Segmented Animal Trap With Removable End Unit
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional aboveground animal traps are difficult to set due to complex and sensitive triggering mechanisms, often triggering accidentally when applying bait, and pose risks with poison-based solutions that are harmful and costly.
Innovation Solution
An animal trap design featuring a first and second portion in sliding relationship with a biasing mechanism, a trigger mechanism for locking in a cocked position, and a removable end unit with unique members for improved ease of use and safety, allowing omnidirectional triggering and easy replacement of damaged components.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If conventional aboveground traps are used, then trapping function is provided, but the triggering mechanisms are complex and very sensitive causing difficulty in setting and accidental triggering
Solution Approach 1:
The trap is divided into a first portion and a second portion that can slide relative to each other. The trigger mechanism is simplified to selectively lock these portions in a cocked position, separating the triggering function from the complex mechanical systems of conventional traps.
Solution Approach 2:
The trigger mechanism is extracted as a distinct locking function that selectively secures the first and second portions in the cocked position, independent of the baiting process. This separation eliminates the sensitivity issues of conventional integrated triggering systems.
2Ease of operation
If bait is applied to conventional traps, then animal attraction is achieved, but the individual setting the trap triggers it while applying bait
Solution Approach 1:
The trap is designed to be set in a cocked position where the first and second portions are locked together by the trigger mechanism before baiting. This preliminary locking action allows safe bait application without accidental triggering, as the trigger is already engaged and secured.
Solution Approach 2:
The trigger mechanism acts as an intermediary locking element between the first and second portions. It provides a stable locked state that prevents premature activation during baiting, allowing the operator to safely apply bait without triggering the trap.
3Object-affected harmful factors
If poison is used in conventional traps, then animal control is achieved, but it is harmful to people and can contaminate the area
Solution Approach 1:
The trap converts the harmful chemical approach (poison) into a beneficial mechanical approach. The mechanical trap provides animal control through physical capture rather than chemical harm, eliminating the risks of human exposure and environmental contamination while maintaining animal control effectiveness.
4Object-affected harmful factors
If conventional traps are used, then trapping function is provided, but they are expensive and unavailable to the general public
Solution Approach 1:
The trap is segmented into a first portion, second portion, biasing mechanism, trigger mechanism, and removable end unit. This modular design simplifies manufacturing and allows for cost-effective production using basic mechanical components that are readily available and easy to fabricate.
Solution Approach 2:
The mechanical trap design uses universal, readily available components that can be manufactured by the general public. The removable end unit with unique members provides multi-functionality while maintaining simplicity, making the trap accessible and affordable for widespread use without requiring specialized manufacturing.
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
Enhances user safety and operational efficiency by simplifying trap setting, reducing accidental triggering, and extending the trap's lifespan through modular design, while avoiding the use of harmful poisons.
Implementation Method 1
a biasing mechanism for biasing the first and second portions towards the deployed position
Data Source
AI summary
An animal trap, according to one embodiment, includes: a first portion having upper and a lower ends; a second portion in sliding relationship with the first portion, the first and second portions being relatively positionable between cocked and deployed positions; a biasing mechanism for biasing the first and second portions towards the deployed position; a trigger mechanism for selectively locking the first and second portions in the cocked position; and an end unit removably coupled to the lower end of the first portion. The end unit includes: a base; at least two unique members extending from a bottom end of the base; and a bottom portion coupled to a distal end of each of the unique members. A first end of each of the unique members is coupled to the base, while each of the distal ends are at a second end of each of the unique members.