembly of an animal containment device or a load-bearing mounting structure of a vehicle, and the second fastening mechanism 1416 is fixedly attached to a second end 141 IB of the second webbing 1411 and removably attachable to the other of the tie-down anchor assembly or the load-bearing mounting structure. In some aspects, as shown, the first fastening mechanism 1414 includes a first carabiner assembly, and the second fastening mechanism 1416 includes a second carabiner assembly, where each of the first and second carabiner assemblies is configured to be removably attached (e.g., clipped) to any of the tie-down anchor assemblies and / or load-bearing mounting structures described herein for securing any of the animal containment devices described herein in a vehicle.

[0101] FIG. 15 is an exploded perspective view of an example tie-down strap adjuster 1513 according to aspects of the disclosure. As shown, the tie-down strap adjuster 1513 includes a bottom housing 1520, a bottom frame 1522 (e.g., having a bottom plate 1522A welded onto or formed integrally with other portions of the bottom frame 1522), a first pin 1523, a top frame 1524, a top housing 1526, a cam lock 1528, a second pin 1529, a lever 1530, and a spring 1531.

[0102] FIGS. 16A, 16B, and 16C are top, side, and rear views of the tie-down strap adjuster 1513 in the locked position according to aspects of the disclosure. FIGS. 16D and 16E are side views of the tie-down strap adjuster 1513 shown in FIG. 16B in the unlocking position (e.g., as the cam lock 1528 is pulled to unlock the lever 1530 from the bottom frame 1522) and unlocked positions, respectively, according to aspects of the disclosure.

[0103] FIGS. 17A, 17B, and 17C are cross-sectional side views of the tie-down strap adjuster 1513 shown in FIG. 15 in the locked, unlocking, and locked positions, respectively, according to aspects of the disclosure. As shown, a first webbing 1510 (e.g., the first webbing 1410 described with reference to FIG. 14) and a second webbing 1511 (e.g., the second webbing 1411 describedAttorney Docket No. JANI-PT015WO with reference to FIG. 14) are secured in the tie-down strap adjuster 1513.

[0104] FIGS. 18 A, 18B, 18C, and 18D are perspective views of an example animal containment system having an example animal containment device 1810 secured in a cargo area of a vehicle using tie-down strap assemblies 1830, 1832A, and 1832B according to aspects of the disclosure In some aspects, the animal containment device 1810 may include any of the aspects described above with respect to any suitable combination of the animal containment devices 110, 210, 310, 410, 510, 610, 710, 810, 910, 1010, and / or 1110 described above.

[0105] In some aspects, each of tie-down strap assemblies 1830, 1832A, and 1832B includes a tie-down strap having a first end attachable to a respective tie-down anchor assembly of the animal containment device 1810 and a second end attachable to the load-bearing mounting structure of the vehicle. For example, as shown, the top tie-down strap assembly 1830 includes a tie-down strap having a first end attachable to a top tie-down anchor assembly of the animal containment device 1810, and a second end removably attachable to an overhead vehicular anchor point, such as a vehicle cargo area hinge 1806C coupled to a door of the cargo area of the vehicle. In another example, as shown, each of the side tie-down strap assemblies 1832A and 1832B includes a tie-down strap having a first end attachable to a respective side tie-down anchor assembly of the animal containment device 1810, and a second end removably attachable to a respective floor-mounted or side-mounted vehicular anchor point, such as a respective one of the side-mounted anchors 1806A and 1806B disposed on the side walls of the cargo area of the vehicle.

[0106] As shown, the tie-down strap of the tie-down strap assembly 1830 is tied around the vehicle cargo area hinge 1806C. In some aspects, because the tie-down strap creates a gap in the vehicle seal along the trunk, a gasket 1880 may be disposed around the tie-down strap to substantially prevent water intrusion into the vehicle (e.g., water trickling down the tie-down strap into the rear cargo area of the vehicle). In some aspects, as shown, a gasket 1880 is disposed around a portion of the tie-down strap proximate the second end of the tie-down strap of tie-down strap assembly 1830 (e.g., a user may place the gasket at the door jamb between the hinge and the weatherproofing strip (“weatherstrip”) or seal affixed to the vehicle). The gasket may be formed of a material comprising at least one of a rubber, a foam, and a silicone. In some aspects, the gasket may be over-molded on the tie-down strap or be provided as a secondary component such that may freely move along the tie-down strap so that a user may position it on the vehicle whereAttorney Docket No. JANI-PT015WO appropriate. Example gaskets are described in further detail below with reference to FIGS. 19A, 19B, 20A, 20B, 21A, 21B, 22A, 22B, 23 A, 23B, 24A and 24B.

[0107] FIGS. 19A, 19B, and 19C are top, side, and perspective views of an example gasket 1980 according to aspects of the disclosure. As shown, the gasket 1980 is disposed around the tiedown strap 1910 (e.g., webbing) of an example tie-down strap assembly that is removably attached to a vehicle cargo area hinge coupled to a rear door or hatch of the cargo area of the vehicle. When the door is closed, a portion of the tie-down strap 1910 is disposed between a first vehicle gasket affixed to the door and a second vehicle gasket affixed to the vehicle body. In some aspects, the gasket 1980 may be formed of a material that is compressible and water-resistant or substantially waterproof (e g., a material that does not absorb or hold water and sheds water when in contact with it). For example, the gasket 1980 may be formed of rubber, foam, silicone, or another suitable material.

[0108] As shown, the gasket 1980 includes a gasket body 1982 having an inner gasket surface 1984 defining a gasket opening and a gasket path, and an outer gasket surface 1986 defining a gasket contact portion. The gasket opening is sized to receive a portion of the tie-down strap 1910, and the gasket contact portion is located to receive external forces Fl and F2 applied to the gasket body 1982 by the cargo area door of the vehicle. The gasket body 1982 is configured such that the gasket opening decreases in size when the external forces Fl and F2 are applied to the gasket body 1982. In some aspects, a first portion of the gasket opening connects with a second portion of the gasket opening when the external forces Fl and F2 are applied to the gasket body 1982 (e.g., the size of the opening decreases such that the top and bottom of the opening contact each other when compressed to accommodate tie-down straps of different widths). In some aspects, the tie-down strap 1910 is transitionable between a tensioned configuration and an untensioned configuration, and the gasket 1980 is configured to reduce or substantially prevent a fluid flow along the portion of the tie-down strap 1910 in both the tensioned configuration and the untensioned configuration.

[0109] In some aspects, the gasket 1980 may be provided as a waterproof gasket configured to be opened (e.g., by a user) to allow placement of the tie-down strap 1910 through the gasket opening defined by the inner gasket surface 1984. In some aspects, the gasket 1980 may be further configured to be closed (e.g., by the user) to atop the tie-down strap 1910 to provide a substantially waterproof seal.Attorney Docket No. JANI-PT015WO

[0110] FIGS. 20A, 20B, 20C, and 20D are top, side, and perspective views of an example gasket 2080 according to aspects of the disclosure. As shown in FIG. 20D, the gasket 2080 is disposed around the tie-down strap 2010 (e.g., webbing) of an example tie-down strap assembly that is removably attached to a vehicle cargo area hinge 2006C coupled to a rear door or hatch of the cargo area of the vehicle. When the door is closed, a portion of the tie-down strap 2010 is disposed between a first vehicle gasket 2008 affixed to the door and a second vehicle gasket 2007 affixed to the vehicle body. In some aspects, the gasket 2080 may be formed of a material that is compressible and water-resistant or substantially waterproof (e.g., a material that does not absorb or hold water and sheds water when in contact with it). For example, the gasket 2080 may be formed of rubber, foam, silicone, or another suitable material.

[0111] As shown in FIGS. 20A, 20B, and 20C, the gasket 2080 includes a gasket body 2082 having an inner gasket surface 2084 defining a gasket opening and a gasket path, and an outer gasket surface 2086 defining a gasket contact portion. The gasket opening is sized to receive a portion of the tie-down strap 2010, and the gasket contact portion is located to receive external forces Fl and F2 applied to the gasket body 2082 by the cargo area door of the vehicle. The gasket body 2082 is configured such that the gasket opening decreases in size when the external forces Fl and F2 are applied to the gasket body 2082. In some aspects, a first portion of the gasket opening connects with a second portion of the gasket opening when the external forces Fl and F2 are applied to the gasket body 2082 (e.g., the size of the opening decreases such that the top and bottom of the opening contact each other when compressed to accommodate tie-down straps of different widths). In some aspects, the tie-down strap 2010 is transitionable between a tensioned configuration and an untensioned configuration, and the gasket 2080 is configured to reduce or substantially prevent a fluid flow along the portion of the tie-down strap 2010 in both the tensioned configuration and the untensioned configuration.

[0112] FIGS. 21A, 21B, and 21C are top, side, and perspective views of an example gasket 2180 according to aspects of the disclosure. As shown, the gasket 2180 is disposed around the tiedown strap 2110 (e.g., webbing) of an example tie-down strap assembly that is removably attached to a vehicle cargo area hinge coupled to a rear door or hatch of the cargo area of the vehicle. When the door is closed, a portion of the tie-down strap 2110 is disposed between a first vehicle gasket affixed to the door and a second vehicle gasket affixed to the vehicle body. In some aspects, theAttorney Docket No. JANI-PT015WO gasket 2180 may be formed of a material that is compressible and water-resistant or substantially waterproof (e.g., a material that does not absorb or hold water and sheds water when in contact with it). For example, the gasket 2180 may be formed of rubber, foam, silicone, or another suitable material.

[0113] As shown, the gasket 2180 includes a gasket body 2182 having an inner gasket surface 2184 defining a gasket opening and a gasket path, and an outer gasket surface 2186 defining a gasket contact portion. The gasket opening is sized to receive a portion of the tie-down strap 2110, and the gasket contact portion is located to receive external forces Fl and F2 applied to the gasket body 2182 by the cargo area door of the vehicle. The gasket body 2182 is configured such that the gasket opening decreases in size when the external forces Fl and F2 are applied to the gasket body 2182. In some aspects, a first portion of the gasket opening connects with a second portion of the gasket opening when the external forces Fl and F2 are applied to the gasket body 2182 (e.g., the size of the opening decreases such that the top and bottom of the opening contact each other when compressed to accommodate tie-down straps of different widths). In some aspects, the tie-down strap 2110 is transitionable between a tensioned configuration and an untensioned configuration, and the gasket 2180 is configured to reduce or substantially prevent a fluid flow along the portion of the tie-down strap 2110 in both the tensioned configuration and the untensioned configuration.

[0114] In some aspects, the gasket 2180 may be provided in two halves, wherein the bottom half is formed of a gasket material 2185. In some aspects, as shown, the gasket 2180 may further include locking rings 2192A and 2192B, grooves 2194A and 2194B, and actuators 2196A and 2196B. In some aspects, the two halves may be secured together by placing each of the locking rings 2192A and 2192B in a respective one of the grooves 2194A and 2194B and rotating a respective one of the actuators 2196A and 2196B downwards. In some aspects, each half may be separated until the tie-down strap 2110 is secured between them and the actuators 2196A and 2196B are rotated downwards with the locking rings 2192A and 2192B in their respective grooves 2194A and 2194B.

[0115] FIGS. 22A, 22B, and 22C are top, side, and perspective views of an example gasket 2280 according to aspects of the disclosure. As shown, the gasket 2280 is disposed around the tiedown strap 2210 (e.g., webbing) of an example tie-down strap assembly that is removably attached to a vehicle cargo area hinge coupled to a rear door or hatch of the cargo area of the vehicle. WhenAttorney Docket No. JANI-PT015WO the door is closed, a portion of the tie-down strap 2210 is disposed between a first vehicle gasket affixed to the door and a second vehicle gasket affixed to the vehicle body. In some aspects, the gasket 2280 may be formed of a material that is compressible and water-resistant or substantially waterproof (e.g., a material that does not absorb or hold water and sheds water when in contact with it). For example, the gasket 2280 may be formed of rubber, foam, silicone, or another suitable material.

[0116] As shown, the gasket 2280 includes a gasket body 2282 having an inner gasket surface 2284 defining a gasket opening and a gasket path, and an outer gasket surface 2286 defining a gasket contact portion. The gasket opening is sized to receive a portion of the tie-down strap 2210, and the gasket contact portion is located to receive external forces Fl and F2 applied to the gasket body 2282 by the cargo area door of the vehicle. The gasket body 2282 is configured such that the gasket opening decreases in size when the external forces Fl and F2 are applied to the gasket body 2282. In some aspects, a first portion of the gasket opening connects with a second portion of the gasket opening when the external forces Fl and F2 are applied to the gasket body 2282 (e.g., the size of the opening decreases such that the top and bottom of the opening contact each other when compressed to accommodate tie-down straps of different widths). In some aspects, the tie-down strap 2210 is transitionable between a tensioned configuration and an untensioned configuration, and the gasket 2280 is configured to reduce or substantially prevent a fluid flow along the portion of the tie-down strap 2210 in both the tensioned configuration and the untensioned configuration.

[0117] In some aspects, the gasket 2280 may be provided as a waterproof gasket configured to be opened (e g., by a user) to allow placement of the tie-down strap 2210 through the gasket opening defined by the inner gasket surface 2284. In some aspects, the gasket 2280 may be further configured to be closed (e.g., by the user) to atop the tie-down strap 2210 to provide a substantially waterproof seal.

[0118] FIGS. 23 A, 23B, and 23 C are top, side, and perspective views of an example gasket 2380 according to aspects of the disclosure. As shown, the gasket 2380 is disposed around the tiedown strap 2310 (e.g., webbing) of an example tie-down strap assembly that is removably attached to a vehicle cargo area hinge coupled to a rear door or hatch of the cargo area of the vehicle. When the door is closed, a portion of the tie-down strap 2310 is disposed between a first vehicle gasket affixed to the door and a second vehicle gasket affixed to the vehicle body. In some aspects, theAttorney Docket No. JANI-PT015WO gasket 2380 may be formed of a material that is compressible and water-resistant or substantially waterproof (e.g., a material that does not absorb or hold water and sheds water when in contact with it). For example, the gasket 2380 may be formed of rubber, foam, silicone, or another suitable material.

[0119] As shown, the gasket 2380 includes a gasket body 2382 having an inner gasket surface 2384 defining a gasket opening and a gasket path, and an outer gasket surface 2386 defining a gasket contact portion. The gasket opening is sized to receive a portion of the tie-down strap 2310, and the gasket contact portion is located to receive external forces Fl and F2 applied to the gasket body 2382 by the cargo area door of the vehicle. The gasket body 2382 is configured such that the gasket opening decreases in size when the external forces Fl and F2 are applied to the gasket body 2382. In some aspects, a first portion of the gasket opening connects with a second portion of the gasket opening when the external forces Fl and F2 are applied to the gasket body 2382 (e.g., the size of the opening decreases such that the top and bottom of the opening contact each other when compressed to accommodate tie-down straps of different widths). In some aspects, the tie-down strap 2310 is transitionable between a tensioned configuration and an untensioned configuration, and the gasket 2380 is configured to reduce or substantially prevent a fluid flow along the portion of the tie-down strap 2310 in both the tensioned configuration and the untensioned configuration.

[0120] In some aspects, the gasket 2380 may be provided in two halves, wherein the bottom half is formed of a gasket material 2385. In some aspects, as shown, the gasket 2380 may further include a locking ring 2392, a groove 2394, and an actuator 2396. In some aspects, the two halves may be secured together by placing the locking ring 2392 in the groove 2394 and rotating the actuator 2396 downwards. In some aspects, each half may be separated until the tie-down strap 2310 is secured between them and the actuator 2396 is rotated downwards with the locking ring 2392 in the grooves 2394.

[0121] FIGS. 24A, 24B, and 24C are top and perspective views of an example gasket 2480 according to aspects of the disclosure. As shown, the gasket 2480 is disposed around the tie-down strap 2410 (e.g., webbing) of an example tie-down strap assembly that is removably attached to a vehicle cargo area hinge coupled to a rear door or hatch of the cargo area of the vehicle. When the door is closed, a portion of the tie-down strap 2410 is disposed between a first vehicle gasket affixed to the door and a second vehicle gasket affixed to the vehicle body. In some aspects, theAttorney Docket No. JANI-PT015WO gasket 2480 may be formed of a material that is compressible and water-resistant or substantially waterproof (e.g., a material that does not absorb or hold water and sheds water when in contact with it). For example, the gasket 2480 may be formed of rubber, foam, silicone, or another suitable material.

[0122] As shown, the gasket 2480 includes a gasket body 2482 having an inner gasket surface 2484 defining a gasket opening and a curved gasket path (e.g., a groove in the gasket material 2485 for placement of the tie-down strap 2410), and an outer gasket surface 2486 defining a gasket contact portion. The gasket opening is sized to receive a portion of the tie-down strap 2410, and the gasket contact portion is located to receive external forces F 1 and F2 applied to the gasket body 2482 by the cargo area door of the vehicle. The gasket body 2482 is configured such that the gasket opening decreases in size when the external forces Fl and F2 are applied to the gasket body 2482. In some aspects, a first portion of the gasket opening connects with a second portion of the gasket opening when the external forces Fl and F2 are applied to the gasket body 2482 (e.g., the size of the opening decreases such that the top and bottom of the opening contact each other when compressed to accommodate tie-down straps of different widths). In some aspects, the tie-down strap 2410 is transitionable between a tensioned configuration and an untensioned configuration, and the gasket 2480 is configured to reduce or substantially prevent a fluid flow along the portion of the tie-down strap 2410 in both the tensioned configuration and the untensioned configuration.

[0123] In some aspects, the gasket 2480 may be provided in two halves, wherein the inside of each half is formed of a gasket material 2485. In some aspects, as shown, the gasket 2480 may further include a locking tab 2492 and a receiving groove 2494. In some aspects, the two halves may be secured together by placing the tie-down strap 2410 between them in the curved gasket path and moving the locking tab 2492 downward until it is secured in the receiving groove 2494.

[0124] The above-described example embodiments may be implemented in various configurations and operated with various methods which are listed below:1. An animal containment device for use in a cargo area of a vehicle, the animal containment device comprising: a base; at least one wall extending from the base; and a top brace being removably attachable to the animal containment device,Attorney Docket No. JANI-PT015WO wherein the top brace extends at least partially upwards away from the animal containment device toward a portion of the vehicle, and wherein the top brace is configured to reduce a magnitude of an impact force transferred from the portion of the vehicle to the animal containment device during an impact event.2. The animal containment device of claim 1, wherein the top brace comprises a storage compartment.3. The animal containment device of claim 1, wherein the top brace comprises a top energy-absorption assembly formed as a top wrapping bar.4. The animal containment device of claim 1, wherein the top brace comprises a top energy-absorption assembly formed as a top roof rack having arms extending upwards above the at least one wall and towards a ceiling of the vehicle.5. The animal containment device of claim 1, wherein the top brace comprises a top energy-absorption assembly formed as a pivotable top bars.6. The animal containment device of claim 1, wherein the top brace comprises a top energy-absorption assembly formed as a pivotable top roof rack having two pivotable arms extending upwards above the at least one wall and towards a ceiling of the vehicle.7. The animal containment device of claim 1, wherein the top brace comprises a top energy-absorption assembly formed as a see-through spacer bar having an interior surface defining an pass-through opening.8. The animal containment device of claim 1, wherein the top brace comprises a top energy-absorption assembly formed as one or more foam blocks.9. The animal containment device of claim 1, wherein the top brace comprises a top energy-absorption assembly formed as a semi-pivotable top roof rack having a pivotable arm.10. The animal containment device of claim 1, wherein the top brace comprises a top energy-absorption assembly formed as a top impact pad.11. The animal containment device of claim 1, wherein the top brace comprises a top energy-absorption assembly formed as a top storage device.12. The animal containment device of claim 1, wherein the top brace comprises a top energy-absorption assembly formed as a top multi-purpose accessory.Attorney Docket No. JANI-PT015WO13. An animal containment device for use in a cargo area of a vehicle, the animal containment device comprising: a base; a plurality of sidewalls; a top panel; and a top rack mounted on the animal containment device and extending above the top panel, wherein the top rack extends at least partially upwards away from the animal containment device toward a portion of the vehicle, and wherein the top rack is configured to reduce a magnitude of an impact force transferred from the portion of the vehicle to the animal containment device during an impact event.14. The animal containment device of claim 13, wherein a portion of the top rack is pivotable between a lowered position and a raised position.15. The animal containment device of claim 13, wherein the top rack comprises a top energy-absorption assembly formed as a top wrapping bar.16. The animal containment device of claim 13, wherein the top rack comprises a top energy-absorption assembly formed as a top roof rack having arms extending upwards above the top panel and towards a ceiling of the vehicle.17. The animal containment device of claim 13, wherein the top rack comprises a top energy-absorption assembly formed as a pivotable top bars.18. The animal containment device of claim 13, wherein the top rack comprises a top energy-absorption assembly formed as a pivotable top roof rack having two pivotable arms extending upwards above the top panel and towards a ceiling of the vehicle.19. The animal containment device of claim 13, wherein the top rack comprises a top energy-absorption assembly formed as a semi -pivotable top roof rack having a pivotable arm.20. An animal containment device for use in a cargo area of a vehicle, the animal containment device comprising: a base; a plurality of sidewalls; and a top panel extending above the sidewalls,Attorney Docket No. JANI-PT015WO wherein the top panel extends upwards away from the plurality of sidewalls and toward a ceiling of the vehicle, and wherein the top panel is configured to reduce a magnitude of an impact force transferred from the ceiling of the vehicle to the animal containment device during an impact event.21. The animal containment device of claim 20, wherein the top panel is a first top panel selectively attachable to the animal containment device for a first vehicle size, further comprising a second top panel selectively attachable to the animal containment device for a second vehicle size different from the first vehicle size.22. The animal containment device of claim 20, wherein the top panel comprises a top energy-absorption assembly formed as a humpback structure.23. The animal containment device of claim 20, wherein the top panel comprises a top energy-absorption assembly formed as impact pods.24. An animal containment system for a cargo area of a vehicle, comprising: an animal containment device having a body defining a cavity within which an animal is receivable, the animal containment device comprising a tie-down anchor assembly disposed on the body of the animal containment device; and a tie-down strap assembly coupled to the animal containment device and a mounting structure of the vehicle, the tie-down strap assembly comprising: a tie-down strap having a first end attachable to the tie-down anchor assembly and a second end attachable to the mounting structure of the vehicle; and a tie-down strap adjuster coupled to the tie-down strap and disposed between the first end of the tie-down strap and the second end of the tie-down strap, the tie-down strap adjuster comprising an angle-based locking mechanism and a stationary routing component, wherein a portion of the tie-down strap is positioned between angle-based locking mechanism and the stationary routing component.

[0125] Although the disclosure may illustrate different aspects and embodiments, it is contemplated that aspects of individual embodiments may be combined or omitted. Therefore, the disclosure and claims are not intended to be limited to the illustrated aspects and embodiments.

[0126] While certain examples have been described, these examples are not intended to limit the scope of the disclosure herein. Thus, nothing in the foregoing description is intended to implyAttorney Docket No. JANI-PT015WO that any particular feature, characteristic, step, module, or block is necessary or indispensable. Indeed, the novel methods and systems described herein may be embodied in a variety of other forms; furthermore, various omissions, substitutions, and changes in the form of the methods and systems described herein may be made without departing from the spirit of the disclosure herein. The accompanying claims and their equivalents are intended to cover such forms or modifications as would fall within the scope and spirit of certain of the embodiments disclosed herein.

[0127] It will be appreciated by those skilled in the art that changes may be made to the aspects and embodiments described above without departing from the disclosure thereof. It should further be appreciated that structural features and methods associated with one of the aspects and / or embodiments can be incorporated into other aspects and / or embodiments. It is understood, therefore, that this disclosure is not limited to the particular aspects and embodiments disclosed, but rather modifications are also covered within the scope of the present disclosure as defined by the appended claims.

[0128] While the present disclosure has been described with reference to an example aspect or embodiment, it will be understood by those skilled in the art that various changes may be made and equivalents may be substituted for elements thereof without departing from the scope of the present disclosure. In addition, many modifications may be made to adapt a particular situation or material to the teachings of the present disclosure without departing from the essential scope thereof. Therefore, it is intended that the present disclosure not be limited to the particular aspect and / or embodiment disclosed as the best mode contemplated for carrying out this present disclosure, but that the present disclosure will include all aspects and embodiments falling within the scope of the claims.

[0129] It should be understood that the steps of the example methods set forth herein are not necessarily required to be performed in the order described, and the order of the steps of such methods should be understood to be merely examples. Likewise, additional steps may be included in such methods, and certain steps may be omitted or combined, in methods consistent with various aspects and embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0130] Although the elements in the following method claims, if any, are recited in a particular sequence with corresponding labeling, unless the claim recitations otherwise imply a particular sequence for implementing some or all of those elements, those elements are not necessarilyAttorney Docket No. JANI-PT015WO intended to be limited to being implemented in that particular sequence.

[0131] The words “inward,” “outward,” “upper,” and “lower” refer to directions toward or away from, respectively, the geometric center of the component.

[0132] It will be understood that reference herein to “a” or “one” to describe a feature such as a component or step does not foreclose additional features or multiples of the feature. For instance, reference to a device having, comprising, including, or defining “one” of a feature does not preclude the device from having, comprising, including, or defining more than one of the feature, as long as the device has, comprises, includes, or defines at least one of the feature. Similarly, reference herein to “one of’ a plurality of features does not foreclose the aspect or embodiment from including two or more of the features. For instance, reference to a device having, comprising, including, or defining “one of a protrusion and a recess” does not foreclose the device from having both the protrusion and the recess.

Claims

Attorney Docket No. JANI-PT015WOCLAIMSWhat is claimed is:

1. An animal containment device for use in a cargo area of a vehicle, the animal containment device comprising: a base; at least one wall extending from the base; and a top brace being removably attachable to the animal containment device, wherein the top brace extends at least partially upwards away from the animal containment device toward a portion of the vehicle, and wherein the top brace is configured to reduce a magnitude of an impact force transferred from the portion of the vehicle to the animal containment device during an impact event.

2. The animal containment device of claim 1, wherein the top brace comprises a storage compartment.

3. The animal containment device of claim 1, wherein the top brace comprises a top energy-absorption assembly formed as a top wrapping bar.

4. The animal containment device of claim 1, wherein the top brace comprises a top energy-absorption assembly formed as a top roof rack having arms extending upwards above the at least one wall and towards a ceiling of the vehicle.

5. The animal containment device of claim 1, wherein the top brace comprises a top energy-absorption assembly formed as a pivotable top bars.

6. The animal containment device of claim 1, wherein the top brace comprises a top energy-absorption assembly formed as a pivotable top roof rack having two pivotable arms extending upwards above the at least one wall and towards a ceiling of the vehicle.Attorney Docket No. JANI-PT015WO7. The animal containment device of claim 1, wherein the top brace comprises a top energy-absorption assembly formed as a see-through spacer bar having an interior surface defining an pass-through opening.

8. The animal containment device of claim 1, wherein the top brace comprises a top energy-absorption assembly formed as one or more foam blocks.

9. The animal containment device of claim 1, wherein the top brace comprises a top energy-absorption assembly formed as a semi-pivotable top roof rack having a pivotable arm.

10. The animal containment device of claim 1, wherein the top brace comprises a top energy-absorption assembly formed as a top impact pad.

11. The animal containment device of claim 1, wherein the top brace comprises a top energy-absorption assembly formed as a top storage device.

12. The animal containment device of claim 1, wherein the top brace comprises a top energy-absorption assembly formed as a top multi-purpose accessory.

13. An animal containment device for use in a cargo area of a vehicle, the animal containment device comprising: a base; a plurality of sidewalls; a top panel; and a top rack mounted on the animal containment device and extending above the top panel, wherein the top rack extends at least partially upwards away from the animal containment device toward a portion of the vehicle, and wherein the top rack is configured to reduce a magnitude of an impact force transferred from the portion of the vehicle to the animal containment device during an impact event.Attorney Docket No. JANI-PT015WO14. The animal containment device of claim 13, wherein a portion of the top rack is pivotable between a lowered position and a raised position.

15. The animal containment device of claim 13, wherein the top rack comprises a top energy-absorption assembly formed as a top wrapping bar.

16. The animal containment device of claim 13, wherein the top rack comprises a top energy-absorption assembly formed as a top roof rack having arms extending upwards above the top panel and towards a ceiling of the vehicle.

17. The animal containment device of claim 13, wherein the top rack comprises a top energy-absorption assembly formed as a pivotable top bars.

18. The animal containment device of claim 13, wherein the top rack comprises a top energy-absorption assembly formed as a pivotable top roof rack having two pivotable arms extending upwards above the top panel and towards a ceiling of the vehicle.

19. The animal containment device of claim 13, wherein the top rack comprises a top energy-absorption assembly formed as a semi-pivotable top roof rack having a pivotable arm.

20. An animal containment device for use in a cargo area of a vehicle, the animal containment device comprising: a base; a plurality of sidewalls; and a top panel extending above the sidewalls, wherein the top panel extends upwards away from the plurality of sidewalls and toward a ceiling of the vehicle, and wherein the top panel is configured to reduce a magnitude of an impact force transferred from the ceiling of the vehicle to the animal containment device during an impact event.Attorney Docket No. JANI-PT015WO21. The animal containment device of claim 20, wherein the top panel is a first top panel selectively attachable to the animal containment device for a first vehicle size, further comprising a second top panel selectively attachable to the animal containment device for a second vehicle size different from the first vehicle size.

22. The animal containment device of claim 20, wherein the top panel comprises a top energy-absorption assembly formed as a humpback structure.

23. The animal containment device of claim 20, wherein the top panel comprises a top energy-absorption assembly formed as impact pods.

24. An animal containment system for a cargo area of a vehicle, comprising: an animal containment device having a body defining a cavity within which an animal is receivable, the animal containment device comprising a tie-down anchor assembly disposed on the body of the animal containment device; and a tie-down strap assembly coupled to the animal containment device and a mounting structure of the vehicle, the tie-down strap assembly comprising: a tie-down strap having a first end attachable to the tie-down anchor assembly and a second end attachable to the mounting structure of the vehicle; and a tie-down strap adjuster coupled to the tie-down strap and disposed between the first end of the tie-down strap and the second end of the tie-down strap, the tie-down strap adjuster comprising an angle-based locking mechanism and a stationary routing component, wherein a portion of the tie-down strap is positioned between angle-based locking mechanism and the stationary routing component.

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