Dog Harness Locking Mechanism Prevents Theft
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current dog harness and leash systems are inadequate in preventing theft, as they can be easily removed, leading to increased fear among dog owners when leaving their pets unattended during errands.
Innovation Solution
A dog harness assembly with a key or combination-actuated locking arrangement that secures the leash to the harness, featuring spring-loaded retainers and a combination lock with rotating dials, ensuring the leash cannot be uncoupled from the harness without proper release mechanisms, and adjustable straps for comfort and security.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a simple leash loop is used to secure the dog, then the ease of operation is improved, but the reliability is worsened as the leash can be easily removed
Solution Approach 1:
The leash attachment system is divided into separate functional components: a connector that attaches to the harness, a locking arrangement with movable locking member, and a restraining element. This segmentation allows the system to provide both easy operation through modular assembly and high reliability through multiple security mechanisms working together
Solution Approach 2:
The locking arrangement is designed to automatically engage and lock the connector to the harness upon attachment, performing the security function before the user needs to intervene. The movable locking member automatically moves to a locked position, preventing unauthorized removal without requiring the user to take additional actions
2Reliability
If a locking arrangement is added to prevent unauthorized removal, then the reliability is improved, but the device complexity is worsened
Solution Approach 1:
The locking arrangement is designed to automatically perform its locking function without requiring user intervention. The movable locking member automatically engages with the connector, and the system self-regulates to maintain the locked state, eliminating the need for complex user-operated locking mechanisms
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes the state parameter of the locking member from unlocked to locked automatically upon attachment. This parameter change is driven by the mechanical interaction between the connector and harness, transforming a simple attachment action into an automatic security engagement without adding complex control mechanisms
3Reliability
If the leash is securely locked to the harness, then the reliability is improved, but the ease of operation is worsened as release becomes more difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The locking arrangement incorporates a pre-designed release mechanism that counteracts the locking action. The movable locking member is configured to be easily disengaged through a simple release action, providing the anti-action needed to facilitate authorized removal while maintaining secure locking against unauthorized attempts
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 prevents unauthorized removal of the dog by ensuring the leash remains locked to the harness, providing enhanced security for dog owners during errands, while allowing easy release for the owner when needed.
Implementation Method 1
one or more biasing structures associated with each biased retainer applies a biasing force on the notch to push the notch into the detent
Implementation Method 2
a key or combination actuated locking arrangement coupled with said connector to provide a lockable connection between the leash and the harness wherein in a locked configuration the leash connector is prevented from being uncoupled from the connector
Implementation Method 3
one or more biasing structures applying a biasing force on the locking plate to push the engagement portions of the locking plate into engagement with a detent provided on the locking portion
Data Source
AI summary
A dog harness assembly comprising: a harness body adapted to be positioned on a chest portion of a dog, a pair of restraint loops coupled with the harness body and adapted to pass respectively under the left and right foreleg pits of the dog, each loop comprising a clasp adapted to be releasably fastened to a fastening arrangement provided in the harness body; a connector located in the harness body for engaging with a locking portion of a leash for allowing a user to exert a force for controlling movements of the dog wearing said harness when the harness is connected to the leash through said connector; a key or combination actuated locking arrangement coupled with said connector to provide a lockable connection between the leash and the harness wherein in a locked configuration the leash connector is prevented from being uncoupled from the connector; wherein the locking arrangement is coupled with said fastening arrangement such that in the locked configuration the clasps of the restraint loops engage with the locking portion of the leash to prevent the clasps from being released from the fastening arrangement and wherein in an unlocked configuration, each clasp only be released from the fastening arrangement after the leash connector has been uncoupled from the connector and by additionally actuating a clasp release mechanism provided on said harness body.