The Motivation for our project is, at the heart, for the bird watching enthusiasts. In our research, the current markets of bird feeders do not offer a real “Squirrel Proof” package. Most squirrel proof bird feeders use a mechanical technologies but have proved all too often to not work as squirrels are just too cleaver for this approach. Our group decided we would use our Electrical Engineering and Computer Engineering backgrounds to come up with a resolution for this problem. Our group agreed that creating a bird feeder that is self-defending from pesky animals as well as self-sustaining would be great tasks in helping drive the current industry of “Bird-Feeders” to the next level.

Our project implements a self and energy efficient bird feeder that will deter other animals from being a hindrance to birds and bird enthusiasts alike. It utilizes several sensors to detect noise and motion that will send these pesky animals in the opposite direction. The feeder will also be user friendly by displaying vital information about the bird feeder system and is enviromentally safe.

The Fort Knox Bird Feeder functions by utilizing two main sub-systems a Photovoltaic Cell to create clean renewable energy and a micro-controller programmed to control several motion and sound sensors to detect and activate ultrasonic transducers to prevent all critters from approaching the bird feeder. Since the bird feeder is to be placed in an outside environment, using a Photovoltaic cell, solar charge controller and a lead-acid battery, we will be able to create a self-sustaining energy system to power the bird feeders defenses.

The defense mechanisms will become activated using a smart multi-sensory system that utilizes both motion and sound sensors. We designed an array of Passive-Infrared Motion Detectors placed at the bottom-base of the feeder, pointed downward, to detect any motion 360-degrees at a range of up to 6-meters around the bird feeder. In addition multiple sound sensors have been tuned to specific noise ambience to also activate the defenses. The defense mechanisms are designed around an array of ultrasonic transducers tuned to 40 KHz that have proven to deter all pests, including squirrels. Additional user friendly features such as Power Status, Food Level indicators and additional status LEDs and night lights will be implemented as well.

• Eric Cappabianca
• Daniel Tinajero
• Cari Yeow

Our project will be financed individually without any sponsorship or help from others. We would love the opportunity to have it sponsor if it was given, but at the current state it will be paid out of pocket. Eric Cappabianca will be a significant contributor in the project (80%) while the remaining 20% will be funded by Daniel and Cari. Being a significant contributor means Eric Cappabianca will be keeping the final project after graduation.