Touchless Pet Waste Container with Elastic Support Cord
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for collecting pet waste, such as plastic bags and strap systems, require direct handling and can be unappealing or difficult for individuals with injuries or limited mobility, and may not prevent contact with dirty or contaminated waste.
Innovation Solution
A touchless pet waste container that attaches to the pet using a disposable waste bag, tail drawstring, hind leg cord, and elastic support cord, allowing for indirect collection and sealing of waste without direct user contact, utilizing biodegradable and compostable materials.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a strap system with waste receptacle is used to passively collect pet waste, then the ease of operation is improved, but direct contact with waste is still required which reduces hygiene
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a removable bag as an intermediary between the waste receptacle and the user. The bag collects waste passively while attached to the pet, then can be removed and sealed without the user touching the receptacle or waste directly. This mediator allows passive collection to be maintained while eliminating direct contact with contaminants.
Solution Approach 2:
The waste collection system is divided into separate components: a reusable receptacle attached to the pet, a removable disposable bag that actually contacts the waste, and a sealing mechanism. This segmentation allows the bag to be removed and disposed of without handling the receptacle or waste, resolving the contradiction between passive collection and hygiene.
2Object-affected harmful factors
If a disposable bag system is used for waste collection, then hygiene is improved, but the complexity of the device increases due to additional components
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple functions into integrated components: the drawstring mechanism simultaneously secures the bag to the receptacle and seals the waste inside; the receptacle structure integrates attachment points for both the bag and the pet harness. This merging reduces the number of separate parts while maintaining hygiene benefits.
Solution Approach 2:
The receptacle serves multiple functions: it attaches to the pet's harness, holds the disposable bag, and provides structural support for the entire collection system. The drawstring serves dual purposes of securing and sealing. This multi-functionality reduces component count while maintaining hygiene advantages.
3Device complexity
If basic plastic bags are used for waste collection, then the device complexity is minimized, but ease of operation deteriorates for users with injuries or limited mobility
Solution Approach 1:
The system employs passive collection where the bag automatically receives waste through gravity and the pet's movement, eliminating the need for active scooping or manipulation. The drawstring automatically seals the bag when pulled, requiring minimal user effort. This self-service approach maintains simplicity while dramatically improving ease of operation for users with mobility limitations.
Solution Approach 2:
The bag is pre-positioned and pre-secured to the receptacle before waste is deposited. The drawstring is pre-configured to automatically seal when pulled. This preliminary arrangement eliminates the need for complex manual handling during waste collection, making the system easy to operate while remaining simple in design.
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, hygienic, and contact-free collection and disposal of pet waste, suitable for various animals, addressing the challenges of handling and hygiene in existing methods.
Implementation Method 1
an elastic support cord
Data Source
AI summary
A pet waste container that attaches to the animal and does not require direct contact with waste for removal and disposal. The container includes a disposable waste bag, a tail drawstring, a hind leg cord, and an elastic support cord. The disposable waste bag collects waste material from the animal. The tail drawstring is looped and slidably attached about a main opening of the disposable waste bag and attaches around the animal's tail and lower back portion. The hind leg cord is positioned parallel and offset to the tail drawstring and is attached to the disposable waste bag. The hind leg cord secures about either hind leg of the animal. The elastic support cord ensures the disposable waste bag remains adequately positioned next to the animal's rear end throughout various movements. The elastic support cord is attached to the disposable waste bag and is connected to the hind leg cord.