Automatic Spray Mechanism for Animal Deterrence
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing automatic animal deterrent systems are either conspicuous, ineffective for smaller animals, or prone to overwatering, lacking an inconspicuous and adjustable, self-powered solution that does not disrupt garden aesthetics.
Innovation Solution
A battery-powered automatic spraying assembly with an infrared motion sensor, a translucent plastic vessel, and an orbitally-adjustable swivel nozzle, allowing for precise direction of a mist or stream of fluid to deter animals without the need for external power or excessive water usage.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a traditional motion sensor and sprinkler system is used, then animal deterrence is achieved, but the device becomes conspicuous and disrupts garden aesthetics
Solution Approach 1:
The spray head is designed with a translucent or invisible appearance when not in use, allowing it to blend with the garden environment. The nozzle structure is optimized to be visually inconspicuous while maintaining functional effectiveness, thus resolving the contradiction between animal deterring effectiveness and garden aesthetic appearance.
2Ease of operation
If a fixed position sprinkler head is used, then installation is simple, but the spray direction cannot be adjusted for different animal approaches
Solution Approach 1:
The spray head incorporates adjustable components including a rotatable spray body and a tiltable nozzle assembly. These dynamic elements allow the spray direction to be adjusted according to the approach direction of animals, while the overall structure remains simple to install. The adjustment mechanism provides versatility without complicating the installation process.
3Reliability
If a large volume of water is sprayed per trigger, then animal deterrence is effective, but repeated triggering causes overwatering of the garden
Solution Approach 1:
The spray system uses adjustable flow rate parameters that can be optimized to deliver sufficient water for effective animal deterrence while minimizing overall water consumption. The pump and nozzle assembly allows control over spray volume per activation, preventing overwatering during repeated triggering while maintaining adequate deterrence effectiveness.
4Reliability
If external power sources and hoses are required, then device functionality is achieved, but device complexity and installation requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The device incorporates a rechargeable battery pack that provides self-contained power for the pump and motion sensor, eliminating the need for external power outlets. The water supply system uses a self-contained reservoir that can be manually refilled, removing the requirement for hoses or municipal water connections. This self-service approach reduces device complexity and installation requirements while maintaining full functionality.
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
Provides an effective, humane, and non-toxic deterrent for both domestic and wild animals, maintaining garden aesthetics while being adjustable and self-sufficient, preventing overwatering and accommodating multiple units for larger areas.
Implementation Method 1
The motion sensor is preferably an infrared-type sensor
Data Source
AI summary
An automatic spray mechanism provides a deterrent to keep animals away from flower beds and other restricted areas in a yard. The mechanism comprises a bottle which is filled with a liquid and inserted into a holder having a plurality of anchors which enables it to be secured into the ground. The top of the bottle comprises a powered spraying assembly comprising a pump, a suction tube, and a directionally adjustable spray nozzle. The mechanism is activated by an electronic motion sensor so when an animal such as a cat, dog, or wild animal approaches, it sprays the liquid.