Adjustable Dog Waste Scooper With Cable-Operated Claw Mechanism
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing dog poop scoopers require manual handling and bending, are cumbersome for users with small hands or the elderly, and often result in poop sticking to the scooper surfaces, necessitating direct contact and an inconvenient cleanup process.
Innovation Solution
A portable, adjustable height pole with swivel mechanism, easy-grip handle, and double-sealed plastic bag system that allows for hands-free operation, using triggers to open and close claws for scooping and sealing dog waste without direct contact, and a mechanism for secure bag disposal.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a spring controlled jaw mechanism is used, then the scooping function is improved, but it becomes too hard for users with small hands or the elderly to operate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the spring-controlled mechanical jaw system with a cable-operated claw mechanism. The cable system allows for mechanical advantage through pulleys and leverage, reducing the force required by the user's hand while maintaining effective scooping capability. This substitution transforms the force application method from direct spring compression to cable tensioning with mechanical multiplication.
2Productivity
If a rake and tray combination unit is used, then the scooping capability is improved, but it becomes cumbersome and not convenient to carry along with a walking dog
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the scooping mechanism into modular components: a telescopic pole, a claw assembly, and a separate bag system. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized independently and enables the user to carry only the essential lightweight pole while attaching the scooping mechanism only when needed, reducing overall carrying weight while maintaining full scooping capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs a telescopic pole with adjustable length, transforming the static structure into a dynamic one. This allows the device to adapt to different user heights and carrying preferences, optimizing the weight-distribution and ergonomics for active use during dog walking while maintaining adequate scooping reach and capability.
3Strength
If serrated teeth on the jaws are used, then the gripping strength is improved, but poop tends to stick to the teeth and scratch surfaces
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies different surface qualities to different parts of the claw mechanism. The claw edges maintain sharp, strong edges for effective gripping, while the contact surfaces are designed with smooth, non-stick properties. This local differentiation of surface characteristics allows the claws to grip firmly without causing poop to adhere to the gripping surfaces, eliminating the sticking problem while preserving grip strength.
4Adaptability or versatility
If a fixed bin and pole connector for height adjustment is used, then the adaptability to different heights is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a telescopic pole mechanism that allows continuous height adjustment through simple extension and retraction movements. This dynamic design provides adaptability to various user heights without requiring complex locking mechanisms or multiple fixed positions, maintaining device simplicity while achieving versatile height accommodation.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
Enables efficient, hands-free cleanup of dog waste, accommodating various user heights and preventing waste from leaking or sticking, making the process easier and hygienic for dog owners, including those with mobility issues.
Implementation Method 1
The plate is spring (36) loaded and is held in place on the outer edge of the claw for release with a second trigger
Implementation Method 2
The plastic bag has two sets of Velcro (42, 66) attached on the inside of the bag placed at specific designed distances from each other. This one-of-a-kind hands free double seal velcro design ensures that the double sealed bag will not drip or leak the poop out of the bag.
Data Source
AI summary
The Elite Doggie Clean-Up is a one of a kind, portable easy clean up unit. Used for while walking your dog and when picking up your dog's poop. It is very good for owners with back, hip and knee issues including owners with handicap needs. The Elite Doggie Clean up allows all dog owners never have to bend over to pick up or touch the poop during the entire pick up and throw away process.