GIRAFFING ME CRAZY

My team's task was to design and build a new functional giraffe feeder that meets the primary objectives of our clients, the Houston Zoo. These objectives included holding an adequate amount of hay, not causing injury to the giraffes, fitting into the aesthetic of the exhibit, and being easy to clean and move.

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My specific role was being the Mechanical Designer and Machine Technician. When designing this feeder, I researched the feeding behaviors of giraffes, and the regulations set forth by the government regarding animal care and enrichment. I took into account the successes and failures of past Houston Zoo feeders, and used inspiration from other zoos’ feeders, for giraffes and similar animals, to develop our final design.