Directional Feeder Rotor Spout for Even Feed Distribution
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional wildlife and animal feeders often suffer from uneven distribution of feed, leading to inefficiencies and waste, particularly at the start and stop of feeding operations, where a significant amount of food is deposited at the feeder's base rather than being dispersed effectively.
Innovation Solution
The described feeder assembly incorporates a rotor assembly with flappers and a spout design that utilizes gravity-fed feed distribution, where the feed enters a rotor feed pocket and is ejected through a spout exit opening, ensuring consistent and efficient dispersal of feed over a distance, with features like a sloped hopper cover and adjustable spout orientation to minimize waste and ensure even distribution.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of substance
If conventional feeders deposit feed at the base, then feed distribution is simple, but feed distribution is uneven and waste increases
Solution Approach 1:
The feeder divides feed distribution into multiple zones along the spout length, with feed being deposited at different positions rather than concentrated at the base. This segmentation of the discharge area enables even distribution across a longer distance, reducing waste at any single location.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention extends feed distribution from a point (base) to a line (along the spout length). By utilizing the longitudinal dimension of the spout, feed is dispersed over an extended distance, transforming the distribution pattern from concentrated to distributed, thereby reducing waste.
2Length of stationary object
If feed is deposited at the base, then the mechanism is simple, but distribution distance is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The feed distribution is extended along the longitudinal dimension of the spout. The rotor mechanism propels feed forward along the spout, utilizing the length of the spout as a distribution dimension, thereby increasing the effective distribution distance from the feeder.
Solution Approach 2:
The rotor assembly introduces dynamic motion to propel feed along the spout. This dynamic mechanism, rotating at controlled speeds, actively transports feed forward rather than relying on passive gravity flow, enabling extended distribution distance.
3Manufacturing precision
If feed flow is uncontrolled, then operation is simple, but distribution uniformity deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The system incorporates feedback control through variable speed rotation of the rotor and adjustable gate mechanisms that respond to feed flow conditions. This feedback enables consistent control of feed quantity and distribution uniformity, ensuring precise and even feed placement along the spout.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention controls feed distribution uniformity by adjusting key parameters including rotor rotation speed, gate opening degree, and feed flow rate. By dynamically adjusting these parameters, the system achieves consistent and uniform feed distribution along the spout length.
4Productivity
If feeder operates continuously, then productivity is high, but waste at start and stop increases
Solution Approach 1:
The controlled flow mechanism prepares the feed flow in advance before full distribution begins, and maintains controlled flow during shutdown. This preliminary and sustained control prevents sudden surges or stops that cause waste, ensuring smooth operation transitions while maintaining productivity.
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
The feeder assembly effectively spreads multiple types and sizes of feed, reducing waste by ensuring that feed is consistently dispersed over a distance, minimizing the 'burp' effect at start and stop, and maintaining efficient operation through a controlled flow mechanism.
Implementation Method 1
gravity-fed feed distribution, where the feed enters a rotor feed pocket and is ejected through a spout exit opening
Data Source
AI summary
Directional feeders having a feed slide, a feed pocket and multiple flappers on a rotor are disclosed. The rotor may be configured to have a horizontal axis of rotation such that gravity conveys feed down the feed slide to a feed pocket which redirects the feed into a rotor housing.