I'm going to start a series of posts that try to address more daily immediate problems. These won't change the world, but will help the innovators on the site release some of our creative juices and getting some more immediate gratification. Here's what I'm talking about....
Mission 1: Create a better system than the plastic bags I have been using for years to pick up my dog's poop,
Background on the problem:
First there are environmental problems with the way most people dispose of dog poop. Although dog poop is biodegradable, the plastic bags people put them in are not. This creates a breeding ground for bacteria and creates all kinds of great smells in trash cans, dumps, and landfills. So the first requirement I have for the solution is that the container be biodegradable. Many companies make biodegradable plastic bags though so, that's not a big problem.
Second, I'm trying to improve this process right? So I'd like to not have to FEEL the poop in my hand as I pick it up. When using a bag, you have to feel the poop, which is disgusting in my opinion.
Third, it needs to be at least as good as the plastic bag. A few things that are good about the plastic bags are, you can attach a bunch of them to a the dogs leash so you don't forget them. Second, you can tie them up after you pick up the poop which helps contain the smell while you continue walking the dog. Third, a bag allows you to carry the poop easily after you've collected it. There is some distance between you and poop, and having a handle and the ability to swing allows you to handle your dog's leash and perhaps reach for things without fear of getting poop on yourself.
Research:
I have done some research and found some people using paper and cardboard to create a scooper, like the one described here:
http://www.faqs.org/patents/app/20090278365There are other people selling completely done products like this, so I decided to try making my own.
Attempt #1:
I will upload pictures later, but to give you a summary, I basically took the end of a case of cokes which is made out of a paper/cardboardish material, and I would say is about the right strength for the job.
Results from Attempt #1: Well, the results were not optimal. I discovered that any type of scoop will not likely work well without something to shove the poop into the scoop. This is because the ground is not level, and for a scoop to work, it would need to be sturdy enough to dig up some of the dirt. So I think either an appliance to scoop the poop into the box is necessary, or something more rigid must be used.
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