Inventor pitches trekking pole rake for campsite cleanup

A Richmond, California inventor has developed a compact rake attachment that fits onto a trekking pole to help backpackers clear tent sites before setup. The product is being marketed for licensing as outdoor users look for lighter gear and fewer tools.

Why it matters: - The Backpacker’s Trekking Rake is designed to help backpackers and campers clear tent sites without carrying a separate full-size rake. - The attachment aims to reduce contact between tent floors or ground sheets and rocks, twigs, pinecones and other debris that can cause wear or punctures. - The product is targeted at hikers who want to cut pack weight and reduce redundant gear.

What happened: - Richard M. of Richmond, California created the Backpacker’s Trekking Rake, a lightweight ground-clearing attachment for trekking poles. - The device connects to the distal end of a standard trekking pole with a screw-on fitting intended to work with a range of pole models. - Richard filed a utility patent with the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office and is working with InventionHome to sell or license the patent rights.

The details: - The attachment measures about 10.375 inches long. - The rake head measures about 7.5 inches wide and tapers to about 1.75 inches at the connection point. - Once attached, the rake can move small rocks, twigs, pinecones, leaves and similar surface debris away from a tent footprint. - The design lets users clear ground while standing instead of reaching down by hand or using footwear and other improvised tools. - Compatibility depends on the pole’s connection design and dimensions. - InventionHome says ideal licensing candidates are U.S.-based manufacturers or distributors interested in developing and distributing the product. - Interested companies can contact InventionHome at member@inventionhome.com. - Inventors seeking help with patenting, marketing or licensing can email info@inventionhome.com or call 1-866-844-6512. - InventionHome says it helps inventors patent, prototype and promote new product ideas and connects them with potential licensees. - More information is available at InventionHome and in the company’s inventor resources and articles.

Between the lines: - The product fits into a broader outdoor gear trend favoring multiuse tools and lighter carry systems. - The concept assumes campers already have a trekking pole in their kit, which helps the attachment avoid adding much bulk. - The licensing push suggests the inventor is looking for a manufacturer rather than launching direct-to-consumer production first.

What’s next: - InventionHome is seeking a U.S. manufacturer or distributor to further develop and distribute the Backpacker’s Trekking Rake. - The patent process and licensing discussions will determine whether the attachment reaches commercial production.

The bottom line: - The Backpacker’s Trekking Rake tries to solve a small but practical campsite problem with a simple add-on for gear backpackers already carry.