Pet Training Tray with Stackable Inserts for Gradual Toilet Adaptation

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing pet training devices for using a toilet face challenges such as enlarged openings that deter pets, especially cats, from using the system, lack of tray depth for litter retention, and size differentials between trays that hinder adaptation and litter loss.

Innovation Solution

A system comprising a primary tray with stackable inserts of varying sizes that can be progressively removed to adjust the opening size, allowing for a gradual transition from using the tray to the toilet, with each insert designed to interlock and retain litter effectively.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Productivity

If the hole size in the litter tray is enlarged to allow pet waste to pass through, then the toilet training function is improved, but the pet becomes hesitant and refuses to use the tray

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvetoilet training effectivenessVSAvoidpet acceptance of tray

Core Design Contradiction:

ProductivityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The opening control is segmented into multiple adjustable components: the base tray with its initial opening, and separate removable inserts that can be stacked to progressively reduce the opening size. This allows the opening to be divided into controllable segments that can be adjusted according to the pet's adaptation level.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The opening size is made dynamic and adjustable rather than fixed. The inserts can be removed or added at different stages of training, allowing the opening size to change dynamically based on the pet's comfort level and training progress, thereby maintaining ease of operation while improving training effectiveness.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #15Dynamics

2Productivity

If material is removed from the litter tray to enlarge the opening, then the toilet function is improved, but the tray cannot be adjusted back and a new tray must be purchased

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvetoilet training progressVSAvoidadjustability of opening size

Core Design Contradiction:

ProductivityVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The opening adjustment mechanism is segmented into a permanent base tray and removable inserts. The inserts can be independently removed or added without affecting the base tray structure, allowing flexible adjustment of the opening size and enabling the system to adapt to different training stages.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The inserts are designed to be temporarily used and then removed as training progresses. They can be discarded (removed from the system) when no longer needed, or recovered (re-added) if the pet needs additional support during the training process, providing full adaptability.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #34Discarding and recovering

3Device complexity

If shallow trays are used in the training system, then the device complexity is reduced, but litter is lost into the toilet when trays are manipulated

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvetray structure simplicityVSAvoidlitter loss

Core Design Contradiction:

Device complexityVSLoss of substance

Solution Approach 1:

The inserts are nested within the base tray structure, with each insert fitting into the tray's perimeter. This nested arrangement allows the inserts to provide litter containment walls while maintaining the overall simplicity of the tray structure, preventing litter loss without significantly increasing device complexity.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #7Nested doll (Nesting)

4Ease of manufacture

If interconnected trays are used, then the system is easier to manufacture, but the trays must be cut apart when removed, preventing replacement

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvetray production efficiencyVSAvoidtray replaceability

Core Design Contradiction:

Ease of manufactureVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The system is segmented into a base tray and separate removable inserts that are not permanently interconnected. The inserts can be independently manufactured and then attached to or removed from the base tray, allowing both ease of manufacture and full replaceability when needed.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Data Source

PatentUS11252933B2Pet training device

Publication Date: 2022.02.22 RESCATE REBECCA

AI summary

An assembly and method for conditioning a pet to utilize a toilet when making waste. A primary tray is provided. The primary tray has a first depression, wherein a primary opening is formed in the depression. A plurality of inserts are provided. The inserts progress in size. Each of the inserts defines a central opening that is proportional to the size of the insert. The primary tray is placed on the toilet. The primary opening within the primary tray is covered by the inserts. Litter is added into the depression of the primary tray to entice the pet to utilize the primary tray as a litter box. Over a period of time, the pet will become accustomed to jumping onto the primary tray to make waste. The inserts are removed one at a time. This slowly uncovers the primary opening over a period of time as a pet is conditioned.