Sixth graders created inventions to solve problems. They followed a patent process, which involved an invention log of ideas and sketches. They sketched patent-type labeled drawings and completed write-ups describing the function and purpose of their creations. Here are photos of the creative process:

THE FINAL INVENTIONS:

Dog collar that alerts owner to dog's location in darkness

Adhesive spray to make tennis courts less slippery

Shoe-squeezing machine to signal a child to focus on an adult's commands

Protective boots for mail carriers and others, who encounter canines

Locker organizing system

Replacement baseball bat "sleeves"

Arm-strengthening device to help keep your place in line

Cart attachment to keep fragile goods safe

Locker paper organizing system

Locking system to keep out siblings and other unwanted visitors

The Fragile Friend protects breakable items in the grocery cart.

S.I.K. protects car passengers by locking up the starter if riders are not wearing their seatbelts.

W.O.K.E. is an alarm clock for those who REALLY have trouble getting up in the morning!

WaspX provides a safer way to get rid of wasp nests.

DE-FLU provides a tablet-based alternative to the flu shot.

The Air Chair 7500 provides a longer-lasting portable chair for people on the go.

Supersling offers a modified (and strengthened) version of a sling.

Door-Mergency creates a safer way of protecting your home from break-ins or other emergencies.

Sensor Shake provides a way to keep glasses perched properly on the nose (and keep them from sliding down).