U.S. patent application number 10/590652 was filed with the patent office on 2007-11-08 for birdfeeder and seed dispenser therefor.
Invention is credited to James S. Carter, Brian K. Krueger, Furman O'Dell.
Application Number | 20070256640 10/590652 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 34699964 |
Filed Date | 2007-11-08 |
United States Patent
Application |
20070256640 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
O'Dell; Furman ; et
al. |
November 8, 2007 |
Birdfeeder and Seed Dispenser Therefor
Abstract
A birdseed dispenser and birdfeeder incorporating the same are
provided. The dispenser has a base piece mounted to an opening in
the sidewall of the birdseed reservoir and an apertured pied
disposed therein. The apertured piece includes a first seed
aperture having a first configuration and a second seed aperture of
a second and different configuration. The apertured piece is
moveable relative to the base between a first orientation, which
places the first seed aperture in a seed accessible state
permitting birds access to the seed, and a second orientation to
place the second seed aperture in the seed accessible state. The
apertured piece may be a dial that is rotatable relative to the
base and able to dispense both thistle and mixed birdseed via the
first and second apertures respectively. The invention is also
directed to a method of feeding bird feeder having such a
dispenser.
Inventors: |
O'Dell; Furman; (Evergreen,
CO) ; Carter; James S.; (Denver, CO) ;
Krueger; Brian K.; (Denver, CO) |
Correspondence
Address: |
JACOBSON HOLMAN PLLC
400 SEVENTH STREET N.W.
SUITE 600
WASHINGTON
DC
20004
US
|
Family ID: |
34699964 |
Appl. No.: |
10/590652 |
Filed: |
December 13, 2004 |
PCT Filed: |
December 13, 2004 |
PCT NO: |
PCT/US04/41773 |
371 Date: |
April 2, 2007 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
|
|
60529342 |
Dec 12, 2003 |
|
|
|
Current U.S.
Class: |
119/52.2 |
Current CPC
Class: |
A01K 39/014 20130101;
A01K 39/0113 20130101; A01K 39/012 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
119/052.2 |
International
Class: |
A01K 39/00 20060101
A01K039/00 |
Claims
1. A dispenser adapted to access and dispense bird seed from a
birdfeeder that has a birdseed reservoir with a sidewall,
comprising: (A) a base piece mounted to an opening in the sidewall
of said reservoir; and (B) an apertured piece disposed in said base
piece and including (1) a first seed aperture of a first
configuration; and (2) a second seed aperture of a second
configuration that is different from that of the first
configuration; and (3) wherein said apertured piece is moveable
relative to said base piece between (a) a first orientation wherein
said first seed aperture is oriented in a seed accessible state so
as to provide access to the bird seed; and (b) a second orientation
wherein said second seed aperture is in the seed accessible
state.
2. A dispenser according to claim 1 wherein said base piece is at
least partly disposed in the birdseed reservoir when mounted to the
opening in said sidewall.
3. A dispenser according to claim 1 wherein said base piece
includes a plurality of spaced apart retaining tabs operative to
retain said apertured piece and permit movement thereof relative to
said base piece.
4. A dispenser according to claim 1 wherein said base piece
includes a plurality of resilient prongs operative to releasably
secure said base piece on the sidewall.
5. A dispenser according to claim 1 wherein said base piece
includes a registration finger operative to facilitate attachment
of said base piece to the opening in the sidewall.
6. A dispenser according to claim 4 wherein said base piece, said
plurality of prongs and said registration finger are formed as an
integral one-piece construction.
7. A dispenser according to claim 1 wherein said base piece
includes a wall having a seed outlet formed therethrough in fluid
communication with the opening.
8. A dispenser according to claim 7 wherein the seed outlet is in
fluid communication with the first seed aperture when said
apertured piece is in the first orientation and wherein access to
the birdseed via the second seed aperture is obstructed by said
wall.
9. A dispenser according to claim 7 wherein the seed outlet is in
fluid communication with the second seed aperture when said
apertured piece is in the second orientation and wherein access to
the birdseed via the first seed aperture is obstructed by said
wall.
10. A dispenser according to claim 1 wherein said base piece has an
annular configuration.
11. A dispenser according to claim 1 including cooperating
fasteners adapted to releasably secure said base piece to the
sidewall.
12. A dispenser according to claim 1 wherein the first
configuration is adapted to dispense thistle birdseed from the
reservoir.
13. A dispenser according to claim 1 wherein the second
configuration is adapted to dispense mixed birdseed from the
reservoir.
14. A dispenser according to claim 1 including a retaining piece
releasably securable to said base piece whereby said apertured
piece is located therebetween.
15. A dispenser according to claim 14 wherein said retaining piece
includes a plurality of spaced apart resilient retaining tabs
adapted to retain said apertured piece and permit movement thereof
relative to said base piece.
16. A dispenser according to claim 1 wherein said base piece and
said apertured piece are each formed of a material selected from
the group consisting of plastic, wood, metal and a combination
thereof.
17. A dispenser adapted to access and dispense bird seed from a
birdfeeder that has a bird seed reservoir with a sidewall,
comprising: (A) a base piece mounted to an opening in the sidewall
of said reservoir wherein the opening has a central axis generally
perpendicular to the sidewall; and (B) an apertured dial disposed
in said base piece and journaled for rotation on the central axis,
said dial including (1) a first seed aperture having a first
configuration; and (2) a second seed aperture having a second
configuration that is different from the first configuration; and
(3) wherein said apertured dial is rotatable relative to said base
piece between (a) a first orientation wherein said first seed
aperture is oriented in a seed accessible state so as to provide
access to the bird seed; and (b) a second orientation wherein said
second seed aperture is in the seed accessible state.
18. A dispenser according to claim 17 wherein said base piece
includes a plurality of spaced apart retaining tabs operative to
retain said apertured piece and permit movement thereof relative to
said base piece.
19. A dispenser according to claim 17 wherein said base piece
includes a plurality of resilient prongs adapted to releasably
secure said base piece to the opening in the sidewall.
20. A dispenser according to claim 17 wherein said base piece
includes a wall having a seed outlet formed therethrough.
21. A dispenser according to claim 20 wherein the seed outlet is in
fluid communication with the first seed aperture when said
apertured dial is in the first orientation and wherein access to
the birdseed via the second seed aperture is obstructed by said
wall.
22. A dispenser according to claim 20 wherein the seed outlet is in
fluid communication with the second seed aperture when said
apertured dial is in the second orientation and wherein access to
the birdseed via the first seed aperture is obstructed by said
wall.
23. A dispenser according to claim 17 wherein said base piece has
an annular configuration.
24. A dispenser according to claim 17 including cooperating
fasteners adapted to releasably secure said base piece to the
sidewall.
25. A dispenser according to claim 17 wherein the first
configuration is adapted to dispense thistle birdseed from the
reservoir.
26. A dispenser according to claim 17 wherein the second
configuration is adapted to dispense mixed birdseed from the
reservoir.
27. A dispenser according to claim 17 including a retaining piece
releasably securable to said base piece whereby said apertured dial
is located therebetween.
28. A dispenser according to claim 27 wherein said retaining piece
includes a plurality of spaced apart retaining tabs adapted to
retain said apertured dial and permit rotational movement thereof
relative to said base piece.
29. A bird feeder adapted to be suspended from a support structure
against the force of gravity and to provide birdseed to birds,
comprising: (A) a hanger member adapted to engage the support
structure; (B) a birdseed reservoir with a surrounding sidewall
adapted to receive the birdseed therein, said sidewall having an
opening formed therethrough; and (C) a seed dispenser mounted to
the opening in said sidewall and adapted to dispense the birdseed
to the birds and including an apertured piece having (1) a first
seed aperture of a first configuration; and (2) a second seed
aperture of a second configuration that is different from that of
the first configuration; and (3) wherein said apertured piece is
moveable relative to said sidewall between (a) a first orientation
wherein said first seed aperture is oriented in a seed accessible
state so as to provide access to the bird seed; and (b) a second
orientation wherein said second seed aperture is in the seed
accessible state.
30. A bird feeder according to claim 29 wherein said birdseed
reservoir has a configuration selected from the group consisting of
tubular, rectangular, and frustoconical.
31. A bird feeder according to claim 29 including a plurality of
openings formed in said sidewall of said birdseed reservoir and
including a plurality of seed dispensers mounted thereto.
32. A bird feeder according to claim 29 wherein apertured piece is
configured as a dial and is adapted for rotational movement
relative to said sidewall.
33. A bird feeder according to claim 29 wherein said seed dispenser
includes a base piece adapted to couple said apertured piece to
said sidewall.
34. A bird feeder according to claim 33 wherein said base piece
includes a wall having a seed outlet formed therethrough.
35. A bird feeder according to claim 34 wherein the seed outlet is
in fluid communication with the first seed aperture when said
apertured piece is in the first orientation and wherein access to
the birdseed via the second seed aperture is obstructed by said
wall.
36. A bird feeder according to claim 34 wherein the seed outlet is
in fluid communication with the second seed aperture when said
apertured piece is in the second orientation and wherein access to
the birdseed via the first seed aperture is obstructed by said
wall.
37. A bird feeder according to claim 33 including a retaining piece
releasably securable to said base piece and wherein said apertured
piece is located therebetween.
38. A bird feeder according to claim 29 wherein the first
configuration is adapted to dispense thistle birdseed from the
reservoir.
39. A bird feeder according to claim 29 wherein the second
configuration is adapted to dispense mixed birdseed from the
reservoir.
40. In a bird feeder adapted to provide birdseed to birds,
including a birdseed reservoir adapted to receive and contain the
birdseed therein said reservoir including a surrounding sidewall
and at least one opening formed therein that is adapted to access
and dispense the birdseed from the reservoir, the improvement
comprising: (A) an apertured piece coupled to the opening in said
sidewall and including (1) a first seed aperture of a first
configuration; and (2) a second seed aperture of a second
configuration that is different from that of the first
configuration; and (3) wherein said apertured piece is moveable
relative to said sidewall between (a) a first orientation wherein
said first seed aperture is oriented in a seed accessible state so
as to provide access to the bird seed; and (b) a second orientation
wherein said second seed aperture is in the seed accessible
state.
41. A birdfeeder according to claim 40 wherein said apertured piece
is a dial adapted for rotational movement relative to said
sidewall.
42. A method for feeding birds utilizing a bird feeder having a
birdseed reservoir with a surrounding sidewall adapted to contain
the birdseed and an opening formed in the sidewall adapted to
access and dispense the birdseed to the birds, comprising the steps
of: (A) providing the bird feeder with a seed dispenser having a
plurality of seed apertures associated therewith; (B) adding a
selected type of birdseed to the birdseed reservoir; and (C) moving
a selected one of said plurality of seed apertures into a seed
accessible state whereby said selected seed aperture is in fluid
communication with the opening in the sidewall.
43. A method according to claim 42 wherein said seed dispenser
includes a dial piece and wherein said plurality of seed apertures
are formed therethrough.
44. A method according to claim 43 wherein step of moving a
selected one of said seed apertures is accomplished by rotating
said dial piece.
Description
FIELD OF THE INVENTION
[0001] The present invention generally relates to bird feeders for
attracting and feeding wild birds. More particularly, the present
invention concerns a device that enables a bird feeder to dispense
different types of birdseed, thereby to attract different species
of wild birds. Specifically, the present invention is directed to a
rotatable seed dispenser having multiple ports for dispensing seeds
of different sizes. This invention also concerns a method of
providing a seed dispenser, with alternative seed ports, and
selectively placing a desired seed port in the seed accessible
state, thereby to permit feeding birds access to the birdseed.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0002] Bird watching is a highly prevalent past time in both urban
and rural areas. The world is full of birds of numerous varieties
in an astounding array of colors and designs. Many people enjoy
viewing birds of various types, and an industry has evolved around
products directed to improving the ability of persons to closely
observe birds in their natural environment. On one hand, many
people venture into the outdoors, where binoculars and spotting
scopes may be utilized to better view various birds in their
natural habitats. Such an approach requires a certain degree of
skill, however, in finding and spotting various species of birds.
Another approach utilizes various means of attracting birds to
one's residence or a desired viewing location, such as adjacent a
home's porch or window, where birds may be viewed at one's
leisure.
[0003] For example, persons have used bird feeders, birdbaths, and
the like to attract birds of various types to their homes.
Different types of feeders have been developed, which each dispense
foodstuffs that are preferred by a selected variety of bird which a
person might desire to view. For example, seeds, grains, suets, and
nectars are common foodstuffs that can be dispensed by a selected
type of feeder.
[0004] Seed dispensing bird feeders are perhaps the easiest and
most popular way of attracting a myriad of wild birds to a
particular location for viewing. This is especially so in the
winter months when food is scarce. Typically, seed feeders are
suspended from a pole or hung from a tree branch so as to elevate
the feeder above the ground and are built to hold and protect the
seed from the elements.
[0005] There are a variety of seed feeders that have been
constructed to attract various species of wild birds. In general,
such feeders fall into three categories: tray feeders, hopper
feeders, and tube feeders. Tray feeders are rather simplistic in
design and generally comprise a tray or platform on which birdseed
is spread. Hopper feeders further include a feed reservoir, which
is oftentimes shaped like a house. The seed is dispensed beneath
the reservoir onto a tray or platform that is accessible by the
birds. Tube feeders, on the other hand, are hollow, cylindrical
tubes, often made of plastic, and have multiple feeding stations
spaced along the length of the tube. Typically, feeding stations
include both a seed port and an adjacent perch to provide the
feeding bird with a place to alight.
[0006] Tube feeders are a very popular bird feeder construction
due, in part, to their ability to keep the seed fairly dry and
attract various bird species. Particularly, though, the size of the
seed ports largely dictate the type of birdseed that may be used to
fill the tube feeder and, thus, the types of bird species that will
be attracted to the feeder. For example, if the seed ports are
relatively large, the feeder can be filled with mixed birdseed or
sunflower seeds, which will generally attract larger birds, such as
blue jays, cardinals, and grackles. Smaller seed ports, on the
other hand, dispense thistle seed, which is a different type of
birdseed and is attractive to finches. Accordingly, some tube
feeders are specially constructed as thistle feeders with extra
small ports for dispensing thistle seeds.
[0007] Oftentimes, people prefer to attract several different
species of birds to a desired viewing location. Accordingly, it is
not uncommon for people to own a variety of bird feeders for
dispensing different types of birdseed. To accommodate this desire,
there are a variety of tube feeders available, which vary in size,
appearance, and of course, seed port size.
[0008] However, for many, space may be limited for hanging bird
feeders, especially for individuals living in apartments with very
limited balcony space. For others, time and money may simply limit
one's ability to acquire and maintain several different bird
feeders. As a result, many are perhaps limited to owning only one
type of bird feeder that is only capable of dispensing one type of
birdseed. Accordingly, there remains a need to provide a seed
dispensers that are capable of dispensing different types of seed.
Further, there is a need to provide new and improved bird feeders
that are capable of dispensing different types of birdseed. The
present invention is directed to meeting these needs.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0009] An object of the present invention is to provide a new and
useful bird feeder for attracting different species of wild
birds.
[0010] Another object of the present invention is to provide a
selectively versatile bird feeder that is capable of dispensing
different types of birdseed.
[0011] Yet another object of the present invention is to provide an
improved bird feeder that is capable of dispensing thistle
birdseed, mixed birdseed, or sunflower seeds.
[0012] A still further object of the present invention is to
provide a tube feeder with multiple feeding stations, which
incorporate rotatable seed dispensers.
[0013] Another object of the present invention is to provide a seed
dispenser with multiple seed ports.
[0014] Yet another object of the present invention is to provide a
seed dispenser that is capable of dispensing at least two different
types of birdseed.
[0015] A still further object to provide a method for selectively
placing a desired seed port in fluid communication with the
birdseed in the bird feeder.
[0016] According to the present invention, then, a dispenser is
provided that is adapted to access and dispense birdseed from a
birdfeeder that has a reservoir with a sidewall. The sidewall
includes an opening in the form of a mounting hole to which the
dispenser is attached or otherwise mounted. The opening has a
central axis that is generally perpendicular to the sidewall.
[0017] The dispenser may include a base piece, an aperture piece,
and may further include a retaining piece. The base piece is
mounted to an opening in the sidewall of the reservoir and may
further be at least partly disposed in the birdseed reservoir when
mounted therein. Preferably, the base piece has a wall that
includes a seed outlet formed therethrough in fluid communication
with the opening in the sidewall. The base piece may include a
plurality of prongs and a registration finger for mounting in the
opening of the sidewall. Alternatively, the base piece may include
cooperating fasteners that releasably secure it to the sidewall of
the reservoir.
[0018] As contemplated, the apertured piece may be disposed in the
base piece. As such, the base piece may include a plurality of
spaced apart retaining tabs that can retain the apertured piece and
permit movement thereof relative to the base piece. The aperture
piece includes a first seed aperture of a first configuration and
second seed aperture of a second configuration that is different
from the first. The first configuration is adapted to dispense
thistle birdseed from the reservoir while the second configuration
is adapted to dispense mixed birdseed from the reservoir. It is
moveable relative to the base piece between a first orientation and
a second orientation. In the first orientation the first seed
aperture is oriented in a seed accessible state so as to provide
access to the birdseed. Meanwhile, the second orientation places
the second seed aperture in a seed accessible state. When in the
first orientation, the first seed aperture is in fluid
communication with the seed outlet, while access to the birdseed
via the second seed aperture is obstructed by the wall. In a second
orientation, the seed outlet is in fluid communication with the
second seed aperture while access to the birdseed via the first
seed aperture is obstructed by the wall.
[0019] As contemplated by the present invention, the apertured
piece may be in the form of an apertured dial that is journaled for
rotation on the central axis of the opening in the sidewall of the
reservoir. The apertured dial may be rotated relative to the
sidewall, or the base piece.
[0020] As mentioned above, the dispenser according to the present
invention may also include a retaining piece. The retaining piece
may be releasably securable to the base piece whereby the apertured
piece is located therebetween. The retaining piece may be further
be provided with a plurality of spaced apart resilient retaining
tabs that are adapted to retain the apertured piece and permit
movement thereof relative to the base piece. Generally, the base
piece, the apertured piece, and if included the retaining piece,
may each be formed of materials selected from a group consisting of
plastic, wood, metal, and a combination thereof.
[0021] The present invention also provides for a birdfeeder that is
adapted to be suspended from a support structure against the force
of gravity and to provide birdseed to birds that comprises the
hanger member to engage the support structure of a birdseed
reservoir with a surrounding sidewall, a seed dispenser mounted in
the opening of the sidewall and adapted to dispense birdseed to the
birds. The birdseed reservoir may have a configuration selected
from the group consisting of tubular, rectangular, and
frustoconical. Further, the birdfeeder may be provided with a
plurality of openings that are formed in the sidewall such that a
plurality of seed dispensers are mounted thereto.
[0022] The present invention also contemplates an improvement to a
birdfeeder that provides birdseed to birds. The improvement
generally comprises a dispenser having a moveable apertured piece
coupled to the opening of the sidewall. The apertured piece
includes a plurality of seed apertures of different
configurations.
[0023] The present invention also provides a method for feeding
birds utilizing a birdfeeder having a birdseed reservoir with a
surrounding sidewall. The method comprises the steps of providing
the birdfeeder with a seed dispenser that has a plurality of seed
apertures associated therewith. The method also includes the step
of adding a selected type of birdseed to the birdseed reservoir and
then moving one of the seed apertures into a seed accepted state
whereby the selected seed aperture is in fluid communication with
the opening in the sidewall. The method may further include the
steps of providing the seed dispenser with a dial piece and then
rotating the dial piece to move a selected one of the seed
apertures into the seed accessible state.
[0024] These and other objects of the present invention will become
more readily appreciated and understood from a consideration of the
following detailed description of the exemplary embodiments of the
present invention when taken together with the accompanying
drawings, in which:
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES
[0025] FIG. 1 is a front perspective view of a new and useful bird
feeder according to the present invention, which incorporates a
plurality of new and useful seed dispensers, also according to the
present invention according to the present invention;
[0026] FIG. 2 is an exploded perspective view of a representative
one of the seed dispensers shown in FIG. 1;
[0027] FIG. 3 is a front view in elevation of the base piece of the
seed dispenser shown in FIG. 2;
[0028] FIG. 4 is a rear view in elevation of the base piece of FIG.
3;
[0029] FIG. 5 is a top view in elevation of the base piece of FIG.
3;
[0030] FIG. 6 is a right side view in elevation of the base piece
of FIG. 3;
[0031] FIG. 7 is a front view in elevation of the apertured dial of
the seed dispenser shown in FIG. 2;
[0032] FIG. 8 is a top view in elevation of the apertured dial;
[0033] FIG. 9 is a cross-sectional view of the apertured dial shown
in FIG. 7 taken about lines 9-9;
[0034] FIG. 10(a) is a cross-sectional view of a representative
seed dispenser shown in FIG. 1 taken about lines 10(a)-10(a) with
the second seed aperture in the seed access state;
[0035] FIG. 10(b) is a cross-sectional view of the seed dispenser
shown in FIG. 1 taken about lines 10(a)-10(a) with the first seed
aperture in the seed access state;
[0036] FIG. 11 is a perspective view of an alternative bird feeder
according to the present invention, which incorporates a plurality
of seed dispensers according to a second exemplary embodiment of
the present invention;
[0037] FIG. 12 is a front perspective view, in elevation, of a bird
feeder shown in FIG. 11;
[0038] FIG. 13 is an exploded perspective view of one of the seed
dispensers shown in FIGS. 1 1 and 12;
[0039] FIG. 14 is a rear perspective view of the base piece of the
seed dispenser shown in FIGS. 1 1 and 12;
[0040] FIG. 15 is an exploded left side view, in elevation, of the
seed dispenser shown in FIGS. 11 and 12;
[0041] FIG. 16 is a rear view in elevation of the retaining ring
shown in FIGS. 11 and 12;
[0042] FIG. 17 is a front view in elevation of the retaining ring
shown in FIGS. 11 and 12;
[0043] FIG. 18(a) is a cross-sectional view of a representative
seed dispenser shown in FIG. 12 taken about lines 18(a)-18(a)
showing the second seed aperture in the seed access state;
[0044] FIG. 18(b) is a cross-sectional view of the seed dispenser
shown in FIG. 12 taken about lines 18(a)-18(a) showing the first
seed aperture in the seed access state;
[0045] FIG. 19 is a rear view in elevation of an alternative
retaining ring;
[0046] FIG. 20 is a right side view in elevation of the alternative
retaining ring shown in FIG. 19;
[0047] FIG. 21 is a cross-sectional view of the seed dispenser
shown in FIGS. 11 and 12 in use with the alternative retaining ring
shown in FIGS. 19 and 20;
[0048] FIG. 22 is a front view in elevation of another bird feeder
according to the present invention, which incorporates a plurality
of seed dispensers according to a third exemplary embodiment of the
present invention;
[0049] FIG. 23 is a partial exploded view of the bird feeder shown
in FIG. 22 with a representative one of the seed dispensers removed
from its mounting hole;
[0050] FIG. 24 is an exploded perspective view of a representative
one of the seed dispensers shown in FIGS. 22 and 23
[0051] FIG. 25 is a rear view in elevation of the base piece shown
in FIG. 24;
[0052] FIG. 26 is a front view in elevation of the base piece shown
in FIG. 24; and
[0053] FIG. 27 is a side view in elevation of the seed dispenser
shown in FIG. 24.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE EXEMPLARY EMBODIMENTS
[0054] The present invention relates to seed dispensing bird
feeders for attracting wild birds. In particular, the present
invention relates to a seed dispenser that may be used in
conjunction with a bird feeder so as to increase its versatility.
More particularly, as contemplated, the seed dispenser of the
present invention provides alternative seed apertures, each capable
of dispensing different types of birdseed so as to attract a
variety of species of birds.
[0055] Broadly, the seed dispenser of the present invention
includes an apertured piece with multiple seed apertures of
different configurations. The apertured piece may be coupled to the
sidewall of the birdfeeder with a base piece so as to be moveable
relative thereto. The base piece may be removably mounted to the
sidewall of a bird feeder such that it is partly disposed in the
silo, and the apertured piece preferably includes a first seed
aperture of a first configuration and a second seed aperture of a
second configuration that is different from that of the first
configuration.
[0056] The apertured piece may be in the form of an apertured dial
that is rotatably disposed in the base piece. The apertured dial is
moveable between a first orientation wherein a first seed aperture
is oriented in a seed accessible state so as to provide access to
the bird seed and a second orientation wherein a second seed
aperture is in the seed accessible state. When the desired seed
aperture is in the seed accessible state, the feeding bird may
access the seed therethrough while the other aperture(s) on the
piece are obstructed or blocked such that the birds are unable to
access the seed therethrough. The seed dispenser of the present
invention may alternatively include a retaining piece used to
secure the dispenser to the feeder and to secure the dial
thereon.
[0057] To better understand the construction of the seed dispenser
of the present invention, and its ability to enhance the
versatility of bird feeders, reference is first made to FIG. 1,
which shows a bird feeder in the form of a tube feeder 10 in use
with seed dispensers 30 and 31 according to the present invention.
Generally, tube feeder 10 birdseed reservoir 12, lid 14, hanger
member 16, and feeding stations 20. As shown, birdseed reservoir 12
has a cylindrical sidewall 11 and an interior and may be
constructed from a clear plastic material, but may also be
constructed of any suitable material as known in the art, such as
metal, glass, and the like. Lid 14 further includes a hanger member
16, which is in the form of a chain that may be used to suspend the
feeder from any appropriate support structure, such as a post, tree
branch, porch ceiling, or other desired location for observing
birds. Hanger member 16 may be of any suitable construction that
enables tube feeder 10 to be elevated above the ground.
[0058] Feeding stations 20 include perches 18 located adjacent to a
respective seed dispenser 30 and 31. Since seed dispensers 30 and
31 are identical in construction, seed dispenser 30 will be used as
a representative sample to discuss the construction of the seed
dispensers in more detail. Seed dispenser 30 may be removably
disposed in designated locations along the length of the sidewall
11 of birdseed reservoir 12. More particularly, seed dispenser 30
is adapted to nest within holes cut out of the sidewall 11 of the
birdseed reservoir. For example, the opening in sidewall 11, shown
here as mounting hole 80 in FIG. 1, is cut directly out of the
sidewall 11 of birdseed reservoir 12. As shown, mounting hole 80
further includes registration notch 82, which will be described
below in further detail. Seed dispenser 30 may be either removably
disposed in hole 80 or, alternatively, permanently fixed
therein.
[0059] Although not shown, it may be desirable to reinforce the
bird feeder silo in an area proximate to the seed dispensing device
30 with metal such as copper, stainless steel, and the like. Metal
reinforcement of the area surrounding seed dispensing device 30
assists in preventing squirrels from chewing the sidewall 11 of
birdseed reservoir 12 in and around the feeding stations and
gaining access to the seed.
[0060] Before describing the nested relationship between seed
dispenser 30 and mounting hole 80 in further detail, it is perhaps
first helpful to better understand the construction of the seed
dispenser itself. Accordingly, with reference now to FIG. 2, seed
dispenser 30 generally includes base piece 40 and an aperture
piece, which is shown here to be in the form of apertured dial 60.
Apertured piece is coupled to sidewall 11 by base piece 40. Both
the base piece 40 and the apertured dial 60 may be made of plastic,
wood, metal, a combination thereof or any other material suitable
for the construction of a bird feeder.
[0061] Base piece 40 is shown in FIGS. 2-6. As shown, base piece 40
is unitary in construction and has a front portion 42 and back
portion 44, which are separated from one another by a partitioning
wall 46. Front portion 42 includes sidewall 50, which extends
outwardly from partitioning wall 46 to terminate in rim 48.
Retaining tabs 52 are disposed on the interior surface of sidewall
50 in spaced relation to one another. While two retaining tabs 52
are shown, it should be appreciated that any number of retaining
tabs may be disposed circumferentially about sidewall 50.
Preferably, though, the number and placement of retaining tabs 52
is able to accomplish an engagement between base piece 40 and
apertured dial 60 sufficient to retain apertured dial therein while
allowing rotation of apertured dial 60 relative to the base piece
40.
[0062] As shown in FIGS. 4-6, back portion 44 of base piece 40
includes resilient prongs 54 and registration finger 56. The
backside of retaining tabs 52 is also shown. Prongs 54 are adapted
to releasably secure base piece 40 on the sidewall 11 of birdseed
reservoir 12 in mount hole 80 (shown in FIG. 1). Further,
registration finger 56 is adapted to engage registration notch 82
shown in FIG. 1 to facilitate proper registration of base piece 40
within mount hole 80. These features are discussed in further
detail below in reference to FIGS. 10(a) and 10(b).
[0063] Retaining tabs 52 and prongs 54 may be formed as an integral
part of the base piece as a one-piece molding of plastic. Retaining
tabs 52 and prongs 54 may be made of other materials, but are
preferably resilient so as to allow the respective pieces to be
fitted together as is contemplated by this exemplary embodiment of
the present invention.
[0064] Partitioning wall 46, which partitions base piece 40 as
shown in FIGS. 2-4 to include an opening in the form of seed outlet
58. Outlet port 58 is shown as a semi-circular opening that is
approximately half the size of wall 46. As should be understood,
outlet port 58 is not limited to the size and configuration shown,
however, it is preferred that outlet port 58 be of a size and
configuration that can dispense multiple types of birdseed.
[0065] Now that base piece 40 has been described in some detail,
the features of apertured dial 60 may be discussed. First, as may
be seen with reference to FIGS. 2 and 7-9, apertured dial 60
includes a disc-shaped wall 61 that has a front surface 62 and a
back surface 64 defined by edge 63 and two seed apertures 66 and 68
formed therethrough. First seed aperture 66 is in the form of a
thistle seed dispenser and second seed aperture 68 is in the form
of a mixed seed dispenser and is surrounded by a forwardly
projecting, cup-shaped trough 69. Mixed seed aperture 68 is
primarily sized and adapted to dispense mixed seed or sunflower
seeds, which may collect in trough 69 so as to be accessible by the
feeding birds.
[0066] Having now discussed base piece 40 and apertured dial 60
independently, their interrelationship may now be described. As
mentioned above, apertured dial 60 is adapted to be rotatably
disposed in base piece 40. More particularly, and with reference to
FIG. 2, apertured dial 60 may be pressed into place in interior 41
such that edge 63 clears retaining tabs 52 and back surface 64
confronts partitioning wall 46, thereby to accomplish a snap-fit
engagement.
[0067] With reference now to FIG. 1 and FIG. 10(a), the
interrelationships between base piece 40 to both apertured dial 60
and birdseed reservoir 12 may now be more fully appreciated.
Opening 56 or mount hole, in sidewall 11 has a central axis "A"
that is generally perpendicular to sidewall 12. Base piece 40 nests
within mount hole 80 of birdseed reservoir 12 such that it is
mounted to the sidewall 11 of birdseed reservoir 12 and partly
disposed therein. Accordingly, registration post 56 is seated
within registration notch 82 and prongs 54 anchor base piece 40 to
the sidewall 11 of birdseed reservoir 12. Apertured dial 60 is
disposed in base piece 40 and journaled for rotation on the central
axis "A" and rotates relative thereto. Accordingly, back surface 64
is in confronting relationship with partitioning wall 46 of the
base piece. Further, edge 63 has been pressed past retaining tabs
52 and is frictionally engaged with sidewall 50. Mixed seed
aperture 68 is in the seed accessible state, and, as such, it is in
fluid communication with outlet port 58. Thistle seed aperture 66
is obstructed from access to the birdseed in the birdfeeder by
partitioning wall 46.
[0068] Apertured dial 60 may be rotated, if desired, to register
thistle seed aperture 66 in the seed accessible state. With
reference then to FIG. 10(b), thistle seed aperture 66 is now in
fluid communication with outlet port 58. As such, mixed seed
aperture 68 is now in the inactive state and partitioning wall 46
and thereby obstructed from access to the birdseed in the
birdfeeder by partitioning wall 46.
[0069] An alternative seed dispenser, according to the present
invention, is shown in FIGS. 11-18. Broadly, this alternative seed
dispenser includes three pieces--a base piece, an alternating seed
aperture piece, and a retaining piece. Since the alternating seed
aperture piece has the same construction as that described above
with reference to FIGS. 1-10, the following discussion will focus
primarily upon the construction of the base piece, the retaining
piece, and the interrelationship among the three pieces.
[0070] Turning first to FIGS. 11 and 12, a birdfeeder in the form
of hopper feeder 110 is shown to include birdseed reservoir 112,
lid 114, and feeding stations 120, two of which are shown. Each
feeding station 120 includes a perch 118 located adjacent a
respective seed dispenser 130 and 131, which are adapted to be
mounted to the sidewall 111 of birdseed reservoir 112, in fluid
communication with the bird seed inside the birdseed reservoir via
a mounting hole, such as mount hole 180, which may be cut out of
the sidewall 111 of birdseed reservoir 112. Mount hole 180 includes
first notches 182 and second notches 184, which will be described
in further detail below.
[0071] Since seed dispensers 130 and 131 are identical, seed
dispenser 130 will be used as a representative sample to discuss
the construction of this exemplary embodiment of the present
invention. Accordingly, with respect to FIG. 13, seed dispenser 130
generally includes base piece 140, an alternating seed aperture
piece in the form of apertured dial 160, and a retaining piece in
the form of retaining ring 190. Each of these three pieces may be
made of metal, plastic, a composite thereof, or other material
suitable as a seed dispenser for use with a bird feeder.
[0072] Similar to seed dispenser 30 described above, base piece 140
mounts seed dispenser 130 to the sidewall 111 of the birdseed
reservoir and apertured dial 160 is rotatably disposed therein to
allow a desired seed aperture 166 or 168 to be in the seed
accessible state. As shown in FIGS. 13-15, base piece 140 is an
annular piece of unitary construction with a front portion 142 and
a back portion 144 separated by a partitioning wall 146.
Partitioning wall 146 includes outlet port 158, which, similar to
the seed dispenser shown in FIGS. 1-10, is sized to dispense
different types of birdseed. When a desired seed aperture 166 or
168 is registered to be in fluid communication with outlet port
158, feeding birds may access the selected seed within the birdseed
reservoir.
[0073] With continued reference to FIGS. 13-15, base piece 140 has
an outer surrounding sidewall 150 with an inner surface 151 located
in front portion 142. Notably, inner surface 151 does not include
retaining tabs disposed circumferentially thereabout to retain
apertured dial 160 therein. Rather, as will be discussed in more
detail below, retaining ring 190 is adapted to retain apertured
dial 160 therein when the three pieces are assembled.
[0074] Base piece 140 is also shown to include a pair of first ears
152 and a pair of second ears 154 disposed about the outer surface
of sidewall 150. As shown in FIG. 15, first ears 152 are adapted to
allow screws 153 to pass therethrough so as to be received by stand
offs 196 of retaining ring 1 90. Accordingly, retaining ring 190
may be releasably secured to base piece 140. As shown, grooves 169
may further be associated with first ears 152 to help alignment of
the screws with the ears and to reduce any gaps or open spaces
resulting from the coupling of the base piece and the retaining
ring. Second ears 154, are adapted to receive a respective screw
157, which, in conjunction with a respective washer 159 releasably
secure base piece 140 to the sidewall 111 of the birdseed
reservoir. This will be discussed in more detail below with respect
to FIGS. 18(a) and (b).
[0075] As should be appreciated by one skilled in the art, other
forms of fasteners besides screws 153 may be used to couple the
base piece and retaining ring. For example, fasteners such as
nails, rivets, and the like can pass through first ears 152 to be
secured into the retaining ring. It should also be appreciated that
the location of first ears 152 and second ears 154 are not limited
to the respective locations shown in the Figures. Further,
additional first or second ears could be disposed about the surface
of the outer sidewall for additional places of securement.
Alternatively, first and second ears 152 and 154 may be formed in
outer sidewall 150 of retaining ring 190 such that they do not
project therefrom an such that the outer surface of sidewall 150 is
generally uniform.
[0076] With continued reference to FIGS. 13 and 15, and with
additional reference to FIGS. 16 and 17, retaining ring 190 is
shown as an annulus of unitary construction having a front surface
192, a back surface 194, an outer edge 193, and an inner edge 195.
As perhaps best shown in FIGS. 13 and 15, retaining ring 190
further includes a sidewall 197 extending from inner edge 195
outwardly from back surface 194 to terminate in rim 191.
[0077] As shown in FIGS. 13 and 16, three retaining tabs 198 are
disposed about the inner surface of sidewall 197 in spaced relation
to one another. As contemplated, when the seed dispenser is
assembled, retaining tabs 198 confront the front surface 162 of
apertured dial 160 so as to keep apertured dial 160 between
retaining ring 190 and base piece 140. Although three retaining
tabs 198 are shown, any number of retaining tabs may be disposed
circumferentially about sidewall 197. Preferably though, the
number, size, and placement of the tabs allows free rotation of the
apertured dial but yet creates enough friction such that the
apertured dial stays in place while in use. Alternatively,
retaining tabs could be disposed on the front surface of apertured
dial 160 instead of about sidewall 197 of the retaining ring. As
contemplated, an appropriate number of retaining tabs could be
disposed circumferentially about the front surface 162 of the
apertured dial so as to confront portions of the rim 191 of the
retaining ring.
[0078] Now that the individual components of the alternative seed
dispenser shown in FIGS. 11-17 have been described in some detail,
both its assembly and interrelationship with a bird feeder may be
more fully appreciated. Turning then to FIGS. 18(a) and 18(b),
assembled seed dispenser 130 is shown mounted in opening 180, which
has a central axis "A" that is generally perpendicular to sidewall
111. Base piece 140 and retaining ring 190 are releasably secured
to one another by screws 153 and apertured dial 160 is rotatably
disposed therebetween and relative to base piece 140 such that
front surface 162 confronts rim 191 and retaining tabs 198. In FIG.
18(a), seed dispenser 130 is in the first seed access state wherein
mixed seed aperture 168 is in fluid communication with outlet port
158. In FIG. 18(b), seed dispenser 130 is in the second seed access
state wherein thistle seed aperture 166 is in fluid communication
with outlet port 158.
[0079] As briefly mentioned above, seed dispenser 130 nests within
a mount hole cut out of the sidewall 111 of the birdseed reservoir
and is retained in position with fasteners in the form of screws.
More specifically, base piece 140 nests within mount hole 180,
which is shown in FIG. 12. Since first ears 152 and second ears 154
project from the outer sidewall 150 of base piece 140, mount hole
180 further includes first notches 182 and second notches 184,
which correspond, respectively to first ears 152 and second ears
154 such that hole 180 nestably receives base piece 140.
[0080] Base piece 140 is releasably secured to the sidewall 111 of
birdseed reservoir 112 by a fastener in the form of screw 157 and
washer 159. More specifically, a respective screw 157 is received
by a respective second ear 154 (shown in FIG. 14). Together, screw
157 and washer 159, anchor base piece 140 to the sidewall 111 of
birdseed reservoir 112 thereby to releasably fasten the seed
dispenser thereto.
[0081] Turning now to FIGS. 19 and 20 an alternative retaining ring
290 is shown which is also an annulus of unitary construction
having a front surface 292, back surface 294, an outer edge 293,
and an inner edge 295. Retaining ring 290 further includes a
sidewall 297 extending from inner edge 295 outwardly from back
surface 294 to terminate in rim 291. As compared to retaining ring
190 shown above in FIGS. 13, 15-18(a) and (b), retaining ring 290
in FIGS. 19 and 20 does not include separate, angularly spaced
retaining tabs to hold the apertured dial in place. Rather,
sidewall 297 includes a radially inwardly projecting rim 291
extending around the inner perimeter of sidewall 297 that is wide
enough to confront the front surface 262 of apertured dial 260.
This confronting relationship is shown in FIG. 21. As may be seen,
rim 291 confronts front surface 262 proximately to edge 263 of
apertured dial 260. Accordingly, rim 291 keeps apertured dial 260
between retaining ring 290 and base piece 240.
[0082] Another seed dispenser according to the present invention is
shown in FIGS. 22-27. This seed dispenser includes two pieces--the
base piece and the apertured piece. Turning first to FIGS. 22 and
23, a birdfeeder 310, of generally of frustoconical configuration,
is shown to include birdseed reservoir 312 having a sidewall 311
and a plurality of seed dispensers 330. Each seed dispenser 330 is
adapted to be mounted to mounting hole, such as hole 380, which is
in fluid communication with the birdseed inside the birdseed
reservoir and adapted to provide access thereto. As shown mount
hole 380 includes two notches 382, which will be described in
further detail below.
[0083] With reference to FIGS. 24, a representative seed dispenser
330 is shown to including base piece 340 and apertured dial 360.
Base piece 340 has a different configuration than heretofore
described in that it is adapted to confront the sidewall 311 of the
birdfeeder shown in FIGS. 22 and 23. Base piece 340 is more
elongated than compared to that shown FIGS. 3 and 4 above and
further includes perch 318, which is releasably securable to
standoffs 356 such as by a snap fit engagement.
[0084] With reference to FIGS. 24-27, base piece 340 includes back
wall 346, which extends the length thereof. Back wall 346 further
includes an opening in the form of seed outlet 358. When base piece
340 is mounted to the sidewall of the birdseed reservoir, seed
outlet 358 is in fluid communication with the mounting hole
permitting access to the birdseed contained therein.
[0085] Base piece 340 is shown further to include four retaining
tabs 352 in spaced relation to one another. Similar to the
retaining tabs described above with reference to FIGS. 2-6,
retaining tabs 352 are adapted to accomplish an engagement between
base piece 340 and apertured dial 360 sufficient to retain
apertured dial therein while allowing rotation of apertured dial
360 relative to the base piece 340.
[0086] Base piece 340 further includes a pair of prongs 354. Again,
similar to that described above with respect to FIGS. 4-6, prongs
354 are adapted to releasably secure base piece 340 to the sidewall
311 of birdseed reservoir 31 2 in mount hole 380 shown in FIG. 23.
With reference to FIG. 23, the attachment of base piece 340 is
similar to that described above with reference to FIGS. 10(a) and
10(b) in that prongs 340 pass through notches 382 to anchor base
piece 340 to the sidewall 311 of birdseed reservoir 312.
Preferably, prongs 354 are formed of a resilient material to
facilitate the removal and reattachment of base piece 340 to
sidewall 311.
[0087] With continued reference to FIGS. 24-26, apertured dial 360
is similar in construction to both the apertured dials described
above with reference to FIGS. 2 and 13. As such, it is rotatably
disposed in the base piece 340. Accordingly, when mixed seed
aperture 368 is in the seed accessible state, it is in fluid
communication with outlet port 358 and thistle seed aperture 366 is
obstructed from access to the birdseed by back wall 346. Similarly,
when thistle seed aperture 366 is in the seed accessible state, it
is in fluid communication with outlet port 358 while mixed seed
aperture 368 is obstructed from access to the birdseed in the
birdfeeder by back wall 346.
[0088] Accordingly, the present invention has been described in
great detail with reference to FIGS. 1-27. It should be appreciated
from the foregoing that variations of the constructions described
may be made by the ordinarily skilled artisan in this field without
departing from the inventive concepts herein. For example, the
individual pieces that make up the alternative seed dispensers are
not limited to any particular size or dimension. Rather, the
configuration of these pieces are primarily dictated by the
sidewall of the birdseed reservoir that incorporates the seed
dispenser. Also, the seed dispenser may employ alternative means by
which the seed ports are alternated between the various seed access
states. For example, an alternating seed aperture piece that moves
horizontally or vertically within the base piece is contemplated
whereby the horizontal or vertical movement shifts the seed
aperture piece among the seed access states.
[0089] Also, as should be appreciated, the present invention
further contemplates a method of utilizing a bird feeder having a
birdseed reservoir with a surrounding sidewall adapted to contain
the birdseed and an opening formed in the sidewall adapted to
access and dispense the birdseed to the birds. The method comprises
the steps of providing the bird feeder with a seed dispenser having
a plurality of seed apertures associated therewith and adding a
selected type of birdseed to the birdseed reservoir. The method
also includes moving one of the seed apertures into a seed
accessible state whereby the selected seed aperture is in fluid
communication with the opening in the sidewall to permit access to
the birdseed and allow for the birdseed to be dispensed
therethrough. The method may also include the use of a rotatable
dial piece having a plurality of seed apertures formed therethrough
whereby the dial piece is rotated to move a selected seed aperture
into the seed accessible state.
[0090] The method further includes rotating or otherwise moving a
piece of the seed dispenser so as to place a desired seed port in
the seed accessible state thereby to permit feeding birds access to
the birdseed in the birdseed reservoir. It should be appreciated
that the methodology of the present invention can include any
steps, not limited to those discussed hereinabove, that can be
accomplished by the above-described structures.
[0091] Accordingly, the present invention has been described with
some degree of particularity directed to the exemplary embodiments
of the present invention. It should be appreciated, though, that
the present invention is defined by the following claims construed
in light of the prior art so that modifications or changes may be
made to the exemplary embodiments of the present invention without
departing from the inventive concepts contained herein.
* * * * *