A non-invasive device for gait control and immobilization of four-legged animals and method thereof

Abstract

The device for gait control and immobilization of a four-legged animal comprises a mounting frame (13) secured around the animal's neck carrying a spool drum (1), a retractable belt or cable wound on the spool drum (1) and connected to an ankle band on a hind leg, a coaxial spring (2, 3) providing retraction bias, and a ratchet wheel (4) and ratchet lever (5) assembly permitting retraction while preventing extension when engaged. A ratchet lever lift arrester (7) locks the spool drum (1) in both directions in an inactivated mode, maintaining preset slack that allows free walking and stride control. Upon activation by a manual pull cord (9) or a remote-control signal received by an onboard circuit board (12), the ratchet lever lift arrester (7) is released, causing the belt to retract during forward movement while the ratchet lever (5) prevents extension, bringing the animal to a controlled halt.

Description

A NON-INVASIVE DEVICE FOR GAIT CONTROL AND IMMOBILIZATION OF FOUR-LEGGED ANIMALS AND METHOD THEREOFFIELD OF THE INVENTION

[0001] The present invention relates to the field of animal handling and control device, and more particularly to a non-invasive, wearable mechanisms for regulating locomotion in four-legged animals. More specifically, the invention relates to a retractable belt device equipped with a ratchet-based locking mechanism that can be operated manually or remotely. The remote operation enables selective activation and release of the restraint device as required, while permitting unrestricted and comfortable movement during normal operation. The invention pertains to a device and a method for providing controlled gait modulation during normal operation and selectively actuated immobilization to safely restrain animals exhibiting unpredictable or unruly behaviour, without causing injury or interfering with natural movement under non-activated conditions.BACKGROUND AND PRIOR ART

[0002] The handling and control of animals, such as elephants, cattle, and other domesticated or semi-domesticated animals, present significant challenges, particularly when the animal becomes unpredictable or aggressive. Traditional methods of restraint, including chains, ropes, enclosures, and physical barriers, are often cumbersome, restrictive, and may interfere with the animal’s natural movement under normal conditions. Such methods can also cause stress, injury, or long-term harm to the animal.

[0003] In certain cases, chemical sedation or tranquilization is employed to control unruly animals. However, these approaches require specialized expertise, may involve delayed onset, and can pose health risks to the animal, especially if used repeatedly or in emergency situations. Furthermore, sedation does not provide a rapid, reversible, and controllable means of managing sudden behavioural changes.

[0004] Existing mechanical restraint devices are typically static in nature and lack the ability to dynamically adapt to the animal’s state or behaviour. They do not provide a mechanism for selective or on-demand intervention while otherwise allowing free and natural movement. As a result, there remains a need for a device that can unobtrusively coexist withthe animal during normal activity while offering a reliable and controlled means of intervention when required.

[0005] Many conventional animal control devices, such as leashes, collars, and harnesses, rely on manual control, requiring the handler to maintain constant physical interaction with the animal. This can be labour-intensive, difficult to adjust, dangerous to the handler and may lead to inconsistent restraint. Such devices often do not allow fine adjustments to tension or movement restriction, thereby limiting their effectiveness in situations requiring precise control. Fixed, non-adjustable mechanisms may also cause injury or discomfort if the animal moves erratically or if the restraint does not adapt to the animal’s physical needs. In many cases, manual adjustment of tension is challenging, particularly when the animal is in motion or difficult to control.

[0006] Existing systems and devices in the prior art like the application US6470831 B2 titled as “Animal Confinement System” discusses a confinement system for a fourlegged animal is provided. The confinement system comprises a frame to receive the animal and a floor plate for the rear legs of the animal. The floor plate is arranged such that it is stable only when both rear legs of the animal bear down on the floor plate. Yet another application US2022312735 A2, titled "Animal Training System with Position Recognizing Controller," discloses an animal training system that includes an imaging system, an audio output system, and a controller configured to implement training protocols and reward the animal.

[0007] The prior art document, US 10653113 titled, “Restraint Assembly for an Animal’” discloses a restraint assembly including front and rear anchor members coupled together to limit articulation of an animal’s body and prevent the animal from rotating its head to reach certain body portions. However, such devices are primarily directed toward restricting body articulation and do not provide a selectively activatable mechanism that permits normal, unrestricted locomotion during routine conditions and rapid emergency restriction when required.

[0008] Similarly, the prior art document US4693212 titled, “Animal Restraint Apparatus and Method,” describes an apparatus employing multiple elongate anchoring members secured to a baseboard, with straps attached to restrain the limbs of an animal in a fixed position. While effective for immobilization, such arrangements are generally static and donot provide a dynamically retractable restraint mechanism adapted to exploit the natural gait mechanics of a walking four-legged animal for controlled and selective locomotion restriction.

[0009] Existing animal control devices are often cumbersome and unsuitable for long-term use, as they lack easy adjustment, reliable locking, and automatic or remote operation. Although retractable leashes provide some flexibility, they often fail to ensure secure restraint, particularly when animals resist or struggle. Accordingly, there remains a need for an animal controlling device that provides flexible, precise, and efficient movement restriction during regular wear with automatic or remote activation of a reliable locking mechanism when the animals turn unruly there by immobilizing the animal, while eliminating the need for constant human intervention.

[0010] Further, there remains an unmet need for an animal control device designed specifically for normal social use, such as processions, exhibitions, shows, and tourist activities around people, where prior art primarily focuses on immobilization for transport, veterinary care, or training. Unlike such static or full-time restraints, there is a need for a device that permits unrestricted and comfortable movement with adjustable stride under routine conditions, while enabling emergency activation for controlled restriction when necessary. Accordingly, there exists a need for a non-invasive, wearable mechanism capable of providing both gait control during normal conditions and on-demand immobilization in response to unsafe or unruly behaviour, thereby enhancing safety for both the animal and surrounding humans while minimizing distress and physical harm.SUMMARY OF INVENTION

[0011] The present invention provides a dual-mode, non-invasive mechanism for selectively controlling locomotion in four-legged animals, enabling both regulated gait control during normal conditions and on-demand immobilization in response to unsafe or unruly behaviour, while allowing natural movement in a passive state.

[0012] The invention provides a gait control function that allows modulation of the animal’s movement in a gradual and controlled manner, facilitating safer handling and improved behavioural management without causing discomfort or stress. The mechanism is selectively activatable to transition into an immobilization mode, wherein movement of one or more limbs is restricted in a controlled manner to prevent rapid or uncontrolled motion,thereby reducing the risk of harm to the animal and surrounding individuals. The transition between modes is rapid, reliable, and reversible, enabling effective response to sudden behavioural changes while restoring full freedom of movement once the situation is stabilized, without requiring invasive procedures or chemical intervention.

[0013] More particularly, the invention utilises the fact that, as a four-legged animal walks, the distance between the ankle of a hind leg and the animal’s neck increases and decreases alternately with each stride. A self-retracting belt or cable connected between the neck and the ankle, together with a selectively activatable ratchet lock mechanism, exploits this natural variation to retract the belt when the attached leg moves forward and to prevent extension of the belt when the opposite leg attempts to step forward, thereby bringing the animal to a controlled halt when activated.

[0014] An aspect of the invention provides a device and method for restraining and controlling the movement of a four-legged animal. The device includes a mounting frame configured to be secured around the neck of the animal such that the device hangs downward from the animal's neck. A spool drum rotatably mounted on an axle within the mounting frame. The spool drum is having a belt or cable wound around it, one end of the belt or cable being fixed to the spool drum and a free end of the belt or cable is carrying a hook.

[0015] A coaxial spring connected at one end to the spool drum and at the other end to the mounting frame. The coaxial spring is wound under tension when the belt or cable is extended, and the tension of the coaxial spring drives the spool drum in a belt retraction direction when the spool drum is free to rotate. A ratchet wheel is fixedly connected to the spool drum and rotating therewith. A ratchet lever is mounted on the mounting frame and biased into engagement with the ratchet wheel by a ratchet lever holding spring. The ratchet lever permits rotation of the spool drum in the belt retraction direction while preventing rotation of the spool drum in the belt extension direction when engaged. A ratchet lever lift arrester is movably mounted on the mounting frame and is engageable against the ratchet lever to prevent the ratchet lever from lifting, thereby locking the spool drum against rotation in both directions. A solenoid engaging a notch on the ratchet lever lift arrester holds the ratchet lever lift arrester in its engaged position. A lift arrester spring loaded when the ratchet lever lift arrester is in the engaged position. The lift arrester spring driving the ratchet lever lift arrester outward upon release of the solenoid. A manual pull cord is attached to the solenoid, which when pulled moves the solenoid to release the ratchet lever lift arrester. Anankle band is configured to be tied around the ankle of a hind leg of the animal and the ankle band being connectable to the free end of the belt or cable. The belt or cable is routed from the spool drum between the front legs of the animal to the ankle band on one hind leg of the animal. Upon activation, manually or by remote control, the locking mechanism is activated. The ratchet lever is biased to remain engaged by default, ensuring fail-safe operation without requiring active engagement by the operator. It is disengaged only when the operator lifts the ratchet lever by hand to pull the belt out. This is a safety feature such that the operator does not have to remember to engage the mechanism.

[0016] An aspect of the invention provides a method for restraining and controlling the movement of a four-legged animal using the device. The method involves securing the mounting frame of the device around the neck of the animal such that the device hangs downward from the animal's neck. An ankle band is tied around the ankle of one hind leg of the animal. The ratchet lever is disengaged to allow the spool drum to rotate freely and the belt or cable is pulled out from the spool drum, passing the free end between the front legs of the animal, and connecting the free end to the ankle band. A sufficient length of belt or cable is pulled out from the spool drum to provide a required slack in the belt or cable and re-engaging the ratchet lever. The ratchet lever lift arrester is pushed against the ratchet lever and engaged the solenoid to hold the ratchet lever lift arrester in place, thereby locking the spool drum against rotation in both directions. The device is thereby placed in un-activated mode, wherein the animal is able to walk freely with a stride length determined by the slack. The device is activated, when the animal becomes unruly, by pulling the manual pull cord or transmitting a remote-control signal to release the solenoid, causing the lift arrester spring to drive the ratchet lever lift arrester outward and free the ratchet lever. Following the activation, the coaxial spring retracts the belt or cable on each forward step of the hind leg to which the belt or cable is attached, and the ratchet lever prevents extension of the belt or cable when the opposite hind leg attempts to step forward, thereby bringing the animal to a controlled halt. The device operates by exploiting the natural variation in the distance between the neck and the ankle of a hind leg during walking gait, which generates and removes slack in the belt or cable. The device includes a self-retracting belt or cable and ratchet lock connected between the neck and the ankle of a hind leg, wherein the belt retracts when the attached leg moves forward and prevents extension when the opposite leg attempts to step forward, thereby restricting gait to bring the animal to a controlled halt. The present invention enables safe, normal use of animals in social settings such as processions,exhibitions, tourist activities etc. It allows free gait / movement via slack-locked un-activated mode, activating only for emergencies to exploit natural neck-ankle distance variation for controlled halt; focusing on integration during routine activities rather than constant restraint.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

[0017] The manner in which the present invention is formulated is given a more particular description below, briefly summarized above, may be had by reference to the components, some of which are illustrated in the appended drawing. It is to be noted; however, that the appended drawing illustrates only typical embodiments of this invention and are therefore should not be considered limiting of its scope, for the device may admit to other equally effective embodiments.

[0018] Throughout the drawings, the same drawing reference numerals will be understood to refer to the same elements and features. The features and advantages of the present invention will become more apparent from the following detailed description along with the accompanying figures, which forms a part of this application and in which:Figure 1: illustrates the perspective view of the animal restraint device assembly;Figure 2: illustrates exploded schematic of the ratchet-locking mechanism and component layout;Figure 3: illustrates a perspective view of the outer casing (30) of the device assembly; Figure 4: illustration of the device mounted on an elephant showing operational configuration; andFigure 5: illustrates a perspective view of the second embodiment of the animal restraint device comprising a belt lock lever for secondary locking of the spool drum.List of reference numerals1 - Spool drum2 - Coaxial Spring3 - Coaxial Spring4 - Ratchet wheel5 - Ratchet lever6 - Ratchet lever hold spring7 - Ratchet lever lift arrester8 - Solenoid9 - Manual pull cord10 - Lift arrester spring11 - Battery12 - Circuit board13 - Mounting frame and hook30 - Outer casing32 - Protruding end of ratchet lever34 - Protruding end of ratchet lever lift arrester42 - Device44 - Belt extending to hind leg46 - Leg band48 - Neckband50 - Chassis51 - Ratchet lever spring52 - Ratchet lock lever53 - Belt drum and ratchet wheel assembly54 - Belt lock lever55 - Belt lock lever clips56 - Activation cable / manual pull cord57 - Coaxial springDETAILED DESCRIPTION OF INVENTION

[0019] The present invention will now be described more fully herein after. For the purposes of the following detailed description, it is to be understood that the invention may assume various alternative variations and step sequences, except where expressly specified to the contrary. Thus, before describing the present invention in detail, it is to be understood that this invention is not limited to particularly exemplified devices or embodiments that may of course, vary. The use of examples anywhere in this specification including examples of any terms discussed herein is illustrative only, and in no way limits the scope and meaning of the invention or of any exemplified term. Likewise, the invention is not limited to various embodiments given in this specification.

[0020] As used herein, the singular forms "a," "an," and "the" include plural reference unless the context clearly dictates otherwise. The term "and / or" means one or all of the listed elements or a combination of any two or more of the listed elements.

[0021] The terms “preferred” and “preferably” refer to embodiments of the invention that may afford certain benefits, under certain circumstances. However, other embodiments may also be preferred, under the same or other circumstances. Furthermore, the recitation of one or more preferred embodiments does not imply that other embodiments are not useful, and is not intended to exclude other embodiments from the scope of the invention.

[0022] When the term “about” is used in describing a value or an endpoint of a range, the disclosure should be understood to include both the specific value and endpoint referred to.

[0023] As used herein the terms “comprises”, “comprising”, “includes”, “including”, “containing”, “characterized by”, “having” or any other variation thereof, are intended to cover a non-exclusive inclusion.

[0024] Quadruped / four-legged animal: Any animal having four legs, including without limitation elephants, camels, horses, bulls, and other large domesticated animals.

[0025] Unruly: A state in which a quadruped exhibit agitated, aggressive, or uncontrolled behaviour that requires immediate restraint for the safety of the handler, bystanders, or the animal itself.

[0026] Coaxial spring: A spiral torsion spring, also referred to herein as a clock spring, which is wound coaxially around the drum axle such that rotation of the spool drum in the belt-extension direction winds and tensions the spring, and the spring's stored energy drives rotation of the spool drum in the belt-retraction direction when the drum is free to rotate. The term 'coaxial spring' is used throughout this specification as a descriptive working term for this component.

[0027] Spool drum: A cylindrical drum rotatable about its central axle, having the belt or cable wound around it, and driven in one direction by pulling and extending the belt and in the other direction by the coaxial spring.

[0028] Ratchet lever lift arrester: The secondary locking component that, when engaged, physically prevents the ratchet lever from lifting, thereby fully locking the spool drumagainst rotation in both directions. The ratchet lever lift arrester is equivalent to what may otherwise be referred to as a secondary locking lever or secondary locking mechanism.

[0029] Slack: The length of belt or cable that extends beyond the taut minimum distance between the neck-mounted device and the ankle band attachment point, measured when the animal is standing with the relevant hind leg in its rearmost position. Slack determines the stride length of the animal in un-activated mode.

[0030] Stride length: The linear distance traversed by a single forward step of one limb of a four-legged animal during natural ambulation. In the context of this invention, stride length is controllable by adjusting the amount of slack provided in the belt or cable before the drum is fully locked by engaging the ratchet lever lift arrester.

[0031] Kevlar: Kevlar is a high-strength, heat-resistant synthetic para-aramid fibre which is five times stronger than steel on an equal-weight basis, offering exceptional tensile strength, toughness, and thermal stability (up to 900°F). It is widely used in body armour, aerospace, tires, and cut-resistant PPE.

[0032] The present invention pertains to the field of animal control and restraint devices, specifically devices and methods for managing and selectively restricting the movement of four-legged animals. More particularly, the invention relates to a retractable belt device equipped with a ratchet-based locking mechanism that is configurable between a normal mode and an emergency restraint mode. The locking mechanism may be operated manually or remotely, wherein the remote operation is configured primarily for emergency activation, while deactivation is performed manually by the operator. The invention provides a device that can be worn by a four-legged animal during normal activity without causing discomfort or restricting its natural movement, and which can be rapidly activated to halt the animal's forward movement in a controlled and humane manner when the animal becomes unruly.

[0033] The device leverages the natural walking motion of the animal; specifically, the variation in the distance between the ankle of a hind leg and the animal's neck that occurs as the animal walks to restrict movement when the device is activated.

[0034] The following description of the primary embodiment is made with reference to figures 1, 2 and 3.

[0035] An embodiment of the present invention provides a device for restraining and controlling the movement of a four-legged animal. The device comprising a mounting frame (13), a spool drum (1) rotatably mounted on an axle within the mounting frame (13), a coaxial spring (2, 3) connected at one end to the spool drum (1) and at the other end to the mounting frame (13), a ratchet wheel (4) fixedly connected to the spool drum (1) and rotating therewith, a ratchet lever (5) mounted on the mounting frame (13) and biased into engagement with the ratchet wheel (4) by a ratchet lever holding spring (6), a ratchet lever lift arrester (7) movably mounted on the mounting frame (13), a solenoid (8) engaging a notch on the ratchet lever lift arrester (7), a lift arrester spring (10) loaded when the ratchet lever lift arrester is in the engaged position, a manual pull cord (9) attached to the solenoid (8), an ankle band configured to be tied around the ankle of a hind leg of the animal. The ankle band is then attached around the ankle region of one hind leg of the animal. The belt or cable is routed from the spool drum (1), between the front legs of the animal, to the ankle band secured on the ankle of one hind leg, such that the natural variation in the distance between the neck and the ankle during the animal's walking gait acts upon the belt or cable.

[0036] In a further embodiment, the device additionally comprises a battery (11) and a circuit board (12) housed within the mounting frame (13), the circuit board (12) being configured to receive a remote-control signal and to actuate the solenoid (8) in response thereto, enabling remote activation of the device.

[0037] A perspective view of the animal restraint device showing the complete assembly with all major components is illustrate in figure 1. The figure illustrates the drum assembly (1) comprising a spool drum and coaxial spring (2, 3) housed within a cylindrical outer casing (30), mounted on a mounting frame (13) equipped with attachment hooks for securing the device around the animal's neck. The ratchet wheel (4), ratchet lever (5), ratchet lever holding spring (6), ratchet lever lift arrester (7), solenoid (8), manual pull cord (9), battery (11), and circuit board (12) are visible at the mechanical end of the drum assembly. The figure shows the spatial relationship between the electrical actuation components and the drum assembly.

[0038] An exploded schematic diagram illustrating the arrangement and interaction of the internal components of the device is depicted in figure 2. The figure shows the spool drum (1) on which the belt or cable is wound, the coaxial springs (2, 3) attached to the spool drum that provide retraction tension, the ratchet wheel (4) co-axially connected to the spool drum,the ratchet lever (5) engaged against the ratchet wheel teeth, the ratchet lever holding spring (6) maintaining default engagement of the ratchet lever, the ratchet lever lift arrester (7) acting as the secondary locking mechanism, the solenoid (8) engaging the notch of the lift arrester to hold it in the locked position, the lift arrester spring (10) loaded when the arrester is pushed inward, and the battery (11) and circuit board (12) providing power and remotecontrol signal reception.

[0039] When any four-legged animals walks including, without limitation; elephants, bulls, camels, horses, and like quadrupeds, walk, they move their hind legs in an alternating pattern, advancing one hind leg to the front and then the other. If a single hind leg is observed, this walking motion causes the distance between the ankle of that leg and the animal's neck to increase and decrease alternately. The present invention exploits this natural variation in the neck-to-ankle distance to restrict the movement of the animal.

[0040] The animal's walk can be halted by applying a controlled restraint connected between the ankle and the neck. A retractable cable or belt equipped with a locking ratchet mechanism achieves this. The cable retracts automatically when the animal moves its hind leg forward. The animal can advance one leg only if the cable attached to the opposite leg is permitted to extend. The ratchet locking mechanism, when activated, prevents this extension, effectively stopping the animal from taking additional steps and bringing it to a controlled halt. When the belt is pulled out, the coaxial spring (2, 3) is wound. The coaxial spring (2, 3) drives the belt to rewind and retract when there is slack. When the ratchet lever of the ratcheting mechanism is engaged, it restricts the rotation of the drum in one direction, so the belt can retract but cannot extend.

[0041] The coaxial spring is rated only to retract slack, and that no active restraining force is applied by the device itself. The restraining force is self-limiting because it is the animal's own pulling force, which the animal will naturally moderate when it experiences discomfort.

[0042] Spool drum (1): The spool drum (1) holds the belt or cable wound around it. The drum spins on an axial rod at the centre. One end of the belt is attached to the drum. The free end of the belt or cable carries a hook. Pulling the free end of the belt causes the drum to rotate and the belt extends out of the drum.

[0043] The belt or cable is formed from a material selected from the group comprising nylon, flat woven nylon, nylon-coated steel, Kevlar, ultra-high molecular weightpolyethylene (UHMWPE or HMPE), and other flexible high-tensile-strength materials, wherein the selected material is suitable for animal control and restraining applications. Where higher strength requirements arise, materials such as Kevlar, ultra-high molecular weight polyethylene (UHMWPE or HMPE) can be used for the belt in place of standard nylon.

[0044] Coaxial Springs (2 , 3): Coaxial springs (2, 3) are connected at one end to the spool drum (1) and at the other end to the mounting frame (13). When the loose end of the belt is pulled and extended, the spool drum rotates and the coaxial springs (2, 3) are wound tight and placed under tension. When the belt is let go, the tension on the coaxial spring (2, 3) causes the drum to rotate in the opposite direction, thereby retracting the belt.

[0045] Ratchet Wheel (4): The ratchet wheel is connected to the spool drum and rotates together with the drum. The ratchet wheel has teeth which, when engaged with the ratchet lever, prevent rotation of the drum in one direction.

[0046] Ratchet lever (5): The ratchet lever (5) is a toothed lever which engages with the ratchet wheel (4) to restrict its rotation in one direction. When the ratchet lever (5) is engaged with the ratchet wheel (4), it blocks rotation of the drum such that the belt cannot be pulled out from the spool drum. The ratchet lever (5) is mounted on the device frame so that it can move along an axis to engage and disengage the ratchet wheel (4). One end of the ratchet lever (5) extends outside the outer cover assembly so that the operator can lift and hold it with his fingers to disengage the ratchet wheel (4).

[0047] Ratchet lever hold spring (6): The ratchet lever holding spring (6) holds down the ratchet lever (5), keeping it engaged with the ratchet wheel (4). Thus, the ratchet lever (5) is normally in the engaged position.

[0048] Ratchet Lever Lift Arrester (7): The ratchet lever lift arrester (7) functions as the secondary locking mechanism, preventing rotation of the ratchet wheel (4) and the spool drum in both directions. The ratchet lever lift arrester (7) prevents the ratchet lever (5) from rising thus locking the drum (1) completely and blocking its rotation in both directions. The ratchet wheel (4) and ratchet lever mechanism already prevents rotation of the spool drum (1) in one direction. When the ratchet wheel (4) rotates in the opposite direction, the ratchet lever (5) lifts each time the toothed wheel (4) touches the lever (5). The ratchet lever lift arrester (7) engages with the ratchet lever (5), preventing it from lifting. The ratchet leverlift arrester (7) is engaged once the required length of belt has been pulled out from the spool drum (1). Once the ratchet lever lift arrester is engaged, the belt will not retract. The ratchet lever lift arrester (7) is engaged by pushing it inward until it locks with the solenoid (8). The ratchet lever lift arrester restricts the tension in the coaxial spring from retracting the belt and does not have to tolerate the pulling force of the animal.

[0049] Solenoid (8): The solenoid (8) prevents the ratchet lever lift arrester (7) from retracting by engaging into a notch that is cut into the ratchet lever lift arrester (7) The solenoid (8) allows for both manual and remote release of the ratchet lever lift arrester (7).

[0050] Manual pull cord (9): The lower end of the solenoid (8) has a hole to which a cord is tied. When the cord is pulled downward, the solenoid (8) shaft moves down, forcing the ratchet lever lift arrester (7) to move backward. When the ratchet lever lift arrester (7) moves back and disengages the ratchet lever (5), the ratchet wheel (4) is free to rotate in the direction of retracting the belt. Any slack in the belt is retracted into the spool drum (1) due to the tension in the coaxial springs (2,3) connected to the spool drum (1). When the handler is next to the animal when it becomes unruly, he may pull the manual pull chord and move away safely. The pulling of the manual pull chord will activate the device and the animal will come to a halt on its own.

[0051] Lift arrester spring (10): The lift arrester spring (10) is loaded when the ratchet lever lift arrester (7) is pushed inward and locks with the solenoid. When the solenoid shaft moves down, the lift arrester spring causes the ratchet lever lift arrester to move backward, disengaging the ratchet lever.

[0052] Battery (11): The battery powers the solenoid (8) and the circuit board (12) for remote operation.

[0053] In the preferred embodiment, four AA alkaline batteries are used. An LED low battery warning indicator is provided to alert the operator when battery replacement is required.

[0054] Circuit board (12): The circuit board (12) receives the signal from the remote control held by the operator. The signal causes the solenoid (8) to move downward, releasing the ratchet lever lift arrester (7).

[0055] Mounting frame and hook (13): The mounting frame and hook (13) houses all the components and makes the device mountable around the animal's neck.

[0056] Outer casing (30): The outer casing (30) encloses the drum assembly and internal components of the device. The outer casing (30) is preferably formed from a high-strength polymer or lightweight metal such as aluminium alloy. The casing includes openings for manual access to the ratchet lever and lift arrester and is configured to protect internal components from environmental exposure.

[0057] The outer casing includes an opening through which one end of the ratchet lever extends (32), allowing the operator to manually lift the ratchet lever using his fingers. The end of the ratchet lever lift arrester also protrudes (34) from the outer casing (30) letting the operator push the ratchet lever lift arrester (7) and fully lock the drum after extending the required length of belt.

[0058] In one embodiment of the present invention, a method of installing and operating the device is carried out as follows with reference to Figure 4.

[0059] The drum assembly is secured around the neck of the animal using a suitable fastening means such as a rope or strap, such that the assembly is held firmly yet without causing discomfort to the animal, and is allowed to hang downward around the animal’s neck in an operational position.

[0060] An ankle band is then attached around the ankle region of one hind leg of the animal. The ratchet wheel (5) is temporarily disengaged to permit free rotation of the spool drum (1), allowing the belt or cable to be withdrawn from the drum assembly. The free end of the belt or cable is guided between the front legs of the animal and connected to the ankle band. The end of the ratchet lever (5) extends outside the outer casing (30) so that the operator can temporarily disengage the ratchet wheel by lifting the ratchet lever with his fingers.

[0061] The ratchet lever is temporarily disengaged by manually lifting it, permitting free rotation of the spool drum (1) and allowing the belt or cable to be withdrawn from the drum assembly. The free end of the belt or cable is guided between the front legs of the animal. As the belt or cable is pulled outward, the coaxial spring within the drum assembly is wound under tension.

[0062] A sufficient length of belt or cable is extended to create the desired amount of slack, selected by the operator based on the size of the animal and the required stride length. Once the desired slack is achieved, the ratchet lever is re-engaged by releasing the finger to prevent further extension of the belt or cable. The hook on the free end of the belt or cable is then connected to the ankle band on the hind leg of the animal.

[0063] Subsequently, the ratchet lever lift arrester (7) is actuated into engagement with the ratchet lever (5), thereby preventing movement of the ratchet lever (5) and locking the spool drum (1) against rotation in both directions. The ratchet lever lift arrester (7) is retained in this locked position by engagement with the solenoid (8), and the associated spring is maintained in a compressed state. When this ratchet lever lift arrester (7) is applied, the drum is stuck and the slack in the cable is maintained. No additional retaining element is required on the animal's body. The weight of the drum assembly keeps the device in position around the neck, and the routing of the belt between the front legs of the animal is sufficient to maintain its position during normal walking. Minor positional variations do not affect the functioning of the device. Engaging the ratchet lever lift arrester is performed right after pulling the required length of belt out. else the spring will pull the slack in. The operator will mark or draw a reference line or point on the belt corresponding to a preferred slack length. During setup, the operator manually lifts the ratchet lever, pulls the belt out till the marked length, releases the ratchet lever, and then engages the ratchet lever lift arrester to lock the belt at the desired slack length. Then the operator will guide the belt between the legs and hook it to the hind leg.

[0064] The solenoid (8) engages with a wedge in the ratchet lever lift arrester (7), holding it in place. The lift arrester spring is compressed when this lever is pushed inward.

[0065] The hook on the loose end of the cable or belt is connected to the hind leg of the animal.

[0066] In this condition, the device operates in an un-activated mode, wherein the pre-set slack in the belt or cable allows the animal to walk freely and naturally, with the stride length determined by the amount of slack provided.

[0067] The slack left in the cable functions as a stride length control mechanism. Stride length is the length of a single step the animal takes while walking. Less slack in the cable means shorter stride length. If more slack is provided, the animal can take longer steps andwalk faster. The stride length can be set as required by the operator. A line marking may be made on the cable for ease of adjustment during subsequent uses.

[0068] The length and strength of the cable will depend on the size of the animal and the animal can walk with minimal discomfort as the device does not interfere with its walk. There is no discomfort for the animal when this device is worn.

[0069] When restraint of the animal becomes necessary, the device is transitioned to an activated mode by releasing the solenoid. This may be achieved either by pulling the manual pull cord or by transmitting a remote-control signal. The solenoid (8) actuator moves down, and the lift arrester spring (10) drives the ratchet lever lift arrester (7) out of engagement with the ratchet lever (5), thereby releasing the ratchet lever lift arrester (7).

[0070] As a result, the spool drum (1) becomes rotatable in the belt retraction direction only. The belt can now retract but cannot be pulled out, because the ratchet lever (5), which is always engaged to the ratchet wheel (4), prevents extension. The coaxial spring (2,3) unwinds and pulls the cable inward. The coaxial spring then retracts any available slack in the belt or cable.

[0071] During movement of the animal, when the hind leg attached to the belt advances forward, slack is generated and the belt will retract into the drum. However, when the opposite hind leg attempts to move forward, according to the natural walking motion, the distance between the neck and the first leg has to increase. This is possible only if the belt is allowed to extend but the belt or cable is prevented from extending due to the action of the ratchet lever. The animal will not be able to take additional steps thus bringing it to a controlled halt.

[0072] This restriction prevents further forward stepping of the animal, thereby bringing the animal to a controlled and gradual halt.

[0073] Once the device has been activated and the animal has been brought to a halt, the device may be deactivated and reset to un-activated mode as follows. The handler lifts and holds the ratchet lever (5) using his fingers through the opening in the outer casing (30). While holding the ratchet lever (5) in the lifted position, the handler pulls the belt or cable out from the spool drum (1), thereby freeing the animal. The ratchet lever lift arrester (7) may then be re-engaged to return the device to un-activated mode with the desired slack.

[0074] Activation of the device results in transition from a gait control state, in which belt movement is prevented in both directions, to a immobilization state, in which belt retraction is permitted while the belt extension is prevented.

[0075] In the event of accidental activation of the device; for example, if the manual pull cord (9) is inadvertently snagged during normal movement of the animal, the animal will be unable to walk, which will be immediately apparent to the handler. The handler can promptly deactivate the device, loosen the belt or cable, and re-engage the ratchet lever lift arrester (7) to return the device to un-activated mode. Accidental activation does not pose a risk of harm to the animal.

[0076] Activated mode is the operational mode of the device in which the ratchet lever lift arrester (7) has been released, the spool drum (1) is free to rotate in the retraction direction only, and the coaxial spring (2,3) actively retracts slack in the belt or cable on each forward step of the attached hind leg, thereby preventing the animal from taking further steps.

[0077] Un-activated mode is the operational mode of the device in which the ratchet lever lift arrester (7) is engaged, the spool drum (1) is locked against rotation in both directions, and the animal can walk freely with the stride length determined by the slack in the belt or cable.

[0078] Manual pull cord is a cord attached to the lower end of the solenoid (8) shaft, which when pulled manually moves the solenoid (8) shaft downward, releasing the ratchet lever lift arrester (7) and transitioning the device to activated mode.

[0079] In the preceding embodiment, the secondary locking function is achieved by restricting movement of the ratchet lever instead, thereby simplifying the mechanical design while maintaining equivalent functionality. In a further variation, the locking function may be applied directly to the belt using a clamp mechanism as described in the below embodiment.

[0080] The core inventive principle; exploiting the natural variation in the neck-to-ankle distance during the walking gait of a four-legged animal to restrict forward movement upon activation, remains identical to the primary embodiment.

[0081] Another embodiment of the invention as illustrated in figure 5 provides a similar device comprising a chassis (50) that serves as the base frame and provides structural support for all components. The chassis is configured to be secured around the neck of the animal. A drum unit is mounted on the chassis, comprising a spool drum around which a belt or cable is wound. One end of the belt is fixed to the spool drum and the other end is free, carrying a hook for connection to the ankle band. Coaxial springs (57) are connected at one end to the spool drum and at the other end to the chassis (50). The coaxial spring (57) is wound under tension when the belt is extended and drives the spool drum in the belt retraction direction when the spool drum is free to rotate.

[0082] A ratchet wheel assembly (53) is mounted on both sides of the spool drum and rotates therewith. A ratchet lock lever (52) with a specific tooth structure is attached to the chassis (50) on the top side of the spool drum. The ratchet lock lever (52) is capable of moving up and down and is held in engagement with the ratchet wheel assembly by a ratchet lever spring (51). The teeth on the ratchet lock lever (52) are shaped such that when engaged with the ratchet wheel assembly (53), the spool drum is permitted to rotate only in the direction of belt retraction, while rotation in the direction of belt extension is prevented.

[0083] A belt lock lever (54) is attached to the chassis (50) on the bottom side of the spool drum and is movably mounted within a slot in the chassis (50), capable of moving up and down within the slot. The positioning of the belt lock lever (54) on the bottom side of the spool drum is such that gravity aids in keeping the lever in the disengaged position after it has been pulled downward, thereby facilitating ease of disengagement. When the belt lock lever (54) is moved upward to the engaged position, a tooth on the belt lock lever (54) engages the ratchet wheel assembly (53), preventing rotation of the spool drum in both directions. The belt lock lever (54) includes spring clips on the inner side of the handle guide. When the belt lock lever (54) is moved upward to the engaged position, a notch on the belt lock lever (54) mates with a spring clip, holding the belt lock lever (54) securely in the engaged position. When the belt lock lever (54) is moved downward, the tooth on the lever disengages from the ratchet wheel assembly (53), allowing free rotation of the spool drum.

[0084] An activation cable is connected to the belt lock lever (54) and is positioned so as to be easily accessible to the handler of the animal. When the activation cable is pulled, it moves the belt lock lever (54) downward to the disengaged position, releasing the ratchetwheel assembly (53) and transitioning the device to activated mode. In activated mode, the coaxial spring (57) retracts any available slack in the belt, and the ratchet lock lever (52) prevents extension of the belt when the opposite hind leg attempts to step forward, thereby bringing the animal to a controlled halt in the same manner as described in the primary embodiment.

[0085] Figure 5 illustrates a perspective view of the second embodiment of the animal restraint device, comprising chassis (50) with belt drum / ratchet wheel assembly (53) and coaxial springs (57); ratchet lock lever (52) biased by spring (51); belt hold lever (54) for secondary locking with clips (55) in guide box; and manual pull cord (56). Belt routes from drum between front legs to hind ankle band, showing gravity-aided disengagement.

[0086] An ankle band is tied around the ankle of one hind leg of the animal. The ankle band and the drum unit are connected via the belt or cable extending from the drum unit, routed between the front legs of the animal.

[0087] In one variant of the second embodiment, a belt lock clamp may be used in place of the belt lock lever to lock the belt or cable in position. The belt lock clamp locks the belt by closing its jaws on the belt. The activation cable is connected to the belt lock clamp such that pulling the activation cable opens the clamp, releasing the belt for retraction by the coaxial spring.

[0088] In certain embodiments of the invention, the device is provided with two or more drum assemblies, each comprising a spool drum, coaxial spring, ratchet wheel, ratchet lever, and ratchet lever lift arrester, with a corresponding belt or cable connected to a separate ankle band on each hind leg of the animal. This configuration can further improve the control gained on the animal, particularly for additional control and redundancy for very large or powerful animals.

[0089] In an embodiment of the invention the device omits the secondary locking mechanism wherein the ratchet lever is held in the lifted position by a releasable stopper connected to the activation cable. Pulling the cable removes the stopper and allows the ratchet lever to engage. This design has no stride length control in inactive mode and may cause accelerated spring wear but may suit lower-demand applications.

[0090] In an active stride control variant, an electric motor powered by batteries drives the drum assembly, actively extending or retracting the belt or cable. This allows the handler to adjust stride length dynamically via remote control during use.

[0091] A further embodiment of the invention provides that device is described primarily with reference to a hind leg, the same device and principle can be applied between the animal's neck and the ankle of a front leg, or between the lower portion of the torso and an ankle.

[0092] In one variant, the belt lock clamp locks the belt / cable directly by closing jaws thereon (preventing retraction, no-extension via ratchet lock lever (52)). Pulling activation cable (56) opens clamp; coaxial springs (57) retract slack, ratchet lock lever (52) blocks extension on opposite step for halt.

[0093] In a further embodiment of the invention, a foot-operated lever is provided on the mounting frame, allowing the person riding on the back of the animal to activate the device by pushing the lever with his feet, without requiring use of the manual pull cord. The foot-operated lever being operatively connected to the solenoid (8) for activation of the device.Example

[0094] The following provides a working example of the device as applied to an adult elephant, by way of illustration and not limitation. All dimensions and values given are approximate and are provided solely for the purpose of describing a preferred embodiment. They do not constitute limiting parameters of the invention, which is applicable to any fourlegged animal of suitable size.

[0095] In this example, the belt or cable is a nylon belt approximately 50 mm to 75 mm (2 to 3 inches) wide and 2 mm to 3 mm thick, having a total length of approximately 3 to 4 meters. Alternatively, an 8 mm diameter steel cable of the same length may be used. The belt or cable is designed to withstand approximately 3,000 kg of pulling force, which is sufficient to resist the force an adult elephant would exert against the restraint before natural self-moderation occurs. An adult elephant is able to exert much higher pulling forces. But the fact that the cable is tied between its leg and its neck, it will be painful for the animal if it tries to pull harder.

[0096] The spool drum (1) need not accommodate the entire length of the belt or cable. As approximately 1.5 meters of belt is sufficient to retract and halt the animal's movement, the spool drum (1) is sized to hold approximately 2 to 2.5 meters of belt or cable. The overall dimensions of the drum assembly for use on a large adult elephant are approximately 90 mm in diameter and 120 mm in length. The target weight of the device would be 1 - 1.25 Kilogram including the outer cover and frame.

[0097] The ankle band (46) suited for an adult elephant has a circumference of 700 mm to 1,000 mm. The ankle band is constructed from a flat nylon belt or rope, the material being smooth so as not to cause discomfort to the animal at the point of attachment.

[0098] In un-activated mode, the slack provided in the belt or cable for an adult elephant range from less than 1 meter for slow, controlled walking to approximately 1.5 meters for normal walking speed. The operator sets the slack as required prior to engaging the ratchet lever lift arrester (7). A line marking on the belt or cable facilitates consistent adjustment during subsequent uses.

[0099] The mounting frame (13) is secured around the neck of the elephant using a strong rope passed through the pair of circular loops on the frame, such that the drum assembly hangs downward in the operational position without causing discomfort to the animal. No additional retaining element is required on the animal's body. The weight of the drum assembly is sufficient to keep the device in position, and the routing of the belt between the front legs of the elephant prevents significant lateral displacement during normal walking.

[0100] All embodiments of the present invention share a common technical feature, namely the exploitation of the natural variation in the distance between the ankle of a hind leg and the neck of a four-legged animal during its normal walking gait, in combination with a selectively activatable locking mechanism connected between the neck and the ankle, to restrict the forward movement of the animal upon activation. This principle constitutes the special technical feature of the invention and is common to all embodiments disclosed herein, regardless of the specific mechanical implementation of the locking mechanism.

[0101] Unlike conventional restraint devices that are designed primarily for immobilization during transport, veterinary procedures, or confinement, the present invention is intended for use during normal activity of the animal in public or social settings. The objective is notto restrain the animal continuously, but to allow natural and comfortable movement while providing the ability to selectively and rapidly restrict locomotion when required for safety.

[0102] While the foregoing written description of the invention enables one of ordinary skill to make and use what is considered presently to be the best mode thereof, those of ordinary skill will understand and appreciate the existence of variations, combinations, and equivalents of the specific embodiment, method, and examples herein. The invention should therefore not be limited by the above-described embodiment, method, and examples, but by all embodiments and methods within the scope of the invention as claimed.

Claims

I Claim:

1. A non-invasive device for gait control and immobilization of four-legged animals, the device comprising:a) a mounting frame (13) configured to be secured around the neck of the animal such that the device hangs downward from the animal's neck;b) a spool drum (1) rotatably mounted on an axle within the mounting frame (13), the spool drum (1) having a belt or cable wound around it, one end of the belt or cable being fixed to the spool drum (1) and a free end of the belt or cable carrying a hook;c) a coaxial spring (2, 3) connected at one end to the spool drum (1) and at the other end to the mounting frame (13), such that the coaxial spring (2, 3) is wound under tension when the belt or cable is extended, and the tension of the coaxial spring (2, 3) drives the spool drum (1) in a belt retraction direction when the spool drum (1) is free to rotate;d) a ratchet wheel (4) fixedly connected to the spool drum (1) and rotating therewith; e) a ratchet lever (5) mounted on the mounting frame (13) and biased into engagement with the ratchet wheel (4) by a ratchet lever holding spring (6), the ratchet lever (5) permitting rotation of the spool drum (1) in the belt retraction direction while preventing rotation of the spool drum (1) in the belt extension direction when engaged;f) a ratchet lever lift arrester (7) movably mounted on the mounting frame (13) and engageable against the ratchet lever (5) to prevent the ratchet lever (5) from lifting, thereby locking the spool drum (1) against rotation in both directions;g) a solenoid (8) engaging a notch on the ratchet lever lift arrester (7) to hold the ratchet lever lift arrester (7) in its engaged position;h) a lift arrester spring (10) loaded when the ratchet lever lift arrester (7) is in the engaged position, the lift arrester spring (10) driving the ratchet lever lift arrester (7) outward upon release of the solenoid (8);i) a manual pull cord (9) attached to the solenoid (8), which when pulled moves the solenoid (8) to release the ratchet lever lift arrester (7); andj) an ankle band configured to be tied around the ankle of a hind leg of the animal, the ankle band being connectable to the free end of the belt or cable;wherein the belt or cable is routed from the spool drum (1) between the front legs of the animal to the ankle band on one hind leg of the animal,wherein the ratchet mechanism and belt utilize and interferes with the variation in length between the neck and hind leg of the animal during normal gait to restrict the movement of the animal.

2. The device as claimed in claim 1, wherein the device operates in an un-activated mode and an activated mode; wherein in the un-activated mode, the ratchet lever lift arrester (7) is engaged, the spool drum (1) is locked against rotation in both directions, and a predetermined slack is maintained in the belt or cable, permitting the animal to walk freely with a stride length determined by the amount of said slack; andwherein in the activated mode, the ratchet lever lift arrester (7) is released, the spool drum (1) is free to rotate in the belt retraction direction only, and the coaxial spring (2, 3) retracts slack in the belt or cable on each forward step of the hind leg to which the belt or cable is attached, while the ratchet lever (5) prevents extension of the belt or cable when the opposite hind leg attempts to step forward, thereby bringing the animal to a controlled halt.

3. The device as claimed in claim 2, wherein the amount of slack provided in the belt or cable before the ratchet lever lift arrester (7) is engaged is adjustable to set the stride length of the animal.

4. The device as claimed in claim 1, wherein the solenoid (8) is releasable by a remotecontrol signal received by a circuit board (12) housed within the mounting frame (13) and powered by a battery (11).

5. The device as claimed in claim 1, wherein the belt or cable is made from a material selected from the group comprising nylon, flat woven nylon, nylon-coated steel cable, Kevlar, and ultra-high molecular weight polyethylene (UHMWPE or HMPE).

6. The device as claimed in claim 1, wherein the mounting frame (13) further includes a foot-operated lever accessible to a person riding on the back of the animal, the foot-operated lever being operatively connected to the solenoid (8) for activation of the device.

7. A method of operation of the device as claimed in claim 1, the method comprising:securing the mounting frame (13) of the device around the neck of the animal such that the device hangs downward from the animal's neck;tying an ankle band around the ankle of one hind leg of the animal;disengaging the ratchet lever (5) to allow the spool drum (1) to rotate freely, pulling out the belt or cable from the spool drum (1), passing the free end between the front legs of the animal, and connecting the free end to the ankle band;pulling a sufficient length of belt or cable from the spool drum (1) to provide a required slack in the belt or cable that permits the animal to walk freely, and re-engaging the ratchet lever (5);pushing the ratchet lever lift arrester (7) inward against the ratchet lever (5) and engaging the solenoid (8) to hold the ratchet lever lift arrester (7) in place, thereby locking the spool drum (1) against rotation in both directions and placing the device in un-activated mode, wherein the animal is able to walk freely with a stride length determined by the slack;activating the device, when the animal becomes unruly, by pulling the manual pull cord (9) or transmitting a remote-control signal to release the solenoid (8), causing the lift arrester spring (10) to drive the ratchet lever lift arrester (7) outward and free the ratchet lever (5); andwherein, following activation, the coaxial spring (2, 3) retracts the belt or cable on each forward step of the hind leg to which the belt or cable is attached, and the ratchet lever (5) prevents extension of the belt or cable when the opposite hind leg attempts to step forward, thereby bringing the animal to a controlled halt.

8. The method as claimed in claim 7, wherein activating the device comprises transmitting a remote-control signal from a safe distance from the animal.

9. The method as claimed in claim 7, wherein activating the device comprises pulling the manual pull cord (9) by the handler riding on the back of the animal, thereby allowing the handler to move away from the animal after activation.

10. A device for restraining and controlling the movement of a four-legged animal, the device comprising:a chassis (50) configured to be secured around the neck of the animal;a spool drum rotatably mounted on the chassis (50), a belt or cable wound on the spool drum with one end fixed to the spool drum and a free end carrying a hook, and a coaxial spring (57) connected between the spool drum and the chassis (50);a ratchet wheel assembly (53) mounted on both sides of the spool drum;a ratchet lock lever (52) mounted on the chassis and biased by a ratchet lever spring (51) into engagement with the ratchet wheel assembly (53), the ratchet lock lever (52) permitting rotation of the spool drum in the belt retraction direction and preventing rotation in the belt extension direction;a belt lock lever (54) movably mounted within a slot in the chassis (50) on the bottom side of the spool drum, which when moved to an engaged position causes a tooth on the belt lock lever (54) to engage the ratchet wheel assembly (53) to prevent rotation of the spool drum in both directions, and which is held in the engaged position by a spring clip, gravity aiding disengagement when the belt lock lever is moved downward;an activation cable connected to the belt lock lever (54) , which when pulled moves the belt lock lever (54) to a disengaged position, releasing the belt or cable for retraction by the coaxial spring (57); andan ankle band configured to be tied around the ankle of a hind leg of the animal, connectable to the free end of the belt or cable;wherein the belt or cable is routed from the spool drum between the front legs of the animal to the ankle band.

11. The device as claimed in claim 10, wherein a belt lock clamp is provided in place of the belt lock lever (54), the belt lock clamp holding the belt or cable in place to prevent retraction while permitting no extension via the ratchet lock lever (52) by closing its jaws on the belt or cable, andwherein the activation cable or manual pull cord is connected to the belt lock clamp such that pulling opens the clamp, releasing belt or cable for retraction by the coaxial springs (57) with ratchet lock lever (52) preventing extension.

112. The device as claimed in claim 10, wherein the belt lock lever (54) is further releasable by a remote-control signal received by electronic circuitry housed within the chassis (50) and powered by a battery.

Images