Patent attributes
An automated game feeder that is virtually silent includes a hopper for holding feed, a bottom wall thereof defining a dispensing opening that, when open, allows feed to be dispensed. A dispensing gate is pivotally mounted to the bottom wall of the dispensing gate being operative to move, when actuated, between a closed configuration covering the dispensing opening and an open figuration allowing the feed to flow out of the hopper. A digital timer is electrically connected to the dispensing gate and programmable to determine when to open and close the dispensing gate. To maintain virtual silence, the deer feeder may include a linear actuator electrically connected to the dispensing gate and timer, the linear actuator having a servo motor that is very quiet when extending a rod configured to open or close the dispensing gate. When actuated, the linear actuator operates the gate according to an array of pivotal couplings.
