Bucket Securing Device with Sliding Lock Mechanism
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing solutions for securing feed or water buckets in animal stalls are either cumbersome, requiring substantial support that can injure animals or difficult to operate, necessitating the use of two hands to secure and remove the bucket, especially when the bucket is heavy with water.
Innovation Solution
A 2-part device consisting of a wall-mounted base and a sliding lock portion that easily secures and releases the bucket bail, allowing single-handed operation and preventing accidental knocking over by sliding between open and locked positions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a metal frame with substantial support is used to mount the bucket, then the bucket is secure and cannot be easily knocked over, but the device complexity increases and it may injure the horse if the horse runs into it
Solution Approach 1:
The device is divided into separate functional components: a L-shaped bracket for mounting, a bail hook for securing the bucket handle, and a sliding lock mechanism for engagement. This segmentation allows each component to perform its specific function efficiently without requiring a complex overall structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The locking function is extracted as a separate sliding lock mechanism that can engage and disengage independently from the main mounting structure. This allows the bucket to be securely mounted while providing easy access for removal without requiring complex integrated mechanisms.
2Reliability
If a sliding lock mechanism is used to secure the bucket, then the bucket is secure, but the ease of operation decreases as two hands are required to operate it
Solution Approach 1:
The sliding lock mechanism is designed to be operated by a single hand. The user can slide the lock into the engaged position to secure the bucket, and slide it back to release the bucket, eliminating the need for two-handed operation while maintaining secure engagement.
3Reliability
If a clasp member is used to hold the bail, then the bucket is secure, but the ease of operation decreases as two hands are required to simultaneously move the clasp and bail
Solution Approach 1:
The locking function is separated from the bail retention function. The bail hook simply holds the bucket handle, while the sliding lock provides the securing mechanism. This allows the user to operate the lock independently without needing to coordinate movement of both the clasp and bail simultaneously.
4Reliability
If a vertically movable rod is used to lock the bail, then the bucket is secure, but the ease of operation decreases as two hands are required to hold the bail while operating the rod
Solution Approach 1:
The sliding lock mechanism is designed to be operated by a single hand. The user can slide the lock into the engaged position to secure the bucket, and slide it back to release the bucket, eliminating the need for two-handed operation while maintaining secure engagement.
Data Source
AI summary
A device for securing feed or water bucket includes a hook for receiving the bail of a bucket and a support for engaging the lip of the bucket. The device locks the bucket in position so that a horse or other animal is prevented from accidentally knocking the bucket off.