Compression Equine Tail Covering with Interior Sock
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current equine tail coverings are loose fitting, leading to tangling and damage of tail hairs, hindering natural tail movement for insect control and aerodynamics, and restricting the horse's ability to back up comfortably.
Innovation Solution
A compression-based equine tail covering with an interior sock and securement straps, combined with artificial tassels, to securely hold a braided and folded tail in place, preventing tangling and damage while allowing natural movement and insect swatting.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Object-affected harmful factors
If a loose fitting tail covering is used, then the tail is protected from weather elements, but the tail hairs become tangless and tousled
Solution Approach 1:
The tail covering is divided into multiple functional segments: a main covering body for weather protection, an interior sock for hair management, and separate compression straps for securing. This segmentation allows each component to address specific problems independently - the covering body provides weather protection while the interior sock prevents tangling.
Solution Approach 2:
The interior sock is nested within the main covering body, creating a layered structure. The sock receives and contains the braided tail, while the outer covering provides additional protection. This nested arrangement allows the inner sock to manage hair stability while the outer layer provides weather protection.
2Object-affected harmful factors
If a loose pouch covering is used, then the tail is protected, but the aerodynamic movement for insect control is hindered
Solution Approach 1:
The covering parameters are optimized by using elastic compression straps that allow dynamic adjustment. The compression level can be modified to balance protection with movement freedom, enabling the tail to swish aerodynamically while still receiving protection from the covering.
Solution Approach 2:
The covering transitions from a static loose pouch to a dynamic compression-based system. The elastic straps and securement mechanisms allow the covering to adapt to the tail's movement, maintaining protection while permitting the aerodynamic swishing motion needed for insect control.
3Object-affected harmful factors
If a long conventional tail covering is used, then the tail is protected, but the horse's ability to back up is restricted
Solution Approach 1:
The covering length and securement points are segmented to strategic locations that clear the horse's hocks. By positioning the covering and its attachment points appropriately, the design provides protection while preventing interference with the horse's backward movement and stepping action.
4Reliability
If compression and securement straps are used, then the covering is held in place and tail function is maintained, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The compression straps utilize self-adjusting elastic properties and self-fastening mechanisms (such as hook-and-loop materials or buckles) that allow the covering to secure itself to the tail without requiring complex external fastening systems. The elastic material provides automatic tension adjustment as the tail moves.
Solution Approach 2:
The securement system uses adjustable compression parameters through elastic straps that can be fastened at different tension levels. This allows the same basic component to provide reliable securement while accommodating variations in tail size and movement requirements, reducing the need for multiple different components.
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 solution effectively prevents tangling and damage to tail hairs, maintains natural tail movement for insect control, and allows the horse to back up freely without interference, enhancing both functionality and appearance.
Implementation Method 1
The first bond is formed when a securement strap passes through an eyelet on the interior of the body and is connected to the exterior by the means of a hook and loop type material.
Implementation Method 2
compression straps are fastened about the covering body to compress the covering about the braided and folded tail to further assist in holding the covering in place
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention generally relates to equine tail coverings used to keep the equines tail clean, promote growth and repel insects. The conventional tail bag is typically loose fitting and does not typically have the durability needed to keep up with an active equine. The present invention uses a compressive force to help hold the covering in place while it protects the tail and the artificial tassels serve as a replacement for the natural tail of the horse in order for the equine to have full functionality of their tail.