Cat Perch With Hinged Suction Cups and Folding Straps
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing window shelf systems for cats are unstable laterally, often bulky, and interfere with window coverings, leading to scratching and increased shipping costs.
Innovation Solution
A cat perch system using multiple suction cups with a hinged connection and retractable straps that fold into a compact package, ensuring lateral stability and compatibility with window coverings.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If suction cups are used to attach the shelf to the window, then the shelf can be easily installed, but the shelf becomes unstable to lateral movement
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple suction cups (typically three or more) into a single attachment system, distributing the attachment points across the shelf structure. This merging of multiple attachment points provides both ease of installation through simple suction attachment and lateral stability through distributed support points that resist side-to-side movement.
Solution Approach 2:
The shelf is divided into multiple segments or sections, each with its own suction cup attachment point. This segmentation allows the shelf to maintain stability through distributed attachment while keeping individual components simple and easy to install. The modular structure also allows the shelf to flex slightly without compromising overall stability.
2Stability of the object's composition
If the shelf is made bulky to ensure stability, then lateral stability is improved, but shipping costs increase
Solution Approach 1:
The shelf incorporates movable or collapsible elements that allow it to transition between a stable expanded configuration during use and a compact folded configuration for shipping. The shelf panels can fold flat or collapse into each other, dramatically reducing shipping volume while maintaining structural integrity and stability when deployed in the window environment.
Solution Approach 2:
The shelf components are designed to nest within each other when folded, with smaller panels fitting into spaces between larger panels. This nesting arrangement maximizes compactness for shipping while allowing the full-size stable structure to be reassembled at the installation location.
3Stability of the object's composition
If the shelf is made rigid to prevent movement, then lateral stability is improved, but the shelf interferes with window coverings
Solution Approach 1:
The shelf uses flexible support arms or movable mounting mechanisms that allow the shelf to adapt its position and orientation. These dynamic elements enable the shelf to accommodate various window covering types (blinds, curtains, shades) by adjusting the shelf's angle or position, while the overall structure maintains lateral stability through its suction cup attachment system and structural design.
Solution Approach 2:
Different portions of the shelf have different rigidity characteristics. The attachment points and support structures are designed with appropriate flexibility to accommodate window coverings, while the shelf surface and critical load-bearing areas maintain sufficient rigidity for lateral stability. This localized variation in mechanical properties allows the shelf to satisfy both requirements simultaneously.
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 provides lateral stability, reduces shipping costs, and allows for unimpeded operation of window coverings by maintaining a compact and stable design.
Implementation Method 1
A cat perch that overcomes these and other problems includes a first set of suction cups
Implementation Method 2
A pin that extends through the hole in the nipple of one of the first set of suction cups
Implementation Method 3
the straps are slightly wider than the opening of the hole and this creates friction that holds the shelf in the raise position
Data Source
AI summary
A cat perch has a first set of suction cups. Each of the suction cups has a nipple with a hole extending through the nipple. A shelf has a first edge and a second edge. The first edge has a pin that extends through the hole in the nipple of one of the first set of suction cups. A set of straps extend from the second edge of the shelf to a second set of suction cups. Because the shelf is connected to the suction cups by a pin extending through the hole in the nipple of the suction cup, the shelf can be folded up and out of the way.