Retractable Leash Coupling Mechanism for Tangling Prevention
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing dog leashes, such as flexi leashes and retractable leashes, have limitations that make them impractical for various situations, particularly during training or in dense environments, and often require multiple leashes to be carried for different scenarios.
Innovation Solution
A leash device with a retractable mechanism that allows the leash to be decoupled and reconnected from the retractor mechanism, enabling it to function as both a flexi leash and a retractable leash, with features like a translational coupling mechanism, elastic elements, and locking mechanisms to manage leash length and prevent tangling.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Length of moving object
If a long retractable leash is used, then the dog can be controlled at a distance and training is enabled, but the leash easily gets tangled in undergrowth or between legs
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a dynamic leash system where the coupling mechanism can transition between coupled and uncoupled states. The leash length is dynamically adjustable - when coupled, the retractor mechanism automatically manages leash length and prevents tangling; when uncoupled, the full leash length is available for training. This dynamic state change resolves the contradiction between needing long leash length and avoiding tangling.
2Adaptability or versatility
If the leash is kept short to prevent tangling, then control is maintained, but the dog cannot be trained with extended range
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates a universal leash device that combines both flexi leash and retractable leash functions in a single device. The coupling mechanism enables the leash to operate in two modes: coupled mode for automatic retraction and short leash functionality, and uncoupled mode for extended range training. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for owners to carry multiple leashes and manually switch between them, resolving the contradiction between adaptability and ease of operation.
3Adaptability or versatility
If multiple leashes are carried for different situations, then all training and walking needs are covered, but the device complexity and portability are reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the functionality of two separate leashes (flexi leash and retractable leash) into a single integrated device. The coupling mechanism allows the same leash to perform both functions by simply changing its coupling state. This consolidation reduces the number of devices owners need to carry and manage, while maintaining full functionality for both casual walking and training scenarios, thus resolving the contradiction between adaptability and device complexity.
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 device provides a versatile solution that prevents tangling and allows seamless transition between leash functions, enhancing usability and safety by adapting to different environments and situations without the need for multiple leashes.
Implementation Method 1
the coupling mechanism has an elastic element, in particular a spring, which acts with a permanent force on the coupling mechanism
Implementation Method 2
Reeling is usually achieved by a reeling mechanism consisting of a drum and a torsion spring. The torsion spring applies a torque to reel the leash onto the drum
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2~3
Figure 4~5
AI summary
: The invention relates to a leash device (10) for animals, in particular for dogs, comprising: a housing (30) which is designed to be held by a person; a retraction mechanism (40) which is arranged inside the housing (30); a leash (20) which is designed to be connected by one end to an animal and by the other end, via a coupling mechanism (50), to the retraction mechanism (40) of the leash device; wherein the retraction mechanism (40) is designed to retract the leash (20) into the housing (30) from an at least partially extended state; and wherein the coupling mechanism (50) is designed to uncouple the leash (20) from the retraction mechanism (40) when the leash is completely extended.