Existing Solutions

There are a series of current solutions that exist to combat the existence of dirty lawns. While a series of these solutions are somewhat usable in actuality, they require extensive effort from the user, or are only usable in very specific instances. Many of them lack the versatility to be a true solution to the problem. 

Very clearly, the first solution to the problem that exists is the rake. While the rake is very useful, it requires serious effort from the user – which the project was designed to prevent. There are a series of variants of the rake, including patent # 6,296,575 – the golf rake, which was designed in such a way that allows the user to clean up while having “a fun time,” easing the stress placed on the user. While the golf rake is undeniably fun, it unfortunately lacks the efficiency necessary to clean in a shorter time. Rakes in general have proven to be poor solutions, as they lead to the discontent felt by the users of the products, regarding inefficiency.

 

  An interesting solution to the problem a preventative method, called the Clip Catcher. The Clip Catcher is a system designed to minimize the mess made by falling leaves, and other forms of degree while working. This product is simply a black tarp, that goes under the tree/ bush while it is being cut. As the individual chops down the leaves, they will fall directly onto the tarp and away from the bare ground, making them easier to clean. The product seems very beneficial and good in terms of usage in this state. However, it is very immovable, and somewhat inconvenient to carry around and use while moving. In reality, it seems very little different than simply a sheet that is put under the trees while trimming hedges. In addition, the machine itself is not versatile, and can only help prevent messes when hedge-trimming is involved, not general application. 

 

Another innovation useful for cleaning lawns is  the leaf-blower Specific models can be very efficient and effective at cleaning up messes and spaces. However, it only serves as an extended version of the rake, meaning the user must walk with, and cary, the heavy blower in order to successfully clean the leaves. After grouping them, the user must then bag them separately, depending on the model - again, creating time inefficiency. Finally, the least blower is incredibly expensive, and may have recurring costs with gasoline. 

 

Another product designed to make the cleaning of a yard much easier, in comparison to normal, strenuous work, is the “Leaf and Lawn Ripper”. The product is a tarp that is able to be placed on the ground, while remaining steady, as leaves are raked in — eventually to be folded and carried to the nearest disposal site. This creates a convenient, and easy-to-use product.  Although the leaf and lawn reaper is convenient and easy to use, it is not necessarily very different than current solutions, the main difference being the stability on the ground. However, the small tweaks added to it make it a relatively effective device at cleaning up leaves in particular. When working with other types of yard waste, however, another device may have to be used, leading to some inconveniences for the user.