Nested Bag Retrieval Jaws for Hygienic Fecal Matter Disposal
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing disposal devices for fecal matter lack a mechanism to use a fresh bag each time a collection is required, as they typically rely on selectively closable jaws or scoops without a mechanism for sequential bag engagement.
Innovation Solution
A pole with hingedly engaged jaws and an actuator that motivates the jaws to open and close around a plurality of nested bags, allowing for sequential use of fresh bags for each fecal matter collection, with the actuator facilitating the process of wrapping and releasing the bags.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If a single bag is used with selectively closable jaws, then the device structure is simple, but the device cannot use a fresh bag each time a collection is required
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple bags are nested within each other, with each bag having an opening at its top end. The nested configuration allows sequential access to fresh bags while maintaining a compact structure. When one bag is used and depleted, the user can access the next nested bag without replacing the entire assembly, thus improving productivity without significantly increasing device complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The waste collection system is segmented into multiple discrete bags rather than using a single large bag or continuous container. Each nested bag functions as an independent collection unit, allowing users to utilize one bag at a time and discard it when full, while fresh bags remain nested inside. This segmentation enables fresh bag usage for each collection event.
2Reliability
If multiple nested bags are engaged to the jaws, then a fresh bag can be used each time, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The device is designed to be manually operated by the user without requiring complex automated mechanisms. The user manually opens the jaws, positions the nested bags, and closes the jaws around the selected bag. This self-service approach maintains hygiene through fresh bag usage while avoiding the added complexity of automated bag engagement systems.
Solution Approach 2:
The jaws serve multiple functions: they grip the pole, hold the nested bags in position, and seal around the selected bag during collection. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate specialized components for each operation, thereby maintaining relatively simple device structure while achieving reliable hygienic performance.
3Reliability
If the jaws are biased to the closed configuration, then the bags are securely held, but the actuator requires more force to open the jaws
Solution Approach 1:
The jaw system transitions between two stable states: closed (for secure bag holding) and open (for bag replacement). The spring bias provides continuous force to maintain the closed state, ensuring reliable bag holding. The actuator temporarily overcomes this spring force to switch to the open state, after which the spring automatically returns the jaws to the closed position. This dynamic switching reduces the total actuator force required compared to maintaining constant open position force.
Data Source
AI summary
A fecal matter retrieval and disposal device for sanitary collection and disposal of fecal matter includes a pole and a plurality of bags. A plurality of jaws and a handle are hingedly engaged to a bottom and a top of the pole, respectively. An actuator engaged to the handle selectively motivates the jaws between open and closed configurations, with the jaws being biased to the latter. The bags are nested and can engage and encase the jaws. A first actuation of the actuator allows positioning of the plurality of bags over a fecal matter deposit. A second actuation motivates the jaws to the closed configuration to wrap the plurality of bags around the fecal matter deposit, allowing an outermost bag to be tied off. A third actuation motivates the jaws to the open configuration, whereupon the outermost bag containing the fecal matter deposit drops from the jaws.