Modular Leash Manufacturing with Induction Heated Pins

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing modular leash manufacturing methods lack efficient and cost-effective processes for producing flexible and handle portions, limiting customization and component interchangeability.

Innovation Solution

The method involves using a lead and a pin made of flexible materials, where the pin is heated and secured to the lead end using ambient heat, and a sleeve is crimped onto the lead end, allowing for the creation of a modular leash with interchangeable components.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Productivity

If traditional leash manufacturing methods are used, then production processes are established, but manufacturing efficiency is low and customization is limited

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvemanufacturing efficiencyVSAvoidcustomization capability
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The leash is divided into separate modular components including a handle portion, flexible portion, and collar portion that can be manufactured independently and assembled through connection mechanisms such as magnets, hooks, or snap-fit joints, enabling both efficient production and customization

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

2Adaptability or versatility

If modular components are used, then customization and interchangeability are improved, but manufacturing process complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecomponent interchangeabilityVSAvoidmanufacturing process complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

Multiple connection mechanisms (magnetic attraction, mechanical hooks, snap-fit joints) are integrated into a unified modular connection system that provides interchangeable functionality while being manufactured using standardized processes across different components

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

3Ease of repair

If entire leash is replaced, then functionality is restored, but cost is higher compared to replacing individual components

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecomponent replacement easeVSAvoidmaterial cost
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of repairVSQuantity of substance

Solution Approach 1:

The leash is designed as separate replaceable components (handle, flexible portion, collar) with standardized connection interfaces, allowing owners to replace only the worn or damaged component rather than the entire leash, reducing material cost and waste

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

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

This approach enables the production of modular leashes with customizable designs and interchangeable parts, enhancing flexibility and cost-effectiveness in manufacturing.

Implementation Method 1

securing the heated pin to the at least one lead end, to at least partially melt the lead to the pin using ambient heat from the heated pin

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectHeat transfer (ambient heat): Conduction (thermal)

Implementation Method 2

at least partially melt the lead to the pin

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectMelting: Melting

Implementation Method 3

securing the at least one lead end to the sleeve by crimping the sleeve to the at least one lead end

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectCrimping (mechanical deformation): Deformation

Implementation Method 4

the step of heating the pin further comprises using induction heating

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectInduction heating: Induction Heating

Data Source

PatentUS9420764B2Manufacture of modular leashes
Publication Date: 2016.08.23 TUENNE
  • US9420764B2 patent drawing
  • US9420764B2 patent drawing
  • US9420764B2 patent drawing

AI summary

Methods for manufacturing modular leashes are disclosed. The modular leashes may comprise a flexible portion including a lead end and a handle portion. Manufacturing the flexible portion may comprise heating a pin and securing the pin to a lead end, so as to melt the lead to the pin using ambient heat from the pin. In some embodiments, heating the pin uses induction heating. Manufacturing the flexible portion may further comprise inserting the lead end into a sleeve, and securing the lead to the sleeve by crimping the sleeve onto the lead. Manufacturing the handle portion may comprise inserting handle ends into a first end of a sleeve and inserting a fastener into the handle ends. Manufacturing the handle portion may further comprise inserting a fitting into a second end of the sleeve so that a space between the sleeve and the fitting may receive the handle ends.