Pet Lead Locking System with Dual-End Segmented Security

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing pet lead systems fail to effectively secure animals from theft while allowing ventilation, as they often require removal from the pet, are impractical, or pose safety risks during locking processes.

Innovation Solution

A pet lead system with locks at both the collar and handle ends that can be activated separately or simultaneously, allowing secure attachment to stationary objects without removing the lead from the pet, featuring adjustable levers for circumference adjustment and a locking mechanism that prevents theft while allowing ventilation by securing the animal to a vehicle's steering wheel.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If a standard lead is used to secure a pet, then the pet can be restrained, but the lead can be easily removed or cut allowing theft

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvesecurity against theftVSAvoidlocking mechanism complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The lead system is divided into multiple independent locking points: a first lock at the collar end and a second lock at the handle end. Each lock operates independently to secure its respective end, creating segmented security that prevents theft without requiring a single complex locking mechanism

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The locking mechanisms are designed to be pre-positioned and ready for immediate engagement. The first lock is positioned at the collar end and the second lock at the handle end, allowing the user to quickly secure both ends without complex assembly or removal steps during the locking process

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

2Reliability

If existing locking leads are used, then security is improved, but the lead must be removed from the pet to engage the lock creating danger

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvesecurity against theftVSAvoidsafety risk to pet and bystanders
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSObject-affected harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

Both locking mechanisms are pre-positioned on the lead assembly - the first lock at the collar end and the second lock at the handle end. This allows the entire lead to remain securely attached to the pet throughout the locking process, with no need to remove or reposition the lead during engagement

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

Solution Approach 2:

The locking system is designed to be self-contained and self-securing. The first lock automatically secures the collar end when engaged, and the second lock automatically secures the handle end when engaged, eliminating the need for manual removal and reattachment operations that create safety hazards

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

3Adaptability or versatility

If a fixed circumference lead is used, then the locking mechanism is simple, but it cannot accommodate animals of varying sizes

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveaccommodation of varying animal sizesVSAvoidadjustable circumference mechanism
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The collar end of the lead incorporates an adjustable circumference mechanism that allows dynamic resizing to accommodate different animal neck sizes. The first lock at the collar end secures the adjustable portion, maintaining simplicity while enabling adaptability through controlled flexibility in the collar region

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

4Reliability

If the lead is secured to a vehicle window, then theft is prevented, but the window cannot be rolled down reducing ventilation

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvesecurity against theftVSAvoidvehicle ventilation capability
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The lead system separates the security function (locking mechanisms) from the ventilation function (handle positioning). The second lock at the handle end allows the handle to be secured to the steering wheel while the handle itself remains accessible, enabling window operation for ventilation without compromising theft prevention

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Data Source

PatentUS8683959B2Locking pet lead system comprising a leash and collar to prevent the theft of pets
Publication Date: 2014.04.01 SIRIUS PAWZ OPCO LLC
  • US8683959B2 patent drawing
  • US8683959B2 patent drawing
  • US8683959B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A lead system for domesticated animals has a lock capable of securing the collar and the handle ends to prevent theft of the animal. The lead system has a leash having a handle at one end and a collar at the opposing end. The lead system may have a first lock at the collar end and a second lock at the handle end which are separately activated for fastening the handle to the leash at one end of the leash and the collar to the leash at the other end for securing an animal to an immovable object. Alternatively, the lead system may have a lock capable of simultaneously securing the collar and handle ends. The lead system may also allow for adjustment of the circumference of the collar and the handle through the use of levers, with the lock(s) capable of also securing the levers.