Movable Animal Shell Deterrent for Pest Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for deterring pests like pigeons, wild birds, snakes, and mice in homes and workplaces are often ineffective due to the use of non-life-like, stationary predator figures that fail to convincingly scare these animals away, posing environmental and safety risks.
Innovation Solution
A life-like movable figure with motion-activated components, controlled by sensors or remote devices, designed to mimic animals such as owls or cats, which can be programmed to scare pests using various movements, sounds, and visual deterrents, minimizing property damage and disease spread.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If stationary imitation predator figures are used to scare pests, then the device complexity is reduced, but the effectiveness in scaring pests deteriorates because pests ignore non-moving figures
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies the dynamics principle by transforming the stationary predator figure into a moving one. The device incorporates motion mechanisms that enable the predator figure to move its head, body, and wings in realistic patterns. This motion activates the pests' escape responses, making the deterrent effective. The motion is controlled by motors and linkages that simulate natural predator movements, resolving the contradiction between simplicity and effectiveness.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements periodic action through programmed motion sequences that repeat in realistic intervals. The predator figure performs cyclic movements such as head bobbing, wing flapping, and body shifting that mimic natural hunting behaviors. These periodic actions maintain pest alertness and prevent habituation, ensuring continuous effectiveness without requiring constant complexity.
2Reliability
If motion-activated components and sensors are added to create a life-like movable figure, then the effectiveness in scaring pests is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies self-service through motion-activated mechanisms that automatically respond to pest detection without human intervention. When sensors detect movement or presence of pests, the system autonomously activates the appropriate motion sequences and visual effects. This automation reduces the need for manual operation while maintaining effectiveness, balancing the increased complexity with autonomous functionality.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements multi-functionality by integrating multiple deterrent mechanisms into a single device. The system combines motion activation, visual effects (LED lights, projections), auditory effects (speakers), and various motion patterns (head movement, wing flapping) into one unified device. This universal approach consolidates multiple functions that would otherwise require separate devices, managing complexity through integration.
3Productivity
If toxic chemicals and poisons are used to reduce pests, then the productivity in pest reduction is improved, but harmful factors to the environment and safety increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent converts the concept of harm into benefit by using harmless motion and visual effects to achieve pest deterrence. Instead of using toxic substances that harm the environment, the system uses simulated predator behavior that naturally triggers pest escape responses. This approach maintains productivity in pest reduction while eliminating harmful chemical effects, effectively converting potential harm into a beneficial non-toxic solution.
Data Source
AI summary
A device is disclosed which is configured to startle certain pests which may cause a variety of problems in certain areas of a home or workplace. By limiting the action of the pests, or removing the pests from the area, the invention may prevent the destruction of property, minimize animal droppings, and minimize the spread of disease. The invention includes an external shell in the shape of any desired animal, wherein the external shell also covers internal mechanical, electronic and electrical components. The components are configured to move parts of the animal shell and move other items attached to the shell. The movement may be a result of a motion detector detecting an undesirable pest, programmable timer, a remote control device operated within the safety of a home or by other sensors.