Shark Tank of Patents

In the seventh episode of the 13th season of "Die Höhle der Löwen" (counterpart to shark tank USA), broadcast on May 15, 2023, Michael Müller presented his innovative product O-Spring.

With a seemingly simple but extremely effective idea, Müller has elegantly solved the problem of bin liners slipping and collapsing. Investor Ralf Dümmel was impressed and secured the deal. Another example of how everyday worries can give rise to creative solutions - a real "patent story" from the "lion's den".

The idea behind O-Spring

Michael Müller is an inventor who approaches everyday problems from a new angle. As is so often the case with good ideas, the inspiration for O-Spring came from a personal annoyance: bin liners that collapse or slip when being filled. Especially in situations where you need both hands for filling, this becomes an annoying obstacle.

His solution: a bag holder system based on a flexible spring. The idea itself sounds simple, but the implementation was anything but. Müller's biggest challenge was the choice of material, which had to be both flexible enough to hold bags securely and robust enough to remain stable in the long term. After numerous prototypes and tests, the O-Spring was created - a system that impresses with its simplicity and functionality.

What already exists in this area?

1. Classic bin liner stands: These holders usually consist of a sturdy metal or plastic frame that holds bin liners open. They are often used in the garden or at larger events. A lid ensures that odors remain trapped. Their stability is a major advantage, but they are bulky and not very mobile.
2. Cupboard door holders: Bin bag holders for cupboard doors are particularly popular in kitchens. These models are simply hooked in and make it easy to dispose of kitchen waste without the need for additional space. However, they are limited to a certain door thickness and bag size.
3. Adjustable bag holders: These holders can be adapted in width and height to accommodate bags of different sizes. They are particularly suitable for households that regularly use bags of different sizes. Their versatility is a plus, but they often require a stable base for a secure hold.
4. Free-standing frame constructions: These models are particularly popular for large-volume bin liners. They are usually made of a lightweight but sturdy material such as aluminum or plastic. Their open design makes them easily accessible, but they offer little protection against odors.
5. Clamping systems with spring mechanism: Some bin liner holders work with a spring mechanism that holds the bin liner in place by tension. These systems are compact and versatile. However, they can be complicated to use if the spring is too strong or too weak.
6. Bin liner holder with foot pedal: Models with a pedal mechanism allow the holder to be opened and closed hands-free. They are particularly hygienic and are often used in households with a high volume of waste. However, their more complex design makes them more susceptible to mechanical defects.
7. Clamping systems for worktops: These holders are mounted on worktops or tables and allow waste to be disposed of easily without having to place the bag on the floor. They are ideal for kitchens or craft work, but are often limited to smaller bag sizes.

What makes O-Spring special?

What sets O-Spring apart from existing solutions is its simplicity and versatility. The core of the system is a high-quality tension spring that holds bags of different sizes securely open. The metal spring is made from a flat strip material, the ends of which are slightly bent outwards to ensure a stable hold. The outstanding features include:

• Flexibility: O-Spring is available in several sizes and adapts to bags from 10 to 120 liters.
• Versatile mounting: The corresponding bracket can be attached to cupboards, doors, walls or even tables - without drilling.
• Mobility: The system is lightweight and compact, making it ideal for use in the garden, when camping or when traveling.
• Sustainability: Thanks to its robust process, O-Spring has a long service life and avoids the need for frequent new purchases.

Patent application of O-Spring

O-Spring relates to a bag holder system, especially for garbage bags, in which the bags are clamped with a tension spring and remain clamped by the outward pressure of the tension spring. This allows the bags to be filled quickly and easily.

The special feature here (see Fig. 5 from EP4149864A2) is that the O-spring described as a long material is formed by a strip-like flat material 1 and the end sections 8, 9 are bent out of a flat material plane of the flat material 1.

[Fig. 5 from EP4149864A2]

This clever trick demonstrates how thoughtful engineering can turn a straightforward concept into a practical, patentable innovation that simplifies daily life.

Conclusion

The bin liner holders currently available offer numerous solutions for a wide range of needs, be it large bin liner stands for the garden, cupboard door holders for the kitchen or free-standing frames for versatile use. Each of these solutions has its strengths, but often comes with compromises. Some models are bulky and difficult to transport, others are limited to certain bag sizes or areas of application. Hygienic options such as foot pedal systems score highly in terms of operation, but are often more complex and more prone to defects.

This is where O-Spring comes in, combining the advantages of many of these systems in a single product. The innovative tension spring mechanism makes it possible to securely fix bags of different sizes and keep them open, while the system remains light and mobile. It is not dependent on a fixed location and can be flexibly mounted on furniture, doors or walls - without drilling and without great effort. This universal applicability makes O-Spring a unique solution that is suitable for everyday use at home as well as for mobile use, for example when camping or in the garden.

With its robust design and sustainable choice of materials, O-Spring sets new standards in terms of durability and user-friendliness. The system shows that innovative and patentable solutions are possible even in a supposedly saturated market. It is a prime example of clever design that addresses everyday challenges with a simple yet effective solution.

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Autor: ユリアン グラフ, パートナー

Disclaimer: The above contribution reflects the personal opinion of the author. The assessments and statements made in the article do not constitute legal advice and are provided under exclusion of any liability. If you need an assessment of an individual case, please contact the author and/or the law firm KUHNEN & WACKER.