Sometimes designers need to go beyond reimagining existing objects, and invent an entirely new way of doing things. Here are some of the most outside-the-box design solutions we came across this year.

Design engineer Monty Ravenscroft invented the Hidealoo, an incredible space-saving, disappearing toilet. Originally invented for his ailing father, whose health condition required having a toilet in his bedroom, the Hidealoo is now on the market.

Egyptian woodworker Ramy Wafi DIY'd this innovative cabinet hinge—out of foam, no less.

Designed for veterinary staff, the EZ-Nabber is a brilliant way to painlessly capture cats.

The Vet Sled is an Australian invention for safely moving large animals, without any risk of the handler getting kicked.

A crafty interior decorator developed this convincing Invisible Man costume for Halloween.

This bizarre NapEazy is a telescoping travel pillow.

Japanese startup GiraffeNap developed these in-office vertical napping pods. They take up far less space than a bed, and the company says they're comfortable enough to get quality sleep in.

These gizmos by Japanese housewares company Labrico allows you to install interior posts without drilling.

Hailing from Australia, the Scrubba Wash Bag is a portable washing machine, in bag form.

This compact folding clothes dryer is by appliance manufacturer Plus Minus Zero.

Following a canceled project, product designer Erik Stehmann was stuck with 1,500 paintbrushes. He found a creative way to repurpose them.

Stationery company Yamato makes these unlimited-length sticky notes.

This Golf Cooler was invented specifically to smuggle beer onto golf courses (to avoid paying high clubhouse fees). It's insulated, can carry a six-pack, and fits inside a golf bag.

The Pocket Tripod folds down to fit into a wallet.

From Finland, this caterpillar-like electric ATV was designed to move over challenging terrain, without disturbing it.

Designed for people who deal with a lot of paperwork, these Mecricco Catch objects are wearable page-turning aids (no more licking one's thumb). Wearing them still allows one to type.

Of course, not all outside-the-box solutions are winners. I thought this neck-mounted smartphone mount was a good idea for capturing video hands-free, but it's disappeared from the market.

And finally, as a way to reduce funeral costs, Japanese "Balloon Funerals" send cremated ashes into the sky.