Buzz
Not too long ago, we shared a list of the 15 strangest patents. Luckily, there are millions more to discover – so we've compiled another list for you! These patents were all filed in the US Patent Office (though some from the first list were international) – but we’re not implying anything about the inventiveness of American creators! So, let’s dive into 10 more bizarre (and ridiculous) patents.
10. Toilet Lid Lock US Patent 3477070
This 1968 patent proposes a solution for those who might need to lock their toilet seat for reasons unclear to the rest of us. After pondering who could benefit from such a device, the only plausible answer I can come up with is that it might serve as a punishment for men who neglect to lower the toilet seat. The fact that the inventor is a woman only strengthens this theory. Men who forget to put the seat down should be thankful this invention never made it past the drawing board!
9. Recirculating Toilet US Patent 3593345
Sticking with our toilet-themed patents, here’s another one that’s just as impractical (and frankly, gross). This patent is for a toilet that recycles water with every flush, using a filter. Yes, it strains out the solid waste and sends the yellow water right back into your bowl! No thanks, I’ll pass on this one.
8. Deer Carcass Sled Cum Chaise Longue US Patent 3580592
From the patent: 'The invention provides a device for transporting a game-animal carcass with a lightweight, foldable frame. It includes mechanisms for attaching ground-contacting parts, which could be either runners or wheels. Ideally, these parts can fold inward for compact storage. The frame also has a harness that allows it to be strapped to a hunter’s back when folded. The invention's design includes a back piece that, when attached to the frame, transforms it into a chaise lounge or similar piece of furniture.' Essentially, this is a tool for hauling a dead animal, which can then double as a sofa for your living room. Quite convenient, right?
7. Eyeglasses With Built-In Rear-View Mirrors US Patent 3423150
I can think of just one person who might actually find this patent handy – Maxwell Smart. This patent features eyeglasses equipped with rear-view mirrors, allowing you to keep an eye on what's ahead of you and what's behind you!
6. Fluid Operated Zipper US Patent 3517423
This patent is for a fluid-operated zipper. The image provided (which lacks any description) doesn't explain where the 'fluid' comes from – but I certainly know where I hope it *doesn't* come from.
5. Power-Operated Pool Cue US Patent 3495826
Here’s one for the pool sharks out there. This patent is for a power-driven pool cue. I'm not a pool player myself, but how exactly is this supposed to help improve your game?
4. Carry All Hat US Patent 3496575
This patent is for a truly bizarre hat that not only provides space to store your cosmetics, keys, and all the other miscellaneous items typically found in a woman's purse, but it also includes built-in ear muffs. This would be ideal for the young woman who enjoys clubbing in the winter but doesn't want to carry a purse. It may not improve your dating prospects, but at least your hands will be free to juggle multiple drinks.
3. Baby Patting Machine US Patent 3552388
The top device on the list is a machine that gently pats a baby on the bottom to help it fall asleep (particularly useful for lazy parents or those who prefer locking their kids at home while they go out for a drink). But – while the idea in its current form isn't ideal, it has potential... If the machine were just a bit faster, it could be the perfect solution for a parent of a little brat who needs regular, frequent doses of a good spanking! Strap the kid in, start the spanking machine, and kick back in front of the TV!
2. Electronic Snore Stopper US Patent 3480010
Snoring is one of nature’s most aggravating gifts to humanity. If you snore, it can wake you up; if you sleep next to a snorer, it can wake you up too. Some people have even died because of snoring! Enter this brilliant invention. It works by sending an electric shock to the snorer as soon as it detects a snore. The concept is bad enough on its own – but look where the device is placed! Imagine being jolted awake every 10 minutes by electricity zapping through your neck!
1. Firearm With Whisky Glass Attachment US Patent 3450403
I don’t have an issue with guns – actually, I quite enjoy them. However, attaching a whisky glass to the top of a rifle seems like an accident waiting to happen. Honestly, I can't help but wonder if Dick Cheney was testing one of these when he was hunting with Harry Whittington in 2006.
