Animal Feeder with Rotating Distribution Adapter
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional animal feeders are limited in their ability to adapt between broadcast and trough modes without requiring part changes, and they often waste feed by distributing it in undesired directions, with a lack of remote control functionality for feed dispersal and lighting.
Innovation Solution
The development of an animal feeder that can be easily reconfigured between broadcast and trough modes using a distribution adapter mechanism, incorporates directional control through a directional diverter, and features a remote controller for initiating feed dispersal and controlling a mounted light.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a conventional animal feeder uses a fixed distribution mechanism, then the structure is simple, but the feeder cannot adapt between broadcast and trough modes without part changes
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a dynamic distribution mechanism where the distribution adapter can be rotated between different positions to switch between broadcast mode and trough mode. The motor-driven rotation system allows the feeder to adapt its distribution pattern dynamically without changing physical parts, resolving the contradiction between adaptability and structural complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The distribution adapter is designed to perform multiple functions: it can distribute feed in broadcast mode, direct feed into troughs, and be configured in intermediate positions. This multi-functional design allows a single structure to replace what would traditionally require multiple specialized components, achieving mode adaptability without proportionally increasing complexity.
2Loss of substance
If a conventional feeder distributes feed in all directions, then the distribution mechanism is simple, but feed is wasted in undesired directions
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements directional control by rotating the distribution adapter to specific orientations that direct feed only toward desired locations such as troughs or specific areas. This localizes the feed distribution to where it is needed, preventing waste in undesired directions while using a relatively simple rotational positioning mechanism.
Solution Approach 2:
The distribution adapter acts as an intermediary element between the feed hopper and the ground/troughs. By rotating this intermediary component, the system can control the direction of feed flow without requiring complex guiding structures or multiple distribution mechanisms, reducing overall system complexity while preventing feed waste.
3Ease of operation
If a feeder requires manual operation for feed dispersal, then the control system is simple, but the usability is limited in hunting or wildlife viewing contexts
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces manual mechanical operation with an electronically controlled motor-driven rotation system. The motor receives electrical signals to rotate the distribution adapter to predetermined positions, enabling remote operation without requiring the user to physically access or manipulate the feeder mechanism, thus improving ease of operation in hunting or wildlife viewing contexts.
Solution Approach 2:
The motor-driven rotation system automatically positions the distribution adapter based on programmed or remotely received commands, eliminating the need for manual intervention. The system serves itself by autonomously adjusting its distribution configuration, reducing the operational burden on the user while maintaining relatively simple overall control architecture.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
Enables flexible feed distribution to suit different animal feeding scenarios, reduces feed wastage by directing distribution as needed, and allows for remote operation of feed dispersal and lighting, enhancing usability in hunting or wildlife viewing contexts.
Implementation Method 1
a motor-driven rotating spinner head... With the motor spinning these game feeders broadcast feed falling down and out of the hopper outward away from the feeder
Implementation Method 2
the spin plate, which is pushed upward by a compression spring to cover the opening at the bottom of the hopper when the motor is not operating
Implementation Method 3
the motor will rotate the spin plate to uncover the opening at the bottom of the hopper so that feed can drop onto the spin plate for dispersion
Data Source
AI summary
An apparatus for feeding animals includes a hopper to store animal feed and a motor-driven spinner beneath the hopper, that radially spreads feed dropping from an opening in a bottom of the hopper. A timer control unit provides timer control of the motor, and includes an antenna that receives signals from a remote controller for remotely initiating a feed dispersal event and for remotely turning on a light on the feeder to selected levels of brightness including turning the light off. The apparatus may include a distribution adapter that has a first position, in which feed from the spinner is broadcast outwardly to an area surrounding the apparatus, and a second position, in which feed from the spinner is deflected downward to be distributed into troughs associated with the apparatus. The apparatus may further include housings that support the motor-driven spinner, and are configured to permit a directional deflector to be incorporated to provide a direction dispersion pattern that blocks a portion of 360° dispersion pattern of the spinner.