ANIMAL FEEDER

Abstract

Implementations described and claimed herein provide disposable containers for feeding animals and systems, methods, and apparatuses related thereto. In one implementation, an animal feeder for use in dispensing animal food to birds or other suitable animals includes one or more reservoirs having one or more walls that allow a user to create one or more openings in the walls. The one or more reservoirs may be set on a tray to orient each reservoir to allow birds or other suitable animals to feed from the openings in each reservoir. The reservoirs are disposable and replaceable to provide a re-useable system for feeding birds.

Description

FIELD

Aspects of the present disclosure relate generally to feeders for animals, for example, birds.

BACKGROUND

Hummingbird feeders are a source of enjoyment for bird and nature enthusiasts. A hummingbird feeder is typically a reservoir that dispenses or makes available a food source to a hummingbird, namely nectar. Nectar typically comprises a sugar and water solution.

Some hummingbird feeders rely on a nozzle positioned below or under a reservoir of liquid hummingbird solution that mimics the nourishment found in nature. The weight of the feeding solution pushes the solution to the access point of the nozzle. The nozzle functions as a valve that should control the flow of feed solution by holding feed solution inside the nozzle until a hummingbird disturbs the nozzle to access the feed solution.

These hummingbird feeders tend to leak due to either the undesired flow from the nozzle, for example due to temperature changes, spoilage of the feed solution, and the wind moving the feeder, among other causes. Also, when a hummingbird disturbs the nozzle, it initiates a flow of feed solution from the feeder that results in the hummingbird releasing more feeding solution than it can ingest. Leakage furthermore attracts unwanted pests, such as ants and wasps that tend to contaminate the feed solution. What is needed are improved feeders for feeding hummingbirds, and other animals, while reducing the waste of feed solution.

SUMMARY

Implementations described and claimed herein address the foregoing problems by providing disposable containers for feeding animals. In one implementation, an animal feeder for use in dispensing animal food to birds or other suitable animals includes one or more reservoirs having one or more walls that allow a user to create one or more openings in the walls. The one or more reservoirs may be set on a tray to orient each reservoir to allow birds or other suitable animals to feed from the openings in each reservoir. The reservoirs are disposable and replaceable to provide a re-useable system for feeding birds.

Other implementations are also described and recited herein. Further, while multiple implementations are disclosed, still other implementations of the presently disclosed technology will become apparent to those skilled in the art from the following detailed description, which shows and describes illustrative implementations of the presently disclosed technology. As will be realized, the presently disclosed technology is capable of modifications in various aspects, all without departing from the spirit and scope of the presently disclosed technology. Accordingly, the drawings and detailed description are to be regarded as illustrative in nature and not limiting.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a first example configuration of a hummingbird feeding apparatus;

FIG. 2A is a perspective view of a second example configuration of hummingbird feeding apparatus having a nozzle member removed;

FIG. 2B is a cross-sectional view of the second configuration of hummingbird feeding apparatus taken along line 2B-2B, shown in FIG. 2D;

FIG. 2C is a close-up view of section “2C” shown in FIG. 2B;

FIG. 2D is a top view of the second configuration of hummingbird feeding apparatus;

FIG. 3 is a close-up view of section “3” shown in FIG. 2B, showing layers in walls of a feeder;

FIG. 4A is a cross-sectional view of a first example configuration of a hummingbird feeding apparatus taken along line 4A-4A shown in FIG. 4B with the nozzle member coupled to the feeder;

FIG. 4B is a top view of the first configuration of a hummingbird feeding apparatus;

FIG. 5 is a close-up view of section “5” shown in FIG. 4A of a nozzle member;

FIG. 6 is a front view of a hangar member;

FIG. 7 is a front view of a nozzle member;

FIG. 8 is a perspective view of a refill package;

FIG. 9 is a perspective view of a second feeding apparatus in a first configuration;

FIG. 10 is a perspective view of a second feeding apparatus in a second configuration;

FIG. 11 is a perspective view of a third feeding apparatus;

FIGS. 12A, 12B, and 12C are three configurations of an extension arm for a third feeding apparatus;

FIG. 13 is a perspective view of a fourth feeding apparatus;

FIG. 14 is a bottom view of a fourth feeding apparatus;

FIG. 15 is a perspective view of a second dispensing member;

FIG. 16 is a perspective view of a second refill package;

FIGS. 17A, 17B, and 17C are a top view, side cross-sectional view taken along line 17B-17B, and a close up view of section C of a second refill package;

FIG. 18 is a perspective view of a fifth feeding apparatus;

FIG. 19 is a perspective view of a stand;

FIGS. 20A, 20B, and 20C are side view, front view, and top view of a bracket;

FIG. 21 is a perspective view of a feeder;

FIG. 22 is a side view of a feeder;

FIG. 23 is a disassembled view of a feeder;

FIG. 24 is a close-view of a spout of a feeder;

FIG. 25 a top view of an example feeder, showing a cross-sectional line A-A, including line segment A′, taken across the feeder;

FIG. 26 is an illustration of a first cross-sectional view taken along line A-A, including A′ of the feeder shown in FIG. 25;

FIG. 27 is the illustration of the cross-sectional view of the feeder of FIG. 26 in a first position;

FIG. 28 is the illustration of the cross-sectional view of the feeder of FIG. 26 in a second position;

FIG. 29 is the illustration of the cross-sectional view of the feeder of FIG. 26 in a third position;

FIGS. 30A and 30B are a perspective view of a perch and a side view of the perch mounted on a feeder, respectively;

FIGS. 31A and 31B are a perspective view of a cover mounted on a feeder and a top view of the cover, respectively;

FIG. 32 is a perspective view of a feeder;

FIG. 33 is a side view of a feeder;

FIG. 34 a top view of a feeder, showing a cross-sectional line B-B taken across the feeder;

FIG. 35 is a first illustration of a cross-sectional view taken along line B-B, shown in FIG. 34;

FIG. 36 is a second illustration of the cross-sectional view of the feeder of FIG. 35;

FIG. 37 is a first view of an example feeder tray;

FIG. 38 is a top view of the feeder tray of FIG. 37;

FIG. 39 is a second view of the feeder tray of FIG. 37;

FIG. 40 is an illustration of another example feeder tray;

FIG. 41 is a top view of the feeder tray of FIG. 40;

FIG. 42 is an illustration of another example feeder tray; and

FIG. 43 is an illustration of another example of a feeder.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Aspects of the presently disclosed technology relate to systems and methods for dispensing animal food, such as nectar, seeds, suet, or other suitable food to animals, such as birds or other animals using disposable containers. Some of the example implementations described herein reference feed solution and hummingbirds. However, it will be appreciated that the present technology is applicable to other types of animal food, as well as other animals.

To begin a detailed description of example feed containers and associated features, reference is made to FIG. 1. As shown in FIG. 1, a feeding apparatus 1000 for feeding a bird or other animals may comprise a feeder 100 containing a formula adapted for feeding birds or other animals. The feeder 100 may be configured to couple to a dispensing member 200 for dispensing the formula to birds or animals. In some implementations, the formula may be ready for consumption, without requiring the addition of any further materials, such as water, sugar or other ingredients. As shown in FIG. 2A, the feeder 100 may have a cap member 113 that may cover an opening 106 in the feeder 100.

The feeder 100 may comprise an aseptic or sterile enclosure having walls 102 forming a reservoir 104. The formula may be aseptically filled and packaged in the feeder 100 prior to arriving to the consumer. The formula may have been previously sterilized and aseptically packaged in the feeder 100 for storage in an aseptic environment, at least until one or more seals on the feeder are broken to dispense the formula to birds or other animals. For instance, the formula may be vacuum-packed in a microbe-free and sterile packing environment into an aseptic feeder for keeping the formula fresh for an extended period of time, for instance two years.

An aseptic or sterile enclosure may comprise a reservoir that contains a sterile product stored in a sterile container. The sterile product, such as hummingbird formula, is stored to maintain its sterility for an extended period of time to extend the shelf life of the product, where sterility may be defined as the condition of the product being substantially microbe and disease-free. The reservoir 104 of the feeder 100 shown in FIG. 1 may have walls 102 comprising layers of a combination of paper, plastic, foil, like aluminum foil, or other suitable materials.

As shown in FIGS. 2B and 3, the walls of the feeder 100 may comprise one or more layers 110 that accomplish and promote longer shelf life by protecting the contents from contaminants like microbes, bacteria, moisture, oxygen, light, and flavor. The reservoir 104 of the feeder 100 may be constructed according to the processes and manufacturing techniques of the aseptic packages produced by Tetra Pak Inc. of Vernon Hills, Ill., for instance under the registered trademark Tetra Prisma®.

The walls 102 may include a series of one or more layers 110 including, but not limited to, those shown in FIGS. 2B and 3. As shown in FIG. 3, these layers 110 may include a combination of one or more of a polyethylene layer 110a for sealing in the nectar formula 101, shown in FIG. 2A, a first polyethylene adhesion layer 110b, an aluminum foil layer 110c, a second polyethylene adhesion layer 110d, a paperboard layer 110e for providing structural stability and strength to the feeder and define an enclosed volume as a reservoir, a printed design and artwork layer 110f for labeling the feeder, and a second polyethylene layer 110g to protect the reservoir from external moisture.

In some implementations, the layers 110 of the feeder 100 may comprise flexible materials that may be folded into a closed shape to configure the layers 110 to define a reservoir for holding nectar solution. One advantage of using flexible materials for the layers 116 may be that it allows for high-speed manufacturing, which may lower overall production costs.

It is expected that at least one layer of the walls 102 may comprise a substantial barrier to one or more of microbes, bacteria, moisture, oxygen, light or flavor. The layer 110c may comprise a low density metal, such as aluminum, that resists corrosion and provides a substantial barrier to light, oxygen and flavor. In the implementation shown, the aluminum foil layer 110c may substantially prevent light from entering the reservoir to impact the nectar contained in the feeder 100. Preventing light from impacting the nectar may retard microbial growth within the reservoir 103, which may significantly extend the shelf-life of the nectar formula 101.

In is further expected that the aluminum foil layer 110c may assist in extending the time that the nectar stays fresh after at least one seal in the feeder 100 is broken and the nectar in the reservoir is exposed, at least partially, to the outside environment. A consumer may purchase the feeder 100 in a substantially sealed condition with the feeder 100 sealed by at least one seal, such as first sealing member 116, described below. After the seal is broken, the aluminum layer 110c may continue to substantially prevent light from impacting the nectar solution contained in the reservoir of the feeder 100, even though there may be some contamination as an expected part of breaking the seal. Therefore, the aluminum layer 110c and other suitable materials may maintain a substantially sealed condition, providing a relatively sterile environment, within the reservoir for a longer period of time, even after the seal of the feeder 100 is initially broken. In some implementations, the dispensing member 200 may further assist in preventing contamination and stopping microbial growth by acting as at least a partial seal to entrance of air within the reservoir.

It will be understood other materials known by persons of ordinary skill in the art may be used in place of aluminum of layer 110c. These materials may accomplish substantially the same apparent benefits and advantages of aluminum, and may include tin, zinc, or other suitable material.

As shown in FIG. 2B, the feeder 100 may comprise an opening 106 on a bottom portion 13 of the feeder 100. The opening 106 may extend through the walls 102 of the feeder 100 allowing for nectar to be inserted or removed from the reservoir 104, in the absence of at least one seal that would close the opening 106.

A connection interface 112 may surround a portion of the opening 106 for coupling a dispensing member 200 to the feeder 100. The interface 112 may attach to and extend from the outside surface of the walls 102 of the feeder 100. The interface 112 may generally at least partially surround or enclose the opening 106, and may generally form a channel for connecting with a mouth of the interface 112 and the opening 106, shown in FIG. 1.

In the implementation shown in FIGS. 2B and 4A, the interface 112 may comprise a boss 114 extending from the opening 106 having threading 117 on outside portions of the boss 114. The threading 117 may be configured to threadably couple to a cap member (shown in FIGS. 2A and 2B) or the dispensing member 200 (shown in FIG. 4) for allowing the nectar formula 101 to flow from the reservoir 104 through the interface 112 and to the dispensing member 200. The boss 114 may be manufactured from polypropylene or other suitable material. It will be understood by persons of ordinary skill in the art that the threaded coupling between the interface 112 and the dispensing member 200 may be interchanged with other structures and methods of coupling that will perform the same function as the threaded coupling, for instance snap or interference fits, latches, or clips.

The opening 106 may be sealed by a first sealing member 116. In the implementation shown in FIG. 2B, the first sealing member 116 may cover the opening 106 to impede the flow of nectar formula 101 from the reservoir 104 through the interface 112 and to the dispensing member 200 and to at least partially seal the feeder from the outside environment, e.g. from air, light, bacteria, microbes, or animals. The first sealing member 116 may be configured to be breakable or removable to allow the consumer to open or unseal the feeder 100 for dispensing nectar formula 101 to birds or other animals.

Initially, the feeder 100 may be sealed from the outside atmosphere by the first sealing member 116. As shown in FIG. 2B, the first sealing member 116 may comprise a piece of aluminum foil, or other suitable material, extending from the walls 102 of the feeder 100 to cover the opening 106. In some implementations, the first sealing member 116 comprises a portion of layer 110c that has been stripped of other layers 110 to expose the aluminum portion of walls 102.

The connection between the first sealing member 116 and the feeder 100 may be configured to allow the consumer to tear or break the first sealing member 116 from the feeder 100 with the application of a threshold level of pulling or puncturing force. The foil of the first sealing member 116 may be configured to be thin enough, as a membrane, to allow the consumer to puncture the membrane with application of a threshold level of piercing force. The boss 114 may at least partially cover and enclose both the opening 106 and the first sealing member 116 to prevent inadvertent displacement of the first sealing member 116.

A cap member 113 may couple to the boss 114 to substantially enclose both the opening 106 and the first sealing member 116 to prevent inadvertent displacement of the first sealing member 116. The cap member 113 may comprise a threaded sleeve that threadably engages the threading 117 on the boss 114. In some implementations, the cap member 113 may be manufactured according to the methods and techniques of the StreamCap® (manufactured by TetraPak, Inc.). The cap member 113 may be made from polyethylene or other suitable material.

An opening member 115 on the cap member 113 may be configured to break the first sealing member 116 on the feeder 100 for the release of the formula from the reservoir. In some implementations, the opening member 115 may be positioned on an inner surface of the boss 114. The opening member 115 may comprise teeth positioned on an inner surface of the boss 114 and configured to engage and break the first sealing member 116 on the interface 112, when the cap member is removed from threadable engagement with the threading 117 on the boss 114. In some implementations, when the cap member 113 is turned in a counter clockwise direction the teeth of the opening member 115 may engage the first sealing member 116 to break the seal.

As shown in FIGS. 1, 2A, and 4, one or more attachment members, such as hanger members 124, may be coupled to a top portion 126 of the feeder 100 for connecting the feeder 100 to a hummingbird-accessible location. The hanger member 124, such as a tab, may be positioned on the top portion 126 of the feeder 100 generally opposite from the dispensing member 200, located generally on a bottom portion 128. The designations “top” and “bottom” are intended to signify that when in use the top portion 126 may be positioned higher relative to the local vertical than the bottom portion 128. Generally, the apparatus 1000 may be hung from a bird or animal accessible structure, like a tree outside, by a coupling between the hangar member 124 and a portion of the bird or animal accessible structure.

The hanger member 124 may be configured with an aperture 130 or hook (not shown) to receive or communicate with a hook member (not shown) on a bird or animal accessible structure for mounting the feeding apparatus 1000 in a place accessible to birds or other animals. The hangar member 124 is generally positioned on an opposite side of the feeder 100 from where the opening 106 is located for orienting the feeder 100 so that the dispensing member 200 is extending in a generally downward direction relative to the local vertical to allow gravity to assist in dispensing the formula from dispensing member 200. It will understood by persons of ordinary skill in the art that the aperture 130 of the hangar member 124, configured to receive a hook to couple the feeding apparatus 1000 to a bird or animal accessible structure, may be interchanged by other structures and methods that achieve the same function as an aperture, namely, for instance, latches, hooks, clips, nails, nut and bolts, suction cups and adhesives.

In some implementations, the formula 101 contained in the feeder 100 comprises a ready to consume nectar solution of about 4 parts water and about 1 part sugar cane, specifically made to feed one or more hummingbirds. The feeder 100 may hold 500 ml of liquid and may comprise substantially an aseptic package manufactured by Tetra Pak Inc. of Vernon Hills, Ill. under the registered trademark Tetra Prisma®. In some implementations, the formula 101 may be packaged without preservatives, which generally is a more attractive formulation for hummingbirds. The formula 101 may further be packaged without any other additives such as color. No further water or additives need to be added to make the formula consumable for hummingbirds.

As discussed above and shown in FIG. 4A, the feeder 100 is intended to be used in an orientation that allows nectar formula 101 to flow by force of gravity out through the opening 106. As shown in FIG. 1, the feeder 100 may be hung from the attachment member 124 so that that the opening 106 generally is positioned to allow nectar formula 101 by force of gravity to flow out through the opening 106. A valve, such as the dispensing member 200, may regulate the flow of nectar formula 101 out of the reservoir 104.

In some implementations, the feeder 100 may comprise properties or qualities that make the product consumer-disposable. For instance, the materials used may have a low cost in the market, the manufacturing may have a low assembly cost, and the overall product and contents may be considered environmentally-friendly.

As shown in FIGS. 1, 4A, and 7, the feeder 100 may be configured to couple to a dispensing member 200 for dispensing the nectar formula stored in the reservoir 104 to hummingbirds, for instance. The dispensing member 200, shown in FIGS. 4A and 7, may function as a valve for regulating the flow of nectar solution out of the reservoir 104. In some implementations, the dispensing member 200 may comprise a nozzle member 210 specifically engineered for dispensing the formula to a bird or other animal, and a connection member 212 for coupling the nozzle member 210 to the feeder 100. Threading on an inside surface of the connection member 212 may be designed or molded to threadably couple onto the connection interface 112 located around the opening 106 of the feeder 100. The connection member 212 may comprise a connection member opening 211 for providing an opening to allow nectar solution to flow from the opening 106 into the inner channel of the connection member 212. The nozzle member 210 may be manufactured from polypropylene or other suitable material.

As shown in FIGS. 4A and 5, the nozzle member 210 may comprise a tip portion 202 having a nozzle opening 204. A channel 208 between the connection member opening 211 and the nozzle opening 204 may provide a path for nectar solution to flow from the opening 106 of the feeder 100.

In some implementations, inner surfaces of the nozzle opening 204 may be configured to prevent the flow of nectar solution, when the nozzle member 210 is in a non-actuated state, such as when a hummingbird is not presently attempting to feed from the nozzle member 210. The nozzle opening 204 may be configured with a size, shape, or other geometric feature designed to prevent the flow of nectar solution. For example, the size of the nozzle opening 204 may be configured to correspond with the expected flow properties, such as viscosity and thickness, of the nectar solution so that the nectar solution does not substantially drip out from the nozzle member 210 when a hummingbird is not drinking from the nozzle member 210. It should be understood by persons of ordinary skill that alternate techniques for preventing nectar solution from flowing through the nozzle opening 204, when the nozzle member 210 is undisturbed, may include use of a ball valve, or other suitable technique.

As shown in FIG. 5, the inside surfaces of the nozzle member 204 may be coated with hydrophobic material 206, for instance Teflon® (a trademark of DuPont of Wilmington, Del.). Use of material 206 as a coating may have the effect of preventing nectar solution from dripping out from the nozzle member 210 when the nozzle is substantially undisturbed by a hummingbird. Other hydrophobic materials, including silicon, may be used to prevent inadvertent flow of nectar solution from the nozzle member 210.

In some implementations, the materials comprising the feeder 100 or the dispensing member 200, such as the layers 110, may have properties or qualities that make the feeder 100 consumer disposable. For instance, the materials used may have a low cost in the market, the manufacturing may have a low assembly cost, and the overall product and contents may be considered environmentally-friendly.

The feeder 100 and the dispensing member 200 may further comprise a one-use configuration. For instance, the dispensing member 200 may comprise a locking mechanism (not shown), which prevents removal of the dispensing member 200 without at least partial destruction of the dispensing member. A consumer therefore may be prevented from manually refilling the reservoir 104, without disabling the functionality of the apparatus 1000.

In some implementations, the contents in the aseptic feeder 100 may be pressurized in some implementations to form a vacuum seal or airtight seal at the aseptic seal.

The apparatus 1000 may be prepared for use by following one or more of these steps. First, the first sealing member 116 may be removed. In some implementations, a cap member 113 may be turned to remove the cap member 113 from threadable engagement with the boss 114 to advance the opening member 115 to puncture the first sealing member 116 and provide for the flow of nectar solution from the reservoir. The cap member 113 may then be removed through further turning to disengage the cap member 113. Second, the dispensing member 200 may be attached to the interface 112 by threadably coupling the dispensing member 200 to the threading 117 on the boss 114, through rotation of the dispensing member 200. Third, the feeder 100 may be hung on a hook inserted into the aperture 130 of the hangar member 124. A hummingbird may then access the formula by disturbing the nozzle member 210 to release the formula. In some implementations, when the nozzle member 210 is undisturbed by a hummingbird, a coating on the inner surfaces of the nozzle member 210 may substantially prevent inadvertent leakage of nectar formula in response to environmental disturbances, such as by wind or other unintended movements of the feeder 100 as it hangs.

A system 2000 for feeding birds may comprise a kit containing at least one feeder 100 containing formula for feeding birds or other animals, at least one dispensing member 200 configured to be removeably coupled to the at least one feeder, and at least one hangar member 124 configured for attachment to the feeder 100. In some implementations, the at least one dispensing member 200 may be re-usable to be removeable and reattachable from a first feeder to a second feeder. In other implementations, the at least one dispensing member 200 may comprise a one-use configuration. The hangar member 124 may in some cases be removeable and reattachable from a first feeder 100 to a second feeder (not shown).

In other implementations, the system 2000 may comprise one or more refill packages 300, as shown in FIG. 8. Such refill packages may be constructed according to the specifications of the feeder 100, including use of the methods and materials of the Tetra-Pak carton, for example, except that the refill packages 300 may not include the features of the feeder 100 provided for use as a hummingbird feeder, including the hangar member 124 and the dispensing member 200. The refill packages 300 may include a cap 302 that covers an opening. The cap may be removeable for opening the package 300 and accessing the feed solution stored inside. The refill packages 300 may be included in the system 2000 for refilling the reservoir of feeders 200 that are sold with a dispensing member 200 having a re-usable configuration. Alternatively, the refill packages 300 may be sold separately from the system 2000 or the apparatus 1000, as a refill option for consumers seeking to fill conventional hummingbird feeders.

As shown in FIG. 9, a second feeding apparatus 3000 for feeding a bird or other animals may comprise a second feeder 400 containing a formula adapted for feeding birds or other animals. The second feeder 400 may be configured to couple to a second dispensing member 500.

The second feeder 400 may incorporate the same or similar features of the feeder 100 described above and shown in FIGS. 1-4A, including but not limited to having walls with one or more layers (such as layers 110 described above and shown in FIGS. 2B and C) forming a reservoir containing or configured to contain a formula that is ready for consumption by birds or other animals (such as formula 101 shown in FIG. 4A). The second dispensing member 500 may incorporate the same or similar features of the first dispensing member 200, described and shown above in FIGS. 4, 5, and 7A, including but not limited to having a nozzle member, a nozzle tip coat with hydrophobic material, and a one-use configuration.

In some implementations, the second feeder 400 may exclude the hangar member 124, shown in FIGS. 1 and 6. Referring to FIG. 9, the second feeder 400 may be configured to be supported and stabilized for use in dispending the formula to birds by other attachment members or support means instead of the hangar member 124. The second feeder 400 may be configured to sit and be balanced on a surface, such as a ledge 440 or a table (not shown).

The second feeder 400 may be configured with an underlying support surface 442 extending on an outside wall of the second feeder. The support surface 442 may be configured to set onto the ledge 440. The surface of the ledge 440 may be substantially flat, as shown, allowing the second feeder 400 to balance on the ledge 440 when the support surface 442 is placed on the ledge 440. The support surface 442 may be configured with sufficient surface area to allow sufficient balancing to take place, and maintain the second feeder 400 in a first position configured to dispense feed solution from the dispensing member 500. It will be understood by persons of ordinary skill in the art that the surface of the ledge 440 may be grooved, have depressions, or other known mating configurations that support balancing of the second feeder 400.

When the second feeder 400 is placed on the ledge 440, the dispensing member 500 may be configured to extend in a direction that supports dispensing formula. For example, the dispensing member 500 may extend generally away from and downward relative to reservoir portion of the second feeder 400 to allow gravity to pull formula into the dispensing member 500. The support surface 442 may be configured to allow the dispensing member 500 to extend below the level of the ledge 440 so that the dispensing member 500 does not interfere with placement of the second feeder 400 on the ledge.

The second feeding apparatus 3000 may further comprise a first support holding device 446 configured to support balancing the second feeder 400 on the ledge 440. The first support holding device 446 may comprise a support arm 448 extending from a nearby rigid surface, such as wall surface 401. The support arm 448 may comprise a base 449 mounted to the wall surface 401 with fasteners, such as screws 450a and 450b, that extend through apertures in flanges 452a, b on the base 449. It will be understood that the fasteners may comprise other mechanisms for mounting the first support holding device 446 to the wall surface 401, including but not limited to using mechanical fasteners (e.g. clips, hooks, or snaps), chemical fastening (e.g. glue), magnetic fasteners, and suction devices (in cases where the wall surface is smooth and substantially porous-free, like glass).

The support arm 448 may comprise a pivot arm 454 that may be pivotally mounted to the base 449 by a hinge 456. The hinge 456 may be configured to frictionally couple the base 449 and the pivot arm 454 so that a degree of force must be applied to the pivot arm 454 to change its position relative to the base 449.

As shown in FIG. 10, the pivot arm 454 may be raised to an open position for positioning, repositioning, or removing the second feeder 400 from its placement on the ledge 440. In FIG. 9, the pivot arm 454 is shown in a closed position where the pivot arm 454 is lowered to couple to a top surface 458 of a wall of the second feeder 400. The coupling between the pivot arm 454 and the top surface 458 may be configured to stabilize and support balancing the second feeder 400 on the ledge 440. For example, the pivot arm 454 may engage a retention feature, such as an indentation or depression 460 in the top surface 458. It will be understood by persons of ordinary skill in the art that the coupling may comprise a frictional, a mechanical, a magnetic, a chemical coupling, or other known fastening or other known coupling methods.

The depression 460 may be configured to hold the second feeder 400 in substantially an upright position, including in response to a force applied to the second feeder 400, such as from blowing wind, or from a bird or other animal making contact with the second feeder 400, including while feeding from the dispensing member. It will be understood that the retention feature may comprise other mechanisms for holding the second feeder 400 in substantially an upright position, including but not limited to using mechanical fasteners (e.g. clips, hooks, or snaps), chemical fastening (e.g. glue), or magnetic fasteners.

The resistance of the pivot arm 454 to move relative to base 449 provided in the hinge 456 may further provide support for the second feeder 400 in maintaining an upright orientation. It will be understood by persons of ordinary skill in the art that the frictional coupling in the hinge 456 may be replaced with other mechanisms that resist rotation in a hinge, including but not limited to ratcheting mechanisms and locks.

Referring to FIG. 11, a third feeding apparatus 4000 may comprise the second feeder 400, as described above in FIGS. 9 and 10, except that the second feeder 400 may be further configured to set within a second support holding device 462. The second support holding device 462 may substantially perform the same or similar functions as the first support holding device 446 in maintaining the second feeder 400 in substantially an upright position to orient the dispensing member 500 for dispensing formula to birds or other animals.

Referring to FIGS. 20A-C, the second support holding device 462, such as a bracket, may comprise a second base 466 mounted to the wall surface 401 with fasteners, such as screws 468a and 468b, that extend through apertures in the second base 466 and into the wall surface 401. It will be understood that the fasteners may comprise other mechanisms for mounting the second support holding device 462 to the wall surface 401, including but not limited to using mechanical fasteners (e.g. clips, hooks, or snaps), chemical fastening (e.g. glue), magnetic fasteners, and suction devices (in cases where the wall surface is smooth and substantially porous-free, like glass).

The underlying support surface 442 may be configured to sit on and be supported on a support arm 464 extending from the second base 466 of the second support holding device 462 and configured to extend from the wall surface 401. An extension arm 472 may extend from the second base 466 and extend from the wall surface 401 at a position offset dl from where the support arm 464 extends from the wall surface 401.

As shown in FIG. 12B, the extension arm 472 (shown in two parts 472a and 472b) may be configured to extend around at least a portion of the side walls of the second feeder 400. The extension arm 472 may extend along at least two opposing sides to stabilize the second feeder 400 on the underlying support surface 442. The extension arm 472 may further comprise one or more hook portions 474a, b that are configured to extend around the second feeder 400 from one adjacent side of the second feeder 400 to another. As shown in FIG. 12A, the extension arm 472 extends around the second feeder 400 to form a closed shape with a back portion 476 of the second base 466.

In some implementations shown in FIGS. 12A and 12B, the extension arm 472 may be configured to have a gap g between the inner surface of the extension arm 472 and the outer surface of the second feeder 440. The gap g may allow some movement, for example tilting, of the second feeder 440. As shown in FIG. 12C, the extension arm 472 may be configured to contact at least portions of the outer surface of the second feeder 440 to reduce tilting and maintain the second feeder 440 in a substantially upright position. In some implementations, the second feeder 440 may be fit snugly within the extension arm 472.

Referring to FIG. 13, a fourth feeding apparatus 5000 may comprise the second feeder 400, as described above in FIGS. 9 and 10, except that the apparatus 5000 may not include, in some implementations, either the first or second support holding device 446, 462, respectively. The second feeder 400 may be configured to set up and stand in a substantial upright position, at least in part, between a slot or groove in a platform surface, such as in gap 503 extending between two slats in a shelf or table. In some implementations, the second feeder 400 may be adapted to be free-standing on a substantially rigid surface, such as a table or a shelf, without the need for other hardware, such as brackets or fasteners.

Referring to FIG. 13, the underlying support surface 442 (shown divided into two parts 442a and 442b) may be configured to sit on one or more of top surfaces of the slats 441, 443 to support balancing the second feeder 400 and keeping the second feeder 400 in a substantially upright position. In some implementations (not shown), an additional support, such as the first support holding device 446 shown in FIG. 9, may be added to further support the second feeder 400.

Referring to FIG. 14, the dispensing member 500 may comprise a second connection member 501, which may be configured to fit in the gap 503 between a first slat 441 and a second slat 443, extending on a substantially rigid platform surface, such as a shelf extending from the wall 401, or a table top (not shown). In some implementations the second connection member 501 comprises a substantially cylindrical shape.

Referring to FIG. 13, a nozzle portion 510 of the dispensing member 500 may be configured to extend beneath the slats 441, 443 and to clear the slats sufficiently to allow birds or other animals to feed from the formula dispensed by the dispensing member 500. As shown in FIG. 13, the nozzle portion 510 may extend down and away from the slats 441, 443 to provide access for feeding.

Referring to FIG. 14, the gap 503 may comprise opposing walls 445, 447 extending to form a neck that constricts tilting movement of the second feeder 400. Sides 501a and 501b of the second connection member 501 may be configured to contact portions of the inner walls 445, 447, respectively, of the gap 503 between the slats 441, 443 to prevent the second feeder 400 from tipping over, including preventing tipping or falling when the second feeder 400 is pushed by an external force such as wind or a bird or animal. In some implementations, the dispending base 501 is configured to make constant contact, such as in an interference fit, with the two slats 441, 443. It will be understood by persons of ordinary skill in the art that one or both of the sides 501a, 501b of the second connection member 501 or the inner walls 445, 447 of the slats 441, 443 may comprise a shape, such as flat or correspondingly mating, to provide increased surface area for preventing tipping or falling of the second feeder 400.

In other implementations, the second feeder 400 may be propped or leaned against a wall, a stand, or other rigid surface configured to support the second feeder 400 in an orientation (e.g. substantially vertical) for allowing formula to flow out from the dispensing member 500. A fifth feeding apparatus 5000, shown in FIG. 18, may comprise a stand 480 for supporting the second feeder 400.

Referring to FIGS. 18 and 19, the stand 480 may comprise a stand support member 484 having a support surface 485 for receiving a side portion 478 of the second feeder 400. A stand base 482 may extend from the support member 484 to provide a sturdy and stable support for the support member 484 and the second feeder 400. In the implementation shown in FIG. 18, the stand base 482 extends substantially horizontally along an undersurface 477 to provide support to the support member 484.

The second feeder 400 may be set on to or attached to the support member 484 to contact the support surface 485. The support surface 485 may be configured to orient the second dispensing member 500 for dispensing formula through the nozzle member 510. As shown in FIG. 18, the support surface 485 may extend at an angle α relative to the stand base 482. The angle α may be configured to position the second feeder 4000 in a substantially vertical position. It will be understood by persons of ordinary art that the angle α may be other than 90 degrees and may be varied to accommodate the flow of formula from the nozzle member 510.

The feeder 100 (shown in FIG. 1) and the second feeder 400 (shown in FIGS. 9, 11, and 13) may be configured to couple to a third dispensing member 520, and may be configured to be interchangeable with the dispensing member 200 and the second dispensing member 500. The third dispensing member 520 may be configured to dispense formula to more than one bird or other animal at a time. The third dispensing member 520 may further be included as part of the system 2000 for feeding birds, described above, sold with the feeder 100 or second feeder 400, or sold separately.

Referring to FIG. 15 showing by example the feeder 100, the connection interface 112 may be configured to couple to a third connection member 507 of the third dispensing member 520.

The third dispensing member 520 may comprise two or more nozzle members 510a, 510b, 510c extending from the third connection member 507. Each nozzle member 510a, 510b, 510c may be specifically engineered for dispensing the formula to a bird or other animal. Each nozzle member 510a, 510b, 510c may be configured with the same or similar features as those described for nozzle member 210, described above and shown in FIGS. 1, 4A, and 5. The third dispensing member 520 may be configured with nozzle members 510a, 510b, and 510c to allow two or more birds or other animals to feed at the same time without interfering with one another.

A second refill package 600 may be configured to transport and deliver the formula 101 to the consumer for use in the feeder 100 and/or the second feeder 400, or in other hummingbird feeders. The second refill package 600 may further be included as part of the system 2000 for feeding birds, described above, or sold separately.

The second refill package 600 may be constructed according to the same or similar specifications of the feeder 100 or the refill package 300 (shown in FIG. 8), including use of the methods and materials of the Tetra-Pak carton, with some noted differences described here. Referring to FIG. 16, the refill package 600 may comprise a hinged cap 602 that provides access for a user to open the second refill package 600 and pour out the formula 101 (shown in FIG. 17B) stored inside.

Referring to FIGS. 17A, 17B, and 17C, the hinged cap 602 may be coupled to the walls of the second refill package 600 by a cap hinge 604. The hinged cap 602 may be moved from a closed to an open position (not shown). A locking member 606 may keep the hinged cap in place for transport and storage of the formula within the closed container of the refill package 600. In some implementations, the locking member 606 may comprise a snap lock. It will be understood by persons of ordinary skill in the art that the locking member 606 may comprise other known locking mechanisms, including but not limited to latches, screws, clips, magnets, and adhesives.

A refill sealing member 616 may span an opening 608 in the second refill package 600. The lip 601 forming the opening 608 may comprise a spout for pouring the formula 101 out of the refill package 600. Formula 101 may be poured into a separate container, such as, but not limited to, the feeder 100 and/or the second feeder 400, or in other bird or animal feeders for refilling the container or replacing old feeding formula.

The refill sealing member 616 may comprise a membrane formed from aluminum foil, or other suitable material, to allow removal or puncturing of the refill sealing member 616. In FIG. 17C, a pull tab 617 may extend from a portion of the refill sealing member 616. A user may pull the pull tab 617 to remove the refill sealing member 616 to allow formula 101 to be poured from the opening 608 of the second refill package 600.

Referring to FIG. 21, there is shown a first implementation of a bird feeder 21000 (referred to also as “feeder 21000”). The feeder 21000 may contain a liquid feed solution 2105, as shown in FIG. 26, prepared to nourish a bird 2101. It will be understood by persons skilled in the art that the feeder 21000 may be configured for feeding other non-human animals, including but not limited to other birds, by providing suitable feed solution for the particular animal.

The feed solution 2105 (shown in FIG. 26) may be contained within a reservoir 2104. As shown in FIG. 21, the bird 2101 may access the feed solution 2105 through a dispenser 2102, which may comprise a feeding port 109 connected to the reservoir 2104. The port 2109 may comprise an opening 2108 for the bird 2101 to stick its bill for accessing the feed solution 2105. The reservoir 2104 may extend along a first longitudinal axis L.

Referring to FIG. 26, the feeder 21000 may rotate on a pivot 2100 in at least a first plane A (see FIG. 25 showing first plane A). The dispenser 2102 may be connected to the reservoir 2104 on a front side 2132 of the reservoir 2104, which is opposite a back side 2134 of the reservoir 2102 relative to the pivot 2100. “Front,” in the context of the reservoir 2104, refers to the side of the reservoir 2104 connected to the dispenser 2102 and “back” refers to the opposite side relative to the pivot 2100. The weight of the reservoir 2104 extending along the first longitudinal axis L and the dispenser 2102 may be balanced on either side of the pivot 2100 to provide at least an orientation of the feeder 21000. The orientation of the feeder 21000 may be established by at least the angle B (see FIGS. 27-29) between the first longitudinal axis L and the local horizontal H (shown co-aligned in FIG. 26), which is the direction perpendicular to the local vertical direction V (shown in FIG. 26) upon which gravity acts, and is referred to here as the reservoir tilt angle B.

Referring to FIGS. 21 and 27, the pivot 2100 may be configured to allow for rotation of the feeder 21000 and stabilization at a tilt angle B according to a change of weight distribution within the feeder 21000. The change of weight distribution of the feeder 21000 causes a rotation of the feeder 21000 about the pivot 2100 to re-balance and stabilize the reservoir 2104 from a first orientation to at least a second orientation. Such a change in weight distribution may occur when feed solution 2105 exits the reservoir 2104 through the feeding port 2102.

Referring to FIG. 26, there is shown an illustrative cross-sectional drawing of the feeder 21000 taken along the first plane A shown in FIG. 25. The pivot 2100 is located relative to a center of gravity 2103 of the feeder 21000 in a manner that affects the orientation of the feeder 21000 relative to the first plane A. When the feeder 21000 is suspended at the pivot 2100, the center of gravity 2103 is vertically aligned along the vertical line V with the pivot 2100 to put the feeder 21000 in a substantially stable position.

When weight in the feeder 21000 is redistributed the position of the center of gravity 2103 relative to the pivot 2100 changes causing the feeder 21000 to rotate and stabilize in a new orientation. In the implementation shown in FIG. 27, the center of gravity is vertically aligned along the vertical line V with the pivot 2100. This configuration shown in FIG. 27 results in a positive tilt (angle B) in the feeder 21000, where the front side 2132 is relatively higher in the local vertical direction V than the back side 2134. Positive tilt means that the front side 2132 of the feeder 21000 is rotated away from the direction of gravity in the first plane A and above the local horizontal H, and negative tilt means that front of the feeder 21000 is rotated toward the direction of gravity in the first plane A and below the local horizontal H. A positive tilt of the feeder 21000 (at the tilt angle B) raises the opening 2108 in the feeder port 2109 above the level of the feeding solution 2105 in the reservoir 2104, which substantially prevents flow or leakage of feeding solution 2105 from the opening 2108.

As the feeder 21000 empties, the center of gravity 2103 of the feeder 21000 may migrate down and towards the feeding port 2109 as the feeder 21000 re-balances and stabilizes about the pivot 2100. This migration causes the feeder 21000 to progressively tilt in a negative direction, which also tips the feeding port 2109 in the negative direction.

Referring to FIG. 7, the feeder 21000 is shown in a first orientation. The reservoir 2104 is shown substantially full forming a pool of feeding solution 2105 which a bird may access through the feeding port 2109. The tilt angle B is shown as the angle between the first longitudinal axis L of the reservoir 2104 and the local horizontal H and is shown as generally positive relative to the local horizontal H. In the configuration shown, the position of the opening 2108, shown by line P, relative to the local vertical V, is at or above the level of the feeding solution, shown by line F.

The progressive tilting in the negative direction allows gravity to push feed solution 2105 into the feeding port 2109, which keeps feed solution 2105 accessible to the bird 2101. The opening 2108 in the feeding port 2109 may be positioned relative to the feeder 21000 such that as the center of gravity 2103 migrates, causing a progressively declining tilt angle B (towards a negative tilt), while the opening 2108 stays above the level of the feed solution 2105 in the reservoir 2104.

Referring to FIG. 8, the feeder 21000 is shown in a second orientation. The reservoir 2104 is shown as partially full of feed solution 2105. The tilt angle B has progressively decreased relative to the tilt angle B shown in FIG. 27, because as the reservoir 2104 is emptied, the center of gravity 2103 shifted down and toward the feeding port 2109, i.e. towards the front side 2132 where a greater proportion of the weight of the feeder 21000 is located. The feeder 21000 has rotated to vertically re-align the center of gravity 2103 with the pivot 2100. As a result, the tilt angle B decreases in the negative direction and is shown as generally positive relative to the local horizontal H, but still less than the tilt angle B of FIG. 27. In the configuration shown, the position of the opening 2108, shown by line P, is above the level of the feeding solution 2105, shown by line F.

Keeping the opening 2108 of the feeding port 2109 above the level of the feed solution 2105 in the reservoir 2104 prevents leakage due to gravity pulling the feed solution 2105 out. Also, the bird 2101 (shown in FIG. 21) is allowed to take feed solution 2105 at its own pace and quantity rather than initiating a flow of feed solution 2105 from the feeding port 2109, which tends to waste feed solution 2105.

Referring to FIG. 29, the feeder 21000 is shown in a third position. The reservoir 2104 is shown nearly empty of feed solution 2105c. The tilt angle B has decreased relative to the tilt B shown in FIG. 28 due to the shifting of the center of gravity 2103 towards the front side 2132. The feeder 21000 has rotated to vertically re-align the center of gravity 2103 with the pivot 2100. The tilt angle B has decreased in the negative direction and shown as generally negative relative to the local horizontal H. The negative tilt angle B allows feed solution 2105c to flow towards the front of the reservoir 2104 so that it pools in the front side 2132. In the configuration shown, the vertical position of the opening 108, shown by line P, remains above the level of the feeding solution 2105c, shown by line F.

Referring to FIG. 22, the spout 2112 may be positioned near or adjacent to the bottom side 2138 of the reservoir 2104. In the implementation shown in FIGS. 22 and 26 the bottom side 2136 of the spout 2112 is substantially contiguous with the bottom side 2138 of the reservoir 2104, generally following a line G. This configuration provides a reservoir opening 2111, shown in FIG. 26, for the flow of feed solution 2105 from the reservoir 2104 into the spout 2112, where the feed solution 2105 may pool, during use.

Referring to FIG. 22, the spout 2112 may be canted relative to the reservoir 2104 by a cant angle C, which is generally the angle between the bottom side 2138 (shown by the projection line E) of the reservoir 2104 and the direction of cant of the bottom side 2136 (shown by the projection line D) of the spout 2112. The spout 2112 is canted to allow feed solution 2105 to pool in a cavity 2116 (shown in FIGS. 26 and 29) of the spout 2112 near the bottom side 2136, for example as shown in FIG. 29 where the reservoir 2104 is nearly empty of feed solution 2105c. This pooling allows birds to have access to the remaining amount of feed solution 2105c, by maintaining the proximity of the beak of the bird to the remaining solution, as the tilt angle B increases in the negative direction.

Referring now to FIG. 26, as the bird 2101 takes feed solution 2105 from the reservoir 2104 through the feeding port 2109 at opening 2108, air may enter the reservoir 2104 through the opening 2108 to balance the pressure between the outside environment and the conditions inside the reservoir 2104. Bubbles of air may enter the reservoir 2104 and rise to air pockets 2107 within the reservoir 2104, which form above the level of the feeding solution 2105. The air pockets 2107 form due to the greater volume of the reservoir 2104 compared to the volume of feed solution 2105 contained within it. As the reservoir empties of feed solution 2105, the volume of air increases until the reservoir 2104 is empty of feed solution 2105.

When these air pockets 2107 get heated, by for example day time heating from the sun, the air within the pocket 2107 can expand creating a positive pressure in the air pocket 2107 relative to the outside environment. With sufficient heating and expansion, feeding solution 2105 may be pushed out from the feeding port 2109 to equalize the pressure between the air pockets 2107 and the outside environment.

In FIGS. 21, 25 and 26, vent holes 2106 extend through the walls 2110 of the reservoir 2104 to allow for the equalization of pressure in the reservoir 2104. The vent holes 2106 may prevent leakage of feed solution 2105 from the reservoir 2104 due to heating of the air pockets 2107 in the reservoir 2104. The vent holes 2106 may be positioned above the level of the pool of feed solution 2105 where air pockets 2107 are expected to form when the feeder 21000 is oriented in at least a first position, shown in FIG. 27.

The vent holes 2106 may be formed by perforating the walls 2110 of the reservoir 2104. By example, the perforations may be formed by using a punch like a pointed object, e.g. an object similar to a golf tee or a nail having a thickness to provide a suitably sized hole. In the implementation shown in FIG. 26, vent holes 2106 are positioned on an upper surface of the front side 2132 of the reservoir 2104. This positions the vent hole 2106 above where air pockets 2107 are expected to form in the reservoir when the reservoir 2104 is in the tilted orientations shown in FIGS. 27-29.

The materials forming the walls 2110 may be suitably pliable to accept the punch and to allow the surface of the wall to be punctured to form a suitably sized hole in the wall for venting air through the vent holes 2106. By example, reservoirs made from materials disclosed in U.S. Pat. Nos. 8,387,567 and 8,893,659, which are incorporated by reference herein, may be suitable, as well as other suitable materials known by persons ordinarily skilled in the art.

In the implementation shown in FIG. 25, the external walls 2110 may be marked with indicators 2140 to provide users with a recommended placement of the vent holes 2106. The indicators 2140 may be pre-marked on the outside surface of the reservoir 2104.

Referring back to FIG. 26, the reservoir 2104 may contain a sterile product, such as a hummingbird feeding solution. In some implementations, the feeding solution 2105 may comprise a mixture of sugar and water prepared to known methods and in suitable relative quantities. The feeding solution 2105 may be made without additives, such as preservatives, electrolytes, or colors. In other implementations, the feeding solution 2105 contained in the reservoir 2104 may also include additives. It will be understood by persons skilled in the art that electrolytes may function also as a preservative.

Referring back to FIG. 21, the reservoir 2104 of the feeder 21000 shown may comprise the walls 2110 forming a container for the feed solution 2105. The reservoir 2104 may comprise a box shape or other suitable container shape.

In some implementations, the reservoir 2104 may comprise an aseptic or sterile enclosure. The walls of the reservoir 2104 may comprise a combination of paper, plastic, foil, like aluminum foil, or other suitable materials. In other implementations, the walls 2110 of the reservoir 2104 may comprise multi-layer plastics or plastics in combination with metals, which are designed for retort filling, or other suitable materials for holding liquids. In some implementations, the materials used as walls 2110 in the reservoir 2104 may be sufficiently pliable and suitable for accepting a manual punch by a user to form the vent holes 2106. In other implementations, the vent holes 2106 may be pre-formed at the manufacturing stage, and may be closed with a removable seal that the user removes.

Referring to FIG. 22, the external side of the walls 2110 of the reservoir 2104 may comprise a color, texture, pattern or other suitable perceptible element 2142 that is attractive to birds or other animals for which the feeder 21000 is designed. These perceptible elements 2142 may be designed to draw desired animals to the feeder 21000 to enhance the enjoyment of feeding the desired animals. In FIG. 22, the perceptible element 2142 of feeder 21000 is a floral pattern, which may include colors like red or yellow, or other combination that attracts the animal. The dispenser 2102 and other parts of the feeder 21000 may also include perceptible elements that work in combination with the perceptible elements 2142. In other implementations, the perceptible elements 2142 may be designed to deter unwanted animals or other living organisms (e.g. insects, bacteria, etc.) from interfering with use of, consumption of, or access to the feeding solution 105. In other implementations, the feeder 21000 may include other known decorative elements, i.e. colors, textures or patterns intended to be decorative for the environment that the feeder 21000 is used.

Referring to FIGS. 21 and 26, the dispenser 2102 may comprise the feeding port 2109 connected to a spout 2112, which may comprise an open cylindrical structure forming a cavity 2116. The feeding port 2109 may comprise a dispenser channel 2114 formed by an axially-extended structure, such as a tube. The channel 2114 is open at a first end at the opening 2108 to allow the bird 2101 to access the feeding solution 2105. The width or diameter of the channel 2114 is sufficiently narrow to allow passage of the bill of a bird (or access by another animal for which the feeder 21000 is designed) but to minimize exposure of the pool of feeding solution 2105 to the outside environment, including weather and insects, which may prevent premature spoilage and contamination. For hummingbirds, drinking the feeding solution 2105 from a narrow tube also mimics drinking nectar from flowers. At a second end, the channel 2114 comprises a mouth 2113 leading into the reservoir 2104. Feed solution 2105 in the reservoir 2104 may flow through the reservoir opening 2111 and into the cavity 2116 formed by the spout 2112 and into the channel 2114.

When the reservoir 2104 is sufficiently full or partially full, feed solution 2105a, shown in FIG. 27, and feed solution 2105b, shown in FIG. 28, is available in the channel 2114 for a bird to access with its bill. As shown in FIG. 29, the bird 2101 may access feed solution 2105c located in the spout 2112 and reservoir 2104 through the mouth 2113 of the channel 2114. It will be understood by persons ordinarily skilled in the art that the dispenser 2102 may comprise one or more feeding ports 2109 extending from the same spout 2112.

As shown in FIGS. 27 and 28, when the feeder 21000 is in use, and during a least a portion of the time that the feeder 21000 is in use, the mouth 2113 is at or below the level of the feed solution 2105(a or b) in the reservoir 2104. This configuration maintains a hummingbird's access to the feed solution 2105(a or b) during use, when as shown feed solution 2105(a or b) fills the channel up to the level of the feed solution 2105(a or b) in the reservoir 2104. As the feeder 21000 empties of the feed solution 2105c, as shown in FIG. 29, the level of feed solution 2105c may drop below the position of the mouth 2113. Due to the tilting of the feeder 21000 and the cant C of the spout 2112, feed solution 2105c pools at the bottom side 2138 of the feeder 21000, and in the bottom side 2136 of the spout 2112.

The spout 2112 may comprise a pipe, tube, or other suitable lip-like projection in the reservoir 2104, such as a threaded tube 2117, shown in FIG. 24. Referring to FIGS. 23 and 26, the dispenser 2102 may comprise threading 2115 on an inside surface configured to threadably mate with the threaded tube 2117 to form the coupling 2119. It will be understood by persons of ordinary skill in the art that the dispenser 2102 may be attached to the spout 2112 by other suitable attachment means, i.e. snap fits, latches, adhesives, etc.

In some implementations, as shown in FIG. 23, the spout 2112 may be sealed for transport and storage of the reservoir 2104 with a cap 2118, which may be removed from the spout 2112, e.g. by twisting it off, to open the reservoir 2104. The dispenser 2102 may replace the cap 2118 on the spout 2112, when the feeder 21000 is ready to be used. The spout 2112 may also include other sealing mechanisms, including a break-away seal (not shown) that works in conjunction with the cap 2118 so that upon removal of the cap 2118 a portion of the cap 2118 breaks the seal to allow feed solution 105 to flow out of the reservoir 2104.

Referring to FIG. 22, the length 21 of the spout 2112 may be configured to accommodate feeding by a desired animal. For instance, the length of the bill of an adult-sized hummingbird may be about 3/5 to 4/5 of an inch. The length I of the spout 2112 may be configured at or longer by about 20% of the expected bill length. It will be understood by persons skilled in the art that the length l of the spout 2112 may be configured to account for a specific species of bird, including their expected tongue length and overall reach. The length I may also be configured to account for other accessories used in conjunction with the feeder 21000, including but not limited to perches and insect guards.

Referring to FIG. 21, the reservoir 2104 may be suspended from a location that is accessible to hummingbirds, other birds, or other animal for which the feeder 21000 is useful. For example, the feeder 21000 may comprise a hanger 2120 or other suitable extension configured to receive a hook 2122 or other suitable support member and to suspend the reservoir 2104 above an underlying surface. In the implementation shown in FIG. 21, the hanger 2120 may comprise a tab portion 2124 and a base portion 2125 adhered to the reservoir 2104. In other implementations the hanger 2120 may comprise other suitable contrivances upon which the feeder 21000 may be hung, including a string, strap, or a rod.

The tab portion 2124 may extend from the reservoir 2104 have an aperture 2126. The aperture 2126 may receive the hook 2122 to hang the feeder 21000 in a suitable feeding location.

The hanger 2120 may be secured to the reservoir 2104 by support straps 2128 (shown in FIGS. 21, 22, 23, 25, and 26) which hold the base portion 2125 to the reservoir 104 and extend around at least a portion of the reservoir 2104. The straps 2128 support the hanger 2120 in manner configured to hold the weight of the feeder 21000 and to withstand environmental forces acting on the feeder 21000, e.g. movement from the wind or from an animal pushing on the feeder 21000 as it feeds. In the implementation shown, the support straps 2128 are attached to the reservoir 22104 with a suitable adhesive. In some implementations, the hanger 2120 and support straps 2128 are formed in one piece from a single material, such as plastic, while it will be understood by persons of ordinary skill in the art that there may be other variations in the manufacture of the hanger 2120 and straps 2128, including multi-piece construction.

Referring to FIGS. 21, 25, and 26, at least a portion of the hanger 2120 may function as the pivot 2100 for allowing the reservoir 2104 to progressively tilt in at least the plane A as the reservoir 2104 is emptied. In the implementation shown, the aperture 2126 in the tab portion 2124 configured to couple to the hook 2122 (or other suitable hanging member) to freely hang the feeder 21000 may comprise the pivot 2100 about which the feeder 21000 rotates to provide the tilt angle B of the reservoir.

The hanger 2120 and reservoir 2104 are coupled at connection 2130 in manner that allows the hanger 2120 and reservoir 2104 to rotate jointly relative to the pivot 2100. The connection 2130 between the hanger 2120 and the reservoir 2104 allows the reservoir 2104 to rotate and stabilize from a first prior orientation to a second subsequent orientation, having a different tilt angle B, as the center of gravity 2103 migrates due to the weight shifting. As shown in FIGS. 27 and 28, when the center of gravity 2103 changes its position, the feeder 21000 rotates so that the center of gravity 2103 vertically re-aligns itself with the pivot 2100 into a new stable orientation.

Referring to FIG. 21, the position Q measured relative to the back end 2135 of the reservoir 2104 where the hanger 2120 is mounted to the reservoir 2104 along the top surface of the reservoir is selected to provide a positive initial tilt angle B (shown in FIG. 26), and to provide a progressively tilting reservoir 2104 in the negative direction. The length K of the tab portion 2124 is selected to provide a range of tilt angles that correspond to the fullness of the reservoir 2104—the range between a full configuration of the reservoir 2104 and an empty configuration. It will be understood by persons skilled in the art that the position Q of the hanger 2120 and the length K of the tab portion 2124 can be adjusted to accommodate the desired range of tilt angles B.

The hanger 2120 may be made from a suitable material, such as plastic, to allow the hanger 2120 to support the reservoir 2104 in suspension from a hanging member 2122 and in rotation about the pivot 2100. Referring to FIG. 25, the tab portion 2124 may comprise a substantially flat strap with an edge portion 2127. The edge portion 2127 of the tab portion 2124 may be aligned with plane A where the feeder 21000 rotates.

The weight of the reservoir 2104 may keep the tab portion taut and in the same orientation relative to the reservoir 2104. The tab portion 2124 may have sufficient stiffness in the plane A (where the edge portion 2127 is aligned) to resist buckling in the orientations provided by rotation of the feeder 21000 from a full configuration to an empty configuration, (e.g. those shown by example in FIGS. 27-29). The interaction of the adhesive connection 2130 between the hanger 2120 and the reservoir 2104 and the orientation of the tab portion 2124 relative to the plane A of rotation allows to the reservoir 2104 to rotate and stabilize at a new tilt angle B. Persons ordinarily skilled in the art will understand that other suitable materials and attachment methods may be utilized as the hanger 2120 to support the reservoir 2104 in suspension and to provide the pivot 2100.

In some implementations, the feeder 21000 may comprise accessories to further enhance the functionality of the feeder 21000. As shown in FIGS. 30A and 30B, the feeder 21000 may include a perch 2144 extending from the spout 2112. The perch 2144 may comprise a ring portion 2146 configured to extend around a portion of the spout 2112 to secure (for example by a snug or snap fit) the perch 2144 in substantially a fixed orientation relative to the dispenser 2102.

The perch 2144 may comprise a landing surface 2148 for birds to land on and feed from the dispenser 2102. The perch 2144 may comprise a portion of a loop that extends contiguously from the ring portion 2146, and may be constructed from one piece of material, such as molded from plastic. In some implementations, such as shown in FIG. 30A, the ring portion 2146 and the landing surface 2148 may comprise a textured or curved surface to improve mounting, gripping, and handling of the perch 2144 by users and by birds or other animals. In other implementations, the surfaces of the perch 2144 may be smooth. The perch 2144 may comprise a weight that operates with the weight of the walls 2110 of the reservoir 2104, the spout 2112, and the dispenser 2102 to tilt the reservoir 2104 as it empties of feed solution 2105.

Referring to FIGS. 31A and 31B, the feeder 21000 may include a removable cover 2150 that functions as an insect guard. The cover 2150 may extend over the opening 2108 in the feeding port 2109 or the vent holes 2106 to prevent insects, such as, but not limited to, bees and wasps from landing on the feeding port 2109 to draw feeding solution 2105 from the opening 2108. The cover 2150 may comprise a slot 2152 configured with a dimension large enough (such as a width of the slot 2152) to allow passage of the beak of a bird into a cover channel 2154, but small enough to prevent passage of insects, such as bees and wasps, into the dispenser channel 2114.

The cover channel 2154 may be configured with a first dimension (such as a width or diameter of the cover channel 2154) sufficiently large to allow passage of the cover 2150 over at least a portion of the feeding port 2109. The cover channel 2154 may be also configured with a second dimension (such as a length of the channel 2154) configured to allow the slot 2152 to be positioned near the opening 2109 when the cover 2150 is positioned on the feeding port 2109. Positioning the slot 2152 close to the opening 2109 minimizes the amount that the cover 2150 extends the distance that a bird must reach in order to access feed solution in the dispenser channel 2114 or in the reservoir 2104, as the reservoir 2104 empties (such as in FIG. 29). It will be understood that other commercially available insect guards may be used or adapted to fit on the feeding port 2109 to function in a similar manner to prevent access by insects as the cover 2150 disclosed here.

Referring to FIG. 32, there is shown a first implementation of a bird feeder 31000 (referred to also as “feeder 31000”). The feeder 31000 may contain a liquid feed solution 3105, as shown in FIG. 35, prepared to nourish a bird. It will be understood by persons skilled in the field of art that the feeder 31000 may be configured for feeding other non-human animals, including but not limited to other birds and animals, by providing a suitable feed solution.

Referring to FIG. 35, the feed solution 3105 may be contained within a reservoir 3104 forming a cavity for holding the feed solution. The reservoir 3104 may comprise walls 3110 being substantially contiguous and uniform in material forming a barrier around the entire volume of the cavity to maintain the freshness of the feed solution 3105 contained in the cavity. In other implementations, the walls 3110 may be formed from a composite of materials that form a substantially contiguous and uniform barrier.

As shown in FIG. 35, the walls 3110 may not have any pre-formed, break, holes or other openings in the walls 3110, prior to a user poking or punching a hole in the walls 3110. The material that the walls 3110 are made from may be sufficiently pliable to allow a user to puncture the walls 3110 to form one or more openings.

Referring to FIGS. 34, 33, and 35, the walls 3110 may form a box shape or other suitable container shape. The material of the walls 3110 are sufficiently sturdy to maintain the shape or form of the reservoir. In some implementations, the walls 3100 may be made from materials produced by Tetra Pak Cheese & Powder of Rockford Ill. (http://www.tetrapak.com/us/), other, in other implementations, made from metal, paper, plastic, composite or layered combinations of these materials or other materials suitable for the purposes described herein. The material of the walls 3110 may be made from disposable materials that are designed to be discarded or recycled after the feeder is no longer useful, for example after the feeder 31000 opened and emptied of the feeding solution 3105.

Referring to FIGS. 32 and 35, the reservoir 3104 may comprise at least a top surface 3107 extending substantially in a first plane A. It will be understood by persons skilled in the art that the walls 3110 may include, in some sections, folded portions 3115a, b, c of the walls 3110 where for purposes of construction of the reservoir 3104 the walls are folded over. The reservoir 3104 may be configured to be set on an underlying surface 3106. The feeding solution 3105 may settle within the reservoir 3104 such that the feeding solution 3105 forms a pool 3108 below the top surface 3107.

Referring to FIGS. 35 and 36, and illustrative of at least one method for feeding hummingbirds or other suitable animal, a user may use a suitably sharp or pointed object such as a punch 3102 to puncture the walls 3110 to form an opening 3111 for a bird or other suitable animal to access the pool 3108 of feed solution 105. In some implementations, a user may use the punch 3102 to form two or more openings 3111, 3112 in the top surface 3107 of the walls 3110. The openings 3111, 3112 may each be positioned substantially in the same plane A, in which the top surface 3107 extends.

In some implementations, such as that shown in the FIG. 36, a feeding port 3109 may be inserted into the opening 3112. The feeding port 109 may comprise a dispenser channel 3114 formed by an axially-extended structure, such as a tube. The width or diameter of the channel 3114 or the width or diameter of the opening 3111 is sufficiently narrow to allow passage of the bill of a bird (or access by another animal for which the feeder 31000 is designed) but to minimize exposure of the pool 3108 of feeding solution 3105 to the outside environment, including weather and insects, which may prevent premature spoilage and contamination. For hummingbirds, drinking the feed solution 3105 from a narrow tube, such as the feeding port 3109, also mimics drinking nectar from flowers.

Referring to FIG. 33, the external side of the walls 3110 of the reservoir 3104 may comprise a color, texture, pattern or other suitable perceptible element 3118 that is attractive to birds or other animals for which the feeder 31000 is designed. These perceptible elements 3118 may be designed to draw desired animals to the feeder 31000 to enhance the enjoyment of feeding the desired animals. In FIG. 33, the perceptible element 3118 of feeder 31000 is a floral pattern, which may include colors like red or yellow, or other combination that attracts the animal. The feeding port 3109 (shown in FIG. 36) and other parts of the feeder 31000 may also include perceptible elements that work in combination with the perceptible elements 3118. In other implementations, the perceptible elements 3118 may be designed to deter unwanted animals or other living organisms (e.g. insects, bacteria, etc.) from interfering with use of, consumption of, or access to the feeding solution 105. In other implementations, the feeder 31000 may include other known decorative elements, i.e. colors, textures or patterns intended to be decorative for the environment that the feeder 31000 is used.

Referring to FIG. 34, the top surface 3107 may comprise markers 3113a, b, and c. The markers 3113a, b, c may comprise indicators, such as the circles shown, printed on the top surface 3107 to assist the user in punching holes, such as openings 3111 and 3112 shown in FIG. 36, in the walls 3110 of the feeder 31000. The markers 3113a, b, c may provide a recommended spacing S1 and S2 between holes.

Referring to FIGS. 37 and 39, one or more feeders 31000, 31001, 31002 may be positioned on a feeder tray 32000. As shown in FIG. 37, a first feeder 31000, a second feeder 31001, and a third feeder 31002 may be set on the feeder tray 32000 in a configuration that orients the set of openings 3117a, 3117b, 3117c of each feeder 31000, 31001, 31002 for access by a hummingbird or other suitable animal. In some implementations, the one or more feeders 31000, 31001, 31002 may comprise the same configuration as feeder 31000 shown in FIGS. 32-36 and described herein.

Referring to FIGS. 37 and 38, the feeder tray 32000 may comprise a shallow flat receptacle having a first surface 32002 for carrying or holding the feeders 31000, 31001, 31002. Each feeder 31000, 31001, 31002 may be set onto the first surface 32002.

The feeder tray 32000 may comprise raised edges 32004, 32005 forming walls, which may restrict motion of the feeders 31000, 31001, 31002 within the horizontal plane H in at least one dimension without the use of mechanical fasteners. As shown in FIGS. 37 and 38, the feeders 31000, 31001, 31002 are restricted from movement in a first direction D by the raised edges 32004, 32005, which may extend from the surface 32002. The feeders 31000, 31001, 31002 may also be restricted from movement in a second direction E by their placement adjacent or between other feeders. The feeders 31000, 31001, 31002 may be removable and replaceable with other feeders once the reservoir of the feeder is emptied. As shown in FIG. 39, feeder 31001 has been removed from area 31004, which is an available area for placing a new replacement feeder. It will be understood by persons skilled in the art that other means of holding and restricting movement of the feeders 31000, 31001 in a removable and replaceable manner on the first surface 32002 of the feeder tray 32000 may be used, including, but not limited to, cages, straps, partitions, adhesives, and mechanical fasteners. In other implementations, the feeders 31000, 31001 may be permanently attached, and not removable without destruction or disassembly of the feeder tray 32000, such that the feeder tray 32000 and attached feeders 31000, 31001 may be entirely disposable.

As shown by FIGS. 37 and 40, a feeder tray 32000 or 32010 may comprise a shape. FIG. 37 shows the feeder tray 32000 in a line segment shape. FIG. 40 shows the feeder tray 32010 in a generally square shape. It will be understood by persons skilled in the art that the shape of a feeder tray, as described herein, may comprise other shapes, including but not limited to open linear segments and closed line segments, extending in a single plane or extending in three dimensions, that arrange the feeders in an accessible position and orientation for feeding birds or other suitable animals.

Referring to FIGS. 40 and 41 showing the feeder 32010 having a square closed shape, the feeder 32010 may comprise a shallow flat receptacle having a first surface 32002 for carrying or holding one or more feeders 31000, 31001, 31002, 31006, 31008, 31010, 31012, 31014, which each have openings or feeding ports (for example ports 31015, 31016, 31017, 31018). As shown in FIG. 40, the first surface 32002 may extend substantially in at least a first horizontal plane H to receive the feeders 31000, 31001, 31002, 31006, 31008, 31010, 31012, 31014 and position the feeding ports to be accessible to a bird or other suitable animal. In some implementations, the one or more feeders 31000, 31001, 31002, 31006, 31008, 31010, 31012, 31014 may comprise the same configuration as feeder 31000 shown in FIGS. 32-36 and described herein.

Referring to FIG. 41, the feeder tray 32010 may comprise a first side wall 32022, which runs along the outer perimeter of the square shape formed by the feeder tray 32010, and a second side wall 32024, which runs along an inside perimeter of the feeder tray 32022. The first side wall 32022 and the second side wall 32024 may be spaced from each other a distance F, and depending on the size of the shape, there may be a gap 32026, comprising an area within the shape where there are no feeders. It will be understood by persons skilled in the art that in some implementations this area may be configured to fit additional feeders.

The first side wall 32022 and the second side wall 32024 may restrict motion of the feeders 31000, 31001, 31002 within the first horizontal plane H in at least one dimension without the use of mechanical fasteners. As shown in FIGS. 40 and 41, the feeders 31001, 31002 are restricted from movement in the direction D by at least a portion of the first side wall 32022 and the second side wall 32024. Other portions of the side walls 32022, 32024 restrict movement in the direction E, by example feeders 31014, 31015. In other implementations other walls, stops, straps, partitions, mechanical fasteners and adhesives may be utilized to provide either replaceable feeders or feeders that are permanently affixed. In other implementations, the feeder trays 32000 and 32010 shown in FIGS. 37 and 40 may comprise two or more horizontal planes H for reception of two or more reservoirs, for example in a tiered configuration as shown in FIG. 42 showing plane H1 and H2.

Referring to FIG. 40, feeders may be arranged end-to-end on the feeder tray 32010 to match the shape of the respective feeder tray. In FIG. 40, the feeders are arranged on the outer perimeter of the square shape to position the ports 31015, 31016, 31017, 31018 (by example) for access and to discourage crowding of birds gathering at the feeder tray 32000.

The feeders 32000 and 32010 of FIGS. 37 and 40, respectively, may each be suspended from a location that is accessible to hummingbirds, other birds, or other animal for which the feeders useful. Referring to FIG. 37, a hanger 32003 or other suitable extension configured with a receptacle or aperture to receive a suitable support member (for example a hook 32020) may connect to the feeder 32000. In FIG. 40, a hanger 32011 may connect to the feeder 32010. Each hanger 32003, 32011 may connect to the respective feeder tray 32000, 32010 at apertures 32007a, b (shown in FIG. 48) and 32019a-d (shown in FIG. 41), respectively.

Referring now to FIG. 41 there is shown a tiered implementation of the feeder system 3100. A feeder tray 3300 may comprise one or more tiers 3301 and 3302, extending in one or more horizontal planes H1 and H2. Each tier may comprise a level placed one above another level.

Each tier 3301, 3302 may comprise one or more tray sections 3304a-d and 3306a-d configured to hold one or more feeders 31000a-d and 31001a-c, respectively. Each tray section may be suitable for holding one or more feeders in at least the manner shown and described in FIGS. 37-41, including, but not limited to, the use of walls, cages, straps, partitions, adhesives, and mechanical fasteners for either the replaceable or permanent positioning of the feeders on the tray section. In some implementations, the tiers 3301 and 3302 may comprise different sizes and configurations (e.g. the number of tray sections and number of feeders held in each tray section and tier), while in other implementations the tiers are of the same size and configuration.

Referring to FIGS. 39, 40, and 42, a feeder system 3100, embodying at least one method of feeding hummingbirds or other suitable animal, may comprise at least one tray, for example, the tray 32000 shown in FIG. 39, the tray 32010 shown in FIG. 40, or the tray sections 3304a-d in the tier 3301 of FIG. 42. Each tray of the feeder system 3100 holds one or more feeders, for example, in FIG. 39, the tray 32000 holds feeders 31000 and 31002. In some implementations, the feeders are replaceable once the feeder is used. The feeder system 3100 allows the user to have a reusable platform for providing fresh feeding solution to hummingbirds or other desired animals.

Referring to FIG. 43, the feeder 31000 of FIG. 32 may be suspended from a location that is accessible to hummingbirds, other birds, or other animal for which the feeder 31000 is useful. In the implementation shown in FIG. 43, the feeder 31000 may comprise a hanger 3120 or other suitable extension configured to receive a hook 3122 or other suitable support member and to suspend the reservoir 3104 above an underlying surface. The hanger 3120 may comprise a tab portion 3124 and a base portion 3125 adhered to the reservoir 3104.

The tab portion 3124 may comprise a sufficient drop distance K from any overhead structure, including the hook 3122, to allow the hummingbirds 3101, 3103 sufficient space to fly-in, feed from the opening 3111 or the feeding port 3109, and exit without crowding the hummingbirds.

The hanger 3120 may be secured to the reservoir 3104 by support straps 3128 which hold the base portion 3125 to the reservoir 3104 and extend around at least a portion of the reservoir 3104. The straps 3128 support the hanger 3120 in manner configured to hold the weight of the feeder 31000 and to withstand environmental forces acting on the feeder 31000, e.g. movement from the wind or from an animal pushing on the feeder 31000 as it feeds. In other implementations the hanger 3120 may comprise other suitable contrivances upon which the feeder 31000 may be hung, including a string, strap, or a rod.

The weight of the reservoir 3104 may be balanced on the hanger 3120 as to prevent significant tipping or tilting of the reservoir, which may cause unwanted spillage of the feeding solution 3105. In the implementation shown in FIG. 43, the hanger is positioned on the top surface of the reservoir at a position Q that aligns a point of suspension S, where an aperture 3126 in the tab portion 3124 receives the hook 3122, with the center of gravity 3116. As the reservoir 3104 is emptied of feed solution 3105, the center of gravity follows generally a vertical path P, which maintains substantially equal weight on both sides of the point of suspension S. As a result, the feeder 31000 does not substantially tilt or pivot about the as the reservoir 3104 empties.

Based upon design preferences, it is understood that the specific order or hierarchy of steps in the methods described herein can be rearranged while remaining within the disclosed subject matter. Any accompanying method claims present elements of the various steps in a sample order and are not necessarily meant to be limited to the specific order or hierarchy presented.

It is believed that the present disclosure and many of its attendant advantages will be understood by the foregoing description, and it will be apparent that various changes may be made in the form, construction and arrangement of the components without departing from the disclosed subject matter or without sacrificing all of its material advantages. The form described is merely explanatory, and it is the intention of the following claims to encompass and include such changes.

The above specification, examples, and information provides a complete description of the structure and use of example implementations of the presently disclosed technology. Various modifications and additions can be made to the exemplary implementations discussed without departing from the spirit and scope of the presently disclosed technology. For example, while the implementations described above refer to particular features, the scope of this disclosure also includes implementations having different combinations of features and implementations that do not include all of the described features. Accordingly, the scope of the presently disclosed technology is intended to embrace all such alternatives, modifications, and variations together with all equivalents thereof.

Claims

1. An animal feeder comprising: a reservoir containing a ready-to-consume animal feed for animals, the reservoir including one or more walls enclosing the ready-to-consume animal feed, at least a portion of the reservoir configured to create an opening through which the ready-to-consume animal feed may be accessed, the reservoir adapted for placement on a surface of a bird feeder.