Submitted photo
From left, Niles Middle School robotics students Dawn Jones, Aurora Lutz and Clarissa Morris present their invention “Flock Lock” during the Ohio Invention Convention regional competition earlier this month. They and another Niles Middle School team tied for third place at the regional event, earning them spots in the upcoming state competition.

Two teams from NMS tied for third place at the regional event, earning them spots in the upcoming state competition.

The Invention Convention challenges students to apply their STEM knowledge and creative problem-solving skills to design innovative solutions to real-world problems and then present their ideas to a panel of judges.

The first team — composed of Dawn Jones, Aurora Lutz and Clarissa Morris — developed the “Flock Lock,” an app-controlled, electronic retractable fence designed to help individuals with mobility issues herd chickens into their coops at night. Their invention integrates practical farming needs with accessibility technology, offering a unique and helpful tool for those caring for poultry.

The second team — Logan Adkins, Faith Bionci, Nicholas Logan and Tyler Scott — created the “Cloth Catcher,” a vacuum-like device designed to pick up clothing from the floor without the need to bend over. Aimed at individuals with back problems or limited mobility, the device collects clothing into a netted bag that can be emptied directly into the washing machine.

Students will participate in the virtual round of the state competition in June. The teams also have been invited to present their inventions in person at the state showcase July 19 at the COSI Museum in Columbus.

“We are incredibly proud of the creativity, teamwork, and problem-solving skills these students demonstrated,” said NMS Robotics adviser Lauren Patton. “Their inventions are not only innovative but also address real needs. We are so excited to showcase our creativity on a broader stage this summer.”