Dog Waste Collection Assembly with Angled Handle and Spring-Actuated Jaws
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing collection devices for animal feces often require users to directly handle waste, which can be unsanitary and inconvenient, as they do not efficiently capture waste without manual intervention.
Innovation Solution
A dog waste collection device featuring a handle with a downward angle, pivotally coupled jaws, and bag openers that allow a plastic bag to be positioned around the jaws, enabling the device to open and close automatically to collect waste without user contact.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Object-affected harmful factors
If existing collection devices are used, then waste collection function is provided, but user must directly handle waste which is unsanitary and inconvenient
Solution Approach 1:
A plastic bag is introduced as an intermediary element between the user and the waste. The bag is positioned around the jaws and opens automatically when the jaws open, allowing waste to be deposited inside the bag without the user needing to touch it. The bag acts as a mediator that transfers the waste collection function while protecting the user from direct contact with harmful waste materials.
Solution Approach 2:
The device performs self-service by automatically opening and closing the jaws through a spring mechanism. When the trigger is pulled, the spring releases to open the jaws automatically without requiring manual manipulation of the waste. The system serves itself by using the trigger activation to drive the jaw opening action, eliminating the need for direct user handling of waste.
2Extent of automation
If manual intervention is used to handle waste, then waste collection is achieved, but it requires direct user contact which is unsanitary
Solution Approach 1:
The spring mechanism provides self-service by automatically converting the trigger pull into jaw opening motion. The spring is pre-loaded and automatically releases to open the jaws when activated, eliminating the need for complex motorized or electronically controlled opening mechanisms. This mechanical self-service approach achieves automation while maintaining simplicity.
Solution Approach 2:
The spring acts as a mechanical intermediary that translates the simple trigger pull into the complex motion of opening the jaws. Instead of requiring direct user manipulation of the jaws, the spring mediates the force transmission and motion conversion, providing automatic jaw opening through a simple intermediate mechanical element.
3Ease of manufacture
If the device structure is simplified, then ease of manufacture is improved, but the ability to automatically open and close jaws may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The spring mechanism provides reliable automatic jaw opening through a simple, proven mechanical design. The pre-loaded spring automatically releases to open the jaws when the trigger is pulled, providing consistent and reliable operation without requiring complex control systems. This self-service mechanical approach maintains reliability while keeping the structure simple and easy to manufacture.
Solution Approach 2:
The complex control system for jaw opening is extracted and replaced with a simple spring mechanism. Instead of using motors, sensors, or electronic controls, the patent extracts the essential function of jaw opening and achieves it through a single pre-loaded spring element, simplifying the overall device structure while maintaining operational reliability.
Data Source
AI summary
A dog waste collection assembly includes a handle that has a downward angle between a grip and a head. Thus, the head can be positioned beneath a dog when the dog is defecating and the grip being gripped. A pair of jaws is each pivotally coupled to the head. Each of the jaws is positionable between a closed and an open position. A pair of bag openers is each coupled to a respective one of the jaws and a bag can be positioned around each of the bag openers. An opening unit is movably coupled to the handle and the opening unit is in mechanical communication with the jaws. The opening unit urges the jaws into the open position when the opening unit is manipulated. Thus, the jaws open the bag for receiving the dog waste.