Animal husbandry – Confining or housing – Pen or rack
Reexamination Certificate
1999-07-12
2001-05-15
Jordan, Charles T. (Department: 3644)
Animal husbandry
Confining or housing
Pen or rack
C119S753000, C119S028500
Reexamination Certificate
active
06230657
ABSTRACT:
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
1. Field of the Invention
The present invention relates to a table for use in connection with the examination of animals, humans or other objects. The examination table comprises a level surface, lift mechanism and shroud which have particular utility in connection with the examination of animals or other creatures or objects which may be difficult to lift or uncooperative to examination table positioning.
2. Description of Related Information
Examination tables have long been known in the art, and a wide array of such apparati are used for the examination of humans. Many of these tables have tilt mechanisms, and some may be moved up and down to assist patients in positioning themselves on the table. Unlike animals, most humans are cognizant of the examination table, and can cooperate with or at least not hinder positioning on the table.
Animal examination tables have generally not employed lift mechanisms. Traditionally, animals have had to be lifted up to the examination surface. Additionally, such features as a tilt mechanism are not critical to the examination of animals. An examination table for humans that incorporates a lift device is not readily adapted for animals. Apart from the examination table dimensions, an animal generally does not comprehend why an examination table is being raised, may be feared by the movement, and may attempt to leave the examination surface.
In animal hospitals or clinics, the lifting and handling of large animals can be dangerous for both the animal and the handler. Aside from being heavy and difficult to lift, the animal may be uncooperative, and exhibit responses of fear or apprehension that may injure or otherwise endanger the handler. Additionally, the animal may fall off the table during the transition or may move off the table.
A need exists, therefore, for an apparatus that allows an animal or other uncooperative object to be easily lifted to examination height. A need also exists for an apparatus that will prevent an animal or object from injuring or endangering the handler or exiting the examination area.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
The apparatus of the present invention overcomes the above-mentioned disadvantages and drawbacks which are characteristic of the related information. The present invention comprises an examination surface that rests on a lift that moves the examination table in a vertical direction. The examination surface has a starting position that allows an animal to step on the surface without being lifted. The examination surface may then be raised to a height that allows ease of examination.
To prevent the animal from leaving the examination surface, a shroud surrounds the examination surface. In the present embodiment, the shroud comprises an open-top box with a hinged door in one side. The door is opened to allow the animal to be positioned on the examination surface. The animal may be lead through the door by means of a leash. The door is then closed, preventing the animal from jumping off the examination table while it is being raised.
Numerous objects, features and advantages of the present invention will be readily apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art upon a reading of the following detailed description of presently preferred, but nonetheless illustrative, embodiments of the present invention when taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings.
REFERENCES:
patent: D. 294752 (1988-03-01), Palier
patent: 3575407 (1971-04-01), Carson
patent: 4934320 (1990-06-01), Cresap, III
patent: 5072694 (1991-12-01), Haynes et al.
patent: 5140947 (1992-08-01), Bruce
patent: 5511259 (1996-04-01), Tarara
patent: 5535466 (1996-07-01), Snell
patent: 5740884 (1998-04-01), DiMuccu et al.
Jordan Charles T.
Locke Liddell & Sapp LLP
Shaw Elizabeth
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