Magnetic-Latch Connector for Low-Force Collar Release
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing connectors for animal collars and leads, such as those with spring clips or magnetic locks, are difficult for individuals with rheumatism or arthritis to operate due to the need for manual force or dexterity.
Innovation Solution
A connector design featuring a first member with a spring-biased claw mechanism and a magnetic latch system, allowing for easy attachment and detachment using magnetic forces, reducing the need for manual operation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a spring clip or manual spigot mechanism is used for connection, then the connection can be securely locked, but it requires significant manual force and dexterity to operate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the manual mechanical operation (spigot manipulation) with a magnetic field-based operation. The second magnetic member generates a magnetic field that acts on the first magnetic member to lift the latch means, eliminating the need for manual force to operate the locking mechanism while maintaining secure locking through the spring-biased claw and detent engagement.
Solution Approach 2:
The magnetic field acts as an intermediary between the user's hand (holding the second magnetic member) and the latch mechanism. Instead of directly applying mechanical force to manipulate the spigot, the user applies magnetic force through the second magnetic member, which then translates this force into latch movement, making the operation easier for those with hand impairments.
2Ease of operation
If a magnetic lock mechanism is used, then the attraction between members is facilitated, but the unlocking mechanism still requires manual operation of spigots
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the second manual mechanical operation (spigot manipulation for unlocking) with a magnetic field-based operation. The second magnetic member generates a magnetic field that acts on the first magnetic member to lift the latch means, eliminating the need for manual force to operate the unlocking mechanism while maintaining secure locking through the spring-biased claw and detent engagement.
3Reliability
If a latch mechanism with spring bias is used to prevent opening, then the connection remains securely closed, but it requires force to overcome the spring bias for opening
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical force requirement for overcoming spring bias with a magnetic field-based operation. The second magnetic member generates a magnetic field that acts on the first magnetic member to lift the latch means, eliminating the need for manual force to operate the locking mechanism while maintaining secure locking through the spring-biased claw and detent engagement.
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 easy and secure connection and disconnection of animal collars and leads without requiring significant manual force, benefiting users with mobility impairments.
Implementation Method 1
said latch means including at least one first magnetic member to facilitate said latch means to disengage said detent against said spring bias
Implementation Method 2
the second member may be removed from the first member in a second direction opposite to said first direction
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2
Figure 3
AI summary
A connector has a first member (1) forming a female member, and a second member (2) forming a male member arranged to co-operate with the female member along a longitudinal axis (3). The first member houses a spring biased claw (44) which has a finger (49) arranged to engage in a detent (25) in the second member so as secure the second member to the first member. A latch (70), which is reciprocal in a direction perpendicular to the longitudinal axis (3), is arranged to abut the claw (44) to lock and prevent the claw from opening when engaged in the detent (25). A magnet (76) is attached to the latch (70) and the latch (70) is spring biased by a spring (78) to lock the claw. A second magnet (590,1080) is positioned adjacent the first magnet (76) to withdraw the latch from engagement with the claw, thereby enabling removal of the second member (2).