Leaf Blower Canister Attachment for Hygienic Waste Collection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for collecting animal waste are messy, cumbersome, and often require additional, bulky equipment that is difficult to use and store, and existing leaf blower/vacuum systems are not designed for this purpose, leading to inefficiencies and potential clogging issues.
Innovation Solution
A yard waste leaf blower vacuum attachment that utilizes a mobile collection chamber powered by the suction of an existing leaf blower/vacuum, featuring a suction nozzle assembly, canister, vertical support, and suction duct, allowing for efficient collection and storage of animal waste without modifying the blower/vacuum and providing a versatile, multi-functional solution.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a dedicated mechanical waste collection device is used, then animal waste can be collected effectively, but the device becomes large and cumbersome making it difficult to use and store
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies multi-functionality by designing an attachment that converts a standard leaf blower into an animal waste collection device. The attachment includes a collection chamber that receives waste material and a discharge nozzle that directs waste into the leaf blower's existing exhaust stream, allowing the single device to perform both leaf blowing and waste collection functions without requiring a dedicated mechanical waste collection system.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements nesting by placing the collection chamber and associated components inside or attached to the leaf blower's existing structure. The collection chamber is positioned to receive waste and channel it through the leaf blower's exhaust path, effectively nesting the waste collection function within the existing leaf blower system, thereby eliminating the need for separate bulky equipment.
2Reliability
If a dedicated vacuum system is used for waste collection, then waste can be suctioned effectively, but the system becomes complex and requires additional motorized components
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies multi-functionality by utilizing the existing motorized vacuum system of the leaf blower for waste collection. The attachment directs waste into the exhaust stream where it is carried away by the existing airflow, allowing the single motorized device to perform both leaf blowing and waste removal functions without requiring an additional vacuum system.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an intermediary mechanism - the discharge nozzle and collection chamber assembly - that bridges the gap between waste deposition and the existing exhaust stream. This intermediary structure channels waste into the airflow path without requiring direct modification of the motorized vacuum system, thereby maintaining system simplicity while achieving effective waste collection.
3Productivity
If high suction power is used to collect waste, then collection efficiency improves, but the risk of clogging and damage to the blower increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by creating a controlled transition zone in the collection chamber where waste is gradually introduced to the exhaust stream. The chamber design allows waste to be carried away by the existing airflow rather than forcing it through high-suction pathways, thereby maintaining collection efficiency while preventing clogging and damage to the blower components.
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 effective and hygienic collection of animal waste using a widely available and cost-effective leaf blower/vacuum system, reducing the need for additional equipment and minimizing storage space, while preventing clogging and maintaining the blower's functionality.
Implementation Method 1
a mobile receptacle that utilizes the suction created by an existing leaf blower/vacuum to siphon the waste matter
Data Source
AI summary
A canister attachment for leaf blowers/vacuums is an apparatus that attaches to existing yard waste leaf blower/vacuum's to provide a user with a facilitated means to collect solid animal waste or other debris deposited on the ground. The apparatus comprises a suction nozzle assembly, a canister, a suction duct, a support assembly, and a leaf blower/vacuum. The suction nozzle assembly comprises a canister mount and a nozzle. The canister comprises a nozzle mount, a lateral surface, a filter plate, a duct opening, and a first and second chamber. The suction duct comprises a duct canister mount, a channel, and a leaf blower/vacuum mount. The configuration of these components provides the user with a mobile accessory that utilizes the suction from existing conventional leaf blowers/vacuums to siphon animal waste through the nozzle and into the canister. Furthermore, the apparatus provides an exhaust catch to prevent accidental discharge through the leaf blower/vacuum.