Back to results
US 2014/0225384 A1Published application
Automatic unlatching device
OwnerRobert Israel Wallinventor
Life of this patent
Estimating the term…
Abstract
An automatic unlatching device can be used on cages or other enclosures for pets, horses, and other animals. In the event of a fire, a portion of the device melts, permitting the latch or lock on the cage or enclosure to open. This permits the animals to escape the danger of the fire without the need for human intervention to open the lock. A hasp formed of a meltable thermoplastic material is also disclosed.
Claims20
A device for use on an animal cage having a door, comprising:
- a meltable portion formed of a material having a melting point of less than about 140° F., the meltable portion having first and second ends;
- a clasp or hook attached to the first end of the meltable portion for removably attaching the device to the animal cage to prevent the door from opening;
- a chain attached to the second end of the meltable portion and including a portion for securing the device to the animal cage door;
- and
- a spring attached to the second end of the meltable portion, such that, when the device is attached to the animal enclosure and the meltable portion has begun to melt, the spring provides tension to increase the speed at which the meltable portion fails and permit the weight to drop through the opening and permit the door to be opened.
2 more elements
A device for use on a door of an animal enclosure, comprising:
- a meltable portion formed of a material having a melting point of less than about 140° F., the meltable portion having first and second ends, the first end being secured to the door;
- a weight suspended from the meltable portion by a cord or rope;
- an arm extending from a door jamb, the arm including an opening at an end opposite the door jamb, the opening being of sufficient size to permit the weight to be suspended therein;
- and
- a spring attached to the second end of the meltable portion, such that, when the device is attached to the animal enclosure and the meltable portion has begun to melt, the spring provides tension to increase the speed at which the meltable portion fails and permit the weight to drop through the opening and permit the door to be opened.
2 more elements
A hasp for use with a lock in fastening a door, comprising:
- one or more loops configured to attach to a plate or door jamb;
- and
- a latching arm configured to attach to the door by a hinge, the latching arm including a slot or opening corresponding to each of the one or more loops;
- wherein at least one of the one or more loops or the latching arm are formed of a material having a melting point of less than about 140° F.
1 more element
Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.