Bird Feeder Feed Port Center Post Segmentation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Tubular bird feeders with wider feed port openings face issues of smaller birds getting stuck and larger birds spilling seed due to the design, as well as seed blends binding due to moisture absorption.
Innovation Solution
Incorporating a center post or obstruction within the feed port to reduce the opening size, preventing smaller birds from inserting their heads and larger birds from moving their beaks side to side, while allowing seed flow and deterring squirrels.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If wider openings are used on feed ports, then seed flow is improved and birds can eat more easily, but smaller birds may get their heads stuck in the feed port
Solution Approach 1:
The feed port opening is segmented by adding a center post that divides the single wide opening into multiple narrower sub-openings. This segmentation allows seed to flow freely through the combined width while preventing small birds from inserting their heads completely, as the post creates physical barriers that limit head insertion depth.
Solution Approach 2:
The center post acts as an intermediary element within the feed port opening. It mediates between the conflicting requirements of wide openings (for seed flow) and narrow openings (to prevent birds from getting stuck). The post is positioned to allow seed passage while blocking bird head insertion, serving as a protective barrier without completely obstructing access to feed.
2Ease of operation
If wider openings are used on feed ports, then seed flow is improved, but larger birds may spill seed easily out of the bird feeder
Solution Approach 1:
The center post segments the wide opening into controlled sub-openings that guide larger birds' beaks into a more restricted movement path. This segmentation allows seed to flow to the birds while the post structure prevents excessive lateral head movements that cause spillage, confining the birds' feeding actions to a smaller angular range.
Solution Approach 2:
The center post serves as an intermediary structure that moderates the interaction between larger birds and the seed supply. It provides a physical reference point that limits beak movement laterally, preventing birds from shaking their heads excessively to pick through seeds, thereby reducing spillage while still allowing adequate seed access.
3Loss of substance
If smaller openings are used on feed ports, then seed spillage is reduced, but seed flow is blocked due to moisture absorption and swelling
Solution Approach 1:
Rather than using a single small opening that would block swollen seed, the feed port uses multiple narrower sub-openings created by the center post. This segmentation allows individual seed grains to pass through the combined width even when slightly swollen, while each individual sub-opening remains narrow enough to prevent bird head insertion and minimize spillage.
Data Source
AI summary
A feed port for a bird feeder is disclosed. The feed port includes a body portion having a number of edges defining a first opening through the body portion. A shroud extends from the body portion and depends downwards forming a space rear of the first opening. The shroud further defines a second opening in fluid connection with the first opening. An obstruction extends across the second opening.