Feeding system comprising feeding devices with oblique surfaces

Abstract

The invention relates to a feeding system for distributing feed to poultry, such as chickens, turkeys, etc., in a poultry house, as well as to a feeding device, and a method for cleaning the system and device. The feeding system for distributing feed to poultry in a poultry rearing installation, comprises a feeding pipe (2) through which the feed is transported to one or more feeding devices (10) arranged along a longitudinal axis (4) of the feeding pipe, where the feeding pipe may be rotated around its longitudinal axis, and where the feeding pipe is provided with apertures (6, 6') where feeding devices are mounted on said feeding pipe allowing feed to enter the feeding devices, characterized in that said feeding devices comprise first and second sections (20, 30), where said first section (20) is adapted to be secured to the feeding pipe, such that when the feeding pipe is rotated the feeding device is also rotated and further such that at least a part of said second section (30) is rotatably mounted to said first section, such that at least part of the second section may rotate around a second axis (100) perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the feeding pipe.

Description

[0001][Feeding system comprising feeding devices with oblique surfaces] Field of the Invention The invention relates to a feeding system for distributing feed to poultry, such as chickens, turkeys, etc., in a poultry house, as well as to a feeding device. Background of the Invention From the state of the art, a large number of feed distribution systems are known. These systems have in common the fact that fixed feed dispensing points are present in the poultry house, and that the feed to be dispensed has to be conveyed from a central storage place to said feed dispensing points. For the conveyance of the feed, a pipe conveyor system is present, which comprises one or more substantially horizon- tally directed feed conveyor pipes, which are disposed substantially parallel to each other. Means are provided for conveying the feed through the feed pipes to the feed dispensing points. The feed dispensing points are situated along the above-mentioned feed conveyor pipes, and usually have regular distances between them. A feeding pan is disposed at each feed dispensing point. Such feeding devices are known in a wide variety of different embodiments. Most of them comprise a dish- shaped dispensing pan, a feed drop tube opening out above a central part of the pan in such a way that a volume of feed transported to the drop tube is distributed substan- tially evenly over the bottom surface of the pan. The pan can be directly connected to the drop tube by means of a suitable connection or indirect by means of several spoke- like plastic bars or carrying arms which are equally divided around the circumference of the device. In the last case, the connection between the bars and the drop tube preferably is not rigid but is such that the height of the drop tube with respect to the pan can be altered in order to influence the amount of feed which enters the pan. Openings are present between the bars for the poultry to have access to feed distrib- uted in the pan. Each opening is at least large enough for one animal to put his head through but may also be large enough for accommodating the heads of several animals standing next to each other. See for example EP-0421553 or US-305,875,733. The conveyor pipes mostly have downwardly directed oval or rectangular outlet open- ings at the positions of the feed dispensing points. The feeding devices in their entirety may be attached in such a way to the conveyor pipe that they are able to rotate some- what around a longitudinal axis thereof. This rotatability helps to prevent injuries to the animals and damage to the feeding devices themselves when bumping against the feeding devices. For obtaining this rotatability a cylindrical recess is formed into an assembly of a top end of the drop tube and a top support organ mounted thereto. In this attached position, the top end of the drop tube forms an inlet which is positioned directly underneath the outlet opening in the conveyor pipe. This known type of feed distribution system has the disadvantage that it is some what difficult to clean. When it is for example desired to clean the feeding devices of EP-0421553 with a high pressure hose, then it is very difficult and time consuming to remove all the dis- pensing pans from the devices in order to be able to properly clean them. Also, it is very difficult and time consuming to place the pans back again after they have been cleaned. This is caused by the fact that a snapping connection between a lower ring of a grill assembly and the entire outer circumferential edge of the pan needs to be re- leased and fastened again. After the pan has been removed it remains difficult and nearly impossible to properly clean the inside of the drop tube. This can only be hosed clean by forcedly spraying water into a bottom end of the drop tube. In addition to cre- ating a cumbersome working position for the personnel carrying out the cleaning, the splashing of water into the tube may also flush dirt and old feed into the feed conveying system, thereby contaminating the system instead of cleaning the system. Further- more, blockades may be formed inside the conveyor pipe which may make it difficult or even impossible for enough feed to enter the pan at that specific feed dispensing point. With the feeding devices of US-5,875,733, the removal of the dispensing pans is easier since the dispensing pan is hingedly connected by means of a hinge joint to a lower ring of a grill assembly. Besides this hinge joint, the pan and the grill assembly are locked in position to each other by means of two clamping members. After the clamping members are released, the hinge joint makes it possible to quickly open the device by letting the pan swing from its horizontal position to a downwardly hanging vertical po- sition. As the feeding pans are swinging freely washing with waterjets may not be very effi- cient as the pans will swing away due to the water pressure. Therefore, an easy cleaning is not possible. Care must be taken to thoroughly pressure wash the pan re- quiring extra time and effort. Furthermore, the inside of the drop tube can still only be hosed clean by spraying water from underneath and into the drop tube. An alternative type of feed distribution system is shown in US-6,532,895, which corre- sponds to WO 00 / 49857. Here the conveyor pipe is rotatable around its longitudinal axis. During a first angular rotation of 90 degrees of the pipe, the feeding pans hang freely downwards while the outlet openings in the pipe are rotated towards closed po- sitions. During a subsequent second angular rotation of 90 degrees of the pipe, the feeding pans are forced to co-rotate with the pipe and be moved from their downwardly hanging positions towards sideways projecting positions. In this sideways projecting positions the pans and the outer sides of the drop tubes can more easily be hosed clean. Because all the outlets in the conveyor pipe are simultaneously closed, it can also be ensured that the insides of the conveyor pipes remain dry. However, it remains a problem to hose clean the insides of the drop tubes. Object of the Invention Consequently, there is a need for a feeding system which efficiently distributes the feed and at the same time is easy to clean in a safe and hygienic manner. Description of the Invention The present invention addresses this by providing a feeding system for distributing feed to poultry in a poultry rearing installation, where said system comprises a feeding pipe (2) through which the feed is transported to one or more feeding devices (10) arranged along a longitudinal axis (4) of the feeding pipe (2), where the feeding pipe may be rotated around its longitudinal axis, and where the feeding pipe is provided with aper- tures (6,6’) where feeding devices (10) are mounted on said feeding pipe (2) allowing feed to enter the feeding devices (10), characterized in that said feeding devices com- prise first and second sections (20,30), where said first section (20) is adapted to be secured to the feeding pipe (2), such that when the feeding pipe (2) is rotated the feed- ing device (10) is also rotated and further that at least a part of said second section (30) is rotatably mounted to said first section (20), such that at least part of the second section (30) may rotate around a second axis (100) perpendicular to the longitudinal axis (4) of the feeding pipe (2), and where the first section (20) is provided with at least one flushing channel(s) arranged on one or the other side of the feeding pipe (2) or on both sides of the feeding pipe (2), said at least one flushing channel (62,63,64) being open upwards. In this manner the feed is only contacting parts of the feeding pan which are exposed and therefore may be easily cleaned. Further by being able to freely rotate, it is possible to reach all areas where feed or other debris may be present without the cleaner having to change position, bend down or otherwise assume an inconvenient or abnormal work- ing position. As will be elaborated below, the normal means of cleaning these types of devices are by high pressure water jets. When the high pressure jet is directed towards the feeding device, the second section will be brought to rotate. Furthermore, when the feeding device is rotated around the first axis for example up to 90 degrees the water and any debris will fall off the feeding device. In a further advantageous embodiment, the second section comprises a substantially cone-shaped part and a pan, where only the pan is rotatable. As the cone shaped part may have a substantially flush and smooth surface most feed and other debris will be in the feeding pan. During cleaning it is important to remove such matter, and by only making the pan rotate, the cone-shaped part may be better attached to the first section. In a still further embodiment the second section comprises a substantially cone-shaped part, said cone-shaped part having an in use upper rim mounted to the first section such that feed from the feed pipe is delivered to the outside surface of the cone-shaped part, and where in use a bottom perimeter of the cone-shaped part is engaged with the pan, where said pan has a larger diameter than the bottom perimeter of cone-shaped part. It is clear that this embodiment provides the cone shaped part as a guide surface for the feed such that the feed arrives in the feeding pan. Furthermore, the outside surface of the cone shaped part will allow the feed to be distributed along the feeding pan. As a “pile” of feed builds up in the pan immediately below the feed outlet, the feed will re-distribute itself around the feeding pan. In a still further advantageous embodiment, drain apertures are provided in a lower- most part of the feeding pan. Although this may appear as a minor improvement, the drain apertures (holes) facilitate that the cleaning procedure may be carried out with the feeding devices in their normal position, i.e where the feeding pans are substantially horizontally. When high pressure cleaning fluid – typically water – is flushed through the flushing apertures provided adjacent the feeding pipe, the surfaces of the cone shaped part and the feeding pan is cleaned / flushed. In order to drain the water from the feeding pan the apertures provided in the lowermost part of the feeding pan allow the liquid (water) to drain off the feeding pan, such that new / fresh feed may be accom- modated in the feeding pan in a dry state. In a further advantageous embodiment, the pan has an outer rim or lip bent towards the feeding pipe, and where optionally the rim or lip is provided with one or more spouts. The lip will retain the feed inside the feeding pan as it is delivered from the feeding pipe sliding down the cone-shaped section. As the lip will retain the feed it will during the cleaning operation (high pressure water jets) also be an area of special attention. How- ever, by providing one or more spouts arranged along the periphery of the rim, the spouts will ease the evacuation of water and debris during the cleaning cycle. A further advantageous embodiment provides that the second section comprises two separate parts, arranged coaxially around said second axis where a first part is an outer substantially cone shaped part with its smaller cross-section and a second part being an inner complementary cone shaped part, where said inner complementary cone shaped part is formed with an integral feeding pan, said feeding pan extending further in a radial direction than the outer substantially cone shaped part. This con- struction allows the cone-shaped part to extend upwards very close to the outlet of the feed from the feed pipe and at the same time protect the mechanism allowing the ro- tation of the second section relative to the first section. Thereby is achieved that the risk of polluting the mechanism allowing for rotation is minimized and at the same time the cone-shaped part effectively guides the feed to the feeding pan. In order to further improve the cleaning process and thereby the overall hygienic con- ditions, a further embodiment of the invention provides that the first section of the feed- ing device is provided with flushing channels where said flushing channels are open in use upwards, and adapted to lead a cleaning liquid through the first section in the di- rection of the second axis, onto an outside surface of at least part of the second section. The flushing channels provide easy access for the water jets during the cleaning pro- cedure, to the otherwise hidden portions of the cone-shaped part. Particularly when the feeding device is rotated during a cleaning cycle, the flushing channels are easily ac- cessible for the operator of the high-pressure water jet device. Furthermore, the flush- ing channels are separate from the feeding pipe and the opening / aperture in the feed- ing pipe, such that it is avoided that water (and possible debris) will enter the feeding pipe and contaminate the fresh feed or establish an environment allowing fungus or other undesirable growth in the pipe. In a still further advantageous embodiment of the invention, the first section comprises a funnel, where said funnel is connected to the aperture in the feeding pipe, and in the opposite end is flared such that the funnel overlaps part of the second section. The funnel will guide and limit the spread of the feed from the feed pipe towards the feeding pan, in a simple manner. During cleaning the funnel will also shield the aperture such that cleaning liquid is not allowed to enter the feed pipe. Furthermore in a further advantageous embodiment, the feeding devices comprise first and second sections, where said first section is adapted to be secured to a feeding pipe, such that when the feeding pipe is rotated the feeding device is also rotated and further that at least a part of said second section is rotatably mounted to said first sec- tion, such that at least part of the second section may rotate around a second axis perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the feeding pipe. Also, in another embodiment, the second section comprises a feeding pan, where said feeding pan is provided with paddles arranged radially relative to said second axis. The paddles serve to sub-divide the feeding pan into compartments during the feeding pro- cess, and during the cleaning process when hit by high-pressure water jets functions as turbine blades, making the feeding pan spin. Furthermore, the paddles are space such that a chick eating from a compartment between adjacent paddles will not be able to flick or push feed material from one compartment to a neighboring compartment and in this manner select certain parts of the feed. Furthermore, the paddles also substan- tially reduce the chicks’ ability to force feed out of the feeding pan, which may cause waste of feed. Also, the design and positioning of the paddles in the feeding pan makes it very difficult for chicks to enter the feeding pan, thereby wasting more feed. The paddles consequently provide a number of advantages which increases the cleaning process (increases hygiene) and reduces feed waste. In a further advantageous embodiment, the construction of the feeding device foresees that the second section comprises a substantially cone shaped part which partly covers a feeding pan, where said feeding pan has an inner part which is rotatably connected by means of a swivel joint to a tower projecting downwards integral with the first section which is fastened to the feeding pipe whereby the second section may be rotated rel- ative to the first section due to the provision of the swivel joint and where a clip, fastener, nut or other suitable fastening means is provided in the distal end of the tower extending through the inner part of the second section. In a further advantageous embodiment of the invention two apertures are provided in the feeding pipe, where the apertures are arranged substantially diametrically opposite and offset in the longitudinal direction of the pipe, such that in a first position a first aperture is facing downwards towards the feeding pan, where said first aperture is po- sitioned to allow feed to be dispensed to the outside of the cone, and a second position where the second aperture is facing downwards towards the feeding pan, where said second aperture is positioned to dispense feed to the inside of the cone. Typically, in a first initial phase of feeding young chicks the feeding device will be po- sitioned in the first position, where feed is directed to the outside of the cone, and therefore arrives directly in the feeding pan. As the feeding is “one-sided” – the feed is dispensed from one aperture in one position along the periphery of the cone, a slight build-up of feed in the feeding pan will occur. As the feed builds-up it will also tend to distribute itself along the periphery of the cone. However, a part of the feed will also spill over the edge of the pan onto the floor of the poultry rearing installation. When the chickens are very young, they will discover the feed on the floor and learn that it comes from the feeding device. Consequently, in a second stage of the growth cycle of the poultry the feeding device will be brought into the second position by rotating the feed pipe, thereby shutting off the first aperture and allowing the second aperture to dis- pense feed into the inner of the cone. In this manner feed will arrive in the feeding pan in a more orderly manner. A pyramid of feed will build up and evenly dispense / allow the feed to flow out under the cone into the feed pan, in a substantially evenly distrib- uted manner around the periphery of the feeding pan – without substantial spillage outside the feeding pan. In the art it is known to have two apertures arranged at a different radial angle, i.e.90 – 110 degrees. This however can cause excessive wear of the feeding device. As feed is transported by a spiral member inside the feedpipe, there is a certain abrasion be- tween the fed material and the pipe. Normally the pipe is made from metal and is there- fore able to resist the abrasion. However, the feeding devices are typically made from plastics – a much softer material. Here the abrasion will be able to wear the exposed plastic part and in this manner seriously reduce the service life of the feeding device. By arranging the openings more or less diametrically opposite in the feed pipe this wear is avoided. It is avoided because as the feed is transported in the pipe, the feed will not or only very lightly be in contact with the upper inner part of the pipe, and hence not come into contact with the material above the upper aperture (the aperture turned up while the other aperture allows feed to be dispensed. Furthermore, by being free to turn the feeding pipe (and thereby the feeding devices) in either direction it also becomes faster and more economic to clean the devices. If two adjacent feed lines are rotated in opposite directions, it will be possible for a cleaner to pressure wash devices in both rows from the central isle between the feeding lines. Also, an embodiment where the feeding pan is provided with a number of bulges each bulge having an apex and where at least some of the bulges are provided slits, and further where at least some of the paddles may be partly inserted in the slits such that the feeding pan is clicked on to the substantially cone shaped part, optionally the pad- dles designated to be inserted into the slits are provided with a slight enlargement along the lower edge of the paddle such that once the paddle is clicked into the slit it requires a substantially force to pull them apart again, allows for easy and safe assembly of the cone-shaped part and the feeding pan. The invention is also directed to a method of cleaning a feeding system as described above where said feeding system is suitable for distributing feed to poultry in a poultry rearing installation, where said system comprises a feeding pipe through which the feed is transported to one or more feeding devices as also described, which feeding devices are arranged along a longitudinal axis of the feeding pipe, where the feeding pipe may be rotated around its longitudinal axis whereby also the feeding devices are rotated, and where the feeding pipe is provided with apertures where feeding devices are mounted on said feeding pipe allowing feed to enter the feeding devices; where the cleaning procedure comprises the following steps: - step 1: the feeding pipe is rotated around the longitudinal axis approx.90 degrees; - step 2: the first and second sections of the feeding pans are pressure washed, whereby the second section rotates due to the influence of pressurized water. - step 3: the water is drained off the feeding pans which are thereafter rotated back to a position where the second axis is substantially vertical. A further method of cleaning a feeding system without turning the feeding devices into a cleaning position foresees that a feeding system according to any of claims 1 to 9, where said feeding system is suitable for distributing feed to poultry in a poultry rearing installation, where said system comprises a feeding pipe (2) through which the feed is transported to one or more feeding devices (10) according to any of claims 9 to 13 arranged along a longitudinal axis (4) of the feeding pipe (2), where the feeding pipe (2) may be rotated around its longitudinal axis (4), and where the feeding pipe is pro- vided with apertures (6,6’) where feeding devices (10) are mounted on said feeding pipe (2) allowing feed to enter the feeding devices (10); where the cleaning procedure comprises the following steps: - step 1: the first and second sections of the feeding pans are pressure washed, by introducing pressurized washing medium through a flushing channel (63) arranged ad- jacent to the feeding pipe, whereby the second section rotates due to the influence of pressurized water. - step 2: the water is drained off the feeding pans through drain apertures (45) provided in the lowermost part of the feeding pan (40) which are thereafter rotated back to a position where the second axis is substantially vertical. Description of the Drawing Various examples are described hereinafter with reference to the figures. Like refer- ence numerals refer to like elements throughout. Like elements will, thus, not be de- scribed in detail with respect to the description of each figure. It should also be noted that the figures are only intended to facilitate the description of the examples. They are not intended as an exhaustive description of the claimed invention or as a limitation on the scope of the claimed invention. In addition, an illustrated example need not have all the aspects or advantages shown. An aspect or an advantage described in conjunc- tion with a particular example is not necessarily limited to that example and can be practiced in any other examples even if not so illustrated, or if not so explicitly de- scribed. The invention will now be explained in further details with reference to the accompany- ing drawing, wherein: Fig.1 illustrates a feeding device 10 mounted on a feeding pipe 2; Fig.2 illustrates a cross-section through the feeding device; Fig.3 illustrates a view from above of a feeding device; Fig.4 illustrates the assembly between the cone shaped part and the feeding pan; Fig.5 illustrates the cone-shaped part with paddles; Fig.6 illustrates the feeding pan; Fig.7 illustrates part of the first section; Fig.8 illustrates a further embodiment of the aperture Fig.9 illustrates a schematic feeding line; Fig.10 illustrates two adjacent feeding lines turned up into cleaning position. Fig.11 illustrates an embodiment of a feeding device provided with an internal flushing channel Detailed Description of the Invention Throughout the description of the invention with reference to the figures, the same ref- erence numbers will denote the same features. In fig 1 is illustrated a feeding device 10 mounted on a feeding pipe 2. The feeding device 10 comprises a first section 20 and a second section 30. The first section 20 is arranged around the feeding pipe 2 such that when the feeding pipe is rotated around its longitudinal axis 4, the entire feeding device 10 may l also be rotated. This is achieved by the engagement of lugs 110 on an engagement ring 112 fixed to the feed pipe 2, and corresponding lugs 110 on the feeding device. When the pipe 2 is rotated the engagement ring 112 is rotated. When the lugs 110 engage the device 10 is rotated with the pipe 2. If the lugs do not engage, the pipe rotates relative to the feeding device. In the feeding pipe 2 is provided an aperture 6 (see fig 2) through which feed trans- ported in the feeding pipe will enter the feeding device 10. The feed will, due to gravity fall towards the second section 30. In this particular embodiment the first section is provided with a funnel 22. The funnel 22 will be positioned around the aperture 6 such that feed exiting the aperture 6 will be guided onto the cone-shaped part 32 by the funnel 22. As may be seen in fig 2, two apertures 6,6’ are provided. The apertures are arranged substantially radially diametrically opposite and offset in the longitudinal direction 4 of the pipe 2, such that in a first position a first aperture 6 (as illustrated in fig.2) is facing downwards towards a feeding pan 40. The first aperture 6 is positioned to allow feed to be dispensed to the outside of the second section (cone) 30. In a second position where the second aperture 6’ is facing downwards towards the feeding pan, the second aperture 6’ is positioned to dispense feed to the inside 82 of the cone 30. The rotation of the feed pipe 2 is achieved as discussed above. The second section 30 is provided with a substantially cone shaped part 32. In this connection “substantially cone-shaped” shall be understood as a cone where the apex is cut off, leaving an upper free perimeter. Furthermore, the outer surface may be pro- vided with different inclinations. For example, in fig.1 the substantially cone shaped part 32 has an upper narrow neck portion 34 translating into a flared conical surface 36, which then again turns into a steep conical portion 38. The substantially cone shaped part 32 is connected to a feeding pan 40. The cone shaped part 32 is upward limited by an upper rim 33 and downwards by a bottom perimeter 35. In “action” feed will be conveyed through the feeding pipe 2. As feed reaches the ap- erture 6 at least some of the feed will, due to gravity move through the funnel 22 and be guided by the cone-shaped part 32 into the feeding pan 40. Usually the feed is particulate, grains, or other individual granules. As the feed builds up below the funnel 22 it will redistribute itself around the cone-shaped part and substantially fill the feeding pan 40. Tests have surprisingly indicated that it is not necessary to provide a guide or other distribution means on the cone-shaped part 32 in order to create a substantially even distribution of feed in the feeding pan 40. This in itself provides a number of ad- vantages. Typically, the feeding device will be molded from a plastic molding material using a mold. When no special means are necessary on the surface of the cone- shaped part 32 the mold is simpler and thereby also less expensive. Furthermore, as the surface of the cone-shaped part 32 is smooth it allows the feed to distribute itself, and there are no ribs, grooves or other features which may become polluted by the feed, making cleaning easier. Also, the risk of mounting the cone-shaped part 32 in- correct is avoided as there are no surface features which needs to be in the correct position relative to the aperture. Adjacent the lower rim of the cone-shaped part 32 is provided radially extending pad- dles 42. The paddles 42 compartmentalize the volume in the feeding pan 40. The pad- dles 42 may be spaced along the periphery of the cone-shaped part 32 creating feeding compartments 44 (see fig.3). Furthermore, the paddles 42 may be provided with in- dentations 78, such that the feed during distribution as explained above better may be distributed in the various compartments around the feeding pan 40. The size of the feeding compartments 44 allows for one (large) chick or a plurality of smaller chicks to have access to one compartment 44. Furthermore, the paddles hinders feed in being moved between compartments. The chick may try to “sort” through the feed and thereby flick feed away. The compartmentalization avoids feed being wasted by being removed. The paddles 42 serve a further purpose. During cleaning as will be described below the paddles 42 will act as “turbine blades” and rotate the second section 30 when cleaned with a high-pressure washer. The shape of the feeding pan 40 is also important. As may be better seen in fig 6 the feeding pan 40 is provided with a lip 72. The lip 72 has a portion 74 bent inwards (towards the center of the pan 40. This portion 74 avoids feed placed in the pan being pushed over the edge of the pan 40 and thereby becoming waste / lost. Furthermore, the side 76 of the pan 40 is inclined such that a chick’s body may be accommodated by the inclined portion still allowing the neck and head to reach into the feeding pan 40 over the lip 72. Turning to fig.2 a cross-section through the feeding device 10 is indicated. From this cross-section it is clear that the second section 30 comprises the substantially cone shaped part 32 which partly covers the feeding pan 40. In this particular embodiment the feeding pan 40 has an inner part 46 which is rotatably connected by means of a swivel joint 50 to a tower 24 projecting downwards integrate with the first section which is fastened to the feeding pipe 2. In this manner the second section 30 may be rotated relative to the first section 20 due to the provision of the swivel joint 50. Furthermore, a clip 70 is provided which clip 70 is inserted in a part of the tower 24 extending through the inner part 46 of the second section 30. Briefly turning to fig.4 the assembly between the cone shaped part 32 and the feeding pan 40 will be explained. The feeding pan 40 is provided with a number of bulges 48. At the apex 52 of at least some of the bulges 48 are provided slits 54. The paddles 42 may be partly inserted in the slits 54 such that the feeding pan 40 is clicked on to the substantially cone shaped part 32. Preferably the paddles 42 are provided with a slight enlargement 56 along the lower edge of the paddle 42, such that once the paddle 42 is clicked into the slit 54, it requires a substantially force to pull them apart again. Turning to fig.3 a view from above of a feeding device 10 according to the invention is illustrated. Only the pertinent features will be mentioned in the description of fig 3, how- ever it is clear that all features mentioned particular in fig 1 and 2 are also present in fig 3. The first section 20 is provided with flushing channels 62, 64 arranged on either side of the feeding pipe 2. During cleaning of the device 10, water will enter the flushing channels 62,64 and thereby flow over the surface of the cone-shaped part 32 and into the feeding pan 40. Any debris from the feed or the poultry will thereby be flushed off the device. At the same time water jets used to clean the device 10 will hit the feeding pan 40 and the paddles 42. Due to the water pressure the feeding pan will rotate thereby create centrifugal forces which will eject the pollution / debris and the water from the feeding pan 40. In order to further help evacuate the polluted water spouts 66 is arranged along the periphery of the feeding pan 40. The click-connection 68 described with reference to fig.4 is here seen from above. In this embodiment, three click-connections are provided in order to fasten the feeding pan 40 to the cone-shaped part 32. In fig.5 is illustrated the cone-shaped part 32 with paddles 42. Some of the paddles 42’ are provided with an engagement rib, suitable to be inserted in the slit 54 in the feeding pan 40. In fig.6 is illustrated the feeding pan 40. The inner part 46 terminates in a part of the swivel joint 50’. Furthermore, the bulges 48 and spouts 66 are also illustrated. Fig.7 illustrates part of the first section 20. The tower 24 projects downwards, and the lower part is dimensioned to be inserted into the part of the swivel joint 50’ of the feed- ing pan 40 (see fig 6). When the lower part of the tower is inserted through the feeding pan 40 a clip 70 may be inserted through the tower securing the feeding pan 40 rotat- ably to the tower, thereby creating a swivel joint 50. In fig.8 is illustrated a further embodiment. In this embodiment the aperture 6 allowing feed to leave the distribution pipe 2 (see fig.1 or 2) is provided with a cross-bar 80. The area of the open aperture (or the open parts of the aperture) is the same as in the examples explained above. However, by providing the cross-bar 80 it is not possible to insert a finger or the like in the aperture and thereby into the pipe 2 which transports feed to the feeding stations. Inside the pipe 2 is arranged a spiral conveyor which ro- tates. If a finger is caught inside the pipe 2 while the spindle is active, severe damage may be inflicted on the finger. The cross-bar thereby hinders access to the feed pipe 2 but still allows the feed to freely escape the feed pipe into the feeding device. In fig.9 an example of (a very short) feeding line is illustrated. A feed hopper 100 is arranged in one end. At the bottom of the feed hopper 100 is arranged a connection to the feed pipe 2. Inside the feed pipe 2 is arranged a long spiral conveying member (not illustrated). This conveying member is rotated by a motor 102 (and appropriated inter- face means). As the conveying spiral is rotated, feed will be moved from the feed hop- per 100 along the feed pipe 2. As explained above, the feed pipe 2 is provided with apertures 6,6’. When the feed passes an aperture 6,6’ it will fall out of the pipe 2 and into the feeding device 10. Depending on which aperture 6,6’ is facing downwards (see discussion above), the feed will be led either outside or inside the cone 30 (second section) and into the feeding pan 40 – see fig.1. In the illustrated feeding line is provided two different feeding devices 10,10’. The feed- ing device 10 is constructed as explained above. The second device 10 is a somewhat simpler device in that the funnel 22 and second aperture 6’ is not provided. This device 10’ will therefore only allow feed to be dispensed to the interior of the second section 30 an into the feeding pan 40. However the device 10 is provided with the features of the present invention as discussed above. In order to turn the feed pipe 2, a handle 104 is provided. This handle 104 is fixed to the pipe 2 and may be rotated such that the feed pipe 2 rotates around its longitudinal axis4 (see fig 1) positioning the appro- priate aperture 6,6’ as desired relative to the position where feed is dispensed. With respect to fig.9 it is only for illustrative purposes. In reality the feed lines may be substantially longer comprising a larger number of feeding devices, both of the same type but also mixed with other types as for example illustrated. Turning to fig.10 two parallel feeding lines are illustrated. The feeding pipes 2 have been turned approx.90 degrees (in opposite directions). During cleaning, for example by using a high pressure water jet device, the operator can walk in the space / area 106 between the feeding lines and direct the water jet at any of the two lines and thoroughly clean the feeding devices 10 arranged on the feeding lines 2. As the feeding lines 2 are turned in opposite directions, the inside of the feeding pans 40 will be exposed to the area 106, such that the water jets can be directed to the inside of the feeding de- vices where it is especially desirable to clean. Furthermore, as explained above with reference to fig.3 the first section 20 is provided with flushing channels 62, 64 arranged on either side of the feeding pipe 2. During cleaning of the device 10, water will enter the flushing channels 62,64 and thereby flow over the surface of the cone-shaped part 32 and into the feeding pan 40. Any debris from the feed or the poultry will thereby be flushed off the device. At the same time water jets used to clean the device 10 will hit the feeding pan 40 and the paddles 42. Due to the water pressure the feeding pan will rotate thereby create centrifugal forces which will eject the pollution / debris and the wa- ter from the feeding pan 40. In order to further help evacuate the polluted water spouts 66 is arranged along the periphery of the feeding pan 40. The cleaning is therefore very effective for the entire device, and when the feeding lines are turned as illustrated in fig.10, the cleaning procedure may be carried out very efficiently. Fig.11 illustrates a simpler embodiment of the feeding device described above. This embodiment provides a feeding device 10’ intended to remain in the use position, i.e. a position where the feeding pan 40 remains substantially horizontal. For this reason, the device 10’ is not provided with lugs or the engagement ring such that the feed pipe (not illustrated) may be rotated without the feeding device 10’ being rotated. The rotation of the feed pipe 2 provides the possibility to distribute feed through any of the two apertures 6,6’, such that feed selectively may by led onto the outer surface of the second part 30, or inside the second part 30 directly into the interior of the feed pan 40. This is common for all embodiments. In embodiments provided with lugs and en- gagement ring (see for example fig 1 and 10), the devices 10 may be rotated which facilitates an improved possibility for cleaning of the devices. However, where the de- vices 10 remain in the use position the feeding pan will tend to rotate when exposed to the water pressure (from the pressurized cleaning liquid), and as such a satisfactory cleaning is achieved. It is however clear that by rotating the devices as illustrated in fig 10, the angle when introducing the cleaning liquid into the flushing channel 62,63,64 is more ergonomic correct and therefore also may provide a better and faster cleaning result. In general, the dimensions of the various parts of the feeding device 10 are dimen- sioned for strength, ability to thoroughly clean all surfaces, optimum distribution of feed and access for poultry. For example, the neck portion may have a diameter in the range 50 – 100 mm, preferred 80 mm as a compromise between ability to distribute feed on the cone 32, strength, and allowing the device to be thoroughly high pressure rinsed. Likewise, the oblique surface of the cone-shaped part 32 shall have a determined angle in order to allow feed to be distributed. Advantageously the angle relative to vertical is 45-55 degrees. This in itself is not enough to assure a perfect distribution. Tests have shown that also the distance between the aperture 6 where the feed is led to the feeding device to the cone-shaped surface 32 should at least be 50 mm more preferred 70 mm or more.

Claims

CLAIMS 1. Feeding system for distributing feed to poultry in a poultry rearing installation, where said system comprises a feeding pipe (2) through which the feed is trans- ported to one or more feeding devices (10) arranged along a longitudinal axis (4) of the feeding pipe (2), where the feeding pipe may be rotated around its longitudinal axis, and where the feeding pipe is provided with apertures (6,6’) where feeding de- vices (10) are mounted on said feeding pipe (2) allowing feed to enter the feeding de- vices (10), characterized in that said feeding devices comprise first and second sec- tions (20,30), where said first section (20) is adapted to be secured to the feeding pipe (2), such that when the feeding pipe (2) is rotated the feeding device (10) is also rotated and further that at least a part of said second section (30) is rotatably mounted to said first section (20), such that at least part of the second section (30) may rotate around a second axis (100) perpendicular to the longitudinal axis (4) of the feeding pipe (2) and where the first section (20) is provided with at least one flushing channel(s) arranged on one or the other side of the feeding pipe (2) or on both sides of the feeding pipe (2), said at least one flushing channel (62,63,64) being open upwards.

2. Feeding system according to claim 1 wherein the second section (30) comprises a substantially cone-shaped part (32) and a feeding pan (40), where only the feeding pan (40) is rotatable.

3. Feeding system according to claim 1 or 2 wherein drain apertures (45) are pro- vided in a lowermost part (43) of the feeding pan (40) 4. Feeding system according to claim 1 or 2 wherein the second section (30) comprises a substantially cone-shaped part (32), said cone-shaped part (32) having an, in use upper rim (33) mounted to the first section such that feed from the feed pipe (2) is delivered to the outside surface of the cone-shaped part (32), and where in use a bot- tom perimeter (35) of the cone-shaped part (32) has means for engaging with the feed- ing pan (40), where said feeding pan (40) has a larger diameter than the bottom pe- rimeter (35) of the cone-shaped part (32).

5. Feeding system according to any of claims 2, 3 or 4, where the feeding pan (40) has an outer rim or lip (72) bent towards the feeding pipe (2), and where optionally the outer rim or lip (72) is provided with one or more spouts (66).

6. Feeding system according to claim 1 where said second section (30) comprises two separate parts (32,46), arranged coaxially around said second axis (100) where a first part is an outer substantially cone shaped part (32) and a second part (46) being an inner complementary cone shaped part, where said inner complementary cone shaped part (46) is formed with an integral feeding pan (40), said feeding pan (40) extending further in a radial direction than the outer substantially cone shaped part (32).

7. Feeding system according to claim 1 where said flushing channels (62,63,64) are open in use upwards and adapted to lead a cleaning liquid through the first section (20) in the direction of the second axis (100), onto an outside surface (37) of at least part of the second section (32).

8. Feeding system according to any preceding claim where the first section (20) com- prises a funnel (22), where said funnel (22) is connected to the aperture (6) in the feeding pipe, and in the opposite end is flared such that the funnel overlaps part of the second section (30).

9. Feeding system according to claim 1 wherein two apertures are provided in the feed- ing pipe (6,6’) , where the apertures are arranged substantially diametrically opposite and offset in the longitudinal direction of the pipe (2), such that in a first position a first aperture (6) is facing downwards towards the feeding pan (40), where said first aper- ture is positioned to allow feed to be dispensed to the outside surface (37) of the sec- ond section (cone) (30), and a second position where the second aperture is facing downwards towards the feeding pan, where said second aperture (6’) is positioned to dispense feed to the inside of the second section (cone) (30).

10. Feeding device suitable to be used with a feeding system according to any of claims 1 to 9, where the feeding devices (10) comprise first and second sections (20,30), where said first section (20) is adapted to be secured to a feeding pipe (2), such that when the feeding pipe (2) is rotated the feeding device (10) is also rotated and further that at least a part of said second section (30) is rotatably mounted to said first section (20), such that at least part of the second section (30) may rotate around a second axis (100) perpendicular to the longitudinal axis (4) of the feeding pipe (2) and where the second section (30) comprises a substantially cone shaped part (32) which partly co- vers a feeding pan (40), where said feeding pan (40) has an inner part (46) which is rotatably connected by means of a swivel joint (50) to a tower (24) projecting down- wards integral with the first section (20) which is fastened to the feeding pipe (2)whereby the second section (30) may be rotated relative to the first section (20) due to the provision of the swivel joint (50) and where a clip, fastener, nut or other suitable fastening means (70) is provided in the distal end of the tower (24).

11. Feeding device according to claim 10, where said second section (30) comprises a feeding pan (40), where said feeding pan (40) is provided with paddles (42) arranged radially relative to said second axis (100).

12. Feeding device according to claim 10, where the second section (30) comprises a substantially cone shaped part (32) which partly covers a feeding pan (40), where said feeding pan (40) has an inner part (46) which is rotatably connected by means of a swivel joint (50) to a tower (24) projecting downwards integral with the first section (20) which is fastened to the feeding pipe (2) whereby the second section (30) may be ro- tated relative to the first section (20) due to the provision of the swivel joint (50) and where a clip, fastener, nut or other suitable fastening means (70) is provided in the distal end of the tower (24) extending through the inner part of the second section (30).

13. Feeding device according to claim 10, where the feeding pan (40) is provided with a number of bulges (48), each bulge (48) having an apex (52) and where at least some of the bulges (48) are provided with slits (54), and further where at least some of the paddles (42) may be partly inserted in the slits (54) such that the feeding pan (40) is clicked on to the substantially cone shaped part (32), optionally the paddles (42) des- ignated to be inserted into the slits (54) are provided with a slight enlargement (56) along the lower edge of the paddle (42) such that once the paddle (42) is clicked into the slit (54) it requires a substantially force to pull them apart again.

14. Method of cleaning a feeding system according to any of claims 1 to 9, where said feeding system is suitable for distributing feed to poultry in a poultry rearing installation, where said system comprises a feeding pipe (2) through which the feed is transported to one or more feeding devices (10) according to any of claims 9 to 13 arranged along a longitudinal axis (4) of the feeding pipe (2), where the feeding pipe (2) may be rotated around its longitudinal axis (4) whereby also the feeding devices (10) are rotated, and where the feeding pipe is provided with apertures (6,6’) where feeding devices (10) are mounted on said feeding pipe (2) allowing feed to enter the feeding devices (10); where the cleaning procedure comprises the following steps:- step 1: the feeding pipe is rotated around the longitudinal axis approx.90 degrees, by the lugs (110) engaging corresponding lugs on the engagement ring (112), such that the rotation of the feed pipe (2) causes the feeding devices to be rotated as well; - step 2: the first and second sections of the feeding pans are pressure washed, whereby the second section rotates due to the influence of pressurized water. - step 3: the water is drained off the feeding pans which are thereafter rotated back to a position where the second axis is substantially vertical.

15. Method of cleaning a feeding system according to any of claims 1 to 9, where said feeding system is suitable for distributing feed to poultry in a poultry rearing installation, where said system comprises a feeding pipe (2) through which the feed is transported to one or more feeding devices (10) according to any of claims 9 to 13 arranged along a longitudinal axis (4) of the feeding pipe (2), where the feeding pipe (2) may be rotated around its longitudinal axis (4), and where the feeding pipe is provided with apertures (6,6’) where feeding devices (10) are mounted on said feeding pipe (2) allowing feed to enter the feeding devices (10); where the cleaning procedure comprises the follow- ing steps: - step 1: the first and second sections of the feeding pans are pressure washed, by introducing pressurized washing medium through a flushing channel (63) arranged ad- jacent the feeding pipe, whereby the second section rotates due to the influence of pressurized water. - step 2: the water is drained off the feeding pans through drain apertures (45) provided in the lowermost part of the feeding pan (40) which are thereafter rotated back to a position where the second axis is substantially vertical.

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