Sorry to be negative but we have very good suppliers In This country that produce most things that are needed so these Heath Robinson things are not something that we would need or use
We are very fortunate to live in a country that has a good infrastructure. So we can get all we need for what we use. But in other countries, including Australia, the cost of postage/carriage is very high and delivery can take some time because of the long distances involved.
Australians also have a different mindset to making and repairing things. Most men in Herman's age group take DIY as a important and enjoyable part of everyday life. Being an Australian means that they can enjoy an outdoor life that is conducive to doing stuff. The throw away society hasn't effected Herman's age group to anywhere near the same extent as it has a younger age group.
We are all benefiting from Hermans backyard DIY with the Quick-loq system Herman initiated. As with most inventors, their ideas are sometimes taken up by industry with the originators receiving very little recogniton.
If Herman had been able to patent the Quick-loq system and licienced Gardiners to make it, then Herman would have had a small income stream to supplement his income. But as a sole trader, there is no way he could have afforded to develop the Quick-loq system on his own. I couldn't even imagine how much Gardiners have shelled out in die costs to make these components.
Herman, by his own admission, was hoping that his swivel adaptor which he is or has patented would be taken up by the large wfp manufacturers and suppliers. In the meantime, he just carries on.
In my old age I have recently been quite 'blown away' learning about the 'backyard' boys melting down HDPE plastics to make different products.
https://www.youtube.com/results?search_query=melting+plastic+bottlesIf it wasn't for their efforts and Youtube, their knowledge built on experimentation would never have been shared with the world. Whilst the vast majority wouldn't be interested in something you make rather than just buying it, there will be a small minority that will get involved and a few of those will take their new learnt skills into small business ventures.
Whilst some of Herman's videos aren't quality productions and to some quite painful to watch, there are many of his ideas that can be taken and applied to other projects.
Also feel glad for Herman's wife. Whilst he's outside with his DIY projects, he's not under her feet moping around inside.
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