Selectively pet accessible human-pet co-seating
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Solution Overview
Problem
There is a need for a seating apparatus that allows pets to easily access a seating area next to their owners without hindering the owner's work, particularly in a home office setting, and must be compact and storable to avoid taking up too much space. Existing pet furniture solutions, such as ramps and stairs, can be cumbersome and do not accommodate pets of varying sizes or mobility needs.
Innovation Solution
A standalone or human-pet co-seating apparatus with a frame, a pet seat, and an elevation piece that can be easily engaged and disengaged, featuring a securing mechanism to secure the elevation piece in its position and allowing it to be stored under the seat when not in use, enabling pets to access the seat without the need for owners to lift them or for pets to jump high. The apparatus can be attached to existing furniture, such as an office chair, and is designed to accommodate pets of different sizes with adjustable features.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If pet ramps and stairs are used to help pets access elevated seating, then pet mobility is improved, but the device becomes cumbersome and takes up a lot of space
Solution Approach 1:
The elevation piece is divided into multiple segments or steps that can be folded together, allowing the structure to be compact when not in use and extended when needed for pet access
Solution Approach 2:
The elevation piece transitions from a static, space-consuming structure to a dynamic, collapsible one that can be easily stored away, adapting its form based on whether it is being used or stored
2Adaptability or versatility
If pet bedding is placed on the floor or pet is allowed on owner's desk/lap, then pet proximity to owner is improved, but the owner's work is hindered
Solution Approach 1:
The seating apparatus is divided into separate human and pet seating areas, allowing both owner and pet to be close without interfering with each other's activities
Solution Approach 2:
The pet seat acts as an intermediary structure that enables the pet to be near the owner at an appropriate distance and elevation, facilitating proximity while maintaining work focus
3Ease of operation
If the elevation piece is always extended for easy pet access, then pet accessibility is improved, but the apparatus takes up too much room
Solution Approach 1:
The elevation piece is designed to be dynamically adjustable between extended and retracted positions, allowing it to provide access when needed and minimize space when not in use
Solution Approach 2:
The elevation piece folds into a compact configuration that nests within or alongside the main seating structure when not in use, minimizing the space it occupies
4Area of stationary object
If the apparatus is designed to be compact and storable, then space efficiency is improved, but the structure becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The structure is divided into modular segments that can be easily assembled and disassembled, simplifying the complexity while enabling compact storage
Solution Approach 2:
The elevation piece serves multiple functions - providing pet access, storing under the seat, and potentially adjusting to different positions - all within a single integrated structure
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention comprises a variety of embodiments which all provide an apparatus, either standalone or attached to a piece of furniture, that enables a pet to sit or lay down next to its owner, and includes safe and accommodating ascending and descending structures for the pet's mobility and comfort.