Leaf Bagger with Tapered Inlet and Oversized Bag
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Solution Overview
Problem
Collecting fallen leaves is a cumbersome task, especially in large yards with many trees, as it can create unsightly messes, hazards, and fosters mold and mildew, and existing methods are inefficient.
Innovation Solution
A leaf bagger apparatus comprising a gathering bin with a tapered inlet and outlet connected to an oversized garbage bag, utilizing a leaf blower to collect and funnel moistened leaves into the bag, optionally with a shredder to reduce volume and prevent clogging, and extensions to increase collection area.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Quantity of substance
If a standard garbage bag is used with a leaf blower, then leaves can be collected, but the bag fills up quickly and requires frequent changes
Solution Approach 1:
The system segments the collection process by using a large capacity bag (60+ gallons) that can be attached to the leaf blower, allowing continuous collection without frequent interruptions for bag changes. The bag acts as a separate accumulation chamber that segments the blowing action from the collection constraint.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention transitions from two-dimensional bag attachment (standard small bags) to three-dimensional large volume bags (60+ gallon capacity), effectively utilizing vertical and lateral space to maximize collection capacity while maintaining portability.
2Productivity
If leaves are blown directly into a bag, then collection is efficient, but the bag becomes clogged and structural integrity is compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The system applies different qualities to different parts of the collection system: the bag is designed with specific structural qualities (reinforced seams, appropriate material thickness) to maintain integrity, while the inlet area is designed with different qualities (larger opening, tapered shape) to prevent clogging and facilitate smooth leaf entry.
Solution Approach 2:
The bag is pre-positioned and secured to the leaf blower before operation begins. The inlet is pre-configured with a tapered design that prevents clogging before it occurs, and the bag is properly attached to ensure structural integrity is maintained throughout the collection process.
3Quantity of substance
If a large capacity bag is used, then fewer bag changes are needed, but the bag may become clogged more easily
Solution Approach 1:
The bag is designed with a rounded, three-dimensional shape rather than flat or angular forms. This curvature allows leaves to slide smoothly along the inner surfaces toward the outlet, preventing accumulation and clogging while maximizing the usable volume for leaf storage.
Solution Approach 2:
The tapered inlet acts as an intermediary between the leaf blower outlet and the bag interior. This intermediate structure with its gradually narrowing design guides leaves smoothly into the bag, preventing direct impact and potential clogging at the entry point while maintaining efficient collection.
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 quick and efficient leaf collection, reducing the need for frequent bag changes and preventing clogging, while maintaining structural integrity and air circulation for effective leaf accumulation.
Implementation Method 1
blows the moistened leaves into the inlet of the leaf bagger for accumulation in the oversize garbage bag
Data Source
AI summary
A method for bagging leaves includes assembling a leaf bagger comprising a gathering bin having an inlet that tapers down to an outlet. A first end of a tunnel is coupled to the outlet. The method couples, to a second end of the tunnel, an oversize garbage bag. The oversize garbage bag has a volume of at least 60 gallons. The method further moistens leaves to be gathered by the leaf bagger and blows the moistened leaves into the inlet of the leaf bagger for accumulation in the oversize garbage bag. A corresponding apparatus is also described and claimed herein.