WO2022248088A1

WO2022248088A1 - Pet restraint in vehicle

Info

Publication number: WO2022248088A1
Application number: PCT/EP2022/054282
Authority: WO
Inventors: Susan MCCRUDDEN
Original assignee: Handipod Limited
Priority date: 2021-05-26
Filing date: 2022-02-21
Publication date: 2022-12-01
Also published as: GB202107464D0

Abstract

A restraint for attaching to a vehicle, for attachment of an animal harness (101), said restraint comprising at least one linear strap (604, 614) for attaching to at least one ISOFIX anchor point at a base of a vehicle seat (1052, 105, 851, 852); a first attachment means for attaching said at least one linear strap (604, 614) to a first ISOFIX anchor point (400) at a base of said vehicle seat (851); a second attachment means for attaching said at least one linear strap (604, 614) to a second ISOFIX anchor point (401) at a base of said vehicle seat (851); at least one strap (613) for attaching to another portion of said vehicle seat (851); a third attachment means (200, 201, 850) for attaching said at least one strap (613) to another portion of said vehicle seat (851); and a loop or ring (600) for attaching said animal harness (101) to said restraint.

Description

PET RESTRAINT IN VEHICLE

Field of the Invention

[0001] The present invention relates to a restraint for attaching to a vehicle, for attachment of an animal harness.

Background of the Invention

[0002] There are many instances in which animals may need be transported by vehicle, such as when travelling to and from the vet, travelling to a location for exercise with the animal, moving to a new house, or travelling on holiday. When an animal is to be transported by vehicle, it is important the animal is suitably restrained so that it cannot distract the driver, or cause injury to itself or others in the event of an emergency stop or accident. Some examples of suitable restraints for animals are seat belt harnesses, pet carriers, cages, and guards. One such example of a common style of seat belt harness is shown in Figure 1 .

[0003] Referring to Figure 1 of the accompanying drawings, there is illustrated schematically a prior art seat belt harness for dogs. The seat belt harness comprises a conventional dog harness 101 ; and a fabric loop 102 that is attached to the back of the harness. In use, the dog 100 located on the seat 105, wears the harness 101 , the fabric loop 102 is wrapped around a conventional passenger seat belt 103 that is plugged into a buckle 104.

[0004] Referring to Figure 2 of the accompanying drawings, most cars and other passenger vehicles are provided with anchor points 200, 201 located on the reverse of left and right passenger seats to which a child seat can be readily affixed. The position, spacing and construction of these anchor points is generally governed by the International Organization for Standardisation standard ISO 16216, which specifies the anchoring system for Group 1 child safety seats in passenger cars. Anchor points made to this standard are known as ISOFIX, or the International Standards Organization Fix in many countries. The ISOFIX system has other regional names including LATCH (Lower Anchors and Tethers for Children) in the United States of America, LUAS (Lower Universal Anchorage System) or Canfix in Canada and UCSSS (Universal Child Safety Seat System).

[0005] Referring to Figure 3 of the accompanying drawings, there is illustrated schematically a prior art ISOFIX anchor point of the type typically located on the reverse of a passenger seat 300 comprising an inlet region 302 and a substantially horizontal bar located across the inlet region 303.

[0006] Figure 4 of the accompanying drawings illustrates the location of two ISOFIX anchor points 400, 401 on the of right passenger seat. There is an ISOFIX anchor point located at both the lower left and right corner of the seat back. Advantageously, there may be a hinged cover over each ISOFIX anchor point to prevent dust and dirt from collecting in the inlet of the ISOFIX anchor point.

[0007] Referring to Figure 5 of the accompanying drawings, there is illustrated schematically a prior art ISOFIX anchor point of the type typically located on the lower corner of a passenger seat 501 comprising an inlet region 502 and a substantially horizontal bar located across the inlet region 503. There is also shown a cover 504 attached to the upper edge of the ISOFIX anchor point by a hinge mechanism 505.

[0008] ISOFIX anchor points are typically used to attach child safety seats to a vehicle through the use of ISOFIX compatible connectors. ISOFIX compatible connectors typically comprise a substantially U-shaped rigid plate and a spring latch mechanism located in the inlet of the substantially U-shaped plate, such that the spring latch opens when the ISOFIX compatible connector is being attached to the ISOFIX anchor point but the spring latch is locked in use when the ISOFIX compatible connector is connected to the ISOFIX anchor point. Child safety seats are usually secured by at least two ISOFIX connectors located on the bottom left and right sections of the child seat that are substantially in contact with a seat back and optionally by a top tether attachment which may be affixed to a third ISOFIX anchor point located on the reverse of the seat back. Summary of the Invention

[0009] Problems with known ways of restraining animals in vehicles (such as that shown in Figure 1) are that animals can move around the seats; bulky equipment takes up excessive space in the vehicle or is difficult to move in and out of the vehicle. Some prior art is expensive, complicated and/or difficult to manufacture.

[0010] According to a first aspect there of the present invention, there is provided a restraint for attaching to a vehicle, for attachment of an animal harness, said restraint comprising: at least one linear strap for attaching to at least one ISOFIX anchor point at a base of a vehicle seat; a first attachment means for attaching said at least one linear strap to a first ISOFIX anchor point at a base of said vehicle seat; a second attachment means for attaching said at least one linear strap to a second anchor point at a base of said vehicle seat; at least one strap for attaching to another portion of said vehicle seat; a third attachment means for attaching said at least one strap to another portion of said vehicle seat; and an attachment means for attaching said animal harness to said restraint.

[0011] Preferably the attachment means comprises two linear straps at the base of said restraint. [0012] Preferably the attachment means comprises one strap at the top of said restraint.

[0013] Optionally, said another portion of said vehicle seat is a headrest of said vehicle seat.

[0014] Additionally, said third attachment means comprises said strap formed in a loop shape, such that said strap may be hooked over said headrest.

[0015] Alternatively, said another portion of said vehicle seat is an ISOFIX anchor point located on the reverse of said vehicle seat.

[0016] Additionally, said third attachment means comprises a connector.

[0017] Preferably, said restraint further comprises a ring attaching to said at least one linear strap, said at least one strap for attaching to another portion of said vehicle seat and said loop or ring for attaching an animal harness to said restraint.

[0018] Preferably, each of said straps are adjustable for length.

[0019] Additionally, in use, preferably said straps are tightened so that said animal restraint cannot move more than 5 cm in any direction. The adjustable straps enable the restraint to be fitted tight up to the seat to prevent significant movement of the restraint relative to the seat. This provides a secure attachment point in the form of the ring or loop, to which the animal can be attached via the harness around the animal and allows the animal to be comfortable within its harness, whilst the harness is attached to a substantially fixed connection point relative to the seat.

[0020] Preferably, said straps may be made from a material or materials chosen from the set: a natural material; a synthetic material; a knitted material; a woven material; a recycled plastic; a bamboo material; a polypropylene webbing; a polymer webbing; or any suitable combination of the above materials.

[0021] Preferably, said first attachment means comprises a connector. [0022] Preferably, said second attachment means comprises a connector.

[0023] Preferably, said attachment means for attaching an animal harness comprises a connector. [0024] Preferably, said connector comprises a rigid body section and a gate opening mechanism.

[0025] Said rigid body section may comprise: an asymmetric D-shaped carabiner; a pear-shaped carabiner; a D-shaped carabiner; an oval-shaped carabiner; a bolt clip; a snap hook; a swivel bolt clip; or a swivel snap hook.

[0026] Said gate opening mechanism may comprise: a straight gate; a straight gate keylock; a bent gate; a bent gate keylock; a wire gate; a screw-locking mechanism; an auto-lock mechanism; or any combination of the above mechanisms.

[0027] Said connector may be made from: a rigid natural material; a rigid synthetic material; a rigid metal.

[0028] The invention includes a restraint for attaching to a vehicle seat for attachment of an animal harness to said seat, said restraint comprising: at least one strap for attaching to at least one anchor point at a base of a vehicle seat; a first attachment means for attaching said at least one strap to a first anchor point at a base of said vehicle seat; a second attachment means for attaching said at least one strap to a second anchor point of said seat; a third attachment means for attaching said at least one strap to a third anchor point of said seat; and an attachment means for attaching said animal harness to said at least one strap.

[0029] It will be appreciated that whilst reference has been made to anchor points made to the aforementioned standard are known as ISOFIX, the present invention also includes anchor points having other regional names including LATCH (Lower Anchors and Tethers for Children) in the United States of America, LUAS (Lower Universal Anchorage System) or Canfix in Canada and UCSSS (Universal Child Safety Seat System). [0030] Also in accordance with the present invention, there is provided a method of restraining an animal in a vehicle using the aforementioned restraint, the method comprising attaching said first attachment means to said first anchor point at the base of said vehicle seat, attaching said second attachment means to said second anchor point at the base of said vehicle seat, attaching said third attachment means to said third anchor point of said vehicle seat, and attaching a harness fitted to the animal to said at least one strap.

[0031] Said third attachment means may be attached to an anchor point provided on the rear of the seat by passing it upwardly and over the top of the seat. Alternatively, said third attachment means may be attached to a head rest provided at the top of the seat.

[0032] The method may comprise attaching a first strap of the restraint to the first anchor point using said first attachment means, attaching a second strap of the restraint to the second anchor point using said second attachment means, attaching a third strap of the restraint to the third anchor point using said third attachment means, and attaching said harness to a ring or other point of the restraint where said straps meet.

[0033] The method may comprise attaching a fourth strap of the restraint to the harness, the forth strap extending from said ring or other point of the restraint where said straps meet. [0034] Also in accordance with the present invention, there is provided a vehicle having a seat provided with first and second anchor points at a base thereof and a third anchor point, the vehicle further comprising the aforementioned restraint having the first, second and third attachment means thereof attached to respective anchor points.

[0035] Other aspects are as set out in the claims herein which are incorporated into this summary of invention by reference. Brief Description of the Drawings

[0036] For a better understanding of the invention and to show how the same may be carried into effect, there will now be described by way of example only, specific embodiments, methods and processes according to the present invention with reference to the accompanying drawings in which:

Figure 1 herein illustrates schematically a prior art seat belt harness for dogs; Figure 2 herein illustrates schematically two prior art ISOFIX anchor points located on the reverse of two passenger seats;

Figure 3 herein illustrates schematically a prior art ISOFIX anchor point located on the reverse of a passenger seat;

Figure 4 herein illustrates schematically two prior art ISOFIX anchor points located on the lower left and right of a passenger seat;

Figure 5 herein illustrates schematically a prior art ISOFIX anchor point located on the lower left of a passenger seat;

Figure 6 herein illustrates schematically a restraint for attaching to a vehicle, for attachment of an animal harness; Figure 7 herein illustrates schematically a restraint for attaching to a vehicle, for attachment of an animal harness in use, according to a first embodiment;

Figure 8 herein illustrates schematically a restraint for attaching to a vehicle, for attachment of an animal harness in use, according to a second embodiment; and Figure 9 herein illustrates schematically a view of the reverse of a passenger seat with the restraint for attaching to a vehicle, for attachment of an animal harness in use, according to the second embodiment. Detailed Description of the Embodiments

[0037] There will now be described by way of example a specific mode contemplated by the inventor. In the following description numerous specific details are set forth in order to provide a thorough understanding. It will be apparent however, to one skilled in the art that the present invention may be practiced without limitation to these specific details. In other instances, well known methods and structures have not been described in detail so as not to unnecessarily obscure the description.

[0038] In the following description, car seat anchorage points for a child or infant seat or like are referred to as ISOFIX points. It will be understood that where ISOFIX anchorage points are referred to these are to be understood to include equivalent anchorage points such as LATCFI, LUAS or UCSSS anchorage points.

[0039] Referring to Figure 6 herein there is illustrated schematically a restraint for attaching to a vehicle, for attachment of an animal harness.

[0040] The restraint comprises a ring 600; an attachment mechanism 601 ; first and second straps 604, 614; first and second lower attachment mechanisms 606, 616; first and second upper attachment mechanisms 625, 627; first and second connectors 624, 626; and a third strap 613.

[0041] The attachment mechanism 601 comprises a rigid loop 603 and a spring-loaded gate opening mechanism 602. The attachment mechanism 601 may be an asymmetric D-shaped carabiner; a pear-shaped carabiner; a D-shaped carabiner; an oval-shaped carabiner; a bolt clip; a snap hook; a swivel bolt clip; a swivel snap hook; or the like. The spring-loaded gate opening mechanism may be a straight gate; a straight gate keylock; a bent gate; a bent gate keylock or a wire gate mechanism. The spring-loaded gate opening mechanism may further comprise a screw-locking mechanism, requiring the user to manually screw a sleeve onto the gate to lock it; or an auto-lock mechanism, the gate locking whenever the gate is closed. Advantageously, the attachment mechanism is chosen such that the rigid loop body size is between 2cm and 20cm; the attachment mechanism is chosen such that the gate open clearance is larger than the thickness of the ring 600. The attachment mechanism 601 may be made from a rigid metal, plastic, natural material, or other substantially rigid material; advantageously, a metal which is non-reactive with water, such as stainless steel or recycled plastic or bamboo.

[0042] In operation, the attachment mechanism is connected to the ring 600 and connected to a ring on an animal harness, such as a D-ring; an O-ring; or a rectangular ring, preferably connected to the back of the harness but alternative connection points such as the front or side of the harness are acceptable.

[0043] The first strap 604 comprises a first end and a second end, a first side, a second side, a first loop at the first end of the first strap, and a second loop at the second end of the first strap. The strap is connected to the ring 600 at the first end and connected to the first lower attachment mechanism 606 at the second end, with a length adjustment mechanism 605 located on the strap. The strap may be made of any suitable material, including natural materials; synthetic materials; natural fabrics; synthetic fabrics; knitted materials; woven materials, preferably recycled plastic, bamboo materials, polypropylene webbing, or other polymer webbing. In the embodiment shown in Figure 3, the strap is folded and sewn at one end into a small loop attached to a strap slide and at another end a small loop attached to a swivel bolt clip. The strap is looped around the ring 600 at the first end. The strap length is adjusted by sliding the strap slide 605 towards the first end or the second end and the strap slide is otherwise held in place by frictional forces between the layers of strap material. Optionally, the strap may further comprise an additional attachment mechanism located at the first end of the strap, connecting the strap 604 to the ring 600. The additional attachment mechanism may be an asymmetric D-shaped carabiner; a pear-shaped carabiner; a D-shaped carabiner; an oval-shaped carabiner; a bolt clip; a snap hook; a swivel bolt clip; a swivel snap hook; or the like.

[0044] The second strap 614 comprises a first end and a second end, a first side, a second side, a first loop at the first end of the second strap, and a second loop at the second end of the second strap. The strap is connected to the ring 600 at the first end and connected to the second lower attachment mechanism 616 at the second end, with a length adjustment mechanism 615 located on the strap. The strap may be made of any suitable material, including natural materials; synthetic materials; natural fabrics; synthetic fabrics; knitted materials; woven materials, preferably recycled plastic, bamboo materials, polypropylene webbing, or other polymer webbing. In the embodiment shown in Figure 3, the strap is folded and sewn at one end into a small loop attached to a strap slide and at another end a small loop attached to a swivel bolt clip. The strap is looped around the ring 600 at the first end. The strap length is adjusted by sliding the strap slide 615 towards the first end or the second end and the strap slide is otherwise held in place by frictional forces between the layers of strap material. Optionally, the strap may further comprise an additional attachment mechanism located at the first end of the strap, connecting the strap 614 to the ring 600. The additional attachment mechanism may be an asymmetric D-shaped carabiner; a pear-shaped carabiner; a D-shaped carabiner; an oval-shaped carabiner; a bolt clip; a snap hook; a swivel bolt clip; a swivel snap hook; or the like.

[0045] The first lower attachment mechanism 606 comprises a substantially rectangular ring rod connector 607 located at a first end of the lower attachment mechanism 606; an elongate bolt clip body 609; and a bolt clip spring mechanism 611 , 612 located at a second end of the lower attachment mechanism. The substantially rectangular rigid rod connector 607 comprises a circular aperture 608, through which a narrower section of the elongate bolt clip body passes, secured in the aperture 608 by a wider elongate bolt clip body 610 on a first and second side of the narrower section. This combination of features may also be referred to as a swivel eye mechanism and the mechanism allows the clip to swivel while the strap 604 remains stationary. The elongate bolt clip body comprises a first linear end, to which the substantially rectangular ring rod connector 607 is connected, and a second hook shaped end, on which the bolt clip spring mechanism 611 , 612 is located. The bolt clip spring mechanism 611 , 612 comprises a single molded L- shaped rigid material located partially inside an elongate slit. Inside the elongate slit there is a spring arranged such that when the mechanism is opened the spring is compressed and when the mechanism is released, the spring forces the clip shut. [0046] In alternative embodiments, the first lower attachment mechanism

606 may be an asymmetric D-shaped carabiner; a pear-shaped carabiner; a D- shaped carabiner; an oval-shaped carabiner; a bolt clip; a snap hook; a swivel bolt clip; a swivel snap hook; or the like, comprising a spring-loaded gate opening mechanism. The spring-loaded gate opening mechanism may be a straight gate; a straight gate keylock; a bent gate; a bent gate keylock or a wire gate mechanism. The spring-loaded gate opening mechanism may further comprise a screw-locking mechanism, requiring the user to manually screw a sleeve onto the gate to lock it; or an auto-lock mechanism, the gate locking whenever the gate is closed. Advantageously, the first lower attachment mechanism is chosen such that the body size is between 2cm and 20cm; the first lower attachment mechanism is chosen such that the gate open clearance is larger than the thickness of a standard horizontal bar in a standard ISOFIX. The first lower attachment mechanism 606 may be made from a rigid metal, plastic, natural material, or other substantially rigid material; advantageously, a metal which is non-reactive with water, such as stainless steel or recycled plastic or bamboo.

[0047] The second lower attachment mechanism 616 comprises a substantially rectangular ring rod connector 617 located at a first end of the lower attachment mechanism 616; an elongate bolt clip body 619; and a bolt clip spring mechanism 621 , 622 located at a second end of the lower attachment mechanism. The substantially rectangular rigid rod connector 617 comprises a circular aperture 618, through which a narrower section of the elongate bolt clip body passes, secured in the aperture 618 by a wider elongate bolt clip body 620 on a first and second side of the narrower section. This combination of features may also be referred to as a swivel eye mechanism and the mechanism allows the clip to swivel while the strap 614 remains stationary. The elongate bolt clip body comprises a first linear end, to which the substantially rectangular ring rod connector 617 is connected, and a second hook shaped end, on which the bolt clip spring mechanism 621 , 622 is located. The bolt clip spring mechanism 621 , 622 comprises a single molded L-shaped rigid material located partially inside an elongate slit. Inside the elongate slit there is a spring arranged such that when the mechanism is opened the spring is compressed and when the mechanism is released, the spring forces the clip shut.

[0048] In alternative embodiments, the second lower attachment mechanism 616 may be an asymmetric D-shaped carabiner; a pear-shaped carabiner; a D-shaped carabiner; an oval-shaped carabiner; a bolt clip; a snap hook; a swivel bolt clip; a swivel snap hook; or the like, comprising a spring-loaded gate opening mechanism. The spring-loaded gate opening mechanism may be a straight gate; a straight gate keylock; a bent gate; a bent gate keylock or a wire gate mechanism. The spring-loaded gate opening mechanism may further comprise a screw-locking mechanism, requiring the user to manually screw a sleeve onto the gate to lock it; or an auto-lock mechanism, the gate locking whenever the gate is closed. Advantageously, the second lower attachment mechanism is chosen such that the body size is between 2cm and 20cm; the second lower attachment mechanism is chosen such that the gate open clearance is larger than the thickness of a standard horizontal bar in a standard ISOFIX. The second lower attachment mechanism 616 may be made from a rigid metal, plastic, natural material, or other substantially rigid material; advantageously, a metal which is non-reactive with water, such as stainless steel or recycled plastic or bamboo.

[0049] The first upper attachment mechanism 625 comprises a substantially rigid body shaped such that two ends of the hook are in contact when in a closed position, with an opening mechanism whereby the two ends may be separated by application of a force, and are biased such that when the force is removed, the ends come back into contact; and a swivel eye mechanism as hereinbefore described located at a first end of the upper attachment mechanism connected to a first elongate ring connector 624. At a second end of the upper attachment mechanism 625, in use there is connected the ring 600.

[0050] In alternative embodiments, the first upper attachment mechanism 625 may be an asymmetric D-shaped carabiner; a pear-shaped carabiner; a D- shaped carabiner; an oval-shaped carabiner; a bolt clip; a snap hook; a swivel bolt clip; a swivel snap hook; or the like, comprising a spring-loaded gate opening mechanism. The spring-loaded gate opening mechanism may be a straight gate; a straight gate keylock; a bent gate; a bent gate keylock or a wire gate mechanism. The spring-loaded gate opening mechanism may further comprise a screw-locking mechanism, requiring the user to manually screw a sleeve onto the gate to lock it; or an auto-lock mechanism, the gate locking whenever the gate is closed. Advantageously, the first upper attachment mechanism is chosen such that the body size is between 2cm and 20cm; the first upper attachment mechanism is chosen such that the gate open clearance is larger than the thickness of the ring 600. The first upper attachment mechanism 625 may be made from a rigid metal, plastic, natural material, or other substantially rigid material; advantageously, a metal which is non-reactive with water, such as stainless steel or recycled plastic or bamboo.

[0051] The second upper attachment mechanism 627 comprises a substantially rigid body shaped such that two ends of the hook are in contact when in a closed position, with an opening mechanism whereby the two ends may be separated by application of a force, and are biased such that when the force is removed, the ends come back into contact; and a swivel eye mechanism as hereinbefore described located at a first end of the upper attachment mechanism connected to a second elongate ring connector 626. At a second end of the upper attachment mechanism 627, in use there is connected the ring 600. [0052] In alternative embodiments, the second upper attachment mechanism 627 may be an asymmetric D-shaped carabiner; a pear-shaped carabiner; a D-shaped carabiner; an oval-shaped carabiner; a bolt clip; a snap hook; a swivel bolt clip; a swivel snap hook; or the like, comprising a spring-loaded gate opening mechanism. The spring-loaded gate opening mechanism may be a straight gate; a straight gate keylock; a bent gate; a bent gate keylock or a wire gate mechanism. The spring-loaded gate opening mechanism may further comprise a screw-locking mechanism, requiring the user to manually screw a sleeve onto the gate to lock it; or an auto-lock mechanism, the gate locking whenever the gate is closed. Advantageously, the second upper attachment mechanism is chosen such that the body size is between 2cm and 20cm; the second upper attachment mechanism is chosen such that the gate open clearance is larger than the thickness of the ring 600. The second upper attachment mechanism 627 may be made from a rigid metal, plastic, natural material, or other substantially rigid material; advantageously, a metal which is non-reactive with water, such as stainless steel or recycled plastic or bamboo.

[0053] The first elongate ring connector 624 joins the first upper attachment mechanism 625 to a first end of the third strap 613 and the second elongate ring connector 626 joins the second upper attachment mechanism 627 to a second end of the third strap 613.

[0054] The third strap 613 comprises a first end and a second end, a first side, a second side, a first loop at the first end of the third strap, and a second loop at the second end of the third strap. The strap may be connected to the ring 600 at the first end and indirectly connected to the ring 600 at the second end, such that the strap forms a loop, with a length adjustment mechanism 623 located on the strap including natural materials; synthetic materials; natural fabrics; synthetic fabrics; knitted materials; woven materials, preferably polypropylene webbing, or other polymer webbing. In the embodiment shown in Figure 3, the strap is folded and sewn into a small loop attached to a strap slide 623 and a small loop attached to the first upper connector 624; and a middle section of the strap is passed through the second upper connector 626. The strap length is adjusted by sliding the strap slide towards the first connector 624 or the second connector 626 and the strap slide is otherwise held in place by frictional forces between the layers of strap material.

Operation of the restraint

[0055] Referring to Figure 8 herein there is illustrated schematically a first embodiment of the restraint in use, showing the animal sat on a seat 851 ; the attachment mechanism 801 connected to a point on a harness worn by an animal and the ring 800; the ring 800 connected to the upper attachment mechanisms 825, 827 and the first and second straps 804, 814; the first length adjustment mechanism 805 located on the first strap 804; the first lower attachment mechanism 806 connected to a first lower ISOFIX anchor point of a seat 852, such that the attachment mechanism is positioned in the ISOFIX anchor point inlet and connected to the horizontal bar of the ISOFIX anchor point; the second lower attachment mechanism connected to a second lower ISOFIX anchor point of the seat similarly; the loop created by the third strap 813 hooked over a headrest 850 of the seat; and a length adjustment mechanism 823 located on the third strap 813.

[0056] Referring to Figure 9 herein there is illustrated schematically a front view of a second embodiment of the restraint in use, showing the animal sat on a seat 851 ; the attachment mechanism 801 connected to a point on a harness worn by an animal and the ring 800; the ring 800 connected to the upper attachment mechanisms 825, 827 and the first and second straps 804, 814; the first length adjustment mechanism 805 located on the first strap 804; the first lower attachment mechanism 806 connected to a first lower ISOFIX anchor point of a seat 852, such that the attachment mechanism is positioned in the ISOFIX anchor point inlet and connected to the horizontal bar of the ISOFIX anchor point; the second lower attachment mechanism connected to a second lower ISOFIX anchor point of the seat similarly; the third strap 813 passed under a headrest 850 of the seat; and a length adjustment mechanism 823 located on the third strap 813. [0057] Referring to Figure 10 herein there is illustrated schematically a view of the reverse of the passenger seat, with the second embodiment of the restraint in use, showing the third strap 1013 passed under a headrest 1050 of the seat; and the upper attachment mechanism 1027 connected to an ISOFIX anchor point located on the reverse of the seat 1052, such that the upper attachment mechanism is positioned in the ISOFIX anchor point inlet and connected to the horizontal bar of the ISOFIX anchor point.

[0058] In each embodiment, all straps are preferably tightened such that the animal wearing the harness cannot move more than 5 cm in any direction, but the animal is comfortable and no vital processes, such as breathing, are restricted. The harness is preferably to be fitted such that the straps are substantially in contact with the seat and tightened to prevent movement of the animal restraint more than 5 cm in any direction.

Advantages

[0059] The restraint herein disclosed comprises a three-point attachment which prevents the animal moving around in the vehicle, which may reduce the distraction of the driver and reduce the risk of injury to any humans travelling in the vehicle and the animal, in the case of rapid acceleration, rapid deceleration, emergency or accident.

[0060] Further, the device is not excessively large or bulky, can easily be transported into and out of the vehicle in a pocket or bag and can be easily stored in the vehicle or left fitted to the car seat when not in use, without hindering the comfortable use of the seat by passengers. Additionally, multiple animals can be transported in the vehicle and can be separated from each other, if required.

[0061] Lastly, the restraint as herein disclosed is advantageously made from recycled plastic or renewable materials, such as bamboo, reducing the environmental impact of the manufacture of the restraint. [0062] To release the animals harness from the restraint involves simply unclipping the animals harness from the ring or loop anchorage point on the restraint. The restraint can be left in place on the seat of the car and does not hinder the usage of the seat by passengers, as it is generally substantially flat and comfortable for a human’s back to rest against when a person sits on the seat with the restraint still attached. As the restraint is connected to the ISOFIX attachment points of the seat, a human person sitting in the seat when the restraint is fitted to the seat, but not in use, can still use the seatbelt and all of the functions of the seat without hindrance or discomfort.

[0063] It will be appreciated that the invention essentially comprises a generally Y-shaped restraint having first, second and third straps which extend from a ring or other central fastening point. The distal ends of the first and second straps are provided with clips for engaging respective ISOFIX or other anchor points provided at the base of the car seat. The distal end of the third strap is provided with a clip that can be engaged with an anchor point provided on the rear of the car seat by passing the strap upwardly and over the back of the seat. Alternatively, the third strap can be secured in a loop around a head restraint support of the seat. Each strap may be adjustable in length to hold the ring or other central fastening point securely against a central portion of the front face of the backrest of the seat. A harness worn by a pet or other animal can then be secured to the ring or other central fastening point of the restraint by means of an adjustable strap which may be provided with the restraint or as part of the harness.

[0064] The restraint of the present invention is different to the known restraints because the natural position of the ring or other central fastening point is against the front of one of the two main seats where the LATCFI/ISOFIX anchor point is located. It should be noted that many countries have mandated that the rear seats of all new cars must be provided with such an anchor point.

[0065] In normal use, known restraint of the kind shown in Figure 1 serve a purpose, but they do not secure an animal against entering the front of a car in the event of heavy braking or an accident. Such restraints do not have a defined anchor point and leave the animal exposed to lateral inertia and movement to the extent that the animal can swing from one seat around the footwell in to the adjacent seat.

[0066] In contrast, the restraint of the the present invention has a clearly defined and fastening point. Although the fastening point is located at a central portion against the front face of the backrest of the seat, the height of the point above the seat base is adjustable full the full height of the seat and thus the position can be tailored to how a user wants their animal to be positioned. The , restraint of the present invention system does not allow for a lateral arc movement and locates the animal in one seat space in a manner which does not allow the animal to be thrust into the footwell.

Claims

1 . A restraint for attaching to a vehicle, for attachment of an animal harness, said restraint comprising: at least one linear strap for attaching to at least one ISOFIX anchor point at a base of a vehicle seat; a first attachment means for attaching said at least one linear strap to a first child seat anchor point at a base of said vehicle seat; a second attachment means for attaching said at least one linear strap to a second anchor point at a base of said vehicle seat; at least one strap for attaching to another portion of said vehicle seat; a third attachment means for attaching said at least one strap to another portion of said vehicle seat; and an attachment means for attaching said animal harness to said restraint.

2. The restraint as claimed in claim 1 , comprising two linear straps at the base of said restraint.

3. The restraint as claimed in claim 1 , comprising one strap at the top of said restraint.

4. The restraint as claimed in claim 1 , wherein said another portion of said vehicle seat is a headrest of said vehicle seat.

5. The restraint as claimed in claim 4, comprising said third attachment means comprises said strap formed in a loop shape, such that said strap may be hooked over said headrest.

6. The restraint as claimed in claim 1 , wherein said another portion of said vehicle seat comprises an ISOFIX anchor point located on the reverse of said vehicle seat.

7. The restraint as claimed in claim 6, wherein said third attachment means comprises a connector.

8. The restraint as claimed in claim 1 , further comprising a ring attaching to said at least one linear strap, said at least one strap for attaching to another portion of said vehicle seat and said loop or ring for attaching an animal harness to said restraint.

9. The restraint as claimed in claim 1 , comprising that said straps are adjustable for length.

10. The restraint as claimed in claim 9, wherein in use, said straps are tightened so that said animal restraint cannot move more than 5 cm in any direction.

11 . The restraint as claimed in claim 1 , comprising said straps being made from a material or materials chosen from the set: a natural material; a synthetic material; a knitted material; a woven material; a recycled plastic; a bamboo material; a polypropylene webbing; a polymer webbing; or any suitable combination of the above materials.

12. The restraint as claimed in claim 1 , wherein said first attachment means is a connector.

13. The restraint as claimed in claim 1 , wherein said second attachment means is a connector.

14. The restraint as claimed in claim 1 , wherein said attachment means for attaching an animal harness is a connector.

15. The restraint as claimed in claims 7 and/or 12 and/or 13 and/or 14, wherein said connector comprises a rigid body section and a gate opening mechanism.

16. The restraint as claimed in claim 15, wherein said rigid body section comprises: an asymmetric D-shaped carabiner; a pear-shaped carabiner; a D-shaped carabiner; an oval-shaped carabiner; a bolt clip; a snap hook; a swivel bolt clip; or a swivel snap hook.

17. The restraint as claimed in claim 15, wherein said gate opening mechanism comprises: a straight gate; a straight gate keylock; a bent gate; a bent gate keylock; a wire gate; a screw-locking mechanism; an auto-lock mechanism; or any combination of the above mechanisms.

18. The restraint as claimed in claims 7 and/or 12 and/or 13 and/or 14 said connector being made from: a rigid natural material; a rigid synthetic material; or a rigid metal.

19. A restraint as claimed in any preceding claim, in which the restraint is generally Y-shaped and comprises first, second and third straps which extend from a ring or other central fastening point, the distal ends of the first and second straps being provided with clips for engaging the respective ISOFIX or other anchor points provided at the base of the car seat.

20. A restraint as claimed in claim 19, in which the distal end of the third strap is provided with a clip that can be engaged with an anchor point provided on the rear of the seat by passing the strap upwardly and over the back of the seat.

21 . A restraint as claimed in claim 19, in which the third strap is securable in a loop around a head restraint of the seat.

22. A restraint for attaching to a vehicle, for attachment of an animal harness, said restraint comprising: at least one strap for attaching to at least one anchor point at a base of a vehicle seat; a first attachment means for attaching said at least one strap to a first anchor point at a base of said vehicle seat; a second attachment means for attaching said at least one strap to a second anchor point of said seat; and a third attachment means for attaching said at least one strap to a third anchor point of said seat; and an attachment means for attaching said animal harness to said at least one strap.

23. A method of restraining an animal in a vehicle using the restraint of any preceding claim, the method comprising attaching said first attachment means to said first anchor point at the base of said vehicle seat, attaching said second attachment means to said second anchor point at the base of said vehicle seat, attaching said third attachment means to said third anchor point of said vehicle seat, and attaching a harness fitted to the animal to said at least one strap.

24. A method as claimed in claim 23, in which said third attachment means is attached to an anchor point provided on the rear of the seat by passing it upwardly and over the top of the seat.

25. A method as claimed in claim 23, in which said third attachment means may be attached to a head rest provided at the top of the seat.

26. A method as claimed in any of claims 23 to 25, comprising attaching a first strap of the restraint to the first anchor point using said first attachment means, attaching a second strap of the restraint to the second anchor point using said second attachment means, attaching a third strap of the restraint to the third anchor point using said third attachment means, and attaching said harness to a ring or other point of the restraint where said straps meet.

27. A method as claimed in claim 26, comprising attaching a fourth strap of the restraint to the harness, the forth strap extending from said ring or other point of the restraint where said straps meet.

28. A vehicle having a seat provided with first and second anchor points at a base thereof and a third anchor point, the vehicle further comprising the restraint of any of claims 1 to 22, wherein the first, second and third attachment means of the restraint are attached to respective anchor points of the vehicle.