Integrated Animal Control Paddle with Electric Prod
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing devices for controlling livestock, such as electrical shock prods and sorting paddles, are inefficient when used together due to the need for frequent hand switching and lack of combined force for effective animal movement and separation.
Innovation Solution
A multi-functional animal control device with a gripping portion, electric prod head, and integrated paddle body that includes a hollow chamber for noise makers, allowing for both manual guidance and electrical stimulation with a single-handed operation by integrating a button-activated electric prod within a paddle device.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If electrical shock prods and sorting paddles are used separately, then each device performs its specific function, but the operator must repeatedly switch between devices which reduces productivity and increases operation time
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines an electrical shock prod and a sorting paddle into a single integrated device. The prod assembly with electrodes is merged with the paddle body having a handle, allowing both electrical stimulation and physical pushing functions to be performed simultaneously with one hand, eliminating the need to switch between separate devices and thereby improving productivity and operational convenience
2Force
If a sorting paddle is used alone, then it provides physical force for moving livestock, but it lacks the necessary force and additional control means for effective animal movement
Solution Approach 1:
The integrated device provides multiple functions within a single tool: the paddle body delivers physical pushing force for moving livestock, while the integrated prod assembly provides electrical stimulation for additional control. This multi-functionality allows the operator to adapt between mechanical and electrical control methods depending on the situation, enhancing both force application and control versatility
3Adaptability or versatility
If an electrical shock prod is used alone, then it provides electrical stimulation for controlling livestock, but it lacks the physical force needed to move resistant animals
Solution Approach 1:
The device merges the electrical prod functionality with a solid paddle body capable of delivering mechanical force. The prod assembly with electrodes and wiring is integrated into the paddle structure, allowing the operator to combine electrical stimulation with physical pushing in a single device, thereby compensating for the lack of physical force when using an electrical prod alone
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
Enables efficient movement, guidance, and separation of livestock with the ability to provide additional force through electrical stimulation, addressing the limitations of existing devices by allowing single-handed operation and combined functionality.
Implementation Method 1
electrical shock prods having a controlled voltage output are known as an efficient tool for moving and handling livestock
Data Source
AI summary
An animal control device having a stem with a gripping portion at one end and an electric prod head at the opposite end. Removably connected to the stem is a paddle body.