Animal enrichment and entertainment device with reloadable and flexible hanging system

Abstract

An animal enrichment and entertainment device may include a flexible cable having a top end and a bottom end. A device may include a collapsible loop formed at the top end of the cable. A device may include a rigid anchor piece fixed at the bottom end of the cable. A device may include one or more enrichment components removably mounted on the cable, wherein the collapsible loop allows the enrichment components to be loaded onto the cable, and the rigid anchor piece prevents the enrichment components from sliding off the bottom end.

Description

PCT Patent ApplicationInventorsSusan Marie Thibeault, John DeFrankApplicant InformationBird Toys That Make Sense Limited Liability Company, 35 Park Place #388, Branford, CT 06405Title of InventionAnimal Enrichment and Entertainment Device with Reloadable and Flexible Hanging System

[0001] This application claims priority as a non-provisional of U.S. application serial number 63 / 729,754 filed on December 24, 2025, presently pending. The contents of the application are hereby incorporated by reference.Background of the Invention

[0002] Animal enrichment and entertainment items are provided to encourage play, prevent boredom, and provide opportunities for exercise. Rather than purchasing entire hanging toys that are made to be disposed of in its entirety after use, each embodiment eliminates waste by creating a reusable base for hanging enrichment and entertainment items.

[0003] In one embodiment, the invention is a method of providing animal enrichment and entertainment using a flexible cable hanging system. In this embodiment, the device is comprised of flexible hanging cables which animal enrichment items such as shredding pieces, chewing materials, and foraging boxes are mounted on. The flexible cables, connecting links, and the hanging base are designed to last a lifetime and to be reloaded and used repeatedly. The enrichment and entertainment items that mount onto the main body of the invention are designed to be used and replaced.Summary of the Invention

[0004] In one embodiment, the invention is effectively used as a hanging base for the enrichment and entertainment of a variety animals. Animals that have enjoyed the benefits of the reloadable base system that uses flexible cables include parrots, horses, chickens, ravens, crows, and chinchillas.

[0005] The embodiment is intended to be used by any animal that would benefit. The diameter size and length of the hanging cables and base are customizable for the species it intends to serve. The components that are loaded onto the system are endless in variety and options that are only limited by the imagination of the person who is loading it.

[0006] The animal enrichment and entertainment device with reloadable and flexible hanging system may have one or more of the following advantages when compared to existing animal enrichment and entertainment hanging systems. Various aspects of the device provide advantages such as:• the base and flexible hanging system is reusable and can last for the lifetime of an animal,• reduces waste and environmental burden because it is reloadable and nondisposable,• saves money by being a device that is purchased once,• simple to assemble and hang,• customizable to the animals’ preferences,• easily adjusts to accommodate a wide range of enrichment and entertainment component materials,• can accommodate food components for animal foraging opportunities,• the base and the hanging flexible cables are strong and durable while being lightweight and compact,• difficult for animals to destroy the base and flexible cables,• the base and flexible hanging cables are suitable for outdoor environments and are durable over a wide range of temperature and moisture conditions,• the non-porous base and flexible cables can be cleaned with disinfectants andsubj ected to cleaning at high temperature,made of materials that are safe for animals.Brief Description of the Drawings

[0007] Figure 1 depicts a front view of one embodiment. Figure 1 shows front view of a flexible cable base with hanging collapsable loop on the top and a rigid anchor thimble on the bottom. Cable may be any flexible material that is durable, safe, and strong.

[0008] Figure 2 is a close up front view of one embodiment. Figure 2 shows an up close, front view of the anchor piece that is rigid which is located on the bottom of the flexible cable base which holds the components on the cable and prevents them from falling off.

[0009] Figure 3 is another front view of an embodiment. Figure 3 is a front view of a wood block component shown in the manner of how it is loaded onto the flexible cable.

[0010] Figure 4 is a front view of an embodiment. Figure 4 is a front view of multiple components shown loaded onto the flexible reuseable cable.

[0011] Figure 5 is a front view of an embodiment. Figure 5 is a front view of an example of a fully loaded set of cables suspended from a base. The flexible and collapsable loops on the top of cable are connected to base with links that open and close.

[0012] Figures 6A-C are top views of base embodiments. Figures 6A-C show a variety of base configurations for various animals.

[0013] Figure 6D depicts an assembled embodiment.

[0014] Figure 7 depicts a diagram of the loading and reloading process of the enrichment device, showing multiple steps.

[0015] Figure 8A depicts a resupply kit including replacement enrichment components such as wooden blocks, wicker balls, and cardboard inserts sized for use with the flexible cable.

[0016] Figure 8B depicts an alternative resupply kit including dyed wooden shapes, woven fiber balls, straw bundles, and other varied enrichment elements compatible with the flexible cable.

[0017] Figures 9A-F depict the steps of loading the flexible cable, including multiple enrichment items.DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0018] The foregoing summary and the following detailed description of certain embodiments of the present invention will be better understood when read in conjunction with the appended drawings.

[0019] As used herein, an element or step recited in the singular and proceeded with the word "a" or "an" should be understood as not excluding plural said elements or steps unless such exclusion is explicitly stated. Furthermore, references to "one embodiment" of the present invention are not intended to be interpreted as excluding the existence of additional embodiments that also incorporate the recited features. Moreover, unless explicitly stated to the contrary, embodiments "comprising" or "having" an element or a plurality of elements having a particular property may include additional such elements not having that property.

[0020] The interaction of the components in the described animal enrichment and entertainment device with reloadable and flexible hanging system is described as follows.

[0021] Various embodiments of the system are shown in figures. Turning to Figure 1, depicted therein is the reloadable and flexible cable 9 for use in one embodiment. The flexible cable 9, includes a loop on the first end.

[0022] As will be apparent from later figures, the flexible cable 9 is generally hanging vertically and so the first end will be oriented top-wise and so the first end loop is referred to as a top loop 6.

[0023] The top loop 6 is flexible and is adapted to be compressed and collapsed. In one embodiment, the top loop 6 is integrally formed by the flexible cable 9 looping back on itself, in other embodiments, the top loop 6 is formed from different material. The material comprising the top loop 6 is secured so that it remains as a loop and does not come apart. In this example, the top loop 6 is secured by a cable swag sleeve which is also referred to as a wire rope crimp 7. The flexible cable 9 can vary in diameter and length.

[0024] Shown in Figures 1 and 2 there is a second end referred to as the bottom of the reloadable and flexible cable 9. At a second or bottom end is another loop of cable secured tightly in the channel of a rigid anchor piece 8. The rigid anchor piece 8 holds the flexible cable in a rigid loop. The cable loop is secured and maintained. In this example it is maintained by a cable swag sleeve also referred to as a wire rope crimp 7. The anchor piece 8 is shown as a cover for thebottom loop of the flexible cable 9, but can be any shape that maintains a rigid, fixed shape to keep the end loop of the flexible cable fixed in shape and size.

[0025] As shown in Figures 3 and 4 the flexible cable 9 is loaded with components 10 that provide animal enrichment and entertainment. Each component 10 comprising the components 10 has an aperture, handle, or space through which the top loop 6 is passed through to place the component on the flexible cable 9. Components 10 are placed and stacked on the flexible cable 9 and held on the cable at the opposing bottom end by the rigid anchor piece 8 located on the bottom of the flexible cable. The bottom loop of cable in the rigid anchor assembly 8 is larger in size than any aperture, handle, or space on each component 10.

[0026] The process of loading components 10 includes pinching the top loop 6, sliding the component 10 down the flexible cable 9. In one embodiment, the aperture in the component 10 is tapered, such that the top loop 6 is pinched by the body of the component 10 as it is lowered onto the flexible cable 9.

[0027] As can be appreciated from the figures, the loading, unloading, and reloading can be done without using tools, in one embodiment, as the components 10 are slidably received by the flexible cable 9.

[0028] In one embodiment, the interior of the component 10 includes a threaded area, such that the component 10 rotates around its axis as it goes down the cable 9.

[0029] In Figure 4 several exemplary components 10 are depicted, including blocks of various sizes and a ball. The order of components can be varied, as needed.

[0030] As shown in Figure 5, the flexible cable 9 with components 10 is then attached to a rigid base 12 by a link that can open and close 11. The link 11 is placed through the top, flexible loop 6 and also through an opening on a base 12 so that they are linked. The link 11 is then closed. The cable 9 loaded with components 10 is then securely suspended from the base 12. Each base 12 may hold one or more cables as shown in Figure 5. The base 12 is then suspended using a rigid link 11 as shown in Figure 5. Alternatively, a flexible cable 9 with components 10 may be suspended directly in the same manner using a link 11 without a base 12.

[0031] In one embodiment, the animal enrichment and entertainment device with reloadable and flexible hanging system works by providing a novel reusable system that serves as a reloadable base from which components are mounted on so they can be accessed and enjoyed by animals. Component examples include wood blocks, pieces of fruit, and wicker balls. Theinvention also provides a base 12 or cable 9 that is suspended in an area where animals are able to access and interact with the components 10 loaded on the flexible cable or cables 9. The components 10 may be reusable or items that are intended to not be reused because they will be chewed, shredded, or eaten.

[0032] Once the components 10 are used up, unsuitable, or removed from the cable 9, the cable 9 can be reloaded with new items. The cable 9 is reloaded by opening the link 11 and removing the top, flexible loop of the cable 6 from the link 11. Alternatively, the link 11 may be opened and the link 11 with the cable 9 removed from the base 12 or the object from which it was suspended. The link 11 is then removed from the top, flexible loop of the cable 6. Any remaining parts or pieces of used components 10 can be removed by lifting them up and passing the top, flexible loop of cable 6 through them resulting in the component 10 being removed.

[0033] To reload the flexible cable 9, the desired component 10 must have an opening or hole large enough to pass the top flexible loop 6 through and there must be a rigid anchor piece 8 with cable loop (or component 10 already in place) on the bottom of the cable large enough so that the component opening or hole will not pass over it.

[0034] Additional components 10 can be loaded in the same fashion until the cable 9 is full. The top, collapsable, flexible loop 6 is placed onto the open link 11. The link 11 is then attached to a base 12 or hanging surface and closed. Multiple cables 9 can be loaded with components 10 and suspended from a single base.

[0035] There are alternative embodiments of howthe animal enrichment and entertainment device with reloadable and flexible cable hanging system can be assembled and configured. The premise for the invention is the reusable, reloadable, flexible hanging system of a variety components. Alternative methods of embodiment are described below.

[0036] The base from which the cables are suspended can vary in shape, size and number of cables that it may hold.

[0037] The cables may be suspended independently without the utilization of a hanging base.

[0038] Different materials, sizes, and interconnections may be used for all components. For example the cable 9 comprises stainless steel in one embodiment, in other embodiments aluminum or reinforced polymers are used.

[0039] In lieu of swag sleeves to secure the cable loops, alternative securement devices may be used.

[0040] Thimbles on the bottom loops may be replaced by alternative rigid components.

[0041] The hanging nature of the base or cables is not limited to overhead but can be suspended from a wall and at varying heights for the animal to access the components.

[0042] Various base configurations are shown in Figure 6A-D. In Figure 6A, a base 12 includes a vertical member 22 and two horizonal extensions 24, 26. Multiple apertures 28 for components 10 are defined in the member 22 and the horizontal extensions 24, 26.

[0043] The vertical member 22 includes additional oblong apertures 32 and a central hanging aperture 34.

[0044] In one embodiment, the oblong apertures are adapted to facilitate removable attachment of mounting hardware. An aperture at or near the center of the bracket is adapted for hanging more items. The center aperture is adapted to attach more hardware which allows an embodiment to hang an additional item from the center aperture. In one embodiment, the hardware comprises an eye bolt. An additional bracket is not required, simply the eye bolt is employed so that an item can be hung from.

[0045] Figure 6B shows an alternative embodiment of a base 12 which still includes a vertical member 22 and two horizonal extensions 24, 26. The multiple apertures 28 define a larger cross-section area of the base 12. The embodiment in Fig. 6B has configured the oblong apertures 32 on a diagonal line with the central hanging aperture 34 remaining in the middle of the base 12. In one embodiment, the apertures includes oblong apertures to faciliate the insertion of bolts 42 and mounting hardware, as visible in Figure 6D. In the embodiment shown in Figure 6D, the mounting hardware includes a U-Bolt that, in one embodiment, includes decorative beads over it 44 which are received by two joined metallic loops 46. The ends of the U-Bolt 44 are passed through the oblong apertures discussed above, and then are secured on the other side with a fastener, such as an acorn nut. The mounting hardware is designed to provide some freedom of movement, but with some stability so that the flexible cable 9 remains oriented as substantially extending from the horizonal plane defined base 27. These metallic loops 46 are rigid in shape but are joined by a mechanism that allows them to swivel and turn 360 degrees easily, for example, when an animal is interacting with the device.

[0046] Figure 6C shows a further alternative embodiment of a base 12 where the vertical member 22 has been truncated and the two horizontal extensions 24, 26 are angled away from the truncated vertical member 22. The base 12 still includes multiple apertures 28, the central aperture 34, but lacks oblong apertures. Approximately 120 degrees separates the horizontal extensions 24, 26.

[0047] In one embodiment, the different bases 12 are swapped out by removing the flexible cables 9 from the multiple apertures 28.

[0048] The alternative base configurations illustrated in Figures 6A-6C provide distinct functional advantages that allow the system to be adapted to a wide range of animals and environments. For example, the embodiments of Figures 6A and 6B are adapted to allow for a swivel motion which allows the base to spin and turn around its central hanging point. In these embodiments, both are suspended by a central U Bolt. The U Bolt is the same size, so on the smaller embodiment of Figure 6A, it only will fit if the main body includes the oblong holes as pictured. In the embodiment of Figure 6B, the main body comprises a bigger piece and heavier, so it hangs better when the oblong holes are placed diagonally.

[0049] Both embodiments of Figures 6A and 6B are designed to have the cables hang from the outermost round holes. In some embodiments, additional apertures are provided so the end users can add extra cables and have eight cables or more total if the device is being used in an environment where such high number of cables is advisable. In some embodiments, more than one cable can be accommodated by each aperture, so that the total number of cables and exceed the number of apertures.

[0050] The embodiment of Figure 6C, with angled horizontal extensions separated by approximately 120 degrees, creates a more open and radial distribution of enrichment components. This design increases accessibility from multiple directions and allows animals to approach and interact with the system from different vantage points. Such a configuration is advantageous in group settings, where multiple animals may engage with the device simultaneously without crowding or competition.

[0051] Collectively, these base variations demonstrate the adaptability of the system, enabling users to select or interchange bases depending on the species, number of animals, and desired enrichment outcomes. By offering multiple base geometries, the invention ensures that the reloadable hanging system can be optimized for both individual and group enrichment scenarios.

[0052] In addition to using different shapes for the base 12, the base 12 is made from different materials depending on intended use. For animals living at home a variety of materials are suitable so long as the materials allow for cleaning and sterilization. For animals kept outside, such as outdoor birds, weather resistant materials are used.Cleaning and Maintenance

[0053] The device can be disassembled without use of any tools, in one embodiment. The components are replaceable and can be disinfected. For example, in one embodiment, the components of the system are dishwasher safe, including being adapted to be used in a high-temperature sterilizing cleaning cycle.

[0054] The design prevents the buildup of food debris and bacteria by allowing for easy replacement of components 10 that have become soiled or used.Loading and Reloading

[0055] Figure 7 depicts the diagram of loading and reloading of the enrichment device. The steps include:

[0056] Selecting desired enrichment items 60 based on the requirements of a particular environment and pet.

[0057] Inserting items onto the flexible cable 62 by threading the selected items onto the cable by passing over the top or loop.

[0058] Securing the end of the cable to a base 64.

[0059] To unload, the process begins by removing the cable from the base 66.

[0060] Once the cable is removed, it is possible to unthread components from the cable 68.Resupply Kits

[0061] While the end user is free to use their own components on the cables 9, resupply kits are also provided. Figures 8A and 8B depict various resupply kits including replacement components 10 of various types. The solid components 10, such as blocks, include appropriately-sized openings to allow them to be added to the cable 9.

[0062] Other items that can be added to the cable 9, include but are not limited to: wicker balls, wicker and / or bamboo baskets, thick pieces of cardboard, cardboard boxes, bamboo straws, seagrass woven into tube shapes, cardboard rings, wicker wreaths, mahogany chips, sola root slices, foraging cages including baskets, and food items.

[0063] The resupply kits in Figures 8A and 8B include a collection of enrichment elements selected to provide varied textures, shapes, and interactive properties. In one embodiment, the kit comprises:

[0064] Wooden blocks with apertures or grooves, enabling attachment to toy structures or suspension via cords.

[0065] Woven fiber balls fabricated from untreated plant material, providing lightweight, destructible play objects.

[0066] Corrugated cardboard inserts designed for shredding and foraging behavior.

[0067] Dyed wooden shapes formed from bird-safe pigments, offering visual stimulation and chew resistance.

[0068] Bundles of straw or hay secured with natural fiber twine, encouraging foraging and nest-building behaviors.

[0069] Each component is dimensioned to be compatible with the cable 9. The materials are selected to be safe for play by animals, free of harmful adhesives or chemical treatments. The kit is packaged to allow periodic replenishment of worn or destroyed toy elements, thereby reducing waste and maintaining continuous enrichment opportunities.Loading and Unloading Process

[0070] Figures 9A to 9F show the process of loading enrichment components on a cable. In Figure 9A, the cable and the component is readied. The top loop of the cable is pushed through the opening in the component in Figure 9B. In Figure 9C the cable is threaded through. In Figure 9D, the component is moved to the very end of the cable. In Figure 9E another component or spacer is added and in Figure 9F another component is added.

[0071] The cable is then attached to a mounting bracket and provided to a bird.

[0072] Although exemplary implementations of the invention have been depicted and described in detail herein, it will be apparent to those skilled in the relevant art that variousmodi fi cations, additions, substitutions, and the like can be made without departing from the spirit of the invention and these are therefore considered to be within the scope of the invention as defined in the following claims.

[0073] It is to be understood that the above description is intended to be illustrative, and not restrictive. For example, the above-described embodiments (and / or aspects thereof) may be used in combination with each other. In addition, many modifications may be made to adapt a particular situation or material to the teachings of the invention without departing from its scope. While the dimensions and types of materials described herein are intended to define the parameters of the invention, they are by no means limiting, but are instead exemplary embodiments. Many other embodiments will be apparent to those of skill in the art upon reviewing the above description. The scope of the invention should, therefore, be determined with reference to the appended claims, along with the full scope of equivalents to which such claims are entitled. In the appended claims, the terms "including" and "in which" are used as the plain-English equivalents of the terms "comprising" and "wherein." Moreover, in the following claims, the terms "first," "second," and "third," are used merely as labels, and are not intended to impose numerical requirements on their objects. Further, the limitations of the following claims are not written in means-plus-function format and are not intended to be interpreted based on 35 U.S.C. § 112, sixth paragraph, unless and until such claim limitations expressly use the phrase "means for" followed by a statement of function void of further structure.

Claims

Claims1. An animal enrichment and entertainment device comprising:a flexible cable having a top end and a bottom end,a collapsible loop formed at the top end of the cable,a rigid anchor piece fixed at the bottom end of the cable, andone or more enrichment components removably mounted on the cable,wherein the collapsible loop allows the enrichment components to be loaded onto the cable, and the rigid anchor piece prevents the enrichment components from sliding off the bottom end.

2. The device of claim 1, wherein the flexible cable is formed of a metal wire rope, polymer cord, or other durable animal-safe material.

3. The device of claim 1, wherein the collapsible loop is secured by a crimp sleeve.

4. The device of claim 1, wherein the rigid anchor piece comprises a thimble.

5. The device of claim 1, wherein the enrichment components include at least one of: wood blocks, wicker balls, fruit pieces, or shredable materials.

6. The device of claim 1, wherein the enrichment components are sized such that they cannot pass over the rigid anchor piece.

7. A reloadable animal toy system comprising:a base configured to be suspended from a support structure,at least one flexible cable removably attached to the base by a releasable link, anda plurality of enrichment components mounted on the flexible cable,wherein the flexible cable is configured to be repeatedly reloaded with new enrichment components after prior components are removed or consumed.

8. The system of claim 7, wherein the base is configured to hold a plurality of flexible cables simultaneously.

9. The system of claim 7, wherein the releasable link comprises a carabiner, snap hook, or quick link.

10. The system of claim 7, wherein the base is formed of a rigid, non-porous material that is resistant to moisture and disinfectants.

11. The system of claim 7, wherein the base is configured for suspension from an overhead support, a wall, or a freestanding frame.

12. The system of claim 7, wherein the enrichment components are arranged in a vertically stacked configuration along the flexible cable.

13. The system of claim 7, wherein the enrichment components include food items to encourage foraging behavior.

14. The system of claim 7, wherein the flexible cable is configured to be reloaded by passing a collapsible loop through openings in the enrichment components.

15. The system of claim 7, wherein the enrichment components are replaceable after being chewed, shredded, or consumed by the animal.

16. The system of claim 7, wherein the flexible cable is of a customizable length and diameter depending on species of animal.

17. The system of claim 7, wherein the base is configured to support at least two flexible cables arranged in parallel.

18. The system of claim 7, wherein the enrichment components are made of biodegradable or recyclable materials.

19. The system of claim 7, wherein the flexible cable and base are configured to withstand outdoor environmental conditions including temperature fluctuations and moisture.

20. The system of claim 7, wherein the flexible cable and base are reusable for lifetime of the animal.

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