Smart Bird Feeding Station: 3 UK Patents Granted

Introduction:

Bird Buddy Inc – founded in 2020 – with headquarters in Ljubljana, Slovenia, and also based in Kalamazoo, Michigan, US, has recently been granted a series of UK patents for its innovative smart bird feeder system.

The smart bird feeder system notifies users when birds visit, captures photos and videos, and organizes them into a stunning collection. Recognized for its success, Bird Buddy ranked in the top 1% of Kickstarter crowdfunding campaigns [1].

Prosecution History:

On 25 February 2022, Bird Buddy Inc filed US provisional application US202263314005P, followed by the filing of GB1 (GB2203726.1), GB2 (GB2203727.9), and GB3 (GB2203729.5) on 17 March 2022, with each GB application claiming priority from the US provisional application.

On 21 February 2024, GB1 was granted as GB2616080B, and GB2 was granted as GB2616081B on 28 February 2024.

On 14 September 2023, Bird Buddy Inc lodged divisional application GB4 (GB2314043.7) from GB2, which was also granted on 20 November 2024 as GB2624507B.

Additionally, Bird Buddy Inc filed the following patent applications as part of its global patent strategy, each of which claim priority from the US provisional application, GB1 and GB2, and which are all currently pending:

• 15 February 2023: Canadian patent application CA3189953A
• 17 February 2023: US patent application US202318170848A
• 20 February 2023: Australian patent application AU2023200969A

This article briefly summarizes the technologies of the three granted GB patents.

GB1 (GB2616080B) – Granted 21.02.2024 [2]:

With reference to the exemplary embodiment pictured above, GB1 focuses on a bird station system incorporating a Vertical Cavity Surface Emitting Laser (VCSEL) (51) for precise object detection. This allows the system to reduce false alarms by ensuring that the camera (60) and microphone (55) are only activated when a bird is within the perching area (25), addressing issues related to remote objects or environmental disturbances.

The patent’s focus is on minimizing unnecessary triggers, making the invention smart bird feeding station highly effective in dynamic environments.

Bird Station System: VCSEL, Camera unit, and Microphone unit:

GB1 claims a system comprising a bird station (10) with a perching area (25) and a detachable electronic control module (15). This module contains at least one of a camera unit (60) and a microphone unit (55); a controller (700); and an object detection unit (50) using a VCSEL (51).

The VCSEL generates a source beam directed towards the perching area (25), and upon detecting a return beam from an object (200) in the perching area, the smart system activates the camera or microphone.

Vertical Cavity Surface Emitting Laser (VCSEL):

Traditional sensors like UV, IR, and PIR sensors were found by the inventors to produce false alarms from remote objects and sunlight. The VCSEL provides a narrow-focused beam that activates the camera and microphone only when a bird is detected, eliminating unnecessary triggers.

The VCSEL’s field of view is aligned with that of the camera, ensuring it only activates when a bird is within the camera’s range.

Electronic Control Module: VCSEL, Camera Unit, and Microphone Unit:

The electronic control module (15) uses the VCSEL to detect objects in the perching area (25) and activates the camera and/or microphone only when an object is within the set threshold distance, enhancing system accuracy.

GB2 (GB2616081B) – Granted 28.02.2024 [3]:

GB2 introduces a Hall Effect sensor (70) within the electronic control module (15) to detect its detachment from the bird station (10). This feature ensures the object detection unit (50) is deactivated when the module is removed, enhancing security and system functionality.

Bird Station System: Hall Effect Sensor:

GB2 claims a system comprising a bird station (10) comprising a perching area (25); and a detachable electronic control module (15) comprising: a controller (700); an object detection unit (50) arranged to detect an object (200) located in the perching area (25); and a Hall Effect sensor operable to detect a detachment of the electronic control module (15) from the bird station (10), wherein the controller operable to deactivate the object detection unit (50) in response to the Hall Effect sensor detecting the detachment.

Electronic Control Module: Hall Effect sensor:

The patent further claims an electronic control module (15) configured to be used in the system, comprising a controller (700); an object detection unit (50); and a Hall effect sensor (70), wherein in use when the electronic control module is attached to the bird feed station (10) of the system: the object detection unit (50) is arranged to detect an object (200) located in a perching area (25) of the bird station (10); the Hall effect sensor (70) is operable to detect a detachment of the electronic control module (15) from the bird station (10); and the controller is operable to de-activate the object detection unit in response to the Hall effect sensor (70) detecting the detachment.

GB4 (GB2624507B) – Granted 20.11.2024 [4]:

GB4 expands on the features of GB2 by incorporating multiple bird stations with distinct amenities, such as a bird feeder or a bird bath.

Additionally, the patented smart bird feeding station includes solar panels for recharging the control module’s rechargeable battery (95), focusing on sustainability and ease of use in outdoor environments.

The patent also integrates options including magnets for secure attachment of the control module, ensuring reliable operation in diverse conditions.

A System of Bird stations:

GB4 claims a system comprising an electronic control module (15) comprising a rechargeable battery (95), a controller (700) and an object detection unit (50); and a first bird station which provides a first amenity for attracting birds, and a second bird station which provides a second amenity for attracting birds which is different from the first amenity, including, for example, a bird feeder (10) and a bird bath.

Each of the smart bird stations includes a respective roof (30); a respective perching area (25); a respective housing (20) having a recess provided therein, the recess being configured to receive the electronic control module (15), wherein the object detection unit (50) is arranged to detect an object (200) in the respective perching area (25) when the electronic control module (15) is in the recess of the respective housing (20).

Each of the smart bird stations further include a respective one or more solar panels which are mounted on the respective roof (20) and can be plugged into the electronic control module (15) so that the respective one or more solar panels can charge the rechargeable battery (95) when the electronic control module (15) has been inserted into the recess of the respective housing (20).

Optionally, the recess of each housing may include a respective magnet to assist in retaining the electronic control module (15) in the recess when the electronic control module (15) has been inserted into the recess.

Further Options:

The patented smart bird feeding systems may include a feed sensor arrangement (65) to monitor bird feed levels and trigger a low-feed signal when levels drop below a threshold.

The system may also incorporate capacitive sensors to assess moisture content or luminosity sensors to evaluate light conditions.

A wireless communication unit (75) may be used to send notifications when a bird is detected in the perching area.

Conclusion:

GB1 focuses on precise object detection through VCSEL technology; GB2 introduces a Hall Effect sensor for module detachment detection; and GB4 further develops the system by integrating multiple stations with sustainable solar charging.

Together, the 3 granted UK patents represent Bird Buddy’s cutting-edge smart bird feeding station technology, which can allow bird enthusiasts to capture stunning photos and videos and receive instant alerts on their smartphones.

As the smart bird feeding system continues to evolve, it promises to bring even more innovative ways for users to connect with and enjoy the wildlife around them [1].

Did you know? The European Robin:

Did you know the European Robin sings all year round to defend its territory, unlike many other birds that sing mainly during the breeding season? While other birds like the Wren and Great Tit also sing in winter, the Robin is especially bold, often singing near humans. Its cheerful song and bright red breast make it a favourite sight in parks and gardens. Stay tuned to The Patent Eye blog for more game-changing innovations in lifestyle and beyond!

References:

[1] Smart Bird Feeder – https://mybirdbuddy.eu/

[2] GB1: UK Granted Patent, GB2616080B – https://worldwide.espacenet.com/patent/search/family/081344707/publication/GB2616080B?q=GB2616080B

[3] GB2: UK Granted Patent, GB2616081B – https://worldwide.espacenet.com/patent/search/family/081344707/publication/GB2616081B?q=GB2616081B

[4] GB3: UK Granted Patent, GB2624507B – https://worldwide.espacenet.com/patent/search/family/081344707/publication/GB2624507B?q=GB2624507B