Solar-Powered Bird Feeder Camera for Longer Recording

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing bird feeders lack the ability to record feeding processes in a timely manner and have inefficient power supply systems, leading to limited battery life and cumbersome installations.

Innovation Solution

A bird feeder equipped with a camera, rechargeable battery, and solar power supply device, where the solar panel is integrated into the main body to provide continuous power and facilitate efficient recording, while also improving installation efficiency.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Loss of information

If a camera is added to record feeding processes, then recording capability is improved, but power consumption increases and battery life decreases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improverecording capabilityVSAvoidbattery life
Core Design Contradiction:
Loss of informationVSDuration of action of moving object

Solution Approach 1:

The solar panel is integrated directly into the main body of the bird feeder, merging the power generation function with the feeder structure. This combination allows continuous solar charging during daytime, extending battery life to support prolonged camera operation for recording feeding processes.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The solar power supply device enables the system to generate its own power through photosynthesis conversion. The solar panel automatically converts sunlight into electrical energy to charge the battery, making the system self-sufficient and eliminating the need for external power sources or frequent battery replacements.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

2Productivity

If the solar panel is integrated into the main body, then installation efficiency is improved, but device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveinstallation efficiencyVSAvoidstructure integration
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The solar panel is merged with the main body as an integrated component rather than a separate attachment. This design allows the solar panel to be installed simultaneously with the main body in a single location, eliminating the need for separate installation steps and improving overall installation efficiency.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The main body serves multiple functions: it houses the feed bin, provides structural support, and integrates the solar panel for power generation. This multi-functionality reduces the number of separate components needed, simplifying the overall system while maintaining installation efficiency.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

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 integrated solar panel system enhances battery life, allows for timely recording of feeding processes, and simplifies installation by integrating the solar panel with the main body, ensuring efficient power supply and compact design.

Implementation Method 1

a solar power supply device, wherein the solar power supply device is electrically connected to the battery; the solar power supply device includes a solar panel

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectPhotovoltaic effect: Photovoltaic Effect

Data Source

PatentUS12568939B1Bird feeder
Publication Date: 2026.03.10 LI MEIFENG
  • US12568939B1 patent drawing
  • US12568939B1 patent drawing
  • US12568939B1 patent drawing

AI summary

A bird feeder includes a main body, a camera, a rechargeable battery, and a solar power supply device. The main body is provided with a feed bin and a feed dispensing opening. The feed bin is in communication with the feed dispensing opening. The camera is connected to the main body. The battery is electrically connected to the camera. The solar power supply device is electrically connected to the battery. The solar power supply device includes a solar panel. The solar panel is connected to the main body. The solar panel covers at least one part of a surface of the main body.