Retractable Leash Bi-directional Brake and Non-uniform Spool Teeth
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing retractable leashes face issues with limited adjustability, cumbersome operation, and safety concerns due to fixed length settings, non-adjustable grips, and stress points that can lead to leash breakage and loss of control during walks.
Innovation Solution
A retractable leash system with a bi-directional pivoting brake tip and adjustable handle and grip, allowing for continuous adjustability and semi-engaged brake modes, along with non-uniform spool teeth for smoother engagement, enabling safe and comfortable operation across varying situations and user sizes.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a fixed length leash is used, then the leash structure is simple, but the leash becomes loose and tangled when the pet is not far enough away
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies a retractable mechanism that dynamically adjusts the effective leash length based on real-time tension and extension needs. The spool system allows the leash to extend when tension is applied and retract when relaxed, transforming a static fixed-length leash into a dynamic system that maintains optimal tension without requiring complex manual adjustment mechanisms.
Solution Approach 2:
The tension spring and spool mechanism enable the leash to automatically adjust its own length in response to pet movement and owner actions. The system self-regulates by extending when the pet pulls and retracting when the pet relaxes, eliminating the need for continuous manual intervention to maintain proper leash tension.
2Ease of operation
If a retractable leash with brake is used, then the leash can maintain tension, but the brake locks up the system preventing setting changes
Solution Approach 1:
The brake mechanism is designed to be dynamically adjustable rather than statically locked. The brake can be engaged at various positions along the spool to create different effective leash lengths, and the system allows transition between these settings. This dynamic adjustability enables the same mechanism to provide both tension control and adaptability for different walking situations.
Solution Approach 2:
The brake setting mechanism is segmented into multiple discrete positions or zones along the spool, allowing the user to select different maximum extension lengths. Rather than a single locked setting, the brake can be positioned at different segments of the spool to accommodate varying needs such as short distances, medium distances, or maximum extension.
3Ease of operation
If the brake engages immediately during rapid spool rotation, then control is improved, but vibration and discomfort increase
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary engagement of the brake mechanism before full spool rotation completes. By initiating brake engagement in advance during the rotation cycle, the system prepares to stop the spool before excessive speed is achieved, reducing the violent impact and vibration that would occur if the brake engaged suddenly at full speed. This preliminary action smooths the deceleration process and reduces discomfort.
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 provides enhanced control, safety, and comfort by allowing easy adjustment of leash length, reducing vibration and stress on the leash, and accommodating different user sizes, ensuring reliable operation and preventing leash breakage during forceful extensions.
Implementation Method 1
a retractable leash... designed with a leash wrapped around a spool within a casing which has a tension spring to allow the leash to extend out from or retract into the casing
Implementation Method 2
The engaged brake typically results in a fixed length leash... a brake, which, when engaged at a desired length less than full extension capability, prevents further length extension
Data Source
AI summary
An animal restraint system which involves variable adjustability of maximum extension. A braking device with a pivoting tip which can move from a neutral position to a locked engaged position, a disengaged position, and a semi-engaged position. The semi-engaged position allows for spool rotation in the direction of retraction, while preventing spool rotation in the direction of extension. A brake lock with multiple settings including engaged position, disengaged position, and a semi-engaged position. A spool with teeth where one or more of the teeth is different from the others in shape, size or relative position to promote brake engagement efficiency. A leash maximum settings display. A moving “leash” guide which reduces tangling during extension and retraction. An adjustable handle grip to accommodate different hand sizes. A snap-on accessory attachment system. A leash dispenser system which limits full extension to reduce system failure.