Make-A-Bowl

I love my dogs and nothing could be better than making a product that is good for them and makes taking care of them easier. Make-A-Bowl™ is a super compact and durable, foldable bowl frame which uses a poop bag to create a bowl. It is super convenient to keep with you on a walk, travelling, camping or whenever you are out and about with your best friend(s). Fits in your pocket when folded closed. Always clean and available when you need a bowl for water or food.

Over the years I have tried many alternatives, none of which have lasted or been as convenient as this approach. The Make-A-Bowl™ folds extremely compact and then opens into a frame which holds a standard dog poop bag (approximately 8 inches across or larger). Together they form a 350ml (12oz) container.

After the “bowl” is used, the bag can still be used for its original purpose. And, because you use a new bag every time you use it, the Make-A-Bowl™ is always clean and free of other contaminants that could affect your pet.

The Design

When I first developed this I thought it had some real potential as it is such a great bowl. But since then I have come to realize – marketing is everything.

This design is extremely interesting because I stacked print in place hinges or pivot points so that the “box” folds onto itself on the two end axis. This I believe it quite unique and I thought at one point I might try to patent it but so far I have just submitted a provisional patent application.

Printing

The Make-A-Bowl prints-in-place as a single part. No fasteners, adhesives or hardware are required. But I do like a carabiner attached for convenience.

I have tried to make my main print settings visible on the Cura screenshot but in case they are difficult to read I have summarized them again here…

Material: I choose to use PETG for its durability and flexibility.

My Setup:
Nozzle = 0.4mm

My Settings:
Layer height = 0.2mm
Line width = 0.45mm
Wall count = 4 (1.6mm)
Infill = 40%

Support:
Designed to print without support.

Print Orientation: As shown in the screenshot(s).

Assembly Notes

There is no assembly required but breaking the four wall’s hinges free after printing can take a little time. I try to flex all the joints in as many directions as possible first, then slowly pry the walls apart to rotate open the pivot points.