DESIGN OF AN AUTOMATIC INTERVAL FEEDER TO ENCOURAGE THE FORAGING BEHAVIOR OF AMERICAN BLACK BEARS
Zabaneh, Emile
Zabaneh, Emile
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2025-05-19
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Abstract
This project focuses on the design and development of an automatic interval feeder to encourage more natural foraging behavior of American black bears at the Fort Worth Zoo. The goal was to create a device that dispenses food at randomized intervals, stimulating searching behaviour equivalent to that seen in the wild, thereby enriching the bear's environment. The project underwent multiple design iterations, starting with a motor-driven rotational chamber mechanism and evolving through different models to address various mechanical and electrical challenges. Key issues included power and load distribution, the feasibility of manufacturing within a limited timeframe, and ensuring the device could dispense 2.5 lbs of food. The final model incorporated an external motor and a funnel-based release system to reduce the load on the motor and meet the required food-dispensing capacity. Although the design successfully met its functional objectives, it raised longevity concerns, particularly the exposure of external components to outdoor conditions. The iterative design process highlighted the importance of balancing complexity with manufacturability, emphasizing the need for practicality and timeline analysis throughout load testing. This project demonstrates engineering solutions to improve animal enrichment while offering insights into the challenges of mechanical and electrical system design under time and resource constraints.