Spring-Tension Scarecrow Mount for Stable Elevated Perching
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing scarecrow mounts fail to securely position small plastic scarecrows like owls in an elevated, natural perching location while preventing them from being blown over by wind and rain.
Innovation Solution
A scarecrow mount with a hollow base and a spring-loaded, elongate double curved holder that attaches to a support, providing adjustable positioning and secure fastening through a circular aperture at the base of the scarecrow, using a combination of rigid legs and adjustable straps for stability.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If a simple mount structure is used, then the device complexity is reduced, but the scarecrow cannot be securely positioned in an elevated location and may be blown over by wind and rain
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a spring-loaded holder that provides dynamic tension to secure the scarecrow. The spring mechanism allows the holder to expand and contract, maintaining constant pressure on the scarecrow base to prevent it from being blown over by wind or displaced by rain, while still allowing for easy installation and removal.
Solution Approach 2:
The mount is divided into distinct functional segments: a support structure with legs for elevation, a spring-loaded holder for securing the scarecrow, and an aperture system for installation. This segmentation allows each component to perform its specific function optimally while keeping the overall design relatively simple.
2Reliability
If a secure fastening mechanism is implemented, then the scarecrow stability is improved, but the ease of operation for installation and removal is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The spring-loaded holder provides a dynamic fastening mechanism that is both secure and easy to operate. When installing the scarecrow, the spring naturally expands to guide the aperture onto the holder, and the tension automatically secures it. For removal, simply lifting the scarecrow releases the tension, allowing easy detachment without tools or complex steps.
Solution Approach 2:
The spring mechanism performs the fastening action automatically through its own tension and expansion/contraction cycles. The holder self-adjusts to secure the scarecrow firmly while allowing for simple removal, eliminating the need for additional fasteners, tools, or complex assembly procedures.
3Adaptability or versatility
If an elevated positioning system is used, then the scarecrow appears in a natural perching location enhancing deterrent effectiveness, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The elevated positioning system is segmented into simple vertical legs supporting the holder at an appropriate height. This segmentation creates a natural perching location for owls and hawks without requiring complex mechanical systems, motors, or adjustment mechanisms. The legs provide stable elevation while keeping the overall structure simple and easy to assemble.
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 solution effectively secures scarecrows in an aesthetically pleasing, elevated position, resisting wind and rain while allowing easy removal, enhancing their deterrent effectiveness and durability.
Implementation Method 1
apply a spring tension to hold the scarecrow on the leg
Data Source
AI summary
A scarecrow mount for mounting a scarecrow to a first support, the scarecrow having a hollow base with an aperture formed on a bottom of the hollow base. The scarecrow mount includes a first rigid leg of unitary construction and mountable to an upper surface of the first support and having a scarecrow holder formed thereon and configured for installation to the scarecrow through the aperture on the bottom of the scarecrow to engage the bottom of the scarecrow and apply a spring tension to hold the scarecrow on the leg. The scarecrow holder is configured as an elongate double curved member having a proximal end directly connected to the first leg and an opposite free end. The scarecrow holder is shaped to have an upward curve just outward of the proximal end and an oppositely extending downward curve just inward of the free end, such that the free end is angled upwardly away from the first leg.