Pooper Scooper With Automatic Bag Deployment
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing pet waste disposal methods require manual handling and can be unsanitary, posing a challenge for convenient and efficient disposal of pet waste in public areas and communities.
Innovation Solution
A pooper scooper with an elongated foldable pole, a pivotable waste collecting assembly, and a selectively actuated bag system that allows for hands-free, automatic capture and disposal of pet waste, minimizing direct contact and handling.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Object-affected harmful factors
If manual handling methods (plastic bag glove or manual device) are used to dispose of pet waste, then the disposal function is achieved, but the risk of unsanitary exposure increases and convenience is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a bag holder assembly as an intermediary device between the user and the pet waste. The assembly includes a bag receptacle that holds the waste bag, and a release mechanism that automatically deploys the bag to catch waste without requiring the user to manually handle or wear the bag. This intermediary structure eliminates direct contact with waste while maintaining ease of operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The device incorporates an automatic release mechanism that self-activates upon detecting waste or through simple user input. The bag is automatically deployed from the receptacle to catch the waste, and the assembly can automatically retract or reset after use. This self-service functionality reduces the need for manual handling and improves convenience while minimizing unsanitary exposure.
2Ease of operation
If automatic capture and disposal system is implemented, then convenience and sanitation are improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The device is divided into distinct functional segments: a handle section, a bag holder assembly with receptacle, a release mechanism, and a bag. Each segment performs a specific function and can be independently designed or replaced. The bag holder assembly is further segmented into the receptacle (for storage) and the deployment mechanism (for automatic release). This segmentation allows for simplified design of each component while achieving complex automatic functionality through their coordination.
3Reliability
If manual devices requiring setup are used, then waste collection function is achieved, but ease of operation is reduced due to setup requirements
Solution Approach 1:
The bag is pre-loaded into the bag receptacle in a ready-to-use state before the user needs it. The receptacle is designed to hold and protect the pre-positioned bag, maintaining it in the correct orientation and position. When waste needs to be collected, the pre-prepared bag is automatically deployed without requiring the user to perform setup actions such as opening, positioning, or attaching the bag during the collection process.
Data Source
AI summary
The pooper scooper includes an elongated foldable pole having a grip at one end and a pivotable waste collecting assembly at the other end, the elongate pole being divided into upper and lower sections; the upper section including the grip at one end and a releasable locking mechanism at the other end; a joint or hinge mechanism interconnecting the two sections; the lower section including a selectively actuated waste collecting control; and the pivotable waste collecting assembly adapted to hold a bag open to catch pet wastes or other materials and automatically close the bag when ready for to disposal through actuation of the waste collecting control. The pooper scooper is also part of a pet waste disposal system including a bag dispenser and a bag adapted to be mounted to the waste trapping assembly.