Inflatable dartboard, glow in the dark sunglasses, transparent ink, and silent alarm clock. They are only a few examples of some of the most useless inventions in the history of mankind. But, there are still innumerable inventors out there who have got too much time on their hands. The hobby of inventing useless objects in an attempt to tackle our mundane domestic chores or simply spice up the daily life seems to have evolved into an art form – at least in Japan anyway.

The Japanese word, Chindogu, means useless (or almost useful) inventions - things that are supposed to make our lives easier, but in fact, don’t!

According to the doctrines that define the “gentle art and philosophy of Chindogu”, - a Chindogu can not be for real use, are without prejudice, and more importantly, inherent in every Chindogu is the spirit of anarchy. Far out, man!

And nothing beats the Back Scratcher’s T-shirt, Sweetheart’s training arm, and Finger-mounted toothbrush. Check it out!

And, if you can’t find a place to cross the road in busy downtown Tokyo or anywhere else in the world, here is a Chindogu that might come in handy. But don’t forget to read the Health Hazard Warning in small print before application.