WO2016149709A1

WO2016149709A1 - Systems and methods for facilitating seed feeder filling

Info

Publication number: WO2016149709A1
Application number: PCT/US2016/023471
Authority: WO
Inventors: Robert W. Donegan; Bryan Krueger; John Bruno; Lindsey NIFONG
Original assignee: Classic Brands, LLC
Priority date: 2015-03-19
Filing date: 2016-03-21
Publication date: 2016-09-22
Also published as: CA2978952A1; CA3058119C; CA3058119A1; CA2978952C

Abstract

Implementations described and claimed herein involve an easy fill bird feeding system. In one implementation, a depression is received of a release button on a cap assembly connected to a body defining a reservoir. The cap assembly has a cap opening providing access to the reservoir. A lid of the cap assembly is released at a first side upon the depression of the release button. The lid is moved from a closed position to an open position using a bias of a spring assembly upon the release of the lid. The lid moves from the closed position to the open position along a rotation path created by a hinge at a second side. The lid is held in the open position by the spring bias, and the open position provides access to the reservoir through the cap opening. Birdseed is received through the cap opening into the reservoir.

Description

SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR FACILITATING SEED FEEDER FILLING

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0001 ] The present application is a continuation-in-part of U.S. Patent Application No.

29/550,881, entitled "Birdseed Tote" and filed on January 7, 2016. The present application further claims priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 62/135,618, entitled "Systems and Methods for Facilitating Seed Feeder Filling" and filed on March 19, 2015. Each of these applications is incorporated by reference herein in its entirety.

BACKGROUND

[0002] Many bird feeders configured to dispense seeds are notoriously burdensome to fill.

Generally, such bird feeders are suspended from a tree or other structure where birds may access the seeds. When the seed supply is depleted, a user has to remove the suspended bird feeder and carry it to where the user's stock of seed is stored for refilling. After the bird feeder is refilled, the user then carries the bird feeder back to the tree or structure and rehangs it. Having to make multiple trips each time a bird feeder is empty often deters users from refilling the bird feeder regularly and detracts from the enjoyment of the hobby. Alternatively, some users prefer to carry the stock of seed to the bird feeder for refilling. Having to carry an often heavy bag of seed back and forth similarly deters users from refilling the bird feeder regularly and detracts from the enjoyment of the hobby. Moreover, refilling bird feeders in one of these manners routinely causes seed spillage. It is with these observations in mind, among others, that various aspects of the present disclosure were conceived and developed.

BRIEF SUMMARY

[0003] Implementations described and claimed herein address the foregoing problems by providing systems and methods for facilitating filling of bird feeders configured to dispense seeds. In one implementation, an easy fill bird feeding system includes one or more easy fill bird feeders and one or more birdseed totes.

[0004] In one implementation, an easy fill bird feeder includes a body extending from a proximal end to a distal end. The body defines a reservoir with a body opening into the reservoir. The opening is disposed at the proximal end of the body. A cap assembly is connected to the body at the proximal end and covers the opening. The cap assembly includes a hinge engaging a lid to a cap base at a first side, with the hinge creating a rotation path for the lid between an open position and a closed position. The lid is releasably connected to the cap base at a second side in the closed position. A cap opening is defined by the cap base and provides access to the reservoir through the body opening. A spring assembly applies a bias on the lid towards the open position. The easy fill bird feeder includes a releasor of the cap assembly. Movement of the releasor disconnects the lid from the cap base at the second side, and the bias of the spring assembly moves the lid from the closed position to the open position upon the lid being disconnected from the cap base. The bias of the spring assembly holds the lid in the open position, providing access to the reservoir through the cap opening.

[0005] In another implementation, a depression is received of a release button on a cap assembly connected to a body at a proximal end. The body defines a reservoir, and the cap assembly has a cap opening providing access to the reservoir. A lid of the cap assembly is released at a first side upon the depression of the release button. The lid is moved from a closed position to an open position using a bias of a spring assembly upon the release of the lid. The lid moves from the closed position to the open position along a rotation path created by a hinge at a second side. The lid is held in the open position by the spring bias, and the open position provides access to the reservoir through the cap opening. Birdseed is received through the cap opening into the reservoir.

[0006] In still another implementation, a birdseed tote includes a pair of opposing sidewalls each extending from a distal end to a proximal end and between a front end and a back end. A distal surface connects the distal ends of the pair of opposing side walls, and a back wall connects the back ends of the pair of opposing side walls. A neck extends from the front ends of the pair of opposing side walls. The pair of opposing sidewalls, the back wall, the distal surface, and the neck form a tote body configured to hold birdseed. The tote body has a proximal edge extending along a plane. The neck includes a neck surface extending along a contour from the distal surface to a spout. An axis line of the spout extends parallel to the plane of the proximal edge of the tote body. The neck surface is shaped to direct the birdseed from the distal surface through an opening in the spout without an orientation of the plane extending past a perpendicular angle to a target.

[0007] 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

[0008] Figure 1 illustrates an example easy fill bird feeding system including an easy fill bird feeder and a birdseed tote.

[0009] Figure 2 shows an isometric view of an example easy fill bird feeder.

[0010] Figures 3A-3C illustrate side, front, and back views, respectively, of the bird feeder of Figure 2.

[001 1 ] Figures 4A and 4B show top and bottom views, respectively, of the bird feeder of Figure 2.

[0012] Figure 5 is a detailed view of an example cap assembly of the bird feeder of Figure 2.

[0013] Figure 6 is an exploded view of the bird feeder of Figure 2.

[0014] Figure 7 shows a front view of the cap assembly of Figure 4.

[0015] Figure 8A shows a top view of the cap assembly of Figure 7.

[0016] Figure 8B is the same view as Figure 8A with the lid removed for clarity.

[0017] Figure 9 is an exploded view of the cap assembly of Figure 7. [0018] Figure 10 is a side cross-sectional view of the cap assembly of Figure 7.

[0019] Figures 11A and 1 IB show a perspective front view and a perspective back view of an example continuous perch.

[0020] Figure 12 shows an isometric view of another example bird feeder configured for easy filling.

[0021 ] Figures 13A-13C illustrate side, front, and back views, respectively, of the bird feeder of Figure 12.

[0022] Figures 14A and 14B show top and bottom views, respectively, of the bird feeder of Figure 12.

[0023] Figure 15 shows an isometric view of another example bird feeder configured for easy filling.

[0024] Figures 16A-16C illustrate side, front, and back views, respectively, of the bird feeder of Figure 15.

[0025] Figures 17A and 17B show top and bottom views, respectively, of the bird feeder of Figure 15.

[0026] Figure 18 shows an isometric view of another example bird feeder configured for easy filling and having a squirrel resistant mechanism.

[0027] Figures 19A-19C illustrate side, front, and back views, respectively, of the bird feeder of Figure 18.

[0028] Figures 20A and 20B show top and bottom views, respectively, of the bird feeder of Figure 18.

[0029] Figures 21A and 21B are detailed perspective and side views, respectively, of one of the perches with the squirrel resistant mechanism. [0030] Figure 22 shows an isometric view of another example bird feeder configured for easy filling.

[0031 ] Figures 23A-23C illustrate side, front, and back views, respectively, of the bird feeder of Figure 22.

[0032] Figures 24A and 24B show top and bottom views, respectively, of the bird feeder of Figure 22.

[0033] Figures 25 and 26 show isometric views of another example bird feeder configured for easy filling with a finial inserted and removed, respectively, from a cap assembly.

[0034] Figures 27 and 28 are detailed views of the finial of the bird feeder of Figure 25.

[0035] Figures 29 and 30 show isometric views of another example bird feeder configured for easy filling with a finial inserted and removed, respectively, from a cap assembly.

[0036] Figure 31 is detailed view of the finial of the bird feeder of Figure 30.

[0037] Figure 32A shows an example flip plug for a cap assembly open and closed.

[0038] Figure 32B shows a perspective side view and a perspective bottom view of an example twist plug for a cap assembly.

[0039] Figure 32C shows a top view of an example squeeze plug for a cap assembly.

[0040] Figure 32D shows a perspective side view of another example flip plug for a cap assembly.

[0041 ] Figures 33 A and 33B illustrate a cap assembly with the flip plug of Figure 32A with a birdseed tote removed and inserted, respectively.

[0042] Figure 34 shows a perspective top view of an example flap for a cap assembly.

[0043] Figures 35A and 35B illustrate a cap assembly with an example squirrel resistant plug open and closed, respectively. [0044] Figures 36A and 36B illustrate a cap assembly with an example flip lid, open and closed, respectively.

[0045] Figures 37A and 37B illustrate a cap assembly with an example chute, closed and open, respectively.

[0046] Figure 38 shows a cap assembly with an example valve.

[0047] Figure 39 illustrates a back perspective view of an example birdseed tote.

[0048] Figure 40 shows a side perspective view of the birdseed tote of Figure 39 with the lid open.

[0049] Figure 41 is a front view of the birdseed tote of Figure 40.

[0050] Figure 42 shows a distal perspective view of the birdseed tote of Figure 39.

[0051 ] Figure 43 is a side view of the birdseed tote of Figure 39.

[0052] Figure 44 is a side perspective cross-sectional view of the of the birdseed tote of Figure 39.

[0053] Figure 45 shows an example spout cap.

[0054] Figures 46A and 46B show the of the birdseed tote of Figure 39 with the spout cap closed and open, respectively.

[0055] Figure 47 shows the of the birdseed tote of Figure 39 in a vertical orientation with a plane of a proximal edge of the tote body and an axis line of the spout at perpendicular angle to a target.

[0056] Figure 48 illustrates another example birdseed tote with the spout inserted into a cap assembly for easy filling.

[0057] Figure 49A and 49B show front perspective and side views, respectively, of the example birdseed tote of Figure 48. [0058] Figure 50 shows the birdseed tote of Figure 48 and a plurality of stacked birdseed totes in a nested position.

[0059] Figure 51 is a perspective view of another example birdseed tote.

[0060] Figure 52 is a perspective view of yet another example birdseed tote.

[0061 ] Figure 53 is a side view of the birdseed tote of Figure 52.

[0062] Figure 54 is a perspective view of still another example birdseed tote.

[0063] Figure 55 shows the spout of the birdseed tote of Figure 54 inserted into a cap assembly of an easy fill bird feeder.

[0064] Figure 56 illustrates a perspective view of yet another example birdseed tote.

[0065] Figures 57A and 57B show the spout of the birdseed tote of Figure 56 in a closed and open position, respectively.

[0066] Figure 58 shows the birdseed tote of Figure 56 mounted on a wall hanger.

[0067] Figure 59 illustrates a side view of another example birdseed tote prior to insertion into a cap assembly.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0068] Aspects of the present disclosure involve systems and methods for facilitating bird feeder filling. In one aspect, an easy fill bird feeding system includes at least one bird feeder and a birdseed tote. Each of the bird feeders includes a cap assembly that has a joint, such as a hinge, permitting a lid to move between an open position and a closed position. The lid is biased towards the open position, such that upon release, the lid automatically moves from the closed position to the open position, thereby providing access to a reservoir of the bird feeder. For example, the cap assembly may include a releasor, such as a release button, that a user pushes with a finger to release and automatically move the lid to the open position for access to the reservoir for filling. A neck of the birdseed tote directs seed from an interior of the birdseed tote through a spout into the reservoir. The neck is shaped to facilitate pouring of the seed, even the last remaining seed at the bottom of the interior of the birdseed tote, into the reservoir. Once the bird feeder is refilled, the user reengages the lid by moving the lid from the open position to the closed position. The easy fill bird feeding system thus permits a user to carry the birdseed tote in a first hand, open the lid of the bird feeder with a second hand, pour the birdseed into the reservoir of the bird feeder using the first hand, and close the lid of the bird feeder with the second hand once filled. Thus, the user may easily refill one or more bird feeders without having to remove the bird feeder from where it is hanging or place the birdseed tote on the ground.

[0069] The various systems and methods disclosed herein generally provide for facilitating filling of a reservoir covered by a lid. The example implementations discussed herein reference bird feeders and birdseed. However, it will be appreciated by those skilled in the art that the presently disclosed technology is applicable to other reservoir devices and filling substances, such as liquid substances (e.g., water) or solid substances. Further, various example

implementations of such bird feeders and birdseed totes are shown in the drawings. It will be appreciated that other executions of bird feeders and birdseed totes are contemplated.

[0070] To begin a detailed discussion of an example easy fill bird feeding system 5, reference is made to Figure 1. In one implementation, the easy fill bird feeding system 5 includes one or more birdseed totes 10 and one or more easy fill bird feeders 100. As detailed herein, the easy fill bird feeding system 5 permits a user to fill the bird feeder 100 without having to remove the bird feeder 100 from where it is hanging or place the birdseed tote 10 on the ground. The bird feeder 100 may be opened and closed using one hand, while the other hand is used to pour birdseed from the birdseed tote 10 into the bird feeder 100. The process of filling the bird feeder 100 is thus simplified and hassle-free, thereby allowing the user to focus on the enjoyable aspects of the hobby.

[0071 ] Turning to Figures 2-4B, a first example of the easy fill bird feeder 100 is illustrated. In one implementation, the easy fill bird feeder 100 includes a body 102 extending from a proximal end to a distal end. The body 102 may be a variety of shapes and sizes and/or include various design features. For example, the body 102 may be cylindrical, spherical, cubical, pyramidal, conical, and/or other shapes with angled, contoured, and/or linear surfaces. In the example shown in Figures 2-4B, the body 102 is cylindrical in shape with a circular cross-section. The body 102 may further be made from a variety of materials, including, but not limited to, plastic, glass, metal, ceramic, organic material, and/or the like. The body 102 defines a reservoir configured to hold a supply of birdseed.

[0072] A cap assembly 104 is disposed at the proximal end of the body 102, and a base 106 is disposed at the distal end of the body 102. In one implementation, the cap assembly 104 is connected to the body 102 at the proximal end to cover and uncover an opening of the body 102 into the reservoir for filling the reservoir with birdseed. One or more perches 108 are positioned relative to access ports in the reservoir 102 through which a bird may access the birdseed. In one implementation, the perches 108 are disposed in opposing pairs with one perch 108 disposed on a side opposite a corresponding perch 108. More particularly, a front perch is opposite a back perch and a first side perch is opposite a second side perch. The base 106 may include one or more angled surfaces configured to direct the supply of seed to the access ports.

[0073] A hanger 110 is configured to suspend the bird feeder 100 from a hanging structure, such as a tree, pole, or the like. In one implementation, the hanger 110 is adjustable to set a height of the bird feeder 100 that is customized for the user. Stated differently, the hanger 110 may be adjusted so that the cap assembly 104 is at a height where the user is able to easily insert a spout of the birdseed tote 10 into the cap assembly 104 for filling. The hanger 110 may be mounted to the reservoir 102, for example, using a hanging rod 118 extending transversely through the body 102.

[0074] The cap assembly 104 generally includes a lid 112, a releasor 114, and a joint assembly 116, permitting the lid 112 to move between an open position and a closed position. The lid 112 is biased towards the open position, such that upon release by the releasor 114, the lid 112 automatically moves from the closed position to the open position, thereby providing access to the reservoir of the bird feeder 100 for filling. The joint assembly 116 may include a spring assembly, a plug assembly (e.g., a twist plug, a flip plug, squeeze plug, etc.), a chute assembly, a flip lid assembly, a valve assembly, a flap assembly, and/or the like. The releasor 114 may be any form of connection configured to disengage and move the lid 112 and/or joint assembly 116 to provide access to the reservoir of the body 102. For example, the releasor 114 may be a release button, a release switch, a release knob, or other releasor that may be depressed, pulled, slid, flipped, rotated, or otherwise moved to release the lid 112 or provide access to the reservoir. The example implementations of Figures 1-24B illustrate the joint assembly 116 as a spring assembly and the releasor 114 as a release button. However, it will be appreciated that such depictions and references to the release button 114 and the spring assembly 116 are exemplary only and not intended to be limiting.

[0075] In one implementation, to fill the bird feeder 100, a user engages the release button 114, which releases the lid 112 using a spring assembly 116 having one or more protrusions 120 through which a pin 122 may be inserted to engage one or more corresponding protrusions 126 to create a hinge. The hinge provides an angle of rotation for the lid 112, permitting the lid 112 to move between the open position and the closed position along a rotation path. The spring assembly 116 automatically flips the lid 112 to the open position, as shown in Figure 5. As such, the user may open the bird feeder 100 for filling while the bird feeder 100 remains suspended from the hanging structure. The bias of the spring assembly 116 ensures that the lid 112 remains in the open position throughout filling. Upon receiving an external force against the lid 112, the lid 112 moves from the open position to the closed position, where the lid 112 is then re-engaged and secured in the closed position. Thus, a user may easily open and close the lid 112 with one hand while holding a birdseed tote 10 in the other.

[0076] Referring to Figure 5, in one implementation, the lid 112 of the cap assembly 104 includes a pair of the protrusions 120, and a cap base 128 includes a pair of the corresponding protrusions 126. The hinge of the spring assembly 116 is formed by inserting the pin 122 through holes in the pair of protrusions 120, the corresponding protrusions 126, and a spring 124, such that the spring 124 exerts a spring bias against a surface of the lid 112. The spring 124 thus is mounted on the pin 122, with the spring bias configured to automatically and quickly move the lid 112 from the closed position to the open position upon a release of the lid 112 via the release button 114.

[0077] In one implementation, the hinge engages the lid 112 to the cap base 128 at a first side, with the lid 112 releasably connected to the cap base 128 at a second side in the closed position. Depression of the release button 114 disconnects the lid 112 from the cap base 128 at the second side, with the spring bias of the spring 124 automatically moving the lid 112 from the closed position to the open position along the rotation path of the hinge. The bias of the spring 124 holds the lid 112 in the open position until an external force, such as applied by a portion of a user hand (e.g., one or more fingers), moves the lid 112 along the rotation path to the closed position where the lid 112 is connected at the first side, holding the lid 112 in the closed position.

[0078] The cap base 128 is disposed at the proximal end of the body 102 of the bird feeder 100. The cap base 128 may be secured at the proximal end of the body 102, for example, using a mount 130 having one or more side arms 132. In one implementation, the mount 130 is engaged to the body 102, and the side arms 132 extend proximally along the cap base 128 and engage the proximal edge of the cap base 128. The mount 130 may further include a lid arm 134 extending therefrom configured to engage the lid 112 to hold the lid in the closed position. Stated differently, the lid arm 134 releasably connects the lid 112 to the cap base 128. In one implementation, when the release button 114 is pushed, the lid arm 134 is displaced inwardly, thereby disconnecting the lid 112 from the cap base 128 and moving the lid 112 to the open position using the spring 124. The release button 114 may be a separate piece from the lid arm 134 or integral with the lid arm 134 as one piece.

[0079] Tuning to Figures 6-8B, in one implementation, the cap assembly 104 is engaged to the proximal end of the body 102 using the hanging rod 118. More particularly, the body 102 may have one or more openings into the reservoir, such as a body opening 136, rod openings 138, a cap assembly channel 140, and one or more access ports 142. In one implementation, the body opening 136 is disposed at the proximal end of the body 102, through which birdseed may be poured into the reservoir. The cap assembly 104 is connected to the body 102 at the proximal end to cover the body opening 136. In one implementation, the cap assembly 104 is connected to the body 102 by inserting the hanging rod 118 through the rod openings 138 and

corresponding openings on the mount 130. Hanger openings 146 in the hanging rod 118 receive the hanger 110, preventing the hanging rod 118 from sliding out from the rod openings 138. In one implementation, the cap assembly 104 is connected to the body 102 with a distal edge 144 of the mount 130 disposed below a proximal edge of the body 102, such that a portion of the body 102 covers the mount 130 and the proximal edge of the body 102 meets the cap base 128. A cap assembly opening 148 is thus disposed within the body opening 136. [0080] Once the cap assembly 104 is connected to the body 102, access to the reservoir for filling is accomplished by moving the lid 112 to the open position, as detailed herein, and pouring the birdseed through the cap assembly opening 148 into the reservoir. Once the reservoir has birdseed, one or more birds may use the one or more perches 108 to access the birdseed in the reservoir through the corresponding access ports 142. Referring to Figures 11A- 1 IB, the perches 108 may each be continuous, formed from one integral body. In one implementation, the body of the perch 108 includes a perch surface 200 defining an opening 202 through the access ports 142. A perch protrusion 204 extends from the perch surface 200, which a bird may use to rest while accessing the birdseed. The body of the perch 108 may further include a perch cover 206 and one or more engaging features 208-212 to removably engage the body 102 at the access ports 142. For example, an inward projection 208 may be configured to extend into the reservoir of the body 102 through the access port 142, and projections 210 and 212 may be configured to snap or otherwise engage the body 102 to secure the perch 108 in the access port 142.

[0081 ] As can be understood from Figures 9-10, in one implementation, the lid 112 includes an internal surface 150 with a lip 152 extending therefrom. The lid 112 may be a variety of shapes based on the body opening 136, for example. In one implementation, the protrusions 120 extend from the lip 152 at a first side of the lid 112 and a latch 154 is disposed at a second side of the lip 152. The protrusions 120 may include pin openings 156 to receive the pin 122. Similarly, the cap base 128 includes pin openings 166 in the corresponding protrusions 126 to engage the lid 112 to the cap base 128 and form the hinge. In one implementation, the corresponding protrusions 126 extend from a ridge 170 of the cap base 128 to form the hinge at the first side of the lid 112 with the lip 152 configured to meet the ridge 170 of the cap base 128 to cover the body opening 136 with the lid 112.

[0082] In one implementation, the spring 124 is mounted on the pin 122 to form the spring assembly 116. The spring 124 may include a cap base end 158 connected to a lid end 164 with one or more coils. The spring 124 may be mounted on the pin 122 by inserting the pin 122 through the coils 160, such that the pin 122 extends through the pin openings 156, the pin openings 166, and the coils 160. Once the hinge is formed, the spring 124 applies a bias against the internal surface 150 of the lid 112. More particularly, in one implementation, the cap base end 158 of the spring 124 is disposed within spring crevices 174 formed in the ridge 170 of the cap base 128, and at least a portion of the lid end 164 of the spring 124 rests against the internal surface 150 of the lid 112, with the coils 160 defining the bias exerted against the internal surface of the lid 150. The bias of the spring 124 is such that the lid 112 is automatically moved to the open position and held there upon release of the latch 154 of the lid 112.

[0083] As described herein, in one implementation, the cap base 128 is connected to the body 102 using the mount 130. The side arms 132 of the mount 130 extend proximally through a cap opening 162 of the cap base 128 to the ridge 170 where the side arms 132 engage arm indents 172 of the cap base 128. In one implementation, each of the side arms 132 includes an arm body 184 extending proximally to an arm protrusion 186, which extends transversely from the arm body 184 to engage the arm indent 172 defined in the ridge 170. The arm body 184 is configured for movement relative to a mount body 180 permitting disengagement of the mount 130 from the cap base 128. Similarly, the lid arm 134 of the mount 130 includes an arm body 188 extending proximally to a lid protrusion 190, which extends transversely from the arm body 188 to releasably engage the latch 154 of the lid 112. Thus, the lid arm 134 connects the lid 112 at the first side and holds the lid 112 in the closed position.

[0084] In one implementation, the arm body 188 of the lid arm 134 includes an arm opening 192 configured to receive engagers 178 of the release button 114, with the cap base 128 including a releasor opening 176 providing access to the release button 114. The release button 114 is thus mounted to the lid arm 134 in one implementation, such that depression of the release button 114 displaces the arm body 188 of the lid arm 134, disengaging the lid protrusion 190 from the latch 154 of the lid 112 and automatically moving the lid 112 from the closed position to the open position. In another implementation, the release button 114 is defined from the arm body 188 of the lid arm 134, with the release button 114 being integral with the lid arm 134.

[0085] As described herein, the easy fill bird feeder 100 may be different shapes and sizes and include various aesthetic and functional features. For additional examples of different implementations of the easy fill bird feeder 100, reference is made to Figures 12-24B. [0086] In the example shown in Figures 12-14B, the body 102 may be cylindrical in shape with an oval cross-section, and the perches 108 may be arranged on the body 102 in two pairs, one pair disposed on the front of the body 102 and one pair disposed on the back of the body 102. Turning to the example shown in Figures 15-17B, the body 102 may be similarly cylindrical in shape with an oval cross-section, and the perches 108 may be arranged on the body 102 in a set of three, one set disposed on the front of the body 102 and one set disposed on the back of the body 102.

[0087] Referring next to Figures 18-21B, the bird feeder 100 may include a squirrel resistant mechanism, which may be similar to the systems and methods disclosed in U.S. Patent

Application No. 14/624,375, entitled "Wild Bird Feed Dispenser with Squirrel Resistant

Mechanism" and filed February 17, 2015, which is incorporated by reference herein in its entirety. In one implementation, the squirrel resistant mechanism includes a roof 300 connected to a cage 301. The roof 300 extends outwardly transverse to a length of the body 102. In one implementation, the cage 301 is formed by an intersection of a plurality of elongated rods 304 and 306. A plurality of vertical rods 304 extend along a length of the body 102 and intersect with a plurality of horizontal rods 306 extending transfers to a length of the body 102. One or more cage perches 308 extend from the cage 301 and are disposed near access ports 312 having openings 314 aligned with the access ports 142 through which birds may access the birdseed in the reservoir of the body 102. In one implementation, panels 310 are disposed on the cage 301 relative to the openings, and if a weight on a portion of the cage 301 or the roof 300 exceeds a threshold (e.g., a maximum weight of a bird), the panels 310 are displaced to cover the openings 314 to prevent access to the birdseed in the reservoir of the body 102.

[0088] Turning next to Figures 22-24B, the bird feeder 100 similarly includes a roof 400 extending outwardly transverse to a length of the body 102 and forming part of the cap assembly 104. Further, the base 102 of the bird feeder 100 shown in Figures 22-24B has a cubical body 402 with decorative features, and the perches 108 include a distal edge 406 defining a wide opening 408 to the reservoir and a projection 404 disposed distal to the wide opening 408.

[0089] As also discussed herein, the cap assembly 104 may include a variety of other features for easy filling in place of or in addition to the features described with respect to Figures 2-24B. For example, the cap assembly may include one or more of a releaseable finial, a plug, a cap, a flap, a flip lid, a chute, and one way valve. Examples of these may be seen in Figures 25-38, and it will be appreciated that other implementations may be executed.

[0090] For examples of the cap assembly 104 including a releasable finial, reference is made to Figures 25-31. In one implementation, the bird feeder 100 includes a finial 502 configured to releasably engage a roof 500 of the cap assembly to provide access to the reservoir of the body 102. The body 102 may include a mouth 504 defining the body opening 136. In one

implementation, the roof 500 includes a roof rim 506 defining a roof opening 508 providing access to the reservoir through the body opening 136. The roof rim 506 may be sized and shaped to receive a spout of the birdseed tote 10. In one implementation, to prevent the finial 502 from falling during filling, the hanger 110 is connected the body 102 and extends through a connector 520 in a knob 518 of the finial 502 where a hanger holder 516 secures the hanger 110. The connector 520 permits the finial 502 to be moved along a length of the hanger 110 as needed during filling while preventing the finial 502 from disconnecting from the bird feeder 102. The connector 520 may alternatively be a chain connected to the finial 502 using corresponding hooks 522 and 524. Here, the hanger 110 may extend directly from the roof 500 separate from the finial 502. In one implementation, to secure the finial 502 to the roof 500, a body 510 extends from a surface 514 and has engaging features 512, such as helical threads, configured to engage the roof rim 506.

[0091 ] Turning to Figure 32A, in one implementation, the cap assembly 104 includes flip plug 600 having a plug lid 602 connected to a plug base 608 with a hinge 606 extending from a base rim 610. The plug lid 602 includes a tab 604 for gripping to move the plug lid 602 between an open position providing access to the reservoir through a plug opening 612 and a closed position. As can be understood from Figures 33A-33B, in one implementation, the flip plug 600 may be disposed in a roof 614, such that the plug lid 602 may be flipped to the open position to insert a spout 16 of the birdseed tote 10 into the plug opening 612 to pour birdseed into the reservoir of the body 102 from a body 12 of the birdseed tote 12 using a neck 14.

[0092] For an example twist plug 800 for the cap assembly 104, reference is made to Figure 32B. In one implementation, the twist plug 800 includes a plug body 802 with a grip 804 extending proximally therefrom and an engaging portion 806 extending distally therefrom. The engaging portion 806 may have a variety of engaging features, such as helical threads. Figure 32C shows a top view of an example squeeze plug 700 for the cap assembly 104. In one implementation, the squeeze plug 700 includes side portions 702 movably mounted on a plug body 704 permitting the side portions to be displaced inwardly to disengage the squeeze plug 700 to permit access to the body opening 136. Figure 32D shows a perspective side view of another example flip plug 900 for the cap assembly 104. In one implementation, the flip plug 900 includes a plug lid 902 connected to a plug base 908 with a hinge 906 extending from a base rim 910. The plug lid 902 includes a tab 904 for gripping to move the plug lid 902 between an open position providing access to the reservoir through a plug flap 914 defined in a surface 912 and a closed position.

[0093] Turning to Figure 34, the cap assembly 104 includes an example flap assembly 1000. The cap assembly 104 includes a proximal roof section 1004 and a distal roof section 1002 extending outwardly therefrom. A flap opening 1008 is defined in the proximal roof section 1004 by a flap rim 1006. A flap 1010 is mounted to an inner surface of the proximal roof section 1004 by a mount 1012. The flap 1010 is connected to the mount 1012 with a hinge 1016, and a spring 1018 permits the flap 1010 to move from a closed position covering the flap opening 1008 to an open position when a force exceeding a threshold is applied against the flap 1010. For example, in one implementation, the force is applied against the flap 1010 by the spout 16 of the birdseed tote 10.

[0094] In one implementation, the cap assembly 104 includes a squirrel resistant plug, an example of which is shown in Figures 35A and 35B. The cap assembly 104 includes a roof 1102 having an opening 1104 defined therein. The squirrel resistant plug is formed by a cover 1106 mounted at a first side to the roof 1102 using a fastener 1108 and a latch 1110 at a second side. The latch 1110 includes a latch opening 1112 configured to receive a hook 1116 mounted to the roof 1102 using a fastener 1114. When the hook 1116 is inserted through the latch opening 1112, the cover 1106 is secured over the opening 1104, preventing squirrels or similar pests from accessing the birdseed in the reservoir. To move the plug to an opening position for filling, the hook 1116 is disconnected from the latch 1110 and the cover 1106 moved. [0095] Turning to Figures 36A and 36B, the cap assembly 104 may include a flip lid having a base 1202 connected to the body 102 with a surface 1204 extending transversely therefrom to cover a portion of the body opening 136. A lid 1208 is connected to the base 1202 with a hinge at a first side and releasably connected at a second side with a tab 1210, permitting the lid 1208 to move from a closed position to an open position to cover and uncover an opening 1206 defined by the surface 1204.

[0096] As can be understood from Figures 37A and 37B, the cap assembly 104 may include a chute 1304 having side surfaces 1302 connected by a cover surface 1306. To access the reservoir of the body 102, the cover surface 1306 may be pulled to reveal a chute opening 1308 into the reservoir. Once the reservoir is filled with birdseed, the cover surface 1306 may be pushed to move the chute 1304 to the closed position with chute opening 1308 covered.

[0097] As another example of the cap assembly 104, reference is made to Figure 38, which includes a valve formed by one or more flexible surfaces 1406 covering a valve opening 1404 defined in a lid 1402. The spout 16 of the birdseed tote 10 or similar device is inserted through the valve opening 1404 by displacing the flexible surfaces 1406, and once the spout 16 is removed, the flexible surfaces 1406 return to their original orientation in a closed position covering the valve opening 1404.

[0098] Similar to the easy fill bird feeders 100, the birdseed tote 10 may include a variety of features for easy filling, carrying, and storing. Examples of the birdseed tote 10 are illustrated in Figures 39-59. However, it will be appreciated that other implementations may be executed.

[0099] For a detailed description of an example of the birdseed tote 10, reference is made to Figures 39-47. In one implementation, the birdseed tote 10 includes a tote body 12 with a neck 14 and a handle 20 extending therefrom or otherwise connected thereto. The neck 14 may extend or otherwise connect to a spout 16. A lid 18 covers an opening into an interior of the tote body 12.

[00100] In one implementation, a first sidewall 30 and a second sidewall 32 each extend between a front end 22 and a back end 24 and from a distal end 26 to a proximal end 28. The first sidewall 30 and the second sidewall 32 may be opposing sidewalls oriented generally parallel to each other. A distal surface 36 connects distal ends of the first sidewall 30 and the second sidewall 32, and a back wall 34 connects back ends of the first sidewall 30 and the second sidewall 32. In one implementation, the back ends of the first sidewall 30 and the second sidewall 32 are connected with a contoured corner 38 of the back wall 34. In one

implementation, the neck 14 extends from front ends of the first sidewall 30 and the second sidewall 32, which may be similarly connected with a contoured corner. The first sidewall 30, the second sidewall 32, the distal surface 36, the back wall 34, and the neck 14 form the tote body 102 and define an interior 88 configured to hold a supply of birdseed. Various indents (e.g., 40, 42, and 84) may be present in the tote body 12.

[00101 ] The handle 20 may be configured to permit the birdseed totes 10 to be stacked in a nested position (e.g., with the tote body 12 of one birdseed tote 10 positioned in the interior 88 of another birdseed tote 10 an example of which shown in Figure 50) for display without jamming the tote bodies 12 together. More particularly, in one implementation, the handle 20 includes a handle body 44 extending proximally from a distal tip 48 to a handle edge 46. The handle edge 46 defines a handle opening 50 configured to receive the handle body 44 of another birdseed tote 10. A shape and size of the handle opening 50 prevents the second birdseed tote 10 from being moved too far distally into the first birdseed tote 10 where the two birdseed totes 10 would jam together making it difficult to pull them apart. In one implementation, a back panel 52 prevents a birdseed from spilling from the interior 88 of the tote body 12 into the handle opening 50. When the birdseed totes 10 are filled with birdseed, they generally will not be placed in a nested position but may be placed in a storage position with the distal surface 36 of one of the birdseed totes 10 being placed on a proximal surface 58 of the lid 18 of another of the birdseed totes 10. In one implementation, the distal surface 36 is placed on an indented surface 62 of the proximal surface 58 of the lid 18. The lid 118 may further include a raised portion 64 disposed near a spout body 78 of the spout 16.

[00102] The lid 18 may be completely removable from the tote body 12 or releasably engaged to the tote body 12 on a first side (e.g., near the second sidewall 32) with a tab 76 and permanently connected on a second side (e.g., near the first sidewall 30) with a hinge 60. In one implementation, the tote body 12 includes a proximal edge 56 that is integral with the hinge 60. The lid 18 includes a distal surface 66 from which a lip 68 extends to engage the proximal edge 56 to close the interior 88 of the tote body 12. In one implementation, a track 70 extends from the distal surface 66 to define a channel to receive the proximal edge 56. The lid 18 may be configured to accommodate the handle 20 and the spout 16, for example, with handle recesses 72 to accommodate the handle edge 46 and with a spout edge 74 to meet a spout rim 82.

[00103] Turning to Figures 45-46B, in one implementation, the spout body 78 defines a spout opening 80, which may be covered using a spout cap 90. In one implementation, the spout cap 90 includes a spout cap body 92 attached to a spout cap ring 94 with a connector 96. The spout can ring 94 may be engaged to the spout rim 82 to prevent the spout cap 90 from getting misplaced when the spout opening 80 is uncovered.

[00104] In one implementation, the neck 14 includes a neck surface 54 extending along a contour from the distal surface 36 to a distal end of the spout body 78. In one implementation, the contour along which the neck surface 54 extends includes a plurality of angles defined relative to the distal surface 36 ranging from ten degrees to twenty degrees (e.g., a first angle of ten degrees, a second angle of fifteen degrees, and a third angle of twenty degrees). The neck surface 54 may transition into the distal end the spout body 78 via the spout rim 82. Similarly, in one implementation, the proximal edge 56 of the tote body 12 defines and extends along a plane 95. The proximal edge 56 may transition into a proximal end of the spout body 78 via the spout rim 82. The spout body 78 defines an axis line 97 extending along a center of the spout opening 80 and parallel to the plane 95 of the proximal edge 56 of the tote body 12.

[00105] As described herein, the neck surface 54 is shaped to direct the birdseed from the distal surface 36 of the tote body 12 through the spout opening 80 without an orientation of the plane 95 and thus the axis line 97 extending past an angle 99 that is perpendicular to a target 98. Stated differently, the neck surface 54 is shaped according to the angle of repose of the birdseed, such that the birdseed moves under its own weight from a bottom section 86 of the interior 88 of the tote body 12 without having to extend the tote body 12 past a vertical orientation.

[00106] Other examples of the birdseed tote 10 are shown in Figures 48-59. Turning first to Figures 48-50, in one implementation, the tote body 12 of the birdseed tote 10 may have a rounded shape and a completely removable lid 18, among other aesthetic differences. Referring next to Figure 51, in one implementation, the tote body 51 may be rounded further with the handle 20 arcing over the lid 18 and with an edge of the tote body 12 (e.g., the proximal edge 56) extending past the lid 10, among other aesthetic differences. Figures 52-53 show yet another example of the birdseed tote 10 with the neck 14 extending past the lid 18, among other aesthetic differences. Referring to Figures 54-55, the tote body 12 may be rounded further with the handle 20 arcing over the lid 18 and with a portion of the neck 14 moveable into a recess in the tote body 12 in a retreated position, as shown in Figure 54, and outwardly for a pouring position, as shown in Figure 55.

[00107] Referring to Figures 56-58, in one implementation, the birdseed tote 10 is configured for storing on a wall hanger 1500 using a mount 1502. The shape of the tote body 12 is elongated with the handle 20 disposed under a portion of the tote body 12. The spout 16 may be moved as indicated by the arrows in Figure 57B to open the spout 16. Turning to Figure 59, in another implementation, the tote body 12 is cylindrical in shape and the handle 20 is configured to squeeze and thus move a spout plane 1506 to orient an opening 1508 over the spout opening 80 as indicated by the arrow to release birdseed down the neck 14 through the spout 16 into the bird feeder 10.

[00108] Based upon design preferences, it is understood that the specific order or hierarchy of steps in the method can be rearranged while remaining within the disclosed subject matter. The 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.

[00109] 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.

[00110] The above specification, examples, and data provide a complete description of the structure and use of example implementations of the invention. 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

CLAIMS WHAT IS CLAIMED IS:

1. An easy fill bird feeder comprising:

a body extending from a proximal end to a distal end, the body defining a reservoir;

a body opening into the reservoir, the opening disposed at the proximal end of the body; a cap assembly connected to the body at the proximal end and covering the body opening, the cap assembly including a hinge engaging a lid to a cap base at a first side, the hinge creating a rotation path for the lid between an open position and a closed position, the lid releasably connected to the cap base at a second side in the closed position;

a cap opening defined by the cap base and providing access to the reservoir through the body opening;

a spring assembly applying a bias on the lid towards the open position; and

a releasor of the cap assembly, movement of the releasor disconnecting the lid from the cap base at the second side, the bias of the spring assembly moving the lid from the closed position to the open position upon the lid being disconnected from the cap base, the bias of the spring assembly holding the lid in the open position, providing access to the reservoir through the cap opening.

2. The easy fill bird feeder of claim 1, wherein the lid is releasably connected to the cap base at the second end with a lid arm.

3. The easy fill bird feeder of claim 2, wherein the lid arm extends from a mount connecting the cap base to the proximal end of the body.

4. The easy fill bird feeder of claim 2, wherein the movement of the releasor displaces the lid arm, the displacement of the lid arm disconnecting the lid from the cap base.

5. The easy fill bird feeder of claim 1, wherein the cap assembly includes a roof extending outwardly transverse to a length of the body.

6. The easy fill bird feeder of claim 1, wherein the hinge includes a pin inserted through at least one lid protrusion and at least one cap base protrusion.

7. The easy fill bird feeder of claim 1, wherein the body includes one or more access ports disposed along a length of the body and providing access to the reservoir.

8. The easy fill bird feeder of claim 7, further comprising:

one or more perches, each disposed at each of the one or more access ports.

9. The easy fill bird feeder of claim 8, wherein each of the one or more perches includes a surface having a perch opening and a projection, the surface and the projection being continuous.

10. The easy fill bird feeder of claim 1, further comprising:

an adjustable hanger connected to the cap assembly.

11. The easy fill bird feeder of claim 1, wherein the releasor is a release button, depression of the release button disconnecting the lid from the cap base at the second side.

12. The easy fill bird feeder of claim 11, wherein the lid is releasably connected to the cap base at the second end with a lid arm, the depression of the release button displaces the lid arm, the displacement of the lid arm disconnecting the lid from the cap base.

13. A method for easy filling a bird feeder, the method comprising:

receiving a depression of a release button on a cap assembly connected to a body at a proximal end, the body defining a reservoir, the cap assembly having a cap opening providing access to the reservoir;

releasing a lid of the cap assembly at a first side upon the depression of the release button;

moving the lid from a closed position to an open position using a bias of a spring assembly upon the release of the lid, the lid moving from the closed position to the open position along a rotation path created by a hinge at a second side, the lid held in the open position by the spring bias, the open position providing access to the reservoir through the cap opening; and receiving birdseed through the cap opening into the reservoir.

14. The method of claim 13, further comprising:

receiving an external force against the lid, the external force moving the lid from the opening position to the closed position; and

connecting the lid at the first side, the connection holding the lid in the closed position.

15. The method of claim 14, wherein the lid is connected at the first side by engaging a lid arm to a cap protrusion.

16. The method of claim 14, wherein the external force is created by at least a portion of a single hand.

17. The method of claim 13, wherein the birdseed is received through the cap opening into the reservoir from a birdseed tote.

18. The method of claim 17, wherein the birdseed tote includes a body having a neck shaped to direct the birdseed from a bottom of a tote interior into the reservoir when the birdseed tote body is oriented at an angle of ninety degrees or less to the cap opening.

19. The method of claim 17, wherein the birdseed is received through the cap opening from a spout of the birdseed tote.

20. A birdseed tote comprising:

a pair of opposing sidewalls each extending from a distal end to a proximal end and between a front end and a back end;

a distal surface connecting the distal ends of the pair of opposing side walls;

a back wall connecting the back ends of the pair of opposing side walls; a neck extending from the front ends of the pair of opposing side walls, the pair of opposing sidewalls, the back wall, the distal surface, and the neck forming a tote body configured to hold birdseed, the tote body having a proximal edge extending along a plane, the neck including a neck surface extending along a contour from the distal surface to a spout, an axis line of the spout extending parallel to the plane of the proximal edge of the tote body, the neck surface shaped to direct the birdseed from the distal surface through an opening in the spout without an orientation of the plane extending past a perpendicular angle to a target.

21. The birdseed tote of claim 20, wherein the target is an opening in a birdseed feeder.

22. The birdseed tote of claim 20, further comprising:

a lid configured to cover an opening into an interior of the tote body, the opening defined by the proximal edge of the tote body.

23. The birdseed tote of claim 22, wherein the lid has a first side, at least a portion of which being integral with the proximal edge at one of the pair of opposing sidewalls, the at least a portion of the first side forming a hinge, the hinge creating a rotation path for the lid between an open position and a closed position, the open position providing access to the interior of the tote body and the closed position covering the opening.

24. The birdseed tote of claim 23, wherein the lid has a second side configured to engage the proximal edge of the tote body to seal the opening.

25. The birdseed tote of claim 20, further comprising:

a cap configured to engage the spout to cover the opening in the spout.

26. The birdseed tote of claim 20, further comprising:

a handle extending from the back wall.

27. The birdseed tote of claim 20, wherein the distal surface is placed on a lid of a second birdseed tote in a storage position.

28. The birdseed tote of claim 20, wherein the tote body is placed in an interior of a second tote body in a nested position.

29. The birdseed tote of claim 20, further comprising:

a handle extending from the back wall, the handle including a handle opening.