Magnetic Tether Coupling with Plunger Locking Mechanism
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing connectors for attaching leashes to animal collars, such as spring hooks and magnetic fasteners, are difficult to attach and detach with one hand, especially when the animal is pulling, and are not reliable in withstanding forces applied in various directions.
Innovation Solution
A tether connecting system with a magnetic coupling mechanism that includes a female section with a magnet and a male section with a plunger element, where the plunger is attracted to the magnet upon insertion, locking the connection and allowing easy one-handed attachment and detachment by moving the plunger between forward and rearward positions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a spring hook connector is used to attach a leash to a collar, then the connection can be made, but it is difficult to attach and detach with one hand, especially when the animal is pulling
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the traditional spring hook mechanical system with a magnetic coupling system. The magnetic coupling uses magnetic attraction to hold the connector components together, eliminating the need for manual manipulation of spring mechanisms. This substitution allows for easy one-handed attachment and detachment while maintaining reliable connection under tension, as the magnetic force continuously holds the components engaged without requiring constant manual pressure.
2Ease of operation
If a magnetic fastener is used to attach a leash to a collar, then the connection is easy to close, but it opens if the animal pulls with force greater than the magnetic attraction force
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges two different connection mechanisms into a single hybrid system: magnetic coupling for easy engagement and mechanical interlocking for strong holding. The magnetic coupling allows the components to be easily attracted and brought together, while the mechanical interlocking features (such as protrusions and recesses) engage once the components are close, providing strong resistance to pull forces. This combination resolves the contradiction by having each mechanism perform its strength function.
3Reliability
If a magnetic interconnection is used to hold the connection closed, then the connection is maintained when the leash is not in tension, but it is easily undone if the animal rapidly shakes the collar or paws at the connection
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary anti-action by designing mechanical interlocking features that automatically engage and counteract the effects of shaking and pawing before they can disengage the connection. The mechanical protrusions and recesses create a physical interlock that resists the harmful forces of rapid shaking and pawing attempts. This preliminary mechanical engagement prevents the connection from being undone by animal movements, while the magnetic coupling maintains stability at rest.
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 allows for quick and reliable attachment and detachment of the leash from the collar, even under tension, and maintains a strong connection regardless of force direction, improving usability and reliability compared to prior art connectors.
Implementation Method 1
A magnet is disposed within the receptacle at its base. The male section has an internal plunger element that selectively moves between a forward position and a rearward piston. When the male section is inserted into the female section, the plunger element is magnetically attracted to the magnet in the receptacle. The magnet pulls the plunger element into its forward position.
Data Source
AI summary
A leash and collar system for a pet, having a unique coupling that can be quickly attached and detached with one hand, even while the coupling is pulled in tension. The coupling has a female section and a male section that selectively interconnect. The female section defines a receptacle for receiving the male section. A magnet is disposed within the receptacle at its base. The male section has an internal plunger element that selectively moves between a forward position and a rearward piston. When the male section is inserted into the female section, the plunger element is magnetically attracted to the magnet in the receptacle. The magnet pulls the plunger element into its forward position. Locking elements protrude from the male section when the internal plunger element is in its forward position. The locking elements prevent the male section from being retracted out of the receptacle.