Calf Hutch Latch Assembly for Fast Wind-Resistant Securement
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Solution Overview
Problem
Calf hutches are prone to being lifted and knocked over by gusts of wind due to their floorless design, and existing securing methods, such as using ground-engaging anchors, are time-consuming and tedious to install and remove.
Innovation Solution
A securement system comprising latch assemblies with a receiver flange and latch arm, along with a line and ratchet assembly, allows for rapid and secure attachment of calf hutches to the ground surface, using a line to capture the latch arm and apply a downward force to prevent lifting.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If ground-engaging anchors or spikes are used to secure calf hutches, then the calf hutches can be firmly secured to the ground, but the installation and removal process becomes time-consuming and tedious
Solution Approach 1:
The securing system is divided into separate components: a latch assembly that attaches to the calf hutch, a line that connects to anchoring structures, and a ratchet assembly for tensioning. This segmentation allows each component to be independently installed and removed, significantly reducing the time and effort required compared to traditional ground-engaging anchors that require digging and permanent installation.
Solution Approach 2:
The latch assembly is pre-configured with a locking slot and latch arm mechanism that is ready to engage with the line. The anchoring structures are pre-installed in the ground before the calf hutches arrive. When the calf hutches need securing, the line is simply threaded through the locking slot and the latch arm automatically engages, eliminating the need for time-consuming installation procedures.
2Reliability
If traditional securing devices are used, then the calf hutches can be anchored to the ground, but the process becomes complex and tedious
Solution Approach 1:
The latch arm is designed with a spring bias that automatically causes it to engage with the line and lock into place once the line is threaded through the locking slot. The system is self-securing, requiring no complex adjustment or multiple components to be assembled during installation. This self-service mechanism greatly simplifies the securing process while maintaining reliable anchoring stability.
Solution Approach 2:
Instead of having the anchoring system actively engage with the ground through complex mechanisms, the invention inverts the approach by having a passive line connect to pre-installed anchoring structures, with the latch assembly simply needing to trap the line in its locking slot. This inversion transforms a potentially complex active engagement system into a simple passive retention system.
3Productivity
If calf hutches are left unsecured, then installation and removal is quick and easy, but gusts of wind can lift and knock over the hutches, causing injury and loss
Solution Approach 1:
The latch assembly and line system is designed to provide preliminary resistance against wind forces before the calf hutch can be lifted or knocked over. The ratchet assembly pre-tensions the line to create downward force on the latch assembly, establishing a secure connection that actively counteracts wind gusts. This preliminary anti-action prevents the harmful effects of wind damage while maintaining quick installation and removal capabilities.
Solution Approach 2:
The securing system allows for adjustment of the line tension through the ratchet assembly, enabling the operator to change the securing force parameter based on wind conditions and hutch size. This parameter adjustment capability ensures adequate security against wind damage while maintaining the ability to quickly modify or remove the securing as conditions change.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The system effectively secures calf hutches to the ground, preventing them from being knocked over, while allowing for quick installation and removal, enhancing safety and reducing installation time.
Implementation Method 1
The latch arm is biased to the closed position
Implementation Method 2
The line may then be tightened with the ratchet assembly to provide a downward force on each latch and its respective calf hutch
Implementation Method 3
The line may be secured to at least one anchoring structure such as a post and may be urged against the latch arm of one of the latch assemblies to shift the latch arm from its closed position to its open position
Data Source
AI summary
A securement system for securing one or more calf hutches is provided. The securement system includes latch assemblies and a line. The latch assemblies are configured to be attached to the calf hutches and comprise receiver flanges and latch arms. Each receiver flange includes a vertically-extending plate defining a locking slot with an open end. Each latch arm may be shifted between a closed position in which it blocks the open end of the locking slot and an open position in which it does not block the open end of the locking slot. Each latch arm is biased to the closed position.