WO2020097584A1

WO2020097584A1 - Swivel-eye snap-sleeve hook device for pets

Info

Publication number: WO2020097584A1
Application number: PCT/US2019/060647
Authority: WO
Inventors: Keith Mullin; Christopher Taddei
Original assignee: Make Ideas, LLC
Priority date: 2018-11-08
Filing date: 2019-11-08
Publication date: 2020-05-14

Abstract

A snap-sleeve hook device for use with pet includes an elongated bolt and a structural retaining sleeve system. The bolt has a bolt body with an eye hole disposed at a distal end thereof and having an opening to a side of the bolt in a direction perpendicular to the bolt axis. The eye hole and distal end of the bolt body define a bolt hook. The sleeve system includes a spring and a sleeve that fits around the bolt body. The sleeve is forced by the spring toward the end of the bolt body and around the bolt hook to cover the eye hole opening. The sleeve is adjustable between a first position, wherein the sleeve fully closes the opening to the eye hole, and a second position, wherein the sleeve is retracted against the force of the spring to uncover the opening to the eye hole.

Description

SWIVEL-EYE SNAP-SLEEVE HOOK DEVICE FOR PETS

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION

[0001] For purposes of the United States, the present application is a U.S. nonprovisional patent application of, and claims priority under 35 U.S.C. §119(e) to, U.S. provisional patent application serial number 62/757,399, filed November 8, 2018, and entitled,“LOCKING SWIVEL EYE BOLT SNAP WITH STRUCTURAL RETAINING COLLAR,” which‘399 application is incorporated by reference herein in its entirety, and, for purposes of the United States, the present application is a U.S. nonprovisional patent application of, and claims priority under 35 U.S.C. §119(e) to, U.S. provisional patent application serial number 62/929,843, filed November 2, 2019, and entitled,“SWIVEL EYE BOLT SNAP WITH A FULLY CAPTURED STRUCTURAL RETAINING COLLAR,” which‘843 application is likewise incorporated by reference herein in its entirety.

COPYRIGHT STATEMENT

[0002] All of the material in this patent document is subject to copyright protection under the copyright laws of the United States and other countries. The copyright owner has no objection to the facsimile reproduction by anyone of the patent document or the patent disclosure, as it appears in official governmental records but, otherwise, all other copyright rights whatsoever are reserved.

BACKGROUND OF THE PRESENT INVENTION

Field of the Present Invention

[0003] The present invention relates generally to hardware fasteners, snap hooks and snap bolts, more specifically it relates to improved swivel-eye snap-sleeve hook devices and methods of use for pets using a fully -captured structural retaining sleeve.

Background

[0004] It can be appreciated that snap hooks and snap bolts have been in use for years. Typically, currently available snap bolts and snap hooks have a main body with a neck portion that connects the body to a hook portion. The hook portion which forms a capture area or eyehole. A moveable gate is mounted to the hook body, which then encloses the capture area or eyehole used to attach to a connected object. Some prior art devices have a locking gate that retains or semi-permanently locks in the connected object through the eyehole of the bolt. Related snap bolt and snap hook prior art includes: US20070261210A1, US5791025A, US831260A, US4930194A, US5608953A, US6588076B1,

US20080104810A1, US8276247B2, US582564A, US275537A, US186637A, US731162A, US7124479B2, US1062653A, US828823A, US4977647A, US10066660B2 and

US8015676B1.

[0005] Snap bolts and snap hooks are commonly used on animal leases to connect the lease to a ring on a pet collar. Other uses of snap bolts and snap hooks might also include connecting any two devices together, where one device has a snap bolt or hook attached to it, and the other a receiving ring, or in some cases each device has a receiving ring or similar receiving item and a double ended snap hook or bolt is used to connect the two items together. One limitation of currently available snap bolt and hook devices is their ability to withstand any significant tensile force before the hook will break at the body portion. Another limitation is that the gate of the hook can be accidently opened, either by touching or brushing-up against another object when in use. Even in cases where the currently available locking mechanisms are enabled, when the hook is being used with or by an animal, the animal may be able to open the gate on their own.

[0006] Because snap bolts and hooks are frequently used for holding objects in place or in the case of animals, keep them from running away, it is important that they do not break open while they are in use. Unfortunately, due to strong forces that are often repetitively applied to the bolts and hooks by large objects or large animals, over time they are susceptible to wear and will eventually break. Currently, the available bolt and hook devices do not have a mechanism to alert the user when a failure is imminent, thus allowing a user to replace the device before it breaks.

[0007] The prior art devices each fall short in providing a robust solution developed for the purpose of securely attaching a snap bolt to an object. Thus a need exists for a snap bolt solution that is able to withstand strong forces or warns the user of an eminent failure, locks so that an animal or accidental motion does not cause it to open.

SUMMARY OF THE PRESENT INVENTION

[0008] Some exemplary embodiments of the present invention may overcome one or more of the above disadvantages and other disadvantages not described above, but the present invention is not required to overcome any particular disadvantage described above, and some exemplary embodiments of the present invention may not overcome any of the disadvantages described above. [0009] Broadly defined, the present invention according to one aspect is a snap- sleeve hook device for use with pets, including: an elongated bolt having a bolt body with an eye hole, penetrating through the bolt body, disposed at a distal end thereof and having an opening to a side of the bolt in a direction generally perpendicular to a primary axis of the bolt body, wherein the eye hole and distal end of the bolt body define a bolt hook; and a structural retaining sleeve system including a spring, a sleeve that fits around the bolt body, including the eye hole, and that is forced by the spring toward the distal end of the bolt body such that the sleeve is disposed around the bolt hook and fully covers the opening to the eye hole in the side of the bolt. The sleeve is longitudinally adjustable between a first position, wherein the sleeve is disposed around the bolt hook and fully closes the opening to the eye hole in the side of the bolt, and a second position, wherein the sleeve is retracted against the force of the spring to uncover the opening to the eye hole in the side of the bolt. A ring may be inserted into the eye hole while the sleeve is in the second position but retained in the eye hole while the sleeve is in the first position.

[0010] In features of this aspect, the snap-sleeve hook device further includes a swivel system at a proximal end of the elongated bolt; the sleeve includes an open distal end is slotted on opposing sides so as to receive the ring; and/or interior ends of the slots define a transverse passage that aligns with the eye hole when the sleeve is in the first position.

[0011] In further features, the spring is a coiled spring retained within the bolt body; the coiled spring is retained within a closed-end channel in the bolt body that includes substantial cylindrical portions; the sleeve system includes a spring stop that engages a distal end of the spring; the spring stop is a separate pin; the spring stop is a structural member of the sleeve; the sleeve includes a grip along a side thereof; the grip is on the side of the sleeve opposite the opening in the side of the bolt body; the snap-sleeve hook device further includes a latch or lock system that maintains the sleeve in the first position unless the latch or lock system is separately actuated; the latch or lock system includes a lock actuator and a second spring, and the second spring forces the lock actuator into engagement with the sleeve when the sleeve is in its first position, thereby preventing the sleeve from being longitudinally adjusted to its second position; the lock actuator is a lever that may be depressed from an angled position to a flat position against the force of the second spring; the lock actuator may be pressed inward against the force of the second spring; the second spring is a coiled spring; and/or the second spring is a leaf spring.

[0012] In a further feature, the bolt, including the bolt body, has a generally tear shaped cross-section. [0013] In still further features, the swivel system includes a swivel axle and a swivel-eye or ring that rotates around the swivel axle; the swivel axle has a cross-section that is smaller than a cross-section of the bolt and is arranged to break under a lower amount of force than the amount of force required to break the bolt or sleeve; the swivel axle has a score line that causes the swivel axle to be arranged to break under a lower amount of force than the amount of force required to break the bolt or sleeve; the swivel axle has a midsection that has a cross-section that is smaller than a cross-section of the bolt and is arranged to break under a lower amount of force than the amount of force required to break the bolt or sleeve; the swivel axle is arranged to break under a lower amount of force than the amount of force required to break the bolt or sleeve, and the swivel axle is arranged to produce an identifiable sound if broken; the identifiable sound is produced at a particular frequency; the frequency is audible and may be recognized by a user; the frequency is audible and may be recognized by a detector; the frequency is audible and may be recognized by a smart phone; the swivel axle includes one or more strings held under tension; breaking the swivel axle includes breaking the one or more strings, and the identifiable sound that is produced includes the sound of the one or more strings breaking; and/or the one or more strings are arranged to break prior to the swivel axle breaking, thereby providing a user with an indication that breakage of the swivel axle is imminent.

[0014] Broadly defined, the present invention according to another aspect is a pet restraint comprising any of the foregoing snap-sleeve hook devices attached at a distal end of a pet leash.

[0015] Broadly defined, the present invention according to another aspect is a method of using any of the foregoing snap-sleeve hook devices.

[0016] Further areas of applicability of the present invention will become apparent from the detailed description provided hereinafter. It should be understood that the detailed description and specific examples, while indicating preferred embodiment(s) of the invention, are intended for purposes of illustration only and are not intended to limit the scope of the invention.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0017] Further features, embodiments, and advantages of the present invention will become apparent from the following detailed description with reference to the drawings, wherein: FIG. 1 is an illustration of a user connecting a swivel-eye snap-sleeve hook device to a pet collar in accordance with one or more preferred embodiments of the present invention;

FIG. 2 is an isometric view of a swivel-eye snap-sleeve hook device in accordance with a first preferred embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 3 is a left side view of the swivel-eye snap-sleeve hook device of FIG. 2;

FIG. 4 is a right side view of the swivel-eye snap-sleeve hook device of FIG. 2;

FIG. 5 is a top view of the swivel-eye snap-sleeve hook device of FIG. 2;

FIG. 6 is a bottom view of swivel-eye snap-sleeve hook device of FIG. 2;

FIG. 7 is a front view of the swivel-eye snap-sleeve hook device of FIG. 2;

FIG. 8 is a rear view of the swivel-eye snap-sleeve hook device of FIG. 2;

FIG. 9 is an exploded left side view of the swivel-eye snap-sleeve hook device of

FIG. 2;

FIG. 10A is a left side cross-sectional view of the swivel-eye snap-sleeve hook device of FIG. 7, taken along line 10-10, showing the swivel-eye snap-sleeve hook device in a closed state;

FIG. 10B is a left side cross-sectional view of the swivel-eye snap-sleeve hook device of FIG. 10A, showing the swivel-eye snap-sleeve hook device in an open state;

FIG. 11 is a left side view of the swivel-eye snap-sleeve hook device of FIG. 10B showing the open swivel-eye snap-sleeve hook device receiving a ring;

FIG. 12 is a left side view of the swivel-eye snap-sleeve hook device after receiving a ring and showing the associated forces which may be applied to the swivel-eye snap-sleeve hook device;

FIG. 13 is a left side cross-sectional view of the swivel-eye snap-sleeve hook device of FIG. 10A, with a swivel axle fabricated to breakaway at a narrowing point;

FIGS. 14 and 15 are side views of swivel axles using alternate embodiment designs;

FIG. 16 illustrates a broken swivel axle of the snap-sleeve hook device of FIG. 16A illustrating the emission of a detectable frequency;

FIG. 17 is a side view of a swivel-eye snap-sleeve hook device in accordance with a second preferred embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 18 is a top view of the swivel-eye snap-sleeve hook device of FIG. 17;

FIG. 19 is a front view of the swivel-eye snap-sleeve hook device of FIG. 17;

FIG. 20A is a side section view of the swivel-eye snap-sleeve hook device of FIG. 19, taken along line 20-20, showing the swivel-eye snap-sleeve hook device in a closed and locked state; FIG. 20B is a left side cross-sectional view of the swivel-eye snap-sleeve hook device of FIG. 20A but showing the structural retaining sleeve system in a closed and unlocked state;

FIG. 20C is a side section view of the swivel-eye snap-sleeve hook device of FIG. 20 A, showing the swivel-eye snap-sleeve hook device in an open state;

FIG. 21 is a side view of a swivel-eye snap-sleeve hook device in accordance with another preferred embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 22A is a left side cross-sectional view of the swivel-eye snap-sleeve hook device of FIG. 21 showing the structural retaining sleeve system in a closed and locked state;

FIG. 22B is a left side cross-sectional view of the swivel-eye snap-sleeve hook device of FIG. 22A but showing the structural retaining sleeve system in a closed and unlocked state;

FIG. 22C, which is a left side cross-sectional view of the swivel-eye snap-sleeve hook device of FIG. 22B but showing the structural retaining sleeve system in an open state.

FIG. 23 is a side view of a dual swivel-eye snap-sleeve hook device in another embodiment where the eye snap bolt is a dual device;

FIG. 24 is a flowchart illustrating a preferred method of use of a swivel-eye snap- sleeve hook device;

FIG. 25 is a flowchart illustrating a third preferred method of use of a swivel-eye snap-sleeve hook device;

FIG. 26 is a flowchart illustrating a second preferred method of use of a swivel-eye snap-sleeve hook device;

FIG. 27 is a flowchart illustrating a fourth preferred method of use of a swivel-eye snap-sleeve hook device; and

FIG. 28 is a flowchart illustrating a fifth preferred method of use of a swivel-eye snap-sleeve hook device.

DFTATT FD DESCRIPTION

[0018] As a preliminary matter, it will readily be understood by one having ordinary skill in the relevant art (“Ordinary Artisan”) that the present invention has broad utility and application. Furthermore, any embodiment discussed and identified as being “preferred” is considered to be part of a best mode contemplated for carrying out the present invention. Other embodiments also may be discussed for additional illustrative purposes in providing a full and enabling disclosure of the present invention. As should be understood, any embodiment may incorporate only one or a plurality of the above-disclosed aspects of the invention and may further incorporate only one or a plurality of the above-disclosed features. Moreover, many embodiments, such as adaptations, variations, modifications, and equivalent arrangements, will be implicitly disclosed by the embodiments described herein and fall within the scope of the present invention.

[0019] Accordingly, while the present invention is described herein in detail in relation to one or more embodiments, it is to be understood that this disclosure is illustrative and exemplary of the present invention, and is made merely for the purposes of providing a full and enabling disclosure of the present invention. The detailed disclosure herein of one or more embodiments is not intended, nor is to be construed, to limit the scope of patent protection afforded the present invention, which scope is to be defined by the claims and the equivalents thereof. It is not intended that the scope of patent protection afforded the present invention be defined by reading into any claim a limitation found herein that does not explicitly appear in the claim itself.

[0020] Thus, for example, any sequence(s) and/or temporal order of steps of various processes or methods that are described herein are illustrative and not restrictive. Accordingly, it should be understood that, although steps of various processes or methods may be shown and described as being in a sequence or temporal order, the steps of any such processes or methods are not limited to being carried out in any particular sequence or order, absent an indication otherwise. Indeed, the steps in such processes or methods generally may be carried out in various different sequences and orders while still falling within the scope of the present invention. Accordingly, it is intended that the scope of patent protection afforded the present invention is to be defined by the appended claims rather than the description set forth herein.

[0021] Additionally, it is important to note that each term used herein refers to that which the Ordinary Artisan would understand such term to mean based on the contextual use of such term herein. To the extent that the meaning of a term used herein— as understood by the Ordinary Artisan based on the contextual use of such term— differs in any way from any particular dictionary definition of such term, it is intended that the meaning of the term as understood by the Ordinary Artisan should prevail.

[0022] Regarding applicability of 35 U.S.C. §112, ^J6, no claim element is intended to be read in accordance with this statutory provision unless the explicit phrase “means for” or“step for” is actually used in such claim element, whereupon this statutory provision is intended to apply in the interpretation of such claim element. [0023] Furthermore, it is important to note that, as used herein,“a” and“an” each generally denotes“at least one,” but does not exclude a plurality unless the contextual use dictates otherwise. Thus, reference to“a picnic basket having an apple” describes“a picnic basket having at least one apple” as well as“a picnic basket having apples.” In contrast, reference to“a picnic basket having a single apple” describes“a picnic basket having only one apple.”

[0024] When used herein to join a list of items,“or” denotes“at least one of the items,” but does not exclude a plurality of items of the list. Thus, reference to“a picnic basket having cheese or crackers” describes “a picnic basket having cheese without crackers,”“a picnic basket having crackers without cheese,” and“a picnic basket having both cheese and crackers.” Finally, when used herein to join a list of items,“and” denotes“all of the items of the list.” Thus, reference to“a picnic basket having cheese and crackers” describes“a picnic basket having cheese, wherein the picnic basket further has crackers,” as well as describes“a picnic basket having crackers, wherein the picnic basket further has cheese.”

[0025] Referring now to the drawings, in which like numerals represent like components throughout the several views, one or more preferred embodiments of the present invention are next described. The following description of one or more preferred embodiment(s) is merely exemplary in nature and is in no way intended to limit the invention, its application, or uses.

[0026] FIG. 1 is an illustration of a user 12 connecting a swivel-eye snap-sleeve hook device 100 to a collar 20 in accordance with one or more preferred embodiments of the present invention. One end of the snap-sleeve hook device 100 is connected to a lead, lease or strap 14 by a swivel system 109. The user 12 is shown connecting the end of the bolt device 100 to the eye 104 of the bolt hook 106, to a ring 26 on the collar 20. The ring 26 in FIG. 1 is shown as a D-ring, but the snap-sleeve hook device 100 can also be connected to other objects, such as a belt loop, mountaineering D-ring, carabiner, sailing rigging, airplane tie down, spearfishing bag, fence post, satellite tether, or other such object(s) that are known by an Ordinary Artisan or in the industry or art, that may be used for the purposes and system as described herein.

[0027] FIG. 2 is an isometric view of the swivel-eye snap-sleeve hook device 100 of FIG. 1, while FIGS. 3-8 are a left side view, a right side view, a top view, a bottom view, a front view, and a rear view, respectively, of the swivel-eye snap-sleeve hook device 100 of FIG. 2. The swivel-eye snap-sleeve hook device 100 includes a bolt 108, a structural retaining collar or sleeve system 115, and a swivel system 109. The components may be made from conventional materials, including metals such as brass, stainless steel, and the like; plastics; and the like. These components are further described hereinbelow.

[0028] The bolt 108 includes a bolt nose 102, a bolt body 105, and a fully captured bolt hook 106. The bolt nose 102 is the front end of the bolt 108, and the bolt body 105 is the main structural area of the bolt 108. The bolt hook 106 includes an eye hole 104, which is used for retaining an object such as a ring 26 on a collar 20 or other objects such as those listed above. In this embodiment, the bolt body 105 and the bolt 108 have a tear-drop shape as perhaps best shown in FIGS. 7 and 8. This tear-drop shape, with its added material, provides additional structural reinforcement to the bolt 108 and helps to prevent the hook bending motion 154 described below.

[0029] The swivel system 109 includes a swivel axle 110, a swivel-eye or ring 114, and a swivel block 112. The swivel axle 110 extends through the swivel-eye or ring 114 such that the swivel-eye or ring 114 can rotate around it. The swivel block 112, which is part of the axle 110, is the cap or rear hub of the swivel system 109 that retains the swivel ring

114 on the swivel axle 110. In the illustrated embodiment, the swivel system 109 is attached to end of the bolt 108, but in some embodiments the swivel axle 110 may be integral with the bolt 108. In various embodiments, the swivel system 109 may have multiple functions. As shown in FIG. 1, the swivel-eye or ring 114 allows the rear end of the snap-sleeve hook device 100 to be attached to the distal end of a strap 14 or other connected object. Such connected objects may include, but are not limited to, leashes, chains, riggings, ropes, lanyards, or other such object(s) that are known by an Ordinary Artisan or in the industry or art, that may be used for the purposes and system as described herein. The swivel axle 110 allows the swivel ring 114 to rotate so that the strap 14 or other connected object does not become twisted, tangle or deformed. Also, in some embodiments, the bolt 108 may be able to swivel around the axle 110. In various embodiments, some of which are described herein, a swivel system may incorporate other functions as well.

[0030] FIG. 9 is an exploded left side view of the swivel-eye snap-sleeve hook device 100 of FIG. 2, and FIG. 10A is a left side cross-sectional view of the swivel-eye snap- sleeve hook device 100 of FIG. 7, taken along line 10-10, showing the structural retaining sleeve system 115 in a closed state. As shown therein, the structural retaining sleeve system

115 includes a retaining sleeve 116, a spring stop 117, a spring 126, and a sleeve grip 128. The sleeve 116 includes an open end and is slotted on both sides so as to receive a ring 26 or other similar object. The interior ends of the slots define a transverse passage that aligns with the eye hole 104 when the sleeve 116 is fully closed, with the open end of the slots being perpendicular relative to the open side of the eye hole 104. In this embodiment, the spring stop 117 is a separate pin or other member that couples or attaches at one end to the structural retaining sleeve 116. The sleeve spring 126, which in this embodiment is a coiled spring, pushes against a second end of the spring stop 117. This forces the sleeve 116 to close over the bolt eye hole 104, thereby closing the swivel-eye snap-sleeve hook device 100 and holding it closed. The spring 126 is disposed within a closed-end channel that preferably includes substantial cylindrical portions. The spring stop 117 can be attached to the retaining sleeve 116 in various locations and via various methods, and the spring stop 117 can be located in various positions around the bolt 108. The retaining spring stop 117 can be designed and made of any material or manufacturing processes that are known by an Ordinary Artisan or in the industry or art, that may be used for the purposes and system as described herein.

[0031] In order to use the snap-sleeve hook device 100 of FIG. 2, the retaining sleeve 116 must be retracted to expose the bolt eye hole 104. In this regard, FIG. 10B is a left side cross-sectional view of the snap-sleeve hook device 100 of FIG. 10 A, showing the structural retaining sleeve system 115 in an open state, and FIG. 11 is a left side view of the snap-sleeve hook device 100 of FIG. 10B showing the open snap-sleeve hook device 100 receiving a ring 26. This is accomplished by applying a force opposite to and greater than the force of the spring 126 while gripping the bolt 108. The force applied to the retaining sleeve 116 is translated to the spring 126 via the spring stop 117. The user 12 may then manipulate the hook device 100 and/or the ring 26 until the ring 26 is seated within the bolt eye hole 104, at which point the sleeve 116 may be released, with the spring 126 causing the sleeve to snap back into place at the end of the bolt 108. As shown in FIG. 12, the ring 26 is then captured in the bolt eye hole 104 by the sleeve 116. The ring 26 is prevented from escaping the bolt eye hole 104 by the side of the sleeve 116, and is prevented from escaping the sleeve 116 by the bolt nose 102.

[0032] FIG. 13 is a left side cross-sectional view of the swivel-eye snap-sleeve hook device 100 similar to the view of FIG. 10A, but also providing an illustration of some of the associated forces which may be applied to the swivel-eye snap-sleeve hook device 100. The structural retaining sleeve 116 provides structural reinforcement in the form of the sleeve retaining force 150 to the fully captured bolt hook 106, where the structural retaining sleeve 116 restricts any hook bending motion 154 of the fully captured bolt hook 106, when linear force applied to the center of shape axis or tensile force 152 is applied to bolt 108. As shown in FIG. 13, the structural retaining sleeve 116 restricts the hook bending motion 154 and thus stress on the fully captured bolt hook 106, illustrated by hook stress lines 157, is mitigated. Restriction of these forces prevents the bolt hook 106 from breaking along the hook stress lines 157.

[0033] With particular reference again to FIGS. 10A, 10B, 11, and 12, operation of the swivel-eye snap-sleeve hook device 100 involves retracting the sleeve 116 to expose the eye hole 104, thereby permitting the eye hole 104 to accept a ring 26 or other similar connected object. To open the swivel-eye snap-sleeve hook device 100, the user 12 places their finger on the grip 128 and pushes the sleeve 116 back towards the swivel system end of the bolt device 100. As the sleeve 116 slides back, the spring stop 117 puts pressure on the sleeve spring 126, compressing it between the spring stop 117 and the closed end of the spring channel, which in this embodiment is an end of the swivel axle 110. This allows the user 12 to hook an object such as the illustrated ring 26 by manipulating the ring 26 into the eye hole 104 of the bolt hook 106. When the user 12 releases their finger from the grip 128, the force of the spring pushes the pin 117 forward and forces the sleeve back over the bolt hook 106, thereby securing the ring 26 in the eye bolt device 100.

[0034] As shown, for example, in FIG. 10A, it will be appreciated that the swivel axle 110 is of a smaller cross-sectional dimension than the bolt 108. The swivel axle 110 may also be produced from a different material than that of the bolt 108 and/or the sleeve 116. Due at least in part to the smaller cross section and in some embodiments different material composition, the swivel axle 110 is of a specific lower strength than the combined strength of the fully captured bolt hook 106 and the structural retaining sleeve 116 when in the closed position. The swivel axle 110 thus serves as a specific location where the swivel- eye or ring 114 and other portions of the swivel system 109 are designed to detach from the rest of the snap-sleeve hook device 100 in the event that the exceeded maximum tensile force (represented by arrow 152) is applied to the snap-sleeve hook device 100. In other embodiments, the swivel axle 110 may be designed with material that is weaker than the material used to fabricate the body bolt 108 or in a different shape. Still further, the strength or resiliency of the swivel axle 110 may be adjusted by fabricating it with to break away at a narrowing point or section 511.

[0035] FIGS. 14 and 15 are side views of swivel axles 610,710 using alternate embodiment designs. As shown in FIG. 14, a swivel axle 610 can be made with a score line 613, which is used as a specific detach or separation point or as adjustment tuning of the detectable frequency 158 further detailed herewithin. As an alternate embodiment, shown in FIG. 15, strings 715 can be installed on the swivel axle 710 and placed under tension to further change, modify, complement or tune the detectable frequency 158 emitted when the swivel axle 710 detaches due to exceeded maximum tensile force 152 applied. The string 715 can be a copper string, piano wire, glass wire or other such material which would produce the desired detectable frequency 158. To produce a detectable frequency when broken, the swivel axle and the string 715 can be made of any material, dimensions, or manufacturing process that are known by an Ordinary Artisan or in the industry or art, that may be used for the purposes and system as described herein.

[0036] As an alternate embodiment for the breakaway string 715 as shown in FIG. 15, the breakaway string can also be a pre-tone or pre-indicator for breakage of a swivel axle. In one or more pre-indicator embodiment, the breakaway string 715 produces a detectable frequency 158 prior to breaking the swivel axle. In other embodiments, the breakaway string 715 would have a visual indicator that would change in appearance prior to breaking of the swivel axle. The visual indicator could also be scanned by a detector 1000 to alter for potential breakage. With the use of the pre-indicator, a user 12 would be able to be notified that the snap-sleeve hook device 100 was about to break and react accordingly. The pre indicator embodiment of the breakaway string 715 can be made of any material, dimensions, or manufacturing process that are known by an Ordinary Artisan or in the industry of art, that may be used for the purposes and system as described herein.

[0037] In various embodiments of a snap-sleeve hook device, the breakaway feature and function of the swivel axle described herein can also be located, changed to, or incorporated into a swivel block, a swivel ring, or a bolt. The breakaway feature and function of the snap-sleeve hook device that produces a detectable sound can be designed and made of any material or manufacturing processes that are known by an Ordinary Artisan or in the industry or art, that may be used for the purposes and system as described herein.

[0038] In some commercial embodiments, a swivel axle can be manufactured with different materials or dimensions so as to have the swivel axle detach at a pre-designed tensile strength force. Tensile strength is defined as a stress, which is measured as force per unit area. In the International System of Units (SI), the unit is the pascal (Pa) (or a multiple thereof, often megapascals (MPa), or, equivalently to pascals, newtons per square meter (N/m²). Another customary unit of measure are pounds per square inch (lb/in² or psi), or kilo-pounds per square inch (ksi, or sometimes kpsi), which is equal to 1000 psi; kilo-pounds per square inch are commonly used in one country (US), when measuring tensile strengths. Different snap-sleeve hook devices could be strength rated such as 50lbs, 300lbs, lOOOlbs or 4000lbs, and the like.

[0039] In some preferred embodiments, as the swivel axle is broken by an exceeded maximum tensile force 152, the axle emits a detectable frequency 158, which the user 12 hears or is notified by an electronic device, signaling the user 12, that the snap-sleeve hook device 100 has broken. Electronic devices, might include a cell phone, watch, fitness device, or other electronic device capable detecting a particular frequency. The swivel axle can be manufactured with different materials or dimensions so as to have the axle, emit different detectable frequencies pending the strength rating of the snap-sleeve hook device 100

[0040] In this regard, FIG. 16 illustrates a broken swivel axle 110 of the snap- sleeve hook device of FIG. 2 illustrating the emission of a detectable frequency 158. As shown in FIG. 16, the swivel axle 110 has broken due to excess force 152 and has emitted or otherwise produced a detectable sound, which may be at a particular frequency 158. The detectable frequency 158 may be heard by a user 12, to warn the user 12 that the snap-sleeve hook device 100 has broken. However, as shown in FIG. 16, a frequency detector 1000 may be used to detect the failure of the snap-sleeve hook device 100, via a frequency sniffer sensing the detectable frequency 158 that has been emitted by the swivel axle 110. By detaching in a designed location, the snap-sleeve hook device 100 is performing a function of signaling the user 12, together with providing safety for same.

[0041] Once the frequency detector 1000 has detected the frequency 158, emitted by the swivel axle 110, it can then process and or react to the signal 158 with its processors, computer chips, electronics, software and the like. As shown in FIG. 16, the frequency detector 1000 can be in the form of a smart phone, and the frequency 158 may be displayed in a graphic form on the smart phone screen. The frequency detector 1000 may be a smart phone, a frequency counter, a cymometer, or such other device that is known by an Ordinary Artisan or in the industry or art, that may be used for the purposes and system as described herein.

[0042] The features described thus far may be implanted in a variety of alternative embodiments. In this regard, FIG. 17 is a side view of a swivel-eye snap-sleeve hook device 200 in accordance with one or more further preferred embodiments of the present invention, while FIGS. 18 and 19 are a top view and a front view, respectively, of the swivel-eye snap- sleeve hook device 200 of FIG. 17. Similar to the device 100 of FIG. 2, the snap-sleeve hook device 200 of FIGS. 17-19 includes a bolt 208, a structural retaining collar or sleeve system 215, and a swivel system 209. In addition, this snap-sleeve hook device 200 includes a latch or lock system 218. These components are further described hereinbelow.

[0043] The bolt 208 includes a bolt nose 202, a bolt body 205, and a fully captured bolt hook 206. The bolt nose 202 is the front end of the bolt 208, and the bolt body 205 is the main structural area of the bolt 208. The bolt hook 206 creates an eye hole 204, which is used for retaining an object such as a ring 26 on a collar 20 or other objects such as those listed above. In this embodiment, like that of FIG. 2, the bolt body 205 and the bolt

208 have a tear-drop as perhaps best shown in FIG. 19. This tear-drop shape, with its added material, provides additional structural reinforcement to the bolt 208 and helps to prevent the hook bending motion 154 describe above.

[0044] The swivel system 209 includes a swivel axle 210, a swivel-eye or ring 214, and a swivel block 212. The swivel axle 210 extends through the swivel-eye or ring 214 such that the swivel-eye or ring 214 can rotate around it. The swivel block 212, which is part of the axle 210, is the cap or rear hub of the swivel system 209 that retains the swivel ring 214 on the swivel axle 210. In this embodiment, the swivel axle 210 comprises an integral extension from the rear end of the bolt 208, rather than a separately attached component, and thus cannot rotate relative to the bolt 208, but in some embodiments the swivel axle 210 is separately attached to the end of the bolt 208. In various embodiments, the swivel system

209 may have multiple functions. Like the arrangement shown in FIG. 1, the swivel ring 214 of FIG. 17 allows the rear end of the snap-sleeve hook device 200 to be attached to the distal end of a strap 14 or other connected object. The swivel axle 210 allows the swivel ring 214 to rotate so that the strap 14 or other connected object does not become twisted, tangle or deformed. Also, in some embodiments, the bolt may be able to swivel around the axle. In various embodiments, some of which are described herein, a swivel system may incorporate other functions as well.

[0045] FIG. 20A is a left side cross-sectional view of the swivel-eye snap-sleeve hook device 200 of FIG. 19, taken along line 20-20, showing the structural retaining sleeve system 215 in a closed and locked state. As shown therein, the structural retaining sleeve system 215 includes a retaining sleeve 216, a spring stop 217, a spring 226, and a sleeve grip 228. As perhaps best shown in FIG. 17, the sleeve 216 includes an open end and is slotted on both sides so as to receive a ring 26 or other similar object. The interior ends of the slots define a transverse passage that aligns with the eye hole 204 when the sleeve 216 is fully closed, with the open end of the slots being perpendicular relative to the open side of the eye hole 204. In this embodiment, the spring stop 217 is an internal structural member of the sleeve 216. The sleeve spring 226, which in this embodiment is a coiled spring, pushes against the spring stop 217. This forces the sleeve 216 to close over the bolt eye hole 204, thereby closing the swivel-eye snap-sleeve hook device 200 and holding it closed. The spring 226 is disposed within a closed-end channel that preferably includes substantial cylindrical portions. The spring stop 217 can be situated in the retaining sleeve 216 in various locations. The retaining spring stop 217 can be designed and made of any material or manufacturing processes that are known by an Ordinary Artisan or in the industry or art, that may be used for the purposes and system as described herein.

[0046] In order to use the snap-sleeve hook device 200 of FIG. 17, the retaining sleeve 216 must be retracted to expose the bolt eye hole 204. In this regard, FIG. 20C is a left side cross-sectional view of the snap-sleeve hook device 200 of FIG. 2, showing the structural retaining sleeve system 215 in an open state. This is accomplished by applying a force opposite to and greater than the force of the spring 226 while gripping the bolt 208. The force applied to the retaining sleeve 216 is translated to the spring 226 via the spring stop 217. The user 12 may then manipulate the hook device 200 and/or the ring 26 until the ring 26 is seated within the bolt eye hole 204, at which point the sleeve 216 may be released, with the spring 226 causing the sleeve 216 to snap back into place at the end of the bolt 208. The ring 26 is then captured in the bolt eye hole 204 by the sleeve 216. The ring 26 is prevented from escaping the bolt eye hole 204 by the side of the sleeve 216, and is prevented from escaping the sleeve 216 by the bolt nose 202.

[0047] As noted previously, the snap-sleeve hook device 200 of FIG. 17 also includes a latch or lock system 218. The latch or lock system 218 includes a lock actuator 220, a coiled spring 224, and a lock lever grip 222. In the illustrated embodiment, the lock actuator 220 is a lock lever, but in other embodiments different structures or mechanisms may be utilized instead. As noted previously, FIG. 20A shows the lock system 218 in the locked state. In this state, the pressure from the locking spring 224 forces the lock lever 220 into an angled, elevated, position. In this elevated position, one end of the lock lever 220 abuts the retaining sleeve 216, thus preventing the sleeve 216 from being moved away from the bolt eye hole 204, and thereby“locking” the sleeve system in the closed state. To unlock or release the lock system 218, the user 12 presses down on the lock lever 220 via the lock lever grip 222. As the lock lever 220 is pushed from an angled, elevated position to a level position, the spring 224 is compressed into the bolt 208. This is illustrated in FIG. 20B, which is a left side cross-sectional view of the swivel-eye snap-sleeve hook device 200 of FIG. 20A but showing the structural retaining sleeve system 215 in a closed and unlocked state. In the level position, the lock lever 220 no longer abuts the sleeve 216, and the user 12 can simultaneously slide the retaining sleeve 216 away from the eye hole 204, and over the depressed lock lever 220. This is illustrated in FIG. 20C, which is a left side cross-sectional view of the swivel-eye snap-sleeve hook device 200 of FIG. 20B but showing the structural retaining sleeve system 215 in an open state. Once the sleeve 216 has been retracted along the bolt 208, the user 12 may then hook a ring 26 or other object into the eye hole 204. Subsequently, when the user 12 releases the sleeve 216, the sleeve spring 226 forces the sleeve 216 closed. Once the sleeve 216 closes, it is no longer pushing down on the lock lever 220, and thus the locking spring 224 forces the lock lever 220 back into the locked position illustrated in FIG. 20A.

[0048] Similar to operation of the device 100 of FIG. 2, operation of the swivel- eye snap-sleeve hook device 200 of FIG. 17 involves retracting the sleeve 216 to expose the eye hole 204, thereby permitting the eye hole 204 to accept a ring 26 or other similar object. To open the swivel-eye snap-sleeve hook device 200, the user 12 places their finger on the lock lever grip 222 and depresses the lock lever 220 while simultaneously pushing the sleeve 216 back towards the swivel system end of the bolt device 200. The user 12 may find the grip 228 useful in this process. As the sleeve 216 slides back, the spring stop 217 puts pressure on the sleeve spring 226, compressing it between the spring stop 217 and the closed end of the spring channel. This allows the user 12 to hook an object such as the illustrated ring 26 by manipulating the ring 26 into the eye hole 204 of the bolt hook 206. When the user 12 releases their finger from the grip 228 or otherwise releases the sleeve 216, the force of the spring pushes the spring stop 217 forward and forces the sleeve 216 back over the bolt hook 206, thereby securing the ring 26 in the eye bolt device 200. Furthermore, as the sleeve 216 snaps back over the bolt nose 202, the lock lever 220 is released, as described in detail above, and the lock system 218 returns to the locked position.

[0049] In various other embodiments of a snap-sleeve hook device, the lock system may utilize a detent device, a ball detent, or locking button located within the retaining sleeve. The lock system may serve as the second stage of a two stage system of any design, means or method that are known by any ordinary artisan or in the industry or art, and that may be used for the purposes and system as described herein.

[0050] FIG. 21 is a left side view of a swivel-eye snap-sleeve hook device 400 in accordance with one or more further preferred embodiments of the present invention, and FIG. 22A is a left side cross-sectional view of the swivel-eye snap-sleeve hook device 400 of FIG. 21 showing the structural retaining sleeve system 415 in a closed and locked state. Similar to the device 200 of FIG. 17, this snap-sleeve hook device 400 includes a bolt 408, a structural retaining collar or sleeve system 415, a swivel system 409, and a latch or lock system 418. Although different in form, the bolt 408, the structural retaining collar or sleeve system 415, the swivel system 409, and the latch or lock system 418 each incorporate many features described previously with respect to other embodiments. The bolt 408 includes a bolt nose 402, a bolt body 405, and a fully captured bolt hook 406 which creates an eye hole 404. The swivel system 409 includes a swivel axle 410, a swivel-eye or ring 414, and a swivel block 412. The structural retaining sleeve system 415 includes a retaining sleeve 416, a spring stop 417, a spring 426, and a sleeve grip 428. Notably, the bolt 408 has bolt slide rails 401, and the retaining sleeve 416 is shaped to fit around, and move relative to, the slide rails 401, thereby providing smooth movement and operation.

[0051] The latch or lock system 418 of this device 400 operates somewhat differently from that of the device 200 of FIG. 17. As shown in FIG. 22A, the lock system 418 includes a lock actuator 420, a leaf spring 424, and a lock actuator grip 422. In this state, the natural bias of the leaf spring 424 forces the lock actuator 420 into an elevated position. In this elevated position, one end of the lock actuator 420 abuts the retaining sleeve 416, thus preventing the sleeve 416 from being moved away from the bolt eye hole 404, and thereby“locking” the sleeve system in the closed state. To unlock or release the lock system 418, the user 12 presses down on the lock actuator 420 via the lock actuator grip 422. As the lock actuator 420 is pushed from an elevated position to a depressed position, the spring 424 is compressed or flattened into the bolt 408. This is illustrated in FIG. 22B, which is a left side cross-sectional view of the swivel-eye snap-sleeve hook device 400 of FIG. 22A but showing the structural retaining sleeve system 415 in a closed and unlocked state. In the depressed position, the lock actuator 420 no longer abuts the sleeve 416, and the user 12 can simultaneously slide the retaining sleeve 416 away from the eye hole 404, and over the depressed lock actuator 420. This is illustrated in FIG. 22C, which is a left side cross- sectional view of the swivel-eye snap-sleeve hook device 400 of FIG. 22B but showing the structural retaining sleeve system 415 in an open state. Once the sleeve 416 has been retracted along the bolt 408, the user 12 may then hook a ring 26 or other object into the eye hole 404. Subsequently, when the user 12 releases the sleeve 416, the sleeve spring 426 forces the sleeve 416 closed. Once the sleeve 416 closes, it is no longer pushing down on the lock actuator 420, and thus the locking leaf spring 424 forces the lock lever 420 back into the locked position illustrated in FIG. 22A. [0052] FIG. 23 is a side view of a dual swivel-eye snap-sleeve hook device 800 in another embodiment where the swivel-eye snap-sleeve hook device 400 is a dual device 800. The device has two bolts 408, two lock systems 418, two retaining sleeve systems 415 and an alternate swivel system 809. The swivel system has a dual axle 810 which acts as a connector between the two bolt bodies 400. With this dual bolt device 800, both the front and rear end of the snap-sleeve hook device 800, may be manually connected and disconnected to an object.

[0053] In general, a user 12 makes use of any of the various devices described herein as follows. Firs, with one hand, the user 12 unlocks the lock system (if a lock system is part of the embodiment in use), and simultaneously or shortly thereafter slides the sleeve to the open position. The user then utilizes the bolt hook to capture an object such as a ring 26 in the bolt eye hole. Once the ring 26 is positioned therein, the user releases the sleeve, thus securing the swivel-eye snap-sleeve hook device onto the object. FIGS. 24-28 are flowcharts illustrating various specific methods of operation for different embodiments of the snap- sleeve hook device, with FIG. 24 being a flowchart illustrating a preferred method of basic use of a swivel-eye snap-sleeve hook device. Generally, in the various methods of use described herein, a user can operate the snap-sleeve hook device with one hand or with two hands, but preferably the device permits the user to carry out operation of the device with only one hand, thereby freeing the user’s other hand for other functions.

[0054] FIG. 25 is a flowchart illustrating a second preferred method of use of a swivel-eye snap-sleeve hook device. A user 12 takes the snap-sleeve hook device, which is initially in the closed position, in one hand. The user 12 then slides the structural retaining sleeve back to the open position. Next, the user 12 then may clip the snap-sleeve hook device to a ring on a pet collar or other object. Once the object is clipped in place, the user 12 releases the structural retaining sleeve and the sleeve slides back into the closed position, thus connecting the snap-sleeve hook device to the object 26. Subsequently, when a sufficient amount of force is applied to the snap-sleeve hook device, such as by a large dog straining at a leash, the swivel axle is designed to detach, or a portion is designed to break. When the swivel axle detaches or breaks, it produces a detectable sound, which may be at a particular frequency, and the snap-sleeve hook device body is disconnected from the swivel system, thus freeing the dog from the strap 14 or other similar object connected to the swivel ring.

[0055] FIG. 26 is a flowchart illustrating a third preferred method of use of a swivel-eye snap-sleeve hook device. A user 12 takes the snap-sleeve hook device, which is initially in the closed position, in one hand. The user 12 then unlocks the lock system and slides the structural retaining sleeve back to the open position. Next, the user 12 then may clip the snap-sleeve hook device to a ring on a pet collar or other object. Once the object is clipped in place, the user 12 releases the structural retaining sleeve and the sleeve slides back into the closed position, thus connecting the snap-sleeve hook device to the object 26. Subsequently, when a sufficient amount of force is applied to the snap-sleeve hook device, such as by a large dog straining at a leash, the swivel axle is designed to detach, or a portion is designed to break. When the swivel axle detaches or breaks, a detectable sound is produced, which may be at a particular frequency, and the snap-sleeve hook device body is disconnected from the swivel system, thus freeing the dog from the strap 14 or other similar object connected to the swivel ring.

[0056] FIG. 27 is a flowchart illustrating a fourth preferred method of use of a swivel-eye snap-sleeve hook device. A user 12 takes the snap-sleeve hook device, which is initially in the closed position, in one hand. The user 12 then unlocks the lock system and slides the structural retaining sleeve back to the open position. Next, the user 12 then may clip the snap-sleeve hook device to a ring on a pet collar or other object. Once the object is clipped in place, the user 12 releases the structural retaining sleeve and the sleeve slides back into the closed position, thus connecting the snap-sleeve hook device to the object 26. Subsequently, when a sufficient amount of force is applied to the snap-sleeve hook device, such as by a large dog straining at a leash, the swivel axle is designed to detach, or a portion is designed to break. When the swivel axle detaches or breaks, the strings produce a detectable frequency, and the snap-sleeve hook device body is disconnected from the swivel system, thus freeing the dog from the strap 14 or other similar object connected to the swivel ring.

[0057] FIG. 28 is a flowchart illustrating a fifth preferred method of use of a swivel-eye snap-sleeve hook device. A user 12 takes the snap-sleeve hook device, which is initially in the closed position, in one hand. The user 12 then unlocks the lock system and slides the structural retaining sleeve back to the open position. Next, the user 12 then may clip the snap-sleeve hook device to a ring on a pet collar or other object. Once the object is clipped in place, the user 12 releases the structural retaining sleeve and the sleeve slides back into the closed position, thus connecting the snap-sleeve hook device to the object 26. Subsequently, when a sufficient amount of force is applied to the snap-sleeve hook device, such as by a large dog straining at a leash, the swivel axle is designed to detach, or a portion is designed to break. When the swivel axle detaches or breaks, a detectable frequency is produced, which may be generated by strings breaking, and the snap-sleeve hook device body is disconnected from the swivel system, thus freeing the dog from the strap 14 or other similar object connected to the swivel ring. The detectable frequency produced by the snap- sleeve hook device is then detected by frequency detector 1000.

[0058] It will be appreciated that the systems, devices, and methods described herein may be used all together, separately, or in various combinations. The systems may be used for a snap-sleeve hook device based on the use of the various components and manufacturing processes of the Present Invention.

[0059] Based on the foregoing information, it will be readily understood by those persons skilled in the art that the present invention is susceptible of broad utility and application. Many embodiments and adaptations of the present invention other than those specifically described herein, as well as many variations, modifications, and equivalent arrangements, will be apparent from or reasonably suggested by the present invention and the foregoing descriptions thereof, without departing from the substance or scope of the present invention.

[0060] Accordingly, while the present invention has been described herein in detail in relation to one or more preferred embodiments, it is to be understood that this disclosure is only illustrative and exemplary of the present invention and is made merely for the purpose of providing a full and enabling disclosure of the invention. The foregoing disclosure is not intended to be construed to limit the present invention or otherwise exclude any such other embodiments, adaptations, variations, modifications or equivalent arrangements; the present invention being limited only by the claims appended hereto and the equivalents thereof.

Claims

What is claimed is:

1 A snap-sleeve hook device for use with pets, comprising:

(a) an elongated bolt having a bolt body with an eye hole, penetrating through the bolt body, disposed at a distal end thereof and having an opening to a side of the bolt in a direction generally perpendicular to a primary axis of the bolt body, wherein the eye hole and distal end of the bolt body define a bolt hook; and

(b) a structural retaining sleeve system including a spring, a sleeve that fits around the bolt body, including the eye hole, and that is forced by the spring toward the distal end of the bolt body such that the sleeve is disposed around the bolt hook and fully covers the opening to the eye hole in the side of the bolt;

(c) wherein the sleeve is longitudinally adjustable between a first position, wherein the sleeve is disposed around the bolt hook and fully closes the opening to the eye hole in the side of the bolt, and a second position, wherein the sleeve is retracted against the force of the spring to uncover the opening to the eye hole in the side of the bolt; and

(d) wherein a ring may be inserted into the eye hole while the sleeve is in the second position but retained in the eye hole while the sleeve is in the first position.

2. The snap-sleeve hook device of Claim 1, further comprising a swivel system at a proximal end of the elongated bolt.

3. The snap-sleeve hook device of Claim 2, wherein the sleeve includes an open distal end is slotted on opposing sides so as to receive the ring.

4. The snap-sleeve hook device of Claim 3, wherein interior ends of the slots define a transverse passage that aligns with the eye hole when the sleeve is in the first position.

5. The snap-sleeve hook device of Claim 4, wherein the spring is a coiled spring retained within the bolt body.

6. The snap-sleeve hook device of Claim 5, wherein the coiled spring is retained within a closed-end channel in the bolt body that includes substantial cylindrical portions.

7. The snap-sleeve hook device of Claim 5, wherein the sleeve system includes a spring stop that engages a distal end of the spring.

8. The snap-sleeve hook device of Claim 7, wherein the spring stop is a separate pin.

9. The snap-sleeve hook device of Claim 7, wherein the spring stop is a structural member of the sleeve.

10. The snap-sleeve hook device of Claim 5, wherein the sleeve includes a grip along a side thereof.

11. The snap-sleeve hook device of Claim 10, wherein the grip is on the side of the sleeve opposite the opening in the side of the bolt body.

12. The snap-sleeve hook device of Claim 5, further comprising a latch or lock system that maintains the sleeve in the first position unless the latch or lock system is separately actuated.

13. The snap-sleeve hook device of Claim 12, wherein the latch or lock system includes a lock actuator and a second spring, wherein the second spring forces the lock actuator into engagement with the sleeve when the sleeve is in its first position, thereby preventing the sleeve from being longitudinally adjusted to its second position.

14. The snap-sleeve hook device of Claim 13, wherein the lock actuator is a lever that may be depressed from an angled position to a flat position against the force of the second spring.

15. The snap-sleeve hook device of Claim 13, wherein the lock actuator may be pressed inward against the force of the second spring.

16. The snap-sleeve hook device of Claim 13, wherein the second spring is a coiled spring.

17. The snap-sleeve hook device of Claim 13, wherein the second spring is a leaf spring.

18. The snap-sleeve hook device of Claim 4, wherein the bolt, including the bolt body, has a generally tear-shaped cross-section.

19. The snap-sleeve hook device of Claim 4, wherein the swivel system includes a swivel axle and a swivel-eye or ring that rotates around the swivel axle.

20. The snap-sleeve hook device of Claim 19, wherein the swivel axle has a cross-section that is smaller than a cross-section of the bolt and is arranged to break under a lower amount of force than the amount of force required to break the bolt or sleeve.

21. The snap-sleeve hook device of Claim 19, wherein the swivel axle has a score line that causes the swivel axle to be arranged to break under a lower amount of force than the amount of force required to break the bolt or sleeve.

22. The snap-sleeve hook device of Claim 19, wherein the swivel axle has a midsection that has a cross-section that is smaller than a cross-section of the bolt and is arranged to break under a lower amount of force than the amount of force required to break the bolt or sleeve.

23. The snap-sleeve hook device of Claim 19, wherein the swivel axle is arranged to break under a lower amount of force than the amount of force required to break the bolt or sleeve, and wherein the swivel axle is arranged to produce an identifiable sound if broken.

24. The snap-sleeve hook device of Claim 23, wherein the identifiable sound is produced at a particular frequency.

25. The snap-sleeve hook device of Claim 24, wherein the frequency is audible and may be recognized by a user.

26. The snap-sleeve hook device of Claim 24, wherein the frequency is audible and may be recognized by a detector.

27. The snap-sleeve hook device of Claim 26, wherein the frequency is audible and may be recognized by a smart phone.

28. The snap-sleeve hook device of Claim 23, wherein the swivel axle includes one or more strings held under tension,

29. The snap-sleeve hook device of Claim 28, wherein breaking the swivel axle includes breaking the one or more strings, and the identifiable sound that is produced includes the sound of the one or more strings breaking.

30. The snap-sleeve hook device of Claim 28, wherein the one or more strings are arranged to break prior to the swivel axle breaking, thereby providing a user with an indication that breakage of the swivel axle is imminent.

31. A pet restraint comprising any of the snap-sleeve hook devices of Claim 1-30 attached at a distal end of a pet leash.

32. A method of using any of the snap-sleeve hook devices of Claim 1-30.