Remote Dog Crate Door With Wireless Solenoid Latch
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing animal crates require manual operation to release the animal, which can be inconvenient or unsafe in situations where the user is not physically present.
Innovation Solution
A remotely controlled animal crate system that includes a crate with a wirelessly operated door, a remote control, a solenoid, a receiver, and a battery, allowing users to open the crate from a distance using a wireless signal.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a manual latch mechanism is used, then the device complexity is reduced, but the ease of operation deteriorates when the user is not physically present
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the purely mechanical latch system with an electromechanical system. A solenoid (electromagnetic actuator) is integrated with the latch mechanism, allowing it to be controlled remotely via wireless signals. This substitution enables the latch to be engaged and disengaged without physical contact, resolving the contradiction by improving ease of remote operation while accepting increased device complexity through the addition of electromagnetic components.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a wireless communication system as an intermediary between the user and the latch mechanism. The wireless receiver and control circuitry act as mediators that translate remote wireless signals into mechanical latch actuation. This intermediary layer enables remote operation capability while maintaining a relatively simple overall system architecture.
2Productivity
If a wireless control system is added, then the productivity is improved through faster response, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces manual mechanical operation with an automated electromechanical system controlled by wireless signals. The solenoid provides rapid actuation response compared to manual manipulation, significantly improving response speed. The wireless control components (receiver, antenna, control circuit) are integrated into the existing latch structure to minimize overall system complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The wireless receiver and control system are pre-configured and ready to receive commands before they are needed. The system maintains standby readiness with minimal power consumption, allowing immediate response when a release command is received. This preliminary preparation enables fast response without requiring complex real-time processing during the actual release event.
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 quick and safe release of the animal in emergency situations, enhancing user convenience and safety by allowing remote operation.
Implementation Method 1
A solenoid is positioned within the door and is configured to actuate the latch assembly
Implementation Method 2
A receiver is positioned within the door and is configured to receive a wireless signal from the remote control
Data Source
AI summary
A dog crate system including a crate and a remote control. The crate is configured to contain a large dog, such as a security or law enforcement dog. The crate can be wirelessly opened using the remote control or another device. The crate includes a door and a body. The door includes a latch, a solenoid, and a receiver. The receiver can receive wireless control signals to actuate the solenoid and disengage the latch to open the door. The door can define an enclosed cavity to store the solenoid, receiver, and a battery. The body can define a floor having multiple protruding feet and a roof having multiple platforms. Multiple crates can stack by resting the feet of one crate on the platforms of another crate. The roof can define multiple shoulders adjacent to the platforms that secure the feet on a stacked crate in place.