Ample Sample Pt II: The Bird Feeder

Using recycled carpet samples I designed this bird feeder to be hung outside of CCA's entry. I hope to further develop the model and fix a few design issues and then submit it to the ample sample contest. Any feedback would be appreciated!

I started with an 18" square (here at 1"=2" scale) and cut out curved sections from each of the four sides.
I then fastened the corners together using a screw and washer. The hanging line is piano wire.


As pictured above, bird seed would be in the center pocket and birds could perch on the corner openings and eat the seeds. These can be attatched to eachother to create a tiered effect as well.


Part of this assignment was learning how to draw scaled technical drawings. Here are two of mine.

Scaled Drawing: Section View

Scaled Drawing: Plan View

Problems:

-Heavy birds or loads of bird seed causes the floor of the feeder to sink and this closes the holes. Need to either make alternative holes, wider original ones, or create a support column.

-Large birds may tip seeds out of feeder. For small birds only.

-Need to test with actual carpet to determine optimal seed holding ability.

-No drainage. Must be installed under an over hang to prevent too much water. Otherwise it becomes a bird bath/planter.