The strangest inventions that never made it to market

The Fliz Bike, invented by German designers in 2012, used a harness and running motion but was impractical for everyday use, failing to replace traditional bicycles.

Goodyear’s Illuminated Tires, developed in the 1960s, used bulbs in synthetic rubber to glow but failed due to poor wet performance and melting under braking.

The Automatic Tip Requester, patented by Russell E. Oakes in 1955, was meant for bellhops but was too awkward and off-putting, failing to gain hotel adoption.

The Vibrating Exercise Belt from the 1920s claimed to reduce fat through vibration but was ineffective, with later versions fined $7 million by the FTC for false claims in the 2000s.

Necomimi, launched in 2011, used brainwave sensors to make cat ears perk or droop based on mood, but its niche appeal limited it to cosplay markets.

The DVD Rewinder, marketed in the 2000s as a humorous novelty, was useless since DVDs don’t require rewinding, unlike VHS tapes, and sold poorly as a gag gift.

The Mustache Shield, patented by Virgil Gates in 1876, used elastic cords to hold a guard over the mustache but was unpopular due to its cumbersome design.

The Cat Meow Machine, a 1963 Japanese device, mimicked cat sounds to deter rodents but was ineffective as mice weren’t fooled and it lacked pet-like interaction.

The Window Baby Cage, patented in 1913 by Mrs. Robert C. Lafferty, was designed for urban families lacking outdoor space but was deemed too dangerous and never gained traction.

The Monowheel, a single-wheeled vehicle from the 1930s, like the Dynasphere, was unstable and lacked weather protection, making it impractical compared to cars, as noted in historical records.