Animal waste-collecting device

The animal waste-collecting device is adapted for use with a companion animal. The animal waste-collecting device is configured for use in the collection of the excrement of the companion animal. The animal waste-collecting device comprises a telescopic structure, a ring mount, a capture head, and a lamp. The ring mount attaches the capture head to the telescopic structure such that the faces of the capture head rotate relative to the center axis of the telescopic shaft. The capture head is configured for use with a disposable collection bag. The disposable collection bag attaches to the capture head such that the excrement is captured during the elimination process of the companion animal.

CROSS REFERENCES TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

Not Applicable

STATEMENT REGARDING FEDERALLY SPONSORED RESEARCH

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REFERENCE TO APPENDIX

Not Applicable

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

Field of the Invention

The present invention relates to the field of fixed constructions including implements for cleaning a street, more specifically, a hand implement for picking up animal excrement. (E01H0/1206)

SUMMARY OF INVENTION

The animal waste-collecting device is adapted for use with a companion animal. The animal waste-collecting device is configured for use in the collection of the excrement of the companion animal. The animal waste-collecting device comprises a telescopic structure, a ring mount, a capture head, and a lamp. The ring mount attaches the capture head to the telescopic structure such that the faces of the capture head rotate relative to the center axis of the telescopic shaft. The capture head is configured for use with a disposable collection bag. The disposable collection bag attaches to the capture head such that the excrement is captured during the elimination process of the companion animal.

In this respect, before explaining the current embodiments of the animal waste-collecting device in detail, it is to be understood that the animal waste-collecting device is not limited in its applications to the details of construction and arrangements of the components set forth in the following description or illustration. Those skilled in the art will appreciate that the concept of this disclosure may be readily utilized as a basis for the design of other structures, methods, and systems for carrying out the several purposes of the animal waste-collecting device.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE EMBODIMENT

The animal waste-collecting device100(hereinafter invention) is adapted for use with a companion animal191. The invention100is configured for use in the collection of the excrement192of the companion animal191. The invention100comprises a telescopic structure101, a ring mount102, a capture head103, and a lamp104. The ring mount102attaches the capture head103to the telescopic structure101such that the faces of the capture head103rotate relative to the center axis of the telescopic shaft. The capture head103is configured for use with a disposable collection bag105. The disposable collection bag105attaches to the capture head103such that the excrement192is captured during the elimination process of the companion animal191.

The disposable collection bag105is a bag used to collect the excrement192eliminated by the companion animal191. A commercially available trash bag is suitable for use as the disposable collection bag105. The companion animal191is defined in greater detail elsewhere in this disclosure.

The telescopic structure101is an extension apparatus. The telescopic structure101is a composite prism-shaped structure. The telescopic structure101forms a telescopic handle. The telescopic structure101extends the reach of the invention100from the capture head103to a user. Specifically, the telescopic structure101extends the reach between the capture head103and the battery141cap183. The telescopic structure101comprises a plurality of arms111and one or more detents112.

Each of the plurality of arms111is a hollow prism-shaped structure. Each of the plurality of arms111are interconnected to form the telescopic structure101. Each of the plurality of arms111are assembled to form a composite prism structure. The plurality of arms111comprises a first arm151, a second arm152, a third arm153, a fourth arm154, and a fifth arm155. Each of the one or more detents112is a detent used to lock an initial arm selected from the plurality of arms111into a fixed position relative to an adjacent arm selected from the plurality of arms111. The one or more detents112comprises a first detent161, a second detent162, a third detent163, and a fourth detent164.

The first arm151further comprises the battery141cap183. The battery141cap183is a lid that is used to enclose the end of the first arm151that is distal from the second arm152. The battery141cap183encloses a battery141within the first arm151for storage.

The telescopic structure101is a telescopic apparatus that comprises the first arm151, the second arm152, and the first detent161. The first detent161is a mechanical device that locks and secures the first arm151to the second arm152. The first arm151is a hollow prism that is further defined with an inner dimension. The second arm152is a hollow prism that is further defined with an outer dimension. The second arm152is geometrically similar to the first arm151. The span of the outer dimension of the second arm152is lesser than the span of the inner dimension of the first arm151such that the second arm152inserts into the first arm151in a telescopic fashion. The span of the length of the telescopic structure101adjusts by adjusting the relative position of the second arm152within the first arm151.

The position of the second arm152relative to the first arm151is held in position using the first detent161. The first detent161is selected from the group consisting of a cotter pin, a G snap collar, a cam lock collar, a threaded clutch, a split collar lock, and a spring-loaded ball lock.

The telescopic structure101further comprises the third arm153and the second detent162. The second detent162is a mechanical device that locks and secures the third arm153to the second arm152. The second arm152is a hollow prism that is further defined with an inner dimension. The third arm153is a hollow prism that is further defined with an outer dimension. The third arm153is geometrically similar to the second arm152. The span of the outer dimension of the third arm153is lesser than the span of the inner dimension of the second arm152such that the third arm153inserts into the second arm152in a telescopic fashion. The span of the length of the telescopic structure101adjusts by adjusting the relative position of the third arm153within the second arm152.

The position of the third arm153relative to the second arm152is held in position using the second detent162. The second detent162is selected from the group consisting of a cotter pin, a G snap collar, a cam lock collar, a threaded clutch, a split collar lock, and a spring-loaded ball lock.

The telescopic structure101further comprises the fourth arm154and the third detent163. The third detent163is a mechanical device that locks and secures the fourth arm154to the third arm153. The third arm153is further defined with an inner dimension. The fourth arm154is a hollow prism that is further defined with an outer dimension. The fourth arm154is geometrically similar to the third arm153. The span of the outer dimension of the fourth arm154is lesser than the span of the inner dimension of the third arm153such that the fourth arm154inserts into the third arm153in a telescopic fashion. The span of the length of the telescopic structure101adjusts by adjusting the relative position of the fourth arm154within the third arm153.

The position of the fourth arm154relative to the third arm153is held in position using the third detent163. The third detent163is selected from the group consisting of a cotter pin, a G snap collar, a cam lock collar, a threaded clutch, a split collar lock, and a spring-loaded ball lock.

The telescopic structure101further comprises the fifth arm155, and the fourth detent164. The fourth detent164is a mechanical device that locks and secures the fifth arm155to the fourth arm154. The fourth arm154is further defined with an inner dimension. The fifth arm155is a hollow prism that is further defined with an outer dimension. The fifth arm155is geometrically similar to the fourth arm154. The span of the outer dimension of the fifth arm155is lesser than the span of the inner dimension of the fourth arm154such that the fifth arm155inserts into the fourth arm154in a telescopic fashion. The span of the length of the telescopic structure101adjusts by adjusting the relative position of the fifth arm155within the fourth arm154.

The position of the fifth arm155relative to the fourth arm154is held in position using the fourth detent164. The fourth detent164is selected from the group consisting of a cotter pin, a G snap collar, a cam lock collar, a threaded clutch, a split collar lock, and a spring-loaded ball lock.

The ring mount102is a fastening apparatus. The ring mount102is a rotating structure. The ring mount102attaches the capture head103to the telescopic structure101such that the capture head103rotates relative to the telescopic structure101. The ring mount102is a locking structure. The ring mount102locks such that the cant123between the capture head103and the center axis of the telescopic structure101can be fixed into position. The ring mount102comprises a rectilinear disk structure121and a locking hinge122. The ring mount102is further defined with a cant123.

The rectilinear disk structure121is a disk-shaped structure formed in an irregular prism shape. The irregular prism shape of the rectilinear disk structure121is a rectilinear block structure. The rectilinear disk structure121attaches to the end of the fifth arm155that is distal from the fourth arm154. The rectilinear disk structure121forms an anchor point to which the capture head103attaches.

The locking hinge122is a fastening structure. The locking hinge122attaches the capture head103to the ring mount102such that the position of the capture head103rotates relative to the ring mount102. The locking hinge122fixes the position of the capture head103relative to the ring mount102such that the cant123between the capture head103and the center axis of the telescopic structure101is adjustable.

The cant123is an angle that is formed between the faces of the disk structure of the capture head103and the center axis of the composite prism structure of the telescopic structure101. The locking hinge122adjusts the cant123. The cant123sets the position of the disposable collection bag105relative to the companion animal191such that the disposable collection bag105is in an optimal position to receive the excrement192eliminated by the companion animal191.

The capture head103is a ring structure. The capture head103is a disk-shaped structure. The capture head103is configured to receive a disposable collection bag105. The ring structure of the capture head103is configured to allow a companion animal191to deposit excrement192into the disposable collection bag105through the open center of the capture head103. The capture head103comprises a capture ring131, a capture spring132, and a fastening plate133.

The capture ring131is a ring structure. The capture ring131is a disk-shaped structure. The disposable collection bag105attaches to the capture ring131such that the disposable collection bag105inserts through the center aperture of the capture ring131. The capture ring131is positioned relative to the companion animal191such that the eliminated excrement192will fall through the center aperture of the capture ring131into the disposable collection bag105. The capture ring131comprises a perimeter groove171, an inner perimeter172, and an outer perimeter173.

The perimeter groove171is a slot that is formed in the outer perimeter173of the capture ring131. The outer perimeter173forms the lateral face of the disk structure of the capture head103. The outer perimeter173is defined in greater detail elsewhere in this disclosure. The inner perimeter172is the perimeter of the aperture that creates the ring aperture formed through the capture ring131. The inner perimeter172is defined in greater detail elsewhere in this disclosure.

The capture spring132is a semi-rigid structure. The capture spring132attaches to the outer perimeter173of the capture ring131. The capture spring132secures the disposable collection bag105to the capture ring131. The capture spring comprises a semi-rigid shaft181and a finger loop182.

The semi-rigid shaft181is a semi-rigid structure. The semi-rigid shaft181has an elastic nature. The semi-rigid shaft181has a prism shape. A congruent end of the prism structure of the semi-rigid shaft181attaches to the outer perimeter173of the capture ring131in the manner of a cantilever. The perimeter groove171is sized such that the semi-rigid shaft181compresses when the semi-rigid shaft181inserts into the perimeter groove171. The finger loop182is a loop that is formed in the free end of the semi-rigid shaft181.

The elastic nature of the semi-rigid shaft181acts as a spring. Specifically, when the semi-rigid shaft181inserts between the edges of the perimeter groove171, a compressive force is applied to the semi-rigid shaft181. The elasticity of the semi-rigid shaft181creates a force that opposes the displacement created force created by the perimeter groove171. The displacing force places a strain against the perimeter groove171such that a clamping force this created that holds the semi-rigid shaft181in the perimeter groove171. When the disposable collection bag105is positioned between the semi-rigid shaft181and the perimeter groove171, the semi-rigid shaft181attach the disposable collection bag105to the capture head103.

The fastening plate133is an irregular disk structure that attaches to the outer perimeter173of the capture ring131. The fastening plate133forms the structure of the capture head103that attaches to the ring mount102. The locking hinge122attaches the fastening plate133to the rectilinear disk structure121such that the fastening plate133rotates relative to the rectilinear disk structure121.

The lamp104is an electric circuit. The lamp104generates illumination that can be used to align the capture head103and the disposable collection bag105such that the eliminated excrement192will fall into the disposable collection bag105. The lamp104comprises a battery141, a switch142, a limit resistor143, and one or more LEDs144. The battery141, the switch142, the limit resistor143, and the one or more LEDs144are electrically connected to form a series circuit.

The battery141is an electrochemical device. The battery141converts chemical potential energy into the electrical energy used to power the lamp104. The switch142is a well-known and documented electrical circuit element. The switch142controls the flow of electricity through the series electrical circuit that forms the lamp104. The limit resistor143is a well-known and documented electrical circuit element. The limit resistor143is placed in series with the one or more LEDs144such that the limit resistor143will limit the amount of electric current that flows through the one or more LEDs144. Each of the one or more LEDs144is a two-terminal semiconducting device. Each of the one or more LEDs144illuminates when an electric current flows through any selected LED.

The following definitions were used in this disclosure:

Anchor: As used in this disclosure, anchor means to hold an object firmly or securely.

Anchor Point: As used in this disclosure, an anchor point is a location to which a first object can be securely attached to a second object.

Bag: As used in this disclosure, a bag is a container made of a flexible material. The bag has a single opening which allows the bag to receive the items to be contained.

Battery: As used in this disclosure, a battery is a chemical device consisting of one or more cells, in which chemical energy is converted into electricity and used as a source of power. Batteries are commonly defined with a positive terminal and a negative terminal.

Cantilever: As used in this disclosure, a cantilever is a beam or other structure that projects away from an object and is supported on only one end. A cantilever is further defined with a fixed end and a free end. The fixed end is the end of the cantilever that is attached to the object. The free end is the end of the cantilever that is distal from the fixed end.

Cap: As used in this disclosure, a cap is a protective cover that encloses a space or opening.

Companion Animal: As used in this disclosure, a companion animal is a domesticated animal that is maintained primarily for companionship. A companion animal is often referred to as a pet.

Composite Prism: As used in this disclosure, a composite prism refers to a structure that is formed from a plurality of structures selected from the group consisting of a prism structure and a pyramid structure. The plurality of selected structures may or may not be truncated. The plurality of prism structures are joined together such that the center axes of each of the plurality of structures are aligned. The congruent ends of any two structures selected from the group consisting of a prism structure and a pyramid structure need not be geometrically similar. Congruent: As used in this disclosure, congruent is a term that compares a first object to a second object. Specifically, two objects are said to be congruent when: 1) they are geometrically similar; and, 2) the first object can superimpose over the second object such that the first object aligns, within manufacturing tolerances, with the second object.

Detent: As used in this disclosure, a detent is a device for positioning and holding a first object relative to a second object such that the position of the first object relative to the second object is adjustable.

Diode: As used in this disclosure, a diode is a two terminal semiconductor device that allows current flow in only one direction. The two terminals are called the anode and the cathode. Electric current is allowed to pass from the anode to the cathode.

Elastic: As used in this disclosure, an elastic is a material or object that deforms when a force is applied to it and that is able to return to its relaxed shape after the force is removed. A material that exhibits these qualities is also referred to as an elastomeric material. A material that does not exhibit these qualities is referred to as inelastic or an inelastic material.

Extension Apparatus: As used in this disclosure, an extension apparatus is a mechanical structure that is used to extend or bridge the reach between any two objects.

Reach: As used in this disclosure, reach refers to a span of distance between any two objects.

Groove: As used in this disclosure, a groove is an open channel or trough used to guide the motion of an object.

Hinge: As used in this disclosure, a hinge is a device that permits the turning, rotating, or pivoting of a first object relative to a second object. A hinge designed to be fixed into a set position after rotation is called a locking hinge.

Lamp: As used in this disclosure, a lamp is an electrical device that generates visible light to illuminate objects so they can be seen.

LED: As used in this disclosure, an LED is an acronym for a light emitting diode. A light emitting diode is a diode that is also a light source.

Limit Resistor: As used in this disclosure, a limit resistor is an electrical resistor that is used to limit the flow of electric current through an electrical circuit.

Loop: As used in this disclosure, a loop is the length of a first linear structure including, but not limited to, shafts, lines, cords, or ribbons, that is: 1) folded over and joined at the ends forming an enclosed space; or, 2) curved to form a closed or nearly closed space within the first linear structure. In both cases, the space formed within the first linear structure is such that a second linear structure such as a line, cord or a hook can be inserted through the space formed within the first linear structure. Within this disclosure, the first linear structure is said to be looped around the second linear structure.

N-gon: As used in this disclosure, an N-gon is a regular polygon with N sides wherein N is a positive integer number greater than 2.

Pivot: As used in this disclosure, a pivot is a rod or shaft around which an object rotates or swings.

Pyramid: As used in this disclosure, a pyramid is a three-dimensional shape that comprises a base formed in the shape of an N-gon (wherein N is an integer) with N triangular faces that rise from the base to converge at a point above the base. If the point where the N faces meet is positioned such that a line drawn from the point where the N faces meet to the center of the N-gon base is perpendicular to the N-gon base, the pyramid is referred to as a right pyramid. Pyramids can be further formed with circular or elliptical bases which are commonly referred to as cone or an elliptical pyramid respectively. A pyramid is defined with a base, an apex, and a lateral face. The base is the N-gon shaped base described above. The apex is the convergence point described above. The lateral face is formed from the N triangular faces described above.

Relaxed Shape: As used in this disclosure, a structure is considered to be in its relaxed state when no shear, strain, or torsional forces are being applied to the structure.

Resistor: As used in this disclosure, a resistor is a well-known and commonly available electrical device that inhibits the flow of electricity through an electric circuit. Within an electric circuit processing alternating currents, the resistor will not affect the phase of the alternating current. A current flowing through a resistor will create a voltage across the terminals of the resistor.

Ring: As used in this disclosure, a ring is a term that is used to describe a disk-like structure through which an aperture is formed. Rings are often considered loops.

Semi-Rigid Structure: As used in this disclosure, a semi-rigid structure is a solid structure that is stiff but not wholly inflexible and that will deform under force before breaking. A semi-rigid structure may or may not behave with an elastic nature in that a semi-rigid structure need not return to its relaxed shape.

Slot: As used in this disclosure, a slot is a long narrow cavity or aperture that is formed in or through an object.

Spring: As used in this disclosure, a spring is a device that is used to store mechanical energy. This mechanical energy will often be stored by: 1) deforming an elastomeric material that is used to make the device; 2) the application of a torque to a semi-rigid structure; or 3) a combination of the previous two items.

Switch: As used in this disclosure, a switch is an electrical device that starts and stops the flow of electricity through an electric circuit by completing or interrupting an electric circuit. The act of completing or breaking the electrical circuit is called actuation. Completing or interrupting an electric circuit with a switch is often referred to as closing or opening a switch respectively. Completing or interrupting an electric circuit is also often referred to as making or breaking the circuit respectively.

Telescopic: As used in this disclosure, telescopic is an adjective that describes an object made of sections that fit or slide into each other such that the object can be made longer or shorter by adjusting the relative positions of the sections.

Trash Bag: As used in this disclosure, a trash bag is a disposable bag formed from a sheeting that is used to contain trash and other refuse for in a manner suitable for disposal. Trash bags are often used to line a waste container.