Integrated Bird Feeder Perches for Secure, Compact Storage
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing bird feeders suffer from flimsy and easily removable perches that can break or become loose under bird weight, posing a need for a more durable and secure design.
Innovation Solution
A bird feeder with integrated perches that pivot between extended and folded positions, secured by a base and crimp members, and a shroud with recessed portions to reinforce the structure and accommodate the perches, ensuring stability and ease of storage.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional separate perches are used on bird feeders, then birds can access seeds, but the perches are flimsy and easily removable, breaking or becoming loose under bird weight
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the perch and shroud into a single integrated component. The perch is formed as an integral part of the shroud structure, eliminating separate attachment mechanisms. This merging provides structural strength while simplifying the overall design, resolving the contradiction between reliability and device complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The shroud and perch are formed from a single piece of material with varying thicknesses to create different functional zones. Thinner sections provide perch surfaces while thicker sections provide structural support, creating a composite structure that delivers both bird-friendly features and mechanical strength.
2Ease of operation
If the shroud is in the open position to allow seed access, then birds can feed, but the feeder cannot be stored or shipped efficiently
Solution Approach 1:
The shroud is designed to be movable between open and closed positions, allowing the feeder to adapt between operational and storage states. The integrated perches pivot with the shroud, maintaining functionality while enabling compact storage when needed.
3Ease of operation
If the perches are fixed in an extended position, then birds can perch comfortably, but the feeder cannot be compacted for storage and shipping
Solution Approach 1:
The integrated perches are designed to pivot along with the shroud as it moves between open and closed positions. When the shroud is open, perches extend for bird use; when the shroud closes, perches fold back, enabling compact storage without compromising bird perching capability.
Data Source
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AI summary
The present disclosure provides a bird feeder having a seed container, seed tray, shroud, cover as well as integrated perches. The integrated perches provide less breakage and easier handling of the bird feeder, as the pivot point of the perches is not easily accessible by an operator or a bird.