Shishi Odoshi "Deer Scarer" Japanese Water Fountain - Fully Working

thingiverse

I recently visited the Portland Japanese Garden, where I was captivated by a delightful Shishi Odoshi fountain. This clever device fills with water until it tips over and releases the water, making a noise intended to scare away deer that might otherwise devour your carefully tended garden. Inspired by this innovative design, I set out to create a miniature, indoor-scale version that would operate on my desk. The basic principle of operation is straightforward: the main tube is weighted below the hinge and hollow above it. Although the top is longer than the bottom, it remains lighter when empty, allowing the tube to sit upright. As water fills the top of the tube, it eventually becomes heavier than the bottom, upsetting the balance and causing the tube to tip over. The water spills out, the tube rights itself, and the cycle begins anew. My design includes a reservoir beneath the tube that holds approximately one cup (1/4 liter) of water and a small pump that circulates the water back up to the tube. To see my creation in action, please watch this video! https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qCCem1-N0d4