Note : Les descriptions sont présentées dans la langue officielle dans laquelle elles ont été soumises.
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DOG RUNNING APPARATUS
FIELD OF THE INVENTION
[0001] This patent relates to an apparatus for running, exercising,
leading or walking a
dog. Specifically, the presently described apparatus can be used to run or
walk a dog attached to
a vehicle, such as a bicycle, or to a person.
BACKGROUND
[0002] Running is an inherent characteristic of most dog breeds and it can
be argued that
it is what dogs live for. Having the ability and the time to run a dog is
extraordinarily difficult for
many urban dog owners because of on leash by-laws in most public spaces. In
addition, the time
crunch experienced by many dog owners limits the time available to get in a
good run with their
dog. As a consequence, many dogs that were bred or born to be active, i.e.
running dogs, now
spend the majority of time curled up on beds, couches, floors or crates.
Breeds such as hounds,
terriers, retrievers, pointers, setters and poodles etc. require a great deal
of exercise to remain
healthy and happy. Without enough exercise, the dogs we love can get fat,
lazy, sick, and
develop difficult behavioural problems.
[0003] Cycling and running is a great way for people to exercise, as well
as to exercise
their dogs at the same time. Such shared exercise brings mental and physical
benefits to the
person as well as the dog, and results in a stronger bond between the person
and the dog.
However, running or cycling with a dog can be challenging. Cycling with a dog
on a standard
lead can be dangerous, as dogs can get tangled in bike parts by coming too
close to the bike.
Holding a standard leash while biking can also be extremely dangerous because
the riders
attention is distracted from the road or trail and the dog will ultimately
control the person if they
divert from the path intended by the person whether by distraction, diversion
or the need to stop.
[0004] United States Patent Nos. 7,013,840 and 8,544,420 by Leon describe
a dog leash
for attachment to a bicycle or personal carrier having a stiffener and a mast
connected to a clamp
by a flexible coupling. This dog leash comprises a clamp or universal mounting
bracket, a
flexible coupling, a hollow, rigid, semi S-shaped mast, and an elongated cord,
as well as a
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stiffener which is built up on a leading segment of the cord and which
protrudes outwardly from
the outer end of the mast. The clamp anchors the dog leash to a bicycle frame
near a low point
thereon or to a mounting bracket mounted to the frame. In this way, the dog
can be retained at
the same position beside a bicycle or personal carrier for the duration of the
attachment of the
dog to the device. The clamp is mounted directly on the frame of a bicycle or
carrier using bolts
and hand tightened nuts.
[0005] Similarly, United States Patent No. 6,148,772 to Keyek-Frannsen
describes a dog
exercising/walking device for mounting to a bicycle which includes a mounting
bracket having
portions that engage and retain the device to the frame of a bicycle and a
stationary bar extending
laterally away from the mounting bracket comprising a ring for attachment to a
harness or lead
strap of a dog. This device is mounted adjacent to lowermost portion of a
bicycle frame near the
rear wheel mounting flange. Keyek-Frannsen further teaches that a low mounting
position is
important because the low position of the lead decreases the effective moment
of the arm and
increases the amount of force or pull by the dog necessary to pull the bicycle
during use.
[0006] A leashed dog running alongside a person can alternate from one
side of a person
to the other, as well as change its distance from the runner. This can be
disconcerting to the
runner and dangerous to both dog and runner, as the dog can inadvertently
collide with the
runner, or run in front of the runner causing a standard leash to be stepped
on or tripped over.
When a person has the leash in their hand, they can direct the position of the
dog during the run,
however this can be inconvenient to the runner because it restricts arm
mobility. This problem is
compounded when the runner is attached to the dog via a belt because the
runner can not
immediately direct the positioning of the dog in an urgent situation.
[0007] United States Patent No. 8,413,613 to Smith describes a pet leash
comprising an
arm band fixture connected to a user's arm to operate the leash hands free.
The length of the
leash can be adjusted for different user arm lengths and for different dog
heights. Similar belt-
type hands free dog leashes are described in Unites States Patent Application
Publication Nos.
US 2013/0042819 to Ekstrom and US 2013/0042818 to Capoano.
[0008] There remains a need for an apparatus that can be used for running
and cycling
with a dog which maintains the dog at a safe distance from the runner or rider
and prevents
injury to the dog and runner.
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[0009] This background information is provided for the purpose of making
known
information believed by the applicant to be of possible relevance to the
present invention. No
admission is necessarily intended, nor should be construed, that any of the
preceding information
constitutes prior art against the present invention.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0010] An object of the present invention is to provide an apparatus for
running,
exercising, leading or walking a dog. The apparatus can be attached to a
vehicle, such as for
example a bicycle, or to a person by way of a belt or strap.
[0011] In accordance with one aspect, there is provided an apparatus
comprising an arc
bar having two ends, each end comprising an extendable cord extending from
inside the arc bar
and terminating in an attachment means, the extendable cord biased in a
retracted position inside
the arc bar; and a retention member attached to the extendable cord distal
from the attachment
means which acts to limit extension of the extendable cord outside the arc bar
and prevents
transfer of force to the extendable cord on the other end of the arc bar.
[0012] In accordance with one embodiment, the arc bar is hollow.
[0013] In accordance with another embodiment, the arc bar has a circular
cross section.
[0014] In accordance with another embodiment, the extendable cord is a
tension cord.
[0015] In accordance with another embodiment, the retention member is a
retention ball.
[0016] In accordance with another embodiment, the extendable cord at each
end of the
two ends of the arc bar are the same extendable cord.
[0017] In accordance with another embodiment, the arc bar comprises ABS
tubing or
carbon fibre polymer tubing.
[0018] In accordance with another embodiment, the attachment means is a
hook with a
levered opening biased in a closed position.
[0019] In accordance with another embodiment, the apparatus further
comprises
reflective material and/or lights on the arc bar and/or retention member.
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,
[0020] In accordance with another embodiment, the apparatus further
comprises grip
means positioned on one end of the arc bar.
[0021] In accordance with another embodiment, the extendable cord is pre-
tensioned
inside the arc bar.
[0022] In accordance with another embodiment, the apparatus further
comprises a
harness or collar for attachment to a dog.
[0023] In accordance with another aspect, there is provided a dog
running apparatus
comprising: a hollow arc bar; a tension cord extending through the hollow arc
bar, each end of
the tension cord terminating in an attachment means; two retention members,
each retention
member attached to the tension cord adjacent the hollow arc bar and acting to
limit extension of
the tension cord to prevent transfer of force to the attachment means on the
other end of the arc
bar.
[0024] In accordance with another embodiment, the arc bar is made of a
semi-rigid
material.
[0025] In accordance with another embodiment, the arc bar has a circular
cross section.
[0026] In accordance with another embodiment, the arc bar comprises ABS
tubing
carbon fibre polymer tubing.
[0027] In accordance with another embodiment, the two retention members
are retention
balls.
[0028] In accordance with another embodiment, the apparatus further
comprises
reflective material and/or lights on the arc bar and/or retention members.
[0029] In accordance with another embodiment, the apparatus further
comprises grip
means positioned adjacent at one end of the arc bar.
[0030] In accordance with another embodiment, the apparatus further
comprises a
harness or collar for attachment to a dog.
[0031] In accordance with another embodiment, the attachment means is a
hook with a
levered opening biased in a closed position.
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BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES
[0032] For a better understanding of the present invention, as well as
other aspects and
further features thereof, reference is made to the following description which
is to be used in
conjunction with the accompanying drawings, where:
[0033] Figure 1A is a side view of one embodiment of the apparatus with a
cut out
section at the arc bar;
[0034] Figure 1B is a is a side view of the embodiment of figure 1A
showing the
extension of one the extendable cords when force is applied;
[0035] Figure 1C is a side view of one embodiment of the apparatus with
exemplary
dimensions;
[0036] Figures 2A-C are side cross-sectional views of various embodiments
of the
apparatus;
[0037] Figures 2D-2F are exploded side cross-sectional views of various
embodiments
of the apparatus;
[0038] Figures 3A-C depict the side view of various embodiments of the arc
bar
configuration;
[0039] Figure 4A depicts the dog running apparatus attached to a standard
bicycle and a
dog;
[0040] Figure 4B is a close-up of a bicycle seat attached to an attachment
means of the
apparatus;
[0041] Figure 5A depicts a runner or walker wearing a belt, with the
apparatus attached
at one end to the belt and the other end to a dog, and figures 5B and 5C is a
photograph of the
apparatus in use with a bicycle;
[0042] Figures 6A and 6B depict the apparatus attached to a bike on a
cambered trail
with a dog running higher than the bicycle (6A) and lower than the bicycle
(6B), respectively.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
[0043] Definitions
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[0044] Unless defined otherwise, all technical and scientific terms used
herein have the
same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to
which this invention
belongs.
[0045] As used in the specification and claims, the singular forms "a",
"an" and "the"
include plural references unless the context clearly dictates otherwise.
[0046] The term "comprising" as used herein will be understood to mean
that the feature
or list following is non-exhaustive and may or may not include any other
additional suitable
features or items, for example one or more further feature(s), component(s)
and/or material(s) as
appropriate.
[0047] The term "vehicle" as used herein refers to an object for
transporting people or
goods. Non-limiting examples of vehicles that can be used with the present
apparatus are a
bicycle, tricycle, adult tricycle, wheelchair, power chair, scooter, power
scooter, SegwayTM,
stroller, or all terrain vehicle. Preferably, the vehicle is a type of
bicycle, such as, but not limited
to a road bicycle, cruiser style bicycle, BMX bicycle, mountain bicycle, snow
bicycle, three
wheeled bicycle, hybrid bicycle and recumbent bicycle.
[0048] The term "person" as used herein refers to a human using the device
to run or
walk a dog. The person can be a rider of a personal carrier such as a bicycle,
wheelchair or other
vehicle, or in non-vehicle-assisted locomotion such as a runner or walker.
[0049] The term "running" as it relates to exercising a dog means any
perambulatory
exercise or activity undertaken by the dog while the dog is attached to the
described apparatus.
At a slower person walking or riding pace, the dog may walk or trot, whereas
at a faster person
running pace or biking pace, the dog will be running. Also referred to as
"leading" or "walking"
a dog.
[0050] The term "dog" as used herein is used generally to describe the
animal being lead,
walked or run using the apparatus. In an urban setting, the apparatus will be
most applicable for
use with a dog, however it is understood that the same may be used with any
animal that can be
led using a leash by a person or personal carrier. The present device can be
used with an animal
any time a person wants to lead the animal at a restricted distance from the
person. These may
include farm animals, zoo animals, or wild animals.
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[0051] The term "attachment point" as used herein refers to the location
on the person,
vehicle or dog where the attachment means at each end of the apparatus
attaches to. It is
understood that the present apparatus will have a person-side attachment point
and a dog-side
attachment point. In embodiments where the apparatus is symmetrical, either
end of the
apparatus can be attached at each of the two attachment points. Non-limiting
examples of the
dog-side attachment point can be a collar, muzzle or harness. When the
apparatus is being used
by a person walking or running, the attachment point can be, for example, a
belt or belt loop,
harness, bracelet, hand-held grip means such as a loop or handle, or appendage
strap. When the
apparatus is being used with a bicycle, the attachment point will preferably
be somewhere on the
bicycle, more preferably on a seat rail or post. Attachment to the seat rail
is functional but also
strategic in that it places the pull point just below the rider's center of
gravity. The attachment
point may also be elsewhere on the bicycle, such as on the frame, or on the
rider. When the
apparatus is being used with a vehicle other than a bicycle, the person-side
attachment point can
be anywhere on the vehicle that is convenient for the person using the
vehicle, and prevents the
dog from crossing in front of said vehicle or into its moving or fixed parts.
[0052] As used herein, the term "extendable cord" refers to a cord which
can extend from
inside the arc bar, increasing the cord length as measured from the attachment
means to the end
of the arc bar from which the cord is extending. The extendable cord can
itself have elastic
properties, and be comprised of tension cord. Alternatively, the extendable
cord can be
functionally coupled to a biasing member which biases the cord in a retracted
position inside the
arc bar. The cord will also have limited extension between the retention
member and the
attachment means.
[0053] The present apparatus comprises an arc bar, each end of the arc bar
housing an
extendable and retractable cord with an attachment member which is easy to
attach to a belt,
vehicle or bicycle at one end and a dog collar or harness at the other end.
The arc bar has a curve
in it as it drops away from its attachment point. The light weight nature of
the apparatus permits
the dog to run free without adding a burdensome weight to the neck of the dog
or to the runner or
rider. The result is a hands free, safe and effective lead for running a dog.
Except for when the
rider or runner wishes to direct the dog to a particular side of the person,
the apparatus operates
entirely hands free, leaving the hands of the rider to focus on steering and
the runner a full range
of motion. The apparatus limits the distance range of the dog from the vehicle
or person and
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maintains a safe minimum distance between the dog and the vehicle or person.
Streets and trails
are not perfect environments, and there are changes in slope, hazards,
impediments, and
environmental conditions to which the dog and person must respond. A rigid
and/or fixed
connection between person and dog can create a serious risk of harm to the dog
and rider.
Because the present device permits a wide range of motion for the dog about
the person from the
attachment point, both in the running plane as well as in the vertical
direction, the present
apparatus permits the dog a free range within a prescribed arc.
[0054] The attachment point, length, curvature, durability and smooth
surface of the arc
bar permit it to cross over the rear tire of a bicycle regardless of tread
design without any
impediment to the dog or bicycle. This allows the dog to naturally move out of
the way of
oncoming obstacles and closely track the path of the bicycle. Tests of the
apparatus have proven
that the dog will typically run on the side of the bicycle selected by the
rider and the dog quickly
adapts to the range it has and instinctively adjusts its position based on
upcoming obstacles.
[0055] Of course, there remain risks to running or riding with a dog, but
these are
mitigated by the dog and rider's capacities to react independently of one
another within a
prescribed range. For example, during a bicycle ride when approaching a tree
or narrow
passageway, the present apparatus permits the dog to retreat behind the bike
and return to the
side of the bike once the obstacle has been passed. Stationary devices
attached to the frame of a
vehicle or bicycle do not permit this degree of movement and would require the
cyclist to divert
course or stop entirely. The present apparatus gives the dog almost a complete
range of motion
including moving away to the range limits of the apparatus or towards the
rider, as well as
forwards to the range limits of the apparatus without enabling the dog to run
in front of the
vehicle. In addition, the dog's movement is not restricted, enabling the dog
to duck low lying
objects such as branches or overhangs as well as leap over obstacles on the
ground such as
branches, stumps, rocks, holes etc.
[0056] With the apparatus, a dog can be safely run around the
neighbourhood in 10 to 15
minutes when attached to a bike or vehicle, covering substantially more
distance than can be
accomplished on foot. This gives the dog and rider needed exercise, is
convenient to the person,
and saves time to the person. The apparatus also permits the person, whether
on foot or on the
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bicycle, to regulate the dog's pace from stationary to walk, to trot, to a
full run. Ease of
installation further decreases the barrier to use for the person.
[0057] The role of the extendable cord is to provide each of the person
and dog with an
extendable and retractable lead which can absorb shock and pulling forces
caused by sudden
changes in tension, and generally sudden changes in distance and direction
from the attachment
means to the arc bar. The extendable cord performs two main purposes: to
provide a lead from
person to dog; and to absorb and reduce the effects of unanticipated or rapid
movements of the
dog and person. Pulling or jerking action of the extendable cord on each side
of the arc bar thus
minimizes shock or force transfer and sudden or jerky forces to the attachment
point on the other
size of the arc bar. For example, tension applied to the extendable cord on
the dog side is
counteracted by the retention member, while minimizing the force transferred
to the part of the
tension cord between the person attachment point and the person side of the
arc bar. In use, if the
dog suddenly jerks to avoid an obstacle, the extendable cord on the second
side of the arc bar can
expand to give the dog additional lead while absorbing the movement to avoid a
reciprocal
movement to the person. Similarly, the extendable cord on the other side of
the arc bar can
expand if the rider makes a sudden swerve, limiting the amount of sudden pull
that the dog
experiences to accommodate the swerve. The present apparatus can function
without extendable
cords on both distal ends, but at the expense of limiting absorption of forces
for the dog and
rider. An extendable cord at both of the vehicle/person end and the dog end
are preferable for
the functioning of the apparatus for the following reasons: (I) by having both
ends extendable
the apparatus is able to absorb sudden pulls and jerks independently; and (2)
large pulls or jerks
will cause the extendable cord to extend to its limits on both sides.
[0058] Safety of the dog is important, especially when running alongside
or behind a
bicycle. The present apparatus keeps the dog away from the moving parts of the
bicycle, such as
the wheels, pedals, gears, chain, handlebars and forks. The dog is allowed to
run at a safe
distance from the rider or runner and can set a more natural pace, going from
a walk to a trot to a
run on its own terms. The rider is also able to observe the dog's performance
during the moments
when it runs in the space approximately covering the distance between the
front axle and the area
approximate to the rear tire. The person is also able to sense when the dog is
slowing behind the
rear wheel because of the tensioning of the extendable cord by way of pull on
the apparatus. The
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effective length of the apparatus restricts the dog front going ahead of the
bicycle or between the
front tire and the down tube.
[0059] Turning now to the embodiment shown in figure 1A, the arc bar (2)
comprises a
hollow tube capable of receiving the extendable cord (4). The arc bar serves
to maintain a
minimum distance between person and dog while having a reasonable weight that
is not
burdensome to either person or dog. The arc bar fundamentally serves a number
of purposes: to
keep the lead from tangling itself on the rider, bicycle or dog; to deflect
the lead off the rear tire;
to transfer the lead from one side of the rear tire to the other and to keep
the dog within a
specified range. The arc shape of the arc bar enables the apparatus to be
easily manipulated by
the person to direct the position of the dog relative to the person-side
attachment point.
[0060] In the embodiment of figure 1A, extendable cord (4) is a tension
cord and is
positioned through the inside of hollow arc bar (2). The arc bar is shown cut
away in the centre
to reveal the extendable cord (4). In this embodiment, a single contiguous
length of tension cord
is positioned between the person attachment end and the dog attachment end.
Retention members
(6a, 6b) are shown in figure IA as retention balls, and are attached to the
extendable cord (4) at
either end of the arc bar. Lateral movement of the tension cord through the
hollow arc bar and
extension of the extendable cord in the direction from which tension is
applied is restricted by
the retention members (6a, 6b). Each retention member functions to limit the
extension of the
tension cord on either side of the arc bar. In this way, the tension cord on
each side of the arc bar
acts generally independently of the other side and limits the amount of force
experienced on one
side of the arc bar when tension is applied to the other side. In the
embodiment shown in figure
1A, the retention members permit pre-tension to be applied to the tension cord
between the two
retention members which assists in retaining the curvature of the arc bar.
This also pulls the
retention members (6a, 6b) against and seals the open ends of the hollow arc
bar. The retention
members (6a, 6b) in the embodiment shown in Figure IA can be a knot in the
tension cord, a
retention ball, or combination thereof. In one embodiment, the retention
member is a knot in the
tension cord encased in a protective cover. The protective cover further
prevents the knot from
regressing into the arc bar when pressed up or pulled against the opening of
the arc bar.
Preferably, the retention member is a retention ball. Preferably, the
retention member is free to
swivel and rotate with the natural flexibility of the retention cord. This can
be achieved either by
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means of a swivelling and/or rotating attachment between the retention member
and the
extendable cord or by means of a retention ball.
[0061] Attachment means (8a, 8b) are shown at either end of the arc bar
for attaching to
the dog and vehicle or person, respectively. The retention member (6b) for the
dog attachment
means (8a) is positioned at the person attachment end of the arc bar so that
force applied from
the dog attachment means (8a) can enable the dog end of the extendable cord to
absorb most of
the shock applied by the dog while transferring minimal pull to the person
through the person
attachment end.
[0062] Figure 1B shows the extension of the extendable cord (4) on the dog
attachment
end of the arc bar when force is applied to the dog attachment means (8a). The
tension cord is
shown in an extended position, and the retention member on the side of
apparatus in which the
cord is being extended is pulled away from the arc bar. In this way, the
attachment means on the
opposite or person side of the arc bar therefore is not affected by tension
applied on the dog side
of the arc bar. If the vehicle or person suddenly moves away from the dog, the
extension of the
cord and absorption of shock is initiated at the person attachment point to
the person attachment
means (8b) as the retention member at the dog end (6a) presses against the dog
end of the tubular
arc bar. When the pulling force is applied by both the vehicle/person and the
dog, the range of
the extendable cord is maximized to its stretch limit, which is limited so as
to prevent the dog
from getting in front of the bicycle. Optional grip means (10) is placed on
the vehicle or person
side attachment point.
[0063] Figure 1C shows one exemplary embodiment of the apparatus with
exemplary
dimensions, summarized in Table 1. This embodiment is exemplary only and
provided only for
the purpose of demonstrating one possible embodiment. It would be understood
to the skilled
person that the dimensions of the elements of the apparatus may be modified,
as discussed
herein, without departing from the scope of the present invention.
[0064] In this embodiment, the diameter of the arc bar is 1" and the
tension cord is a 3/8"
diameter shock cord. The total untensioned length of the tension cord and
attachment means is
43", and the length of the tension cord unstretched between the retention
balls is 33".
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Table 1
Feature Element Dimensions
(feet, inches)
A end of attachment means to retention member, 7"
dog side
retention member (ball) IA Fr
arc length of arc bar 3'2"
retention member (ball) 1 'A"
end of attachment means to retention member, 6"
person side
grip means 3W'
[0065] In other exemplary embodiments, shown in figures 2A-2F, the arc bar
(2) may be
hollow or solid, or have a combination of hollow and solid features. In the
embodiment in figure
2A, the apparatus comprises a tension cord (12), a static retention member
(14) which serves as a
single retention member statically positioned inside the arc bar. Extension of
the tension cord
(12) on either side of the arc bar is limited by the static retention member
(14). The embodiments
shown in figures 2B and 2C each have two static retention members (14a, 14b).
[0066] In the embodiment shown in figure 2D, the extendable cord (4) can
be a static
cord (16) attached to a dynamic retention member (18) which can slide along
the length of the
inside of a hollow part of the arc bar (2). A biasing means, shown as spring
(20), limits extension
of the static cord (16) outside the arc bar and is able to absorb force
exerted by the dog or rider
through the attachment means. Non-limiting examples of biasing means can be a
steel spring or
foam spring.
[0067] In the alternative embodiments shown in figures 2E and 2F, spring
(22) is made
of metal or elastomer, or other material with similar compressive properties,
and can be
positioned near the ends of the arc bar. The spring can be attached to a
static or non-static cord
(tension cord) which is further connected to an additional retention member
(24a). The
extendable cord system comprises a cooperatively attached spring and cord. In
another
embodiment, the arc bar itself can have an extendable and compressible
component at its end
capable of stretching under a pulling force.
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[0068] The arc bar has at least one portion that is arcuate in shape. In
one embodiment
shown in figure 3A, the arc bar has a natural arc or circumference comprising
a single arc. The
arc length of the arc bar, shown as (C) in figure 1C, is slightly more than
the end-to-end distance
of the arc bar in a curved position. In the embodiment shown in figure 3A, the
end-to-end length
of the arc bar (c') is approximately 85% of the arc length of the arc bar.
Preferably, the end-to-
end length of the arc bar (c') is about 75-95% of the overall straight length
or arc length (C) of
the arc bar. More preferably, the overall end-to-end length of the arc bar
(c') is about 85 % of the
arc length (C) of the arc bar. The arc shape of the arc bar also limits swivel
and rotation of the
apparatus.
[0069] The end-to-end length (c') of the arc bar should exceed the
distance from a
standard adult bicycle seat to the beyond the end of the back tire. The arc
bar may also be
telescopically adjustable in length, for example by means of a pin fitting.
The arc bar may also
be foldable, for example by means of locking joints along its length, in order
to be stored or
carried. In this way, a dog can move from one side of a bicycle to the other
side, while bypassing
and keeping a safe distance from the back tire, but remaining a safe distance
from the leading
edge of the front tire and the space that exists between the front tire and
the bicycle frame down
tube. Field trials recorded on video demonstrate that a dog without a lead
essentially runs in the
same distance range of the present apparatus, with the dog naturally adjusting
to the position of
the bike/rider on a narrow trail. This provides a unique perspective into dog
behaviour and
illustrates how close a dog will naturally run next to its pack, i.e. the
rider it is following, without
getting in the way.
[0070] In another embodiment shown in figure 3B the arc bar has a
generally straight
middle section and with an arcuate section at either end. The arc bar may also
have a
progressively greater or regressively smaller curve where the curve either
increases or decreases
away from the attachment points. The upper portion of the arc bar may have a
steeper curve
shown in figure 3C which then leads into a consistent curve to the attachment
point. There may
also be compound curves where the curve at the top is moderate, the middle
greater and the ends
being of a greater degree than that in the middle.
[0071] Preferably, the arc bar has a circular cross section without
corners so that the arc
bar is able to easily deflect off of a rear tire of a bicycle upon contact.
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[0072] The arc bar is made of a rigid or semi-rigid material that
generally retains its
shape to limit the movement of the dog to a radius around the person-side
attachment point of the
apparatus. The arc bar is also preferably made of a durable material that is
able to withstand
repeated contact with a bicycle tire. Some non-limiting examples of materials
for the arc bar
include durable polymer tubing, such as, for example, acrylonitrile butadiene
styrene (ABS)
tubing, carbon fibre polymer tubing, and metal tubing such as, for example,
aluminum tubing. A
semi-rigid arc bar can also adopt a less curved shape during use to absorb
additional force. Semi-
rigid plastic or composite piping allows some flexibility of changing the
degree of arc without
compromising the strength of the arc bar. The combination of the integral
curve of the arc bar
and the semi-rigid material provides inherent flexibility to the arc bar, but
not to the point of
collapse or folding over. The extendable cord can also be pre-tensioned inside
the arc bar
between the two retention members which can serve as pre-load for the cord and
an aid in
retaining the desired arc of the arc bar.
[0073] The diameter and curve of the arc bar allows it to easily
transfer/roll over the rear
tire of a bicycle without binding or catching regardless of the tread design
of the tire. This
interaction between the arc bar and the rear tire of a bicycle is exemplified
in figure 5C. An arc
bar with a continuous arc around the back and side of the bicycle or runner
assists in smoothly
deflecting the arc bar away from or around the rear tire of a bicycle, or
around the body of a
runner, when in motion. A rider can also direct the dog to change sides of the
bicycle or person
by rolling or rotating the arc bar along its longitudinal axis, for example
over the back tire,
optionally gripping a handle or grip means, all the while keeping the dog away
from the tire. By
gripping the arc bar near the person side attachment point and rotating the
arc bar, a rider or
runner can direct the dog to change positions from one side of the bicycle or
runner to the other.
Rotation and/or horizontal translation of the arc bar thereby gently directs
the dog to move in the
direction of the rotation of the arc bar. In addition, the smooth surface,
flexibility and low weight
of the arc bar permits it to deflect off the rider/runners hips and legs
without discomfort.
[0074] The arc bar can also comprise optional grip means (10) positioned
adjacent the
person attachment end of the arc bar for ease of the person to grip the arc
bar to direct the
position of the dog. The grip means provides a location for the person to hold
while moving the
arc bar into a more suitable position. Grip means includes any material or
feature that increases
the friction at one end of the arc bar to enable a person to more easily grip
the arc bar. Non-
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CA 02841257 2014-01-30
limiting examples of grip means include, for example, grip tapes or adhesives,
and texturing on
the arc bar such as raised or inset stripes or lines, stippling, or any type
of inset or raised feature
that improves grip. Grip means also includes any physical feature that
improves the ability of a
person to hold onto or grip the arc bar. Non-limiting examples of such
physical features include
applied foam tapes or tubes, rubber tapes or tubes, handles, knobs, loops and
one or more holes
in the arc bar. The optional grip means can improve the rider or runner's grip
on the arc bar and
ease the rotation of the arc bar relative to the person-side attachment point.
[0075] The arc bar and/or retention members can also comprise additional
safety features
to make the apparatus more visible. For example, light emitting diode (LED)
lights can be
attached to or embedded in the arc bar and/or retention members for improved
night-time
visibility. The arc bar and/or retention members can also be manufactured from
optically
attractive or reflective materials, or can be adorned with such materials to
improve daytime
and/or night-time visibility. These materials include fluorescent materials
and paints, glow in the
dark or luminescent materials and paints, adhesive tapes and stickers, and any
other material that
improves visibility. The same or similar features can be added to the
extendable cord and
attachment means of the apparatus.
[0076] The extendable cord allows the dog and rider some limited
additional extension
along the length of the apparatus. By applying tension to the extendable cord
on either or both of
the extendable cords the rider and/or dog can quickly adapt to environmental
challenges such, for
example, vehicles, pedestrians or road or trail conditions while limiting the
pulling applied force
to the other. The extendable cord on either side of the apparatus can thus
absorbing sudden pulls
from the dog or rider in order to reduce the strain on the collar or harness
worn by the dog and to
reduce sudden movements to the runner or rider.
[0077] One type of extendable cord that can be used is tension cord, also
commonly
referred to as shock cord or bungee cord. Various types of tension cord are
available, such as
solid rubber cord and stranded rubber cord, both of which can optionally be
enclosed inside a
flexible woven, braided or webbed material. Generally, a tension cord
comprises one or more
elastic cords or fibres each composed of one or more elastic strands forming a
round or flat core.
The core is preferably covered in a woven cotton, nylon, polyester or
polypropylene sheath.
Some non-limiting examples of suitable tension cords are polyester or
polypropylene (bungee)
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cord comprising either a single rubber fibre or multiple rubber fibres.
Various widths of bungee
cord are available such as 1/8, 3/16, 7/32, 1/4, 3/16, 3/8, 1/2 inch diameter
widths and can be
used singly or multiply to provide the desired tension. Other types of tension
cords are flat elastic
or braided webbing in various widths ranging from 1/2 inch to 1 1/2 inch.
Preferable maximum
extension of the extendable cord is about 15% of the original resting length
of the cord. The
extendable cord must be able to absorb sufficient tension to enable stretching
while being strong
enough to substantially maintain a safe distance between the person and the
dog.
[0078] Most city bylaws require that a dog be on leash, or restrained by a
person holding
a leash attached to the dog's collar or harness, at all times when in public
spaces. Keeping the
dog within a specified range while still allowing the rider and dog to be in
their normal riding
and running behaviour is important for the safety of the dog and person. In an
urban or congested
setting while riding, if the dog were to dart off it could lead to potential
danger for the dog,
passersby, cars etc. With the dog attached to the apparatus, the dog is
permitted to run relatively
freely and naturally until it reaches the inherent limits of the apparatus,
cuing it to return to the
rider's side or behind the bike. One preferable attachment means of the
present apparatus is a
closeable hook which can be securely attached at each of the person or dog
attachment points
and is not removable by the dog. One preferable attachment means is a
caribiner-style hook
having a hook with a levered opening biased in the closed position.
[0079] One method of attaching the apparatus to a bicycle is by means of a
bracket,
which can be affixed under the seat, preferably to the seat rails or post. The
bracket optionally
comprises a rotating plate to which a short extension arm is attached with an
attachment ring at
its end. Preferably, the attachment means simply clips onto the seat rail or
other location on the
bicycle or vehicle for easy install and release of the apparatus from the
vehicle and does not
require any tools to open or close. A quick release attachment such as a
closeable hook eases
attachment to the person attachment point and dog attachment point and
therefore saves time and
allows quick and reliable connection.
[0080] The attachment means can be manufactured from any material strong
enough to
withstand the pressures of use of the apparatus without breaking. It is
further preferable that the
attachment means be made of a material that will not cause damage to the
person or dog
attachment point. For example, closeable hooks made from durable polymer,
reinforced plastics
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CA 02841257 2014-01-30
such as fibreglass reinforced plastics, coated carbon fibre or coated aluminum
will cause little or
no damage to any frame material or finish as it is not mounted to the frame or
bike parts.
Preferable attachment means are made from high strength plastic/composite
materials with a
high tensioned stainless steel or aluminum closing bar for quick release
attachment. Non-limiting
examples of attachment means includes non-locking carabiners, locking
carabiners such as
screw-lock, cam-lock, hook and catch, loop and hook/catch, or any positive
connection within a
channel that requires the closing mechanism to be snapped into place. An
embodiment of this
type of attachment is shown in figure 4A attached to the collar of a dog and
to the seat rail of a
bicycle, in close-up figure 4B shown attached to the seat rail of a bicycle,
in photograph figure
5B and in Figure 5A attached to an attachment point on a runner or walker.
[0081] When used with a bicycle, as shown in Figure 4A, the attachment
point of the
apparatus on the person-side is preferably as close to the true center of
gravity of the rider and
bicycle as possible. A force acting at a point low on the bike and well below
the centre of
gravity, such as a sudden jerk from an attached dog, could be sufficient to
destabilize the bike
and put the rider and dog at risk of injury. Attachment of the dog to a
bicycle at a higher position,
closer to the centre of gravity of the bicycle and rider, enables the rider to
better adjust to tension
on the arc bar from the dog and reduce the risk of destabilizing effects on
the bicycle. This
further allows greater mobility to the dog without causing additional risk to
the rider.
[0082] The centre of gravity of a person when cycling is near the seat on
virtually all
standard bicycles. Therefore, it is preferable that the attachment point of
the apparatus be
somewhere near the seat. Bicycle seats or saddles have standard features that
are common to
most seats. A standard bicycle seat is shown in Figure 4B, with one attachment
means of the
present apparatus attached around one of the seat rails (26). Because the
majority of standard
bicycle seats are supported by rails below the seat, a natural attachment
point already exists.
Field tests of the apparatus confirm the stability of attachment at this
point. By placing the lead
attachment at the seat rails the dog must pull the greatest amount of mass in
order to break away
from the bike/rider compared to designs that place the attachment point on the
chain or seat stays
at a position lower than the center of gravity and behind it thereby lowering
the required force
necessary for the dog to pull the bike out from underneath the rider. In all
trials of the present
apparatus, this attachment design has proven effective. Attachment of the
apparatus at this point
has been found to provide a stable and secure connection between the rider and
dog.
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[0083] Attachment at the dog end of the apparatus can be to the collar (as
shown in figure
4A) or muzzle of a dog, or to a harness somewhere on the body of the dog. The
collar or harness
attachment should be sufficiently rotatable on the neck or trunk of the dog so
that it does not
interfere with movement of the dog during running. The present apparatus can
also include a
suitable harness or collar for attachment to a dog.
[0084] When cycling on a flat surface such as a road or sidewalk, shown in
Figure 4A,
the dog and the rider are effectively at the same vertical position. As shown,
the dog is
maintained at a safe distance from the rider. However, shown in figures 6A and
6B, on an
uneven surface such as a trail ride, the vertical position of the running dog
relative to the bicycle
is not necessarily the same, as it is on pavement or in an urban setting.
Also, on a trail, the
vertical position of dog and rider can change dramatically and quickly. The
present apparatus is
able to adjust in a vertical direction to accommodate to the trail and results
in greater mobility
and versatility for the dog and rider. For example, in Figure 6A, a dog is
shown on the high side
of a trail relative to the bicycle. In Figure 6B, the dog is shown on the low
side of the trail, with
the apparatus able to compensate for the vertical position of the dog relative
to the bicycle in
both positions. The connected dog and rider are thus kept at a safe distance
from one another so
that sudden changes in direction causing tension on the extendable cord will
be tempered, and
the apparatus meanwhile is kept out of the way of the dog and person. Should a
sudden force
applied to a rider near the centre of mass at the seat, the rider can
naturally accommodate by
shifting his weight slightly.
[0085] Tests of the apparatus show that the dog adapts to the limited
range of the
apparatus without restricting its mobility. The present apparatus keeps the
dog at a distance
which simulates the distance at which many of the dogs who join us on rides
off leash run at,
except for the fact that the apparatus limits the dog's range such that it
cannot move in front of
the bike or between the frame down tube and front tire. Because of the
mobility at the attachment
points, contact with the lower body runner or rider can occur during use.
Human test subjects
have indicated that this contact has neither been a impediment, hazard or
nuisance. In biking, the
gentle pressure experienced by the person signals the rider that the dog has
closed its range
between itself and enables the rider to then adjust their direction or speed.
The initial reaction of
the dogs tested is generally to pull away and forward from the attachment
point. When frightened
by an unexpected stimulus, the dog tends to run forward, pulling at the
attachment point. In all
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cases when the apparatus was used with a bicycle, the dog quickly learned to
run within an
acceptable range. An attachment point at the seat took the attention of the
lead away from the
rider, enabling the rider to maintain their focus on riding rather than on the
dog.
[0086] The present apparatus has been successfully tested with no damage
to carbon fibre
and titanium road bikes, full suspension mountain bikes made of steel, carbon
and aluminum,
and hard tail mountain bikes made of steel and aluminium. Bicycles with wheel
sizes of 16",
20", 26", 650b and 700cc have also been tested with the present apparatus with
no damage to the
bicycle or rider, and no injuries to the dog. The present apparatus has also
been successfully used
by male and female riders ranging in age from 11 to 48 and has been well
received with no
injuries to any of the people or dogs.
[0087] The lightweight design of the present apparatus also limits the
amount of extra
weight carried by the dog and person, especially while running. Advantages
during running
compared to a standard leash are evident in the design. The apparatus can be
hooked to a belt or
belt loop and used by a jogger or runner to keep the dog at a distance from
the runner's legs and
control the dogs movements by hand when holding onto the lead. The apparatus
can also be used
in a hunting situation to keep the dog within a defined range of the hunter.
Shown in Figure 5A,
the dog is kept at a safe distance from the runner and the apparatus prevents
the dog from
approaching the runner's legs. Because the lead is fully encased in the arc
bar, there is no loose
lead to become trapped in and around the body, arms or legs of the runner, or
in the legs of the
dog. This also allows the dog the greatest range of motion without putting it
at risk of running
into the runner or walker. The dog and leash are also thus kept off the ground
and away from the
runner's legs and feet and from the dog's legs and paws, reducing the chance
of injury to both
dog and runner.
[0088] The invention being thus described, it will be obvious that the
same may be varied
in many ways. Such variations are not to be regarded as a departure from the
scope of the
invention, and all such modifications as would be obvious to one skilled in
the art are intended to
be included within the scope of the following claims. The scope of the claims
should not be
limited by the preferred embodiments set forth in the Examples, but should be
given the broadest
interpretation consistent with the description as a whole.
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