US20030154669A1

US20030154669A1 - Step4Paws, a modulated staircase for dogs and cats

Info

Publication number: US20030154669A1
Application number: US10/079,455
Authority: US
Inventors: Arric Vandaan
Original assignee: Individual
Current assignee: Individual
Priority date: 2002-02-20
Filing date: 2002-02-20
Publication date: 2003-08-21

Abstract

Step4Paws actualizes the concept of using a modulated staircase to assist dogs and cats in getting up to and down from household furniture. Manufactured into various heights and dimensions, the modules can be used singularly or in conjunction with another or other module(s). This flexibility allows for tailoring to various specifics such as size or jumping ability of the dog or cat and to floor space limitations. Increased user-friendliness is an inherent characteristic of the design created by two main attributes: a wide, horizontal surface, and a soft, carpeted surface. Combined, these two attributes make for an inviting means for dogs and cats to ease the difficulty in reaching their desired destination. In fact, Step4Paws offers itself as a viable, attractive alternative to their favorite spot.

Description

CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

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STATEMENT REGARDING FED-SPONSORED R&D

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REFERENCE TO SEQUENCE LISTING, A TABLE, OR A COMPUTER PROGRAM LISTING APPENDIX

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BACKGROUND OF INVENTION

Invention was originated out of need to assist my dog in getting into and out of my bed more easily.

BRIEF SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

Rectangular, three-dimensional construction(s) of varying heights and dimensions, surfaced with a traction-aiding, carpet-like material. Used alone as an individual step or in conjunction with another or other module(s) as a customized staircase. Initial design built with wood, while materials, functionality, aesthetic design and affordability ranges open to later variations.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1: Example of a possible module arrangement.[0006]

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

Step4Paws is a modulated staircase for dogs and cats. Each step is a separate, self-contained unit to be used alone or in conjunction with another or other module(s). Usage of Step4Paws provides a means for dogs and cats to get up to and down from household furniture more easily. Differing from diagonal designs (i.e. ramp-like), Step4Paws offers a horizontal step approach as a medium between furniture and floor. Its modulated design provides for customized arrangements which can be used to accommodate specific needs of its user (i.e. size or jumping ability of the dog or cat) as well as to lessen locational restrictions of the modules' placement (i.e. in a narrow or cramped passageway next to a bed). Step4Paws has a carpeted horizontal surface which not only provides comfort and familiarity for dogs and cats but also enhances traction. [0007]
A module is comprised of four vertical sides, each a solid board of finished hardwood joined together with beveled, vertical edges and reinforced with non-visible dowels. The shorter sides (width of box frame) have rounded, rectangular openings to be used as grasps for easy handling. [0008]
The top surface board is entirely surfaced with carpet and is slightly recessed within the box frame to create more of a flushed surface where the carpet meets the box frame (carpet-to-wood). The top surface board is supported by beams attached to each interior vertical edge of the box frame. The beams extend along their respective edges to meet the interior of the bottom surface. [0009]
The bottom board (also finished hardwood) is recessed only enough to create a flushed surface where the bottom board meets the box frame (wood-to-wood). A non-slip material is attached to the entire surface bottom. [0010]

The following are examples of finished dimensions of different modules, named in reference to surface size & height:



Large 16-inch	30″ × 20″ surface	16″ high
Large 12-inch	30″ × 20″ surface	12″ high
Large 08-inch	30″ × 20″ surface	08″ high
Small 16-inch	20″ × 12″ surface	16″ high
Small 12-inch	20″ × 12″ surface	12″ high
Small 08-inch	20″ × 12″ surface	08″ high

Claims

1 What I claim as my invention is the usage and construction of a modulated staircase comprised of individual steps of varying heights and dimensions to be used in a customized manner of arrangement with the intention of assisting dogs and cats in getting up to and down from household furniture (i.e. bed, sofa, chair, etc.):

2 What I claim as my invention is the usage of a carpet-like material in the construction of the aforementioned invention as a means to increase stepping traction and to provide a more appealing design to dogs and cats.