Extendable Feeding Box With Sliding Lid for Safe Cage Feeding
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing feeding methods for caged or confined animals pose risks of bites or scratches to caregivers, increase the likelihood of animal escape, and lead to contamination and stress due to spillage, especially in veterinary clinics and animal shelters.
Innovation Solution
An extendable feeding device with a stainless-steel feeding box and sliding lid that fits through wire mesh, featuring a handle for secure insertion and a gasket for spill prevention, allowing safe delivery of food and water without opening the enclosure.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If traditional feeding methods are used (opening cage to place food), then food can be provided to animals, but caregivers are exposed to bites or scratches and animals may escape
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a feeding device as an intermediary tool that allows food to be inserted into the cage through the wire mesh without direct hand contact. The device includes a container with a dispensing mechanism that can be operated from outside the cage, eliminating the need for caregivers to place their hands inside the enclosure and thus preventing bites and scratches.
Solution Approach 2:
The feeding device is segmented into separate functional components: a container for holding food, a dispensing mechanism for releasing food, and a handle for operation. This segmentation allows the food delivery function to be separated from direct contact with the animal, enabling safe feeding through the cage mesh while maintaining operational effectiveness.
2Productivity
If cage is opened to provide food, then feeding can be done, but animal escape risk increases
Solution Approach 1:
The feeding device is designed to be prepared and loaded with food before insertion into the cage. The container is sealed and the dispensing mechanism is pre-configured, allowing the entire feeding action to be completed through the closed cage mesh without opening the enclosure, thus maintaining containment reliability while ensuring feeding productivity.
3Productivity
If food is thrown or water poured into enclosure, then animals receive nourishment, but spillage occurs causing contamination and waste
Solution Approach 1:
The feeding device acts as a controlled intermediary system between the caregiver and the animal. It includes a container with a controlled dispensing mechanism that releases food or water precisely where needed inside the cage, preventing uncontrolled spillage and contamination while ensuring the animal receives adequate nourishment.
Solution Approach 2:
The container in the feeding device may utilize flexible materials that can be sealed and controlled to prevent leakage during insertion and positioning. These flexible structures allow for controlled dispensing of food or water without premature spillage, reducing waste and contamination while maintaining feeding effectiveness.
Data Source
AI summary
An extendable feeding device is provided. The device is comprised of an extendable feeding device designed to safely and efficiently provide food and water to animals confined in cages, live traps, or crates, minimizing the risk of bites, scratches, and stress during feeding. The device comprises a stainless-steel feeding box with a sliding lid that securely holds food or water, allowing caregivers to insert the device through wire mesh without opening the enclosure. A removable handle with and non-slip grip provides adjustable reach and secure handling, while a gasket ensures spill prevention. The device enhances hygiene, prevents accidental animal escapes, and simplifies feeding for veterinary offices, animal shelters, TNR programs, and transporters, ensuring humane care and reducing contamination risks associated with traditional feeding methods.