Suspended Poultry Drinker Valve Sanitation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing animal-actuated water supply systems are often permanently installed, requiring precise cage positioning and can become dirty when set on the ground, leading to sanitation issues due to exposure to dirt and animal excrement.
Innovation Solution
A container with a tapered design and leg support system keeps the valve off the ground, combined with a hanger assembly for easy rotation and suspension, allowing for sanitary refilling and positioning without exposing the valve to dirt.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If the container is set on the ground for easy refilling, then ease of operation is improved, but the valve becomes dirty due to exposure to dirt and animal excrement
Solution Approach 1:
The patent elevates the valve from ground level to a suspended position above the ground by attaching it to the bottom of the container. This dimensional change in vertical positioning allows the valve to remain accessible for operation while preventing contact with ground-level contaminants such as dirt and animal excrement.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a chain or rope as an intermediary element to suspend the container and valve assembly from a support structure. This intermediary mechanism enables the valve to be positioned in a clean, elevated location while still allowing easy access for refilling operations.
2Ease of operation
If the valve is positioned on the ground for animal access, then ease of operation is improved, but sanitation deteriorates due to exposure to dirt and excrement
Solution Approach 1:
The patent positions the valve in three-dimensional space above the ground by suspending the container, creating vertical separation between the valve and ground-level contaminants. This spatial repositioning maintains animal accessibility while eliminating sanitation problems associated with ground contact.
3Reliability
If permanent water supply installation is used, then reliability is improved, but adaptability deteriorates requiring precise cage positioning
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the water supply system into portable, modular components (container, valve, support structure) that can be independently positioned and reconfigured. This segmentation allows the system to be moved and adapted to different cage locations without requiring permanent installation infrastructure.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates a dynamic, movable water supply system using suspendable containers that can be repositioned as needed. This contrasts with static permanent installations, allowing the system to adapt to changing cage positions and configurations while maintaining reliable water delivery.
Data Source
AI summary
An enclosed container for holding water and at least one hole near a bottom of the container with a valve for an animal to obtain water from the container. At least one leg underneath the container is provided for supporting the bottom of the container and the valve off of the ground. The enclosed container is tapered from a top of the container to the bottom of the container. A hanger assembly attaches to opposite sides near a top of the container, so that when the animal drinker is hung, the container rotates so that the front of the container rests substantially flush against a fence.