Modular Bird Deterrent System With Swappable Laser Modules
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current bird deterrent systems require complex and time-consuming maintenance processes, including shipping devices back to manufacturers for repairs, which leads to significant downtime and increased costs due to the lack of modularity and interchangeability of components, as well as exposure to external influences during inspection.
Innovation Solution
A modular bird control system that allows for easy replacement and upgrading of individual modules by end-users, featuring a versatile interface for connecting existing and future modules, including a light source and detection systems, reducing downtime and costs by enabling on-site maintenance and system upgrades.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If the device is designed as a non-modular integrated system, then the structure is simpler and easier to manufacture, but the repair time increases and components cannot be replaced individually
Solution Approach 1:
The device is divided into separate functional modules (laser module, camera module, control unit, power supply) that can be independently replaced. Each module has standardized connection interfaces allowing quick swapping without affecting other components, reducing repair time from hours to minutes while maintaining manufacturing efficiency through modular assembly.
Solution Approach 2:
The control unit and communication bus are designed to be universal, capable of working with different module types (laser, camera, sensor). This allows a single control unit to support multiple module configurations, maintaining system simplicity while enabling flexible module replacement and upgrades without requiring the entire device to be replaced.
2Reliability
If the device is shipped back to the manufacturer for repair, then professional repair services are provided, but the device downtime increases significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The system enables end-users to perform self-service repairs by replacing malfunctioning modules with spare modules on-site. The standardized interfaces and module-level diagnostics allow users to identify and replace faulty components without manufacturer intervention, reducing downtime from days to minutes while maintaining system reliability through proven module designs.
Solution Approach 2:
Users can prepare spare modules in advance and perform replacements before critical failures occur. The system includes diagnostic capabilities that alert users to module status, allowing proactive replacement of components like laser modules with limited burning hours before they fail, thus preventing complete system downtime.
3Ease of repair
If the laser module is replaced at a service center, then proper tools and expertise are available, but the process takes at least half an hour and requires shipping
Solution Approach 1:
The laser module is designed as a self-contained, easily removable unit with external connectors for power and control signals. This segmentation allows the laser module to be replaced in seconds by simply disconnecting and reconnecting plugs, eliminating the need for complex disassembly procedures and specialized tools while maintaining repair quality through standardized connection protocols.
Solution Approach 2:
Traditional mechanical fastening methods (screws, clips requiring tools) are replaced with plug-and-play electrical connectors and bayonet-style mechanical couplings. This substitution allows module replacement through simple connector engagement/disengagement, reducing replacement time from 30+ minutes to under a minute while maintaining secure connections through standardized interface designs.
4Adaptability or versatility
If a new device is purchased for system upgrades, then the latest technology is obtained, but the cost increases and the old device is discarded
Solution Approach 1:
The system architecture separates the control unit from the functional modules (laser, camera, sensors). Upgrades can be performed by replacing only the specific module that needs updating while retaining the functional control unit and other working modules. This segmentation enables targeted upgrades rather than full system replacement, reducing costs and electronic waste while maintaining adaptability to new technologies.
Solution Approach 2:
The control unit and communication bus are designed with universal interfaces that can accommodate different module types and generations. This universality allows older control units to work with newer modules and vice versa, enabling gradual system upgrades where modules can be replaced individually as technology advances, rather than requiring complete system replacement and generating unnecessary e-waste.
5Reliability
If multiple replacement parts are kept in stock for different products, then device availability is maintained, but inventory costs and complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
A universal module interface and communication protocol are implemented across all device variants, allowing a single spare module to potentially serve multiple product models. The standardized mechanical and electrical interfaces, along with a universal control bus, enable modules to be interchangeable across different configurations, reducing inventory requirements from multiple model-specific parts to a smaller set of universal modules while maintaining device availability.
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses parameter-based configuration rather than hardware-specific designs. Modules are identified and configured through software parameters and communication protocols rather than physical form factors, allowing the same physical module to be adapted to different applications through parameter changes. This reduces inventory complexity by enabling a smaller set of modular components to serve multiple functions across different product variants.
Data Source
AI summary
The present disclosure describes a device which is able to detect and deter wildlife. The present solution provides for a modular system which can have various modules received in a module housing and those modules can be replaced without the need for the device to be serviced by the manufacturer or a certified repair technician.