RF-Actuated Quick Release Device for Hunting Dog Tethers
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing leash and tether systems lack a simple, reliable, and inexpensive mechanism for remote release of an object or animal without physical manipulation, especially in scenarios where the user is not in direct contact with the leash.
Innovation Solution
A quick release device comprising a base member with a hinged arm, a radio receiver, and a solenoid-actuated coupling mechanism that allows remote operation via radio frequency signals, enabling secure locking and unlocking of the tether, allowing the object or animal to be released from a tethered position.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a conventional latch mechanism is used for leash release, then the device structure is simple, but the user must physically manipulate the latch which prevents remote release capability
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the purely mechanical latch manipulation with an electromechanical system. A solenoid actuator is integrated into the latch mechanism, allowing it to be triggered remotely via radio frequency signals from a transmitter worn by the hunter. This substitution enables remote operation while maintaining the basic mechanical structure of the latch itself.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a radio frequency communication system as an intermediary between the hunter and the release mechanism. The transmitter worn by the hunter sends signals through the air to a receiver connected to the solenoid, enabling remote triggering without direct physical contact with the leash or release mechanism.
2Ease of operation
If a remote release mechanism is added to the leash, then the release capability is improved, but the manufacturing cost and complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the release system into two separate components: a reusable base unit containing the solenoid and latch mechanism attached to the leash, and a disposable or simple transmitter worn by the hunter. This segmentation allows the complex remote triggering function to be separated from the leash itself, potentially reducing overall manufacturing costs.
Solution Approach 2:
The transmitter is designed to be a simple, self-contained unit that the hunter wears and operates automatically. Once activated, the system self-triggers the release mechanism without requiring the hunter to manually manipulate any controls during the actual release moment, reducing the complexity of user interaction.
3Reliability
If the tether is secured tightly to ensure reliability, then the security of attachment is improved, but the quick release capability is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a dynamic latch mechanism that maintains a secure locked state during normal operation but can be rapidly transitioned to an unlocked state when triggered. The solenoid actuator provides the force needed to overcome the secure locking mechanism, enabling quick release while maintaining reliability during the tethered state.
Solution Approach 2:
The solenoid actuator is pre-positioned and pre-charged within the latch mechanism, ready to immediately disengage the locking components when activated. This preliminary preparation of the release mechanism ensures that the transition from secure attachment to quick release can occur instantaneously when the radio signal is received.
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 reliable remote release of the tethered object or animal, ensuring secure attachment until manually or remotely triggered, facilitating easy operation and cost-effective manufacturing.
Implementation Method 1
a solenoid which actuates a coupling mechanism having principal parts that couple the base member and arm together in a locked position and separate or release the two (2) components upon command
Implementation Method 2
A remotely located radio transmitter is actuated by the hunter to broadcast a radio frequency to the radio receiver inside the base member
Data Source
AI summary
A quick release device that includes a base member and an arm hingedly attached to the base member. In application, an opposite end of the tether can be tied to an anchor disposed on a lower portion of the base member and a first end of the tether is passed through the hunting dog's collar between the dog's neck area and collar, and then passed between the base member and arm while in the open, unlocked position. Urging the arm to the locked position catches and secures the first end of the tether so that the hunting dog is releasably secured. Transmitting a radio signal from the remotely located radio transmitter to the radio receiver, will cause the solenoid to disengage the coupling mechanism causing a propulsion member to apply a separating force to an extension disposed on the arm. The exerted separating force of propulsion member contacting the extension causes the arm to release the base member into the open or unlocked position. The device includes a holding interface defined by an abutment portion of the arm and an elongated aperture disposed in the base member for receipt of the abutment portion when the device is in the locked or closed position. When the hunting dog places a puffing pressure on the tether, the first end positions and catches between the abutment portion and elongated aperture. The tether will then remain secured as described until the hunter elects to remotely release the arm and allow the animal to run free.