Securable Pet Door with Self-Latching and Modular Locking
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current pet doors are difficult to install, maintain, secure, and customize, often allowing dirt entry and failing to completely close, which complicates pet access control and safety.
Innovation Solution
A securable pet door system featuring a customizable design with a door, knob, hinge, and sensor, allowing for secure locking mechanisms, semi-automatic operation, and interchangeable components to match home décor, including sliding and revolving mechanisms for improved pet access and home integration.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If pet doors are manually operated, then pets can access the door, but the door cannot be completely secured and requires constant monitoring
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a self-latching mechanism that automatically secures the door after pet passage without requiring owner intervention. The door features an automatic latch that engages when the door closes, and a secondary security latch that can be engaged by the owner to lock the door in the closed position, creating a self-securing system that maintains both accessibility and security.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs a dynamic locking system that transitions between unlocked and locked states based on operational needs. The door includes an automatic latch for normal operation that allows free passage, and a manual security latch that engages to lock the door when security is required, enabling the system to adapt its security level dynamically.
2Ease of operation
If pet doors are installed to allow pet access, then pets can move freely, but dirt is tracked into the home and the area requires more cleaning
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the door system into functional segments: a main door for pet passage, a secureable panel that can cover the opening when security is needed, and an integrated threshold design that creates a barrier at the entry point. This segmentation allows the door to serve multiple functions - allowing free access when open and preventing dirt tracking when closed or secured.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent converts the potential harm of an open door (dirt tracking) into a benefit by implementing a secureable design that allows the door to be completely closed and locked when not in use. The same opening that allows pet passage also accommodates a secureable panel or closed door position that prevents dirt entry, turning the vulnerability into a dual-function feature.
3Ease of manufacture
If pet doors are made simple and manual, then they are easy to manufacture, but they cannot be customized and are hard to maintain
Solution Approach 1:
The patent designs a universal door system that can function in multiple modes: as a simple manual door for basic pet access, as a secureable door with latches for enhanced security, and as a customizable unit where panels or accessories can be added or removed. The core structure remains simple for easy manufacture, while the modular components enable customization for different security and aesthetic requirements.
4Ease of operation
If pet doors lack locking mechanisms, then they are easy to operate, but they cannot be completely secured when not in use
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a self-latching mechanism that automatically secures the door after pet passage without requiring owner intervention. The door features an automatic latch that engages when the door closes, and a secondary security latch that can be engaged by the owner to lock the door in the closed position, creating a self-securing system that maintains both accessibility and security.
Data Source
AI summary
A securable pet door is disclosed. The securable pet door may comprise at least one door, at least one knob, one or more windows, at least one frame, and/or at least one hinge. The knob comprises a latch for secure closing. When the pet door comprises at least one hinge, the hinge(s) may be inserted into at least one hinge recess so that the door may be securely locked via at least one locking mechanism. The different elements of the securable pet door are configured to be oriented in a predetermined, securable, or customizable manner. The door is configured to open from, slide into, revolve within, or move in some other non-limiting equivalent way from or relative to a frame.