Wireless Muzzle Release System Using Solenoid Pin Ejection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing animal muzzle systems are either ineffective in providing quick and humane release during emergencies or are perceived as inhumane, causing discomfort to animals, and there is a need for a system that allows for swift and humane restraint while enabling instantaneous protection of handlers.
Innovation Solution
A muzzle release apparatus comprising a muzzle secured with straps and a base abutted against the animal's jaw, with a mechanism using solenoids and reed switches for wireless remote operation, allowing for quick release of the muzzle from the animal's snout, incorporating a harness and adjustable straps for comfort and fit.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a traditional muzzle is used to restrain an animal, then the animal is controlled and protected, but the removal time is delayed and the animal experiences discomfort
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces manual mechanical muzzle removal with an automated solenoid-driven pin ejection system. When activated by the handler, the solenoid rapidly propels a pin to release the muzzle straps, achieving instantaneous muzzle removal without manual intervention and eliminating the time delay associated with traditional manual removal methods
Solution Approach 2:
The muzzle system is pre-configured with quick-release mechanisms and strategically positioned pins that can be instantly ejected. The straps and locking components are designed in advance to facilitate rapid disengagement, ensuring that when the handler activates the release mechanism, the muzzle removes immediately without requiring any manual manipulation or adjustment during the critical moment
2Reliability
If a traditional muzzle is used to restrain an animal, then the animal is controlled, but the restraint method is perceived as inhumane and causes discomfort
Solution Approach 1:
The patent modifies the physical parameters of the muzzle system by using soft, padded materials for contact surfaces and distributing pressure across multiple strategic points on the animal's head. The quick-release mechanism eliminates prolonged restraint stress, and the overall design parameters are optimized to minimize discomfort while maintaining effective control during the restraint period
Solution Approach 2:
The patent extracts the harmful element of prolonged restraint by implementing an instantaneous release capability. The solenoid-driven pin ejection system allows the muzzle to be removed immediately when activated, eliminating the continuous discomfort and stress that would otherwise be experienced by the animal during manual removal or extended restraint periods
3Speed
If a remote release mechanism is added to the muzzle system, then the release speed is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces complex electronic or mechanical remote control systems with a simple solenoid actuation mechanism. The solenoid converts electrical energy directly into mechanical pin ejection motion, providing rapid release functionality with minimal components. This approach achieves high release speed while avoiding the complexity of multi-stage mechanical linkages or sophisticated electronic control circuits
Solution Approach 2:
The solenoid-driven pin ejection system is designed to be self-actuating upon receiving an electrical signal from the handler. The stored mechanical energy in the spring-loaded pin mechanism combines with the solenoid's electromagnetic force to automatically eject the pin and release the muzzle without requiring complex control logic, multiple actuators, or sophisticated coordination between system components
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, humane, and effective release of the muzzle, allowing animals to respond swiftly and reducing handler risk, while being durable and low-maintenance, with adjustable components for animal comfort and versatility.
Implementation Method 1
A muzzle release apparatus is disclosed as comprising a muzzle secured about the snout of an animal, a harness secured about the neck of the animal, and a mechanism for releasing the muzzle from the snout of the animal... incorporating a harness and adjustable straps for comfort and fit... using solenoids and reed switches for wireless remote operation
Implementation Method 2
using solenoids and reed switches for wireless remote operation
Data Source
AI summary
The muzzle release apparatus allows an operator to remotely and wirelessly disengage a restraint system from the snout of an animal. The system is activated using a small hand-held transmitter. A receiver on the collar detects the signal from the transmitter and electronically engages a solenoid mounted on a restraint under the animal's jaw. The solenoid retracts a locking mechanism that secures two metal pins to the restraint. Each pin is attached to a strap that goes around the animal's snout and is permanently mounted to the opposite side of the restraint. When the pins are released from the restraint, the straps slide off the snout allowing the restraint to fall freely away from the jaw area. The plate is attached to a collar around the animal's neck. The plate will stay attached to the collar at all times, even if deactivated.