Device for dispensing animal feed, and method for dispensing wet feed carried out by such device

Abstract

The invention relates to a device (2) for dispensing animal feed, comprising a housing (6) in which a feed reservoir (8A) and a wet feed dispensing unit (10) are arranged. The invention relates to a wet feed dispensing unit (10) adapted to accommodate a removable wet feed bag (4) provided with an open neck for the bag (4), the wet feed dispensing unit (10) comprising:-an electromechanical device (24) for supplying wet feed from the bag (4) to the feed reservoir (8A), the invention relates to an electromechanical device comprising means (36B) for pressing and / or pressing the bag (4) and means (38, 38A, 38B) for clamping at least one edge of the bag (4), the clamping means (38, 38A, 38B) being configured to clamp at least one edge of the bag (4). 38A, 38B) is motorized and mounted to be movable between a pushed position in which said at least one edge of the bag (4) is pushed towards the neck and a pulled position in which said at least one edge of the bag (4) is pulled away from the neck; and means for controlling the electromechanical device (24) capable of controlling the dispensing of the wet feed from the bag (4) towards the feed reservoir (8A).

Description

[0001] The present invention relates to the field of devices for dispensing animal feed, in particular wet feed, which is usually intended for small pets such as cats or dogs. The wet feed is for example (but not limited to) animal pate. The invention also relates to an assembly comprising such a device and a wet feed bag installed in the device; and to a method for dispensing wet feed implemented by such a device.

[0002] In the field of devices for dispensing animal feed, feed receptacles that control the animal's access to wet feed are known. For example, prior art solutions involve equipping an animal (e.g. a cat) with a microchip, which is usually worn on a collar around the animal's neck or via an intradermal chip. For example, the receptacle is equipped with a removable lid that prevents access to the feed when closed. The receptacle is equipped with an electronic control device for opening the lid, and a chip identification device (e.g. a detection ring) connected to the control device. In this way, an animal equipped with a chip and approaching the receptacle controls the opening of the lid and thus has free access to the wet feed. However, a disadvantage of this type of receptacle is that it needs to be manually refilled by the user each time the feed is dispensed. In addition, once the wet feed is removed from its packaging, it will oxidize within about four to eight hours, even when protected from the ambient air.

[0003] Therefore, it is necessary to be able to automatically and repeatedly dispense wet feed (such as French pate), so that users can more easily handle their own affairs, while meeting the nutritional needs of animals. For this purpose, a dispenser that automatically delivers a predetermined dose of wet feed is known. For example, patent US 9 232 769 B1 describes such a wet feed dispenser. The dispenser comprises a feed dispensing unit and a plurality of wet feed bags arranged in the upper part of the unit. The feed dispensing unit is provided with a housing, a receptacle arranged in the lower part of the housing; an electromechanical device, which is arranged in the middle part of the housing, for supplying feed from the bag to the receptacle; and a device for controlling the electromechanical device. Each bag is fastened to the housing from the top and bottom via top and bottom fixing clips arranged on the housing. The electromechanical device comprises a servomotor equipped with a shaft, which itself is connected to a belt / pulley system. The belt is connected to a movable arm via a connector, which passes through a channel formed in the housing. Therefore, the arm equipped with a rotating blade at its free end is translated along the channel by the action of the motorized belt / pulley system. In operation, the arm with its blade cuts through one end of a bag pre-positioned on the housing, enabling the wet feed to be dispensed into the receptacle. However, a disadvantage of the feed dispenser described in this patent document is that it requires the consumption of a whole bag of wet feed for each dose of feed dispensed. This results in feed waste and overconsumption by the animals, and undermines the autonomy of the device.

[0004] Another disadvantage of such dispensers is that they do not guarantee bacterial and antioxidant protection for wet feed. This is because the feed receptacle and the opening mechanism, and even the bag itself once opened, are still in contact with air carrying microorganisms and bacteria, which are sources of bacterial contamination.

[0005] The object of the present invention is therefore to provide a device for dispensing feed, in particular wet feed, to animals which enables metering of a precise amount of wet feed suitable for the animals and thus both avoids wasting feed and increases the autonomy of the device (while saving on feed refills).

[0006] Another object of the present invention is to provide a simple and reliable automated device for dispensing wet animal feed, which in particular ensures bacterial and antioxidant protection of the wet feed.

[0007] To achieve these aims, the present disclosure relates to a device for distributing feed for animals, the device comprising a housing comprising a feed receptacle and a wet feed distributing unit, the wet feed distributing unit being adapted to accommodate a removable wet feed bag, the wet feed distributing unit being configured to ensure retention and fastening of the bag so that the bag then extends at least partially along a main axis, the bag being provided with an open neck for the bag, the neck being deformable between at least an open position and a closed position, being provided on a lower part of the bag and being arranged to face the feed receptacle when the bag is accommodated in the wet feed distributing unit, the wet feed distributing unit comprising:

[0008] - an electromechanical device for supplying wet feed from the bag to the feed reservoir, and

[0009] - A control device for an electromechanical device capable of controlling the transfer of wet feed from a bag to a feed storage container.

[0010] According to the present invention, the electromechanical device comprises:

[0011] - at least one block comprising a gripping element for holding a portion of the bag arranged transversely to the neck, the gripping element being mounted to move in translation along an axis transverse or substantially transverse to the main axis, and a motor for driving the gripping element between a position corresponding to an open position of the neck of the portion of the bag held in this way and a position corresponding to a closed position of the neck of the portion of the bag pulled away from the portion held in this way,

[0012] when the electromechanical device comprises two blocks, the blocks are configured to hold a first portion and a second portion of the bag placed transversely to the neck and on either side of the neck,

[0013] the electromechanical device comprises at least one element for holding a second portion of the bag placed transversely to the neck, when the electromechanical device comprises a single block for clamping a first portion of the bag placed transversely to the neck, the first and second portions being located on either side of the neck, and

[0014] The blocks or the block and the retaining element are configured such that the neck can be selectively opened or closed, wherein the first part and the second part of the bag are tensioned in a pulled position to close the neck and ensure bacterial and antioxidant protection of the wet feed.

[0015] The present disclosure advantageously enables the same bag, which has been opened, to be kept in a wet feed dispensing unit for a longer period of time without changing the quality of its contents. Tests have shown that the same 500 gram bag of wet feed (double nutrition) can be used in the feed dispenser at room temperature for two (2) to five (5) days after the feed dispenser has been opened. There is no need to store the bag in a cold room after opening.

[0016] Preferably, the housing comprises a one-piece, die-cast aluminum shell.

[0017] The present disclosure also relates to a device for dispensing feed for animals, the device comprising a housing including a feed receptacle and a wet feed dispensing unit, the wet feed dispensing unit being adapted to accommodate a removable wet feed bag, being adapted to be held and fastened within the housing and being provided with a neck for opening the bag, the neck being deformable between at least an open position and a closed position, being provided on a lower part of the bag and being arranged to face the feed receptacle when the bag is accommodated in the wet feed dispensing unit, the wet feed dispensing unit comprising:

[0018] - an electromechanical device for supplying wet feed from the bag to the feed reservoir; and

[0019] - A control device for an electromechanical device capable of controlling the transfer of wet feed from a bag to a feed storage container.

[0020] According to the present invention, the electromechanical device comprises:

[0021] a bag squeezing / pressing assembly movable along the main axis to squeeze and / or compress at least a portion of the bag, and

[0022] - a first block, the first block comprising:

[0023] a first element for gripping a first portion of the bag arranged transversely to the neck, the first gripping element being mounted for translational movement along an axis transverse or substantially transverse to the main axis defined by the axis of movement of the bag squeezing / pressing assembly, and

[0024] - a motor for moving the first clamping element between the following positions:

[0025] - the position of the first portion of the bag thus clamped corresponding to the open position of the neck, and

[0026] - pulling away the position of the first part of the bag thus clamped corresponding to the closed position of the neck,

[0027] - a second block, the second block comprising:

[0028] - a second element for holding a second portion of the bag positioned transversely to the neck, the first and second portions of the bag being situated on either side of the neck,

[0029] a second clamping element, fixed so as to form a retaining element for the second portion of the bag or mounted for translational movement along an axis transverse or substantially transverse to the main axis defined by the axis of movement of the bag squeezing / pressing assembly,

[0030] - The first piece and the second piece are configured so that the neck can be selectively opened or closed, wherein the first part and the second part of the bag are tensioned in the pulled position to close the neck and ensure bacterial and antioxidant protection of the wet feed.

[0031] The present disclosure also relates to a device for distributing feed for animals, the device comprising a housing in which a feed receptacle and a wet feed distributing unit are arranged, the wet feed distributing unit being adapted to receive a removable wet feed bag, being adapted to be held and fastened within the housing and being provided with a neck for opening the bag, the neck being deformable between an open position and a closed position, being provided on a lower part of the bag and being arranged to face the feed receptacle when the bag is received in the wet feed distributing unit, the wet feed distributing unit comprising:

[0032] - an electromechanical device for supplying wet feed from the bag to the feed reservoir; and

[0033] - A control device for an electromechanical device capable of controlling the transfer of wet feed from a bag to a feed storage container.

[0034] According to the present invention, the electromechanical device comprises:

[0035] - bag squeezing and / or pressing means; and

[0036] - means for gripping at least one edge of the bag, the gripping means being motorized and mounted to be movable between a pushed position in which the at least one edge of the bag is pushed towards the neck and a pulled position in which the at least one edge of the bag is pulled away from the neck, the bag being configured so that the pushed position of the at least one edge of the bag corresponds to the neck open position and the pulled position of the at least one edge of the bag corresponds to the neck closed position, the gripping means being configured to enable the neck to be selectively opened or closed.

[0037] Although the device according to the invention is suitable for distributing feed to all types of animals, in particular pets, the device according to the invention is particularly suitable for distributing feed to cats whose physiological needs require a moist diet (most cats do not drink enough water) and whose biological rhythm results in approximately ten small meals per twenty-four hours. The distributed wet feed may be an animal pate, in particular a cat's pate.

[0038] Due to the specific configuration of the bag, in combination with the presence in the electromechanical device of means for squeezing and / or pressing the bag and of means for clamping at least one edge of the bag, the feed dispensing device according to the invention makes it possible to meter a precise amount of wet feed suitable for the animals (and in particular to deliver a precise individualized dose of feed, typically a dose of wet feed in the range of 10 g to 100 g). In addition, since the neck of the bag is deformable between an open position and a closed position by pulling or pushing the edge of the bag, and since the clamping means are configured to allow selective opening or closing of the neck, the interior of the neck (and therefore of the bag) remains airtight due to the closure of the neck, outside during the wet feed dispensing. The contents of the opened bag remain airtight and germ-proof for the duration of the emptying process, since the opening surface of the neck is minimal, almost always sealed, free of residues (which fall due to gravity) and inside a completely closed machine (no contact with pets or insects). In addition, since the neck of the bag is integral with the bag and acts as a stopper due to the means for clamping at least one edge of the bag, all feed that passes through the neck falls into the receptacle by gravity, or remains suspended in the completely sealed neck. As a result, no air comes into contact with the contents of the neck (and by extension with the bag). This guarantees effective bacterial and antioxidant protection of the wet feed. It should also be noted that the bag has no pads, stoppers or moving accessories, nor are there any residues on the outside; nor is there any suction to draw air into the bag: the feed is pushed out of the bag, or is safely held inside the bag. The constant upright position of the bag also means that the wet feed closes the opening of the neck and prevents the entry of air. On the other hand, the dose of wet feed dispensed and any residues are protected from contact with the outside (via the shield provided by the housing of the device) and from contact with the mechanical parts of the device, but only with the various feed receptacles, which are preferably removable and thus constitute the only parts of the device that need to be cleaned. In fact, the doses and residues of the wet feed dispensed fall by gravity directly into the various feed receptacles of the device without coming into contact with any part of the electromechanical device. Finally, the feed dispensing device according to the invention is simple, reliable and has good autonomy (thanks to the dispensing of predetermined doses corresponding to the portions of wet feed contained in the bag).

[0039] According to one embodiment of the device for dispensing animal feed, each gripping element is configured to grip a portion of the bag situated between the neck and a corresponding transverse edge of the bag, the neck being excluded.

[0040] According to another embodiment of the device for dispensing animal feed, the retaining element is a lug or a fixed clamping element.

[0041] The term "lug" refers to a small protrusion designed to engage in a hole provided for this purpose in the corresponding side of the bag.

[0042] According to a further embodiment of the device for dispensing animal feed, the neck of the bag has at least two stable opening geometries, each block being configured to selectively move from a neck-closing position to each opening position when the or each block holds a corresponding portion of the bag arranged transversely to the neck in its predetermined opening position, each of these positions being reached by a translational movement of the one or more blocks along the transverse axis.

[0043] Advantageously, the shape of the neck can then be adjusted to adapt the rheology of the wet feed (such as a two-component pate) and / or the number of phases / components. In the latter case, the product can be, for example, a pate with chunks in a jelly.

[0044] By way of illustration only, a first of the opening positions corresponding to the stable opening geometry of the neck (the so-called forced opening position) corresponds to the position of the bag intended for the block or each block, wherein the block pushes a corresponding part of the bag arranged transversely to the neck.

[0045] To perform this push, the corresponding block is moved towards the neck.

[0046] The forced open position corresponds, for example, to a "fully open" neck geometry, and to a circular or substantially circular neck cross-section, the latter being reached when the at least one block is positioned closest to the neck.

[0047] According to another description, another of the opening positions corresponding to the stable opening geometry of the neck, called the normal opening position of the bag, corresponds to the position of the block or each block, wherein the corresponding part of the bag arranged transversely to the neck is not tensioned by the block.

[0048] For example, the stable opening position corresponds to a neck opening geometry, wherein the neck has a straight cat's eye cross-section.

[0049] According to a further embodiment of the device for dispensing animal feed, each block is configured such that when the bag is held in the housing, the transverse or substantially transverse axis of movement of the clamping element of the block is positioned between the lower and upper ends of the neck.

[0050] According to another embodiment of the device for dispensing animal feed, each clamping element comprises one or more objects selected from the group consisting of: teeth, pointed elements such as needles or pins, pressure bars with or without rubber, fastening pins or studs intended to cooperate with corresponding orifices placed in the lower part of the bag, shapes and counter-shapes and combinations of these elements.

[0051] According to a further embodiment of the device for dispensing animal feed, each clamping element is formed by a clamping jaw for clamping, by each of the faces of the bag, a portion of the bag arranged transversely to the neck.

[0052] According to another embodiment of the device for dispensing animal feed, the electromechanical device further comprises a component for squeezing and / or pressing the bag, the component defining a main axis, the component for squeezing and / or pressing the bag moving along the main axis to squeeze and / or press at least a portion of the bag.

[0053] Preferably, the bag squeezing and / or pressing assembly comprises two parallel motorized rollers, each of which is mounted to move in translation along the main axis within a housing and to extend in a direction transverse to the main axis, the bag being intended to be held by being squeezed between the rollers extending between the rollers when the bag is received in the wet feed dispensing unit, with the neck of the bag extending below the rollers.

[0054] As the rollers move downwards, the wet feed slides towards the neck of the bag and therefore towards the bag outlet, falling into the feed receptacle by gravity. This configuration of squeezing and / or pressing the bag using parallel motorized rollers enables the bag to be effectively pressed to drop the wet feed into the receptacle, while adapting the length of the roller descent to the dose of wet feed to be dispensed and the height at which the rollers are positioned relative to the bag (a 1 cm descent of the roller squeezes out a varying amount of wet feed, depending on the relative position of the rollers to the bag). For this purpose, a linear regression law may advantageously be implemented in the data processing unit to control the movement of the rollers (profile, speed, pressure, height of descent, etc.) in order to control the flow of the wet feed and the uniform distribution of the dose, regardless of the position of the rollers.

[0055] Advantageously, the two parallel rollers extend in the same horizontal plane when in the bag squeezing position, each of the two rollers extending in a direction perpendicular to the vertical direction.

[0056] Preferably, the device for distributing animal feed comprises at least one pair of guide sections positioned relative to each other in the upper part of the housing, the guide sections enabling the rollers to be guided between a stowed or retracted position and an operating position, in which the rollers engage the bag, the upper ends of the guide sections bringing the rollers to their retracted position being inclined so as to increase the distance separating the rollers and to facilitate positioning of the bag in the wet feed distributing unit when the rollers are in the retracted position.

[0057] Advantageously, the retracted position is positioned above a fastening element for hanging the bag in a wet feed dispensing unit.

[0058] According to a further embodiment of the device for dispensing animal feed, the electromechanical device further comprises at least one roller support member, preferably two roller support members, the at least one support member being connected to a motor or servomotor so that the motor or servomotor can move in translation within the housing, the at least one support member having a first portion for holding one of the two rollers, the first portion being configured to form a pivot connection for the roller, and a second portion for holding the other roller, the second portion of the member being provided with an elliptical recess configured to accommodate the other roller in a first portion of the recess, the first portion of the recess corresponding to a position in which the rollers are brought together, or in a second portion of the recess corresponding to a position in which the rollers are moved apart, the first and second portions of the elliptical recess being vertically and / or horizontally offset from each other. Such a configuration of the support member provides an effective means for enabling the bag to be easily inserted between the rollers when the bag is mounted in the device while allowing the rollers to be brought closer together and thus squeeze the bag when the vertical lowering movement of the rollers is initiated. This is because, when the support member is driven downward by the motor, the roller inserted in the rectangular recess moves upward into the first part of the recess, bringing it closer to the other roller. When the support member is not driven to translate by the motor, the roller inserted in the oval recess falls back into the second part of the recess and then moves away from the other roller (so that the bag can be inserted or replaced).

[0059] The support member extends, for example, transversely to the main extension direction of the roller in a substantially vertical plane. The length of the oblong recess can advantageously be oriented along an axis inclined to the vertical, in particular along an axis forming an angle with the vertical of between 15 and 45 degrees, for example substantially equal to 20 degrees. According to one embodiment of the invention, each of the two rollers is rotatably mounted in the at least one support member about its main extension axis. Each of the two rollers can, for example, be mounted to rotate freely about a rod, which itself is inserted in the at least one support member.

[0060] According to yet another embodiment of the device for dispensing animal feed, the clamping element is a device for clamping two opposite edges of the bag and consists of two clamps, at least one of which is motorized, each clamp being configured to hold by clamping the lower edge of the bag, which is located on the lower part of the bag. This enables precise control of the opening or closing of the bag neck and therefore effective control of the dispensing of each dose of wet feed without damaging the bag.

[0061] According to another embodiment of the device for dispensing animal feed, the device also includes a movable drawer, in which the feed storage is arranged, the drawer is movably mounted in the housing between an open position, in which the feed is accessible from the outside of the housing, and a closed position, in which the feed is not accessible from the outside of the housing, and the device also includes a control device for the movable drawer, which control device is able to control the opening or closing of the movable drawer. This further enhances the bacterial and antioxidant protection of the wet feed. The reason is that after the wet feed has been distributed into the storage device, the wet feed remains protected from air because the drawer is only opened by the control device when the animal eats. If the animal does not finish eating the wet feed, the drawer will close and the wet feed remains protected from oxidation and sources of pollution / contamination.

[0062] Advantageously, the movable drawer is a removable drawer and is, for example, clipped into an opening in the housing. This facilitates removal of the drawer for easy cleaning.

[0063] According to another embodiment of the device for dispensing animal feed, the device for dispensing animal feed comprises an element for locking the position of the bag when the bag is accommodated in the unit, such as a horizontal or vertical hinge, a lock or a latch.

[0064] According to a further embodiment of the device for dispensing animal feed, the feed receptacle is a removable, interchangeable receptacle.

[0065] Advantageously, the feed dispensing device further comprises a scale, such as an electronic scale, arranged in the removable drawer. Such a scale is capable of accurately weighing each dose of wet feed dispensed and the wet feed consumed by the animal (the difference between the weight of the drawer contents before and after opening).

[0066] Illustratively, each feed receptacle is a magnetized bowl mounted on a load cell module for weighing the bowl.

[0067] The load cell module may be powered by a power supply.Alternatively, or as a redundant power supply, the load cell module may include circuitry and battery space, wherein one or more batteries are coupled to the circuitry and battery space.

[0068] According to a further embodiment of the device for distributing animal feed, the wet feed distributing unit further comprises means for fastening the upper part of the bag within the housing.

[0069] Advantageously, the means for securing the upper portion of the bag within the housing comprises jaws fixed in the housing and configured to hold the upper portion of the bag by squeezing over substantially the entire width of the bag. Such jaws hold the bag securely in place within the housing and distribute the pulling of the bag over the entire width of the housing. The jaws are preferably coated on their face in contact with the bag with a rubber strip defining, for example, an overlapping sawtooth pattern to facilitate squeezing of the bag by the jaws.

[0070] According to yet another embodiment of the device for distributing animal feed, the upper part of the wet feed distributing unit comprises a fastening element for hanging the bag, the fastening element being selected from the group consisting of: a rod, a straight suspension rod, a suspension rod with an elongated body of curved shape, a hook, and a hook whose cross section increases towards its base. Preferably, the base of these hooks has a circular cross section. In fact, it is important that the cross section should not have any angles so as not to create weak points in the bag.

[0071] Advantageously, the diameter of the bag hole intended to receive the hook is slightly smaller than the diameter of the corresponding hook base, so that when the bag hole comes into contact with the hook base, the material of the bag deforms. This deformation creates a bead of material in the portion of the bag surrounding the hole, which creates greater friction and thus ensures better grip and improves retention of the bag in place.

[0072] This design also allows the bag to be pulled tighter with the squeezing and / or pressing assembly and block. The forces are then observed to be better distributed.

[0073] According to another embodiment of the device for dispensing animal feed, the device also includes a data processing unit and a camera connected to the data processing unit, the data processing unit is connected to the control device of the electromechanical device, and the camera is positioned on the front side of the shell and is configured to capture an image in front of the shell.

[0074] Preferably, the camera is an infrared camera.The infrared camera is configured, for example, to present a field of view substantially equal to 120 degrees.

[0075] According to a further embodiment of the device for dispensing animal feed, the data processing unit comprises storage means for storing a neural network which has been trained to learn using training data comprising data from at least one database containing images of animals.

[0076] In this way, the data processing unit is able to detect the presence of an animal of a predetermined type (e.g. a "cat" type) in front of the feed dispensing device (in particular by means of obesity detection via a camera) and, accordingly, initiate a feed supply sequence. For example, each dose of wet feed is extracted from the bag only when an animal corresponding to the predetermined type of animal (e.g. a cat) presents itself to the device. If the cat does not finish its dose of wet feed, the removable drawer closes and the feed remains protected from oxidation and contamination. This gives the feed dispensing device according to the invention an automated and intelligent appearance. Preferably, the data processing unit is configured in such a way that, whenever the neural network recognizes an animal that is in the field of view of the camera and corresponds to the predetermined type of animal, the data processing unit stores a photograph of the animal (taken by the camera) in its storage device.

[0077] According to a further embodiment of the device for dispensing animal feed, the device further comprises a unit for dispensing dry feed, such as kibble, the dry feed dispensing unit being arranged inside the housing.

[0078] Preferably, the dry feed dispensing unit comprises an auger for dispensing the dry feed.

[0079] Thus, a feed dispensing device so constructed can deliver dry and wet feed (mixed diet) and is controlled by an electronic control device and a (parameterized) data processing unit, in particular enabling users to easily and flexibly manage the dietary transition of their pets (such as cats) towards gradually increasing wet feed (e.g. gradually increasing the ratio of calories provided by wet feed to calories provided by dry feed). The feed dispensing device is configured, for example, to have an autonomy of about two to five days for wet feed bags (before refilling) and an autonomy of about twenty days for dry feed dispensing.

[0080] According to a further embodiment of the device for dispensing animal feed, the device comprises a light or audible indicator of device operation, which is connected to the data processing unit and is located on one side of the housing (eg on the front side of the housing). The device operation indicator is for example a light emitting diode.

[0081] According to a further embodiment of the device for dispensing animal feed, the device comprises a loudspeaker connected to the data processing unit and positioned on one side of the housing (e.g. on the front side of the housing). The loudspeaker is configured to broadcast a pre-recorded sound or voice, typically the voice of the owner of the animal to be fed via the device according to the invention (the broadcast of such a voice is intended to call the animal to approach the device), for example, within the data processing unit.

[0082] According to a further embodiment of the device for dispensing animal feed, the device further comprises wireless communication means, which are connected to the data processing unit and are based on, for example, the Wi-Fi protocol, the Bluetooth protocol or any other protocol known to a person skilled in the art. The wireless communication means of the device are capable of communicating with a mobile communication device and / or a remote server, in particular enabling feed dosage setting, manual activation of feed dispensing, reporting of various parameters and monitoring of parameters.

[0083] According to a further embodiment of the device for dispensing animal feed, the device comprises a material recovery device, such as a debris catcher.

[0084] The material recovery apparatus is advantageously movable between a cleanup position and an active position.

[0085] For example, the material recovery device may slide over a feed storage container.

[0086] According to yet another embodiment of the device for dispensing animal feed, the device comprises an element for pressing the lower fastening member via a reverse threaded screw.

[0087] By way of illustration only, the apparatus may include a motor and two fastening members that move in opposite directions away from each other.

[0088] According to a second aspect, the invention also relates to a wet animal feed bag provided with a neck for opening the bag, the neck being deformable between an open position and a closed position and being provided on a lower part of the bag.

[0089] According to the invention, the bag is suitable for being received in a wet feed dispensing unit of an apparatus for dispensing animal feed as previously described, and

[0090] the neck comprises a continuous lip which is separable from one another to define an opening of the bag for the passage of a portion of its contents, the lip forming a sealing barrier when tension is applied thereto by exerting a pulling force on at least one of the bag portions located transversely to the neck,

[0091] the neck is configured to present cross-sections of different shapes for at least two different open positions thereof, one of the open positions being a so-called forced one and corresponding to a cross-section of the neck of a circular or substantially circular shape when a push is performed thereon, and

[0092] - When the neck allows the wet feed to pass and when it is at rest, i.e. not tensioned, the ratio between the width (LG) and the height (HG) of the neck is between 1.5 and 10, preferably between 2 and 4, and even more preferably equal to 2.5, so as to ensure a regular flow of the wet feed through the neck.

[0093] Advantageously, the neck of the bag has technical features that ensure smooth flow of its contents when using or employing the device for dispensing wet feed as described above. This avoids, for example, the formation of jets of wet feed that make it impossible to control the amount of wet feed dispensed.

[0094] The bag also features at least two "stable opening geometries or shapes" to allow for adjustment of the rheology and / or number of phases of the wet feed contained therein.

[0095] By "stable geometry or opening shape" of a bag neck we mean that the configuration of the bag neck remains stable over time when a constant tension is applied to a portion of the bag disposed transversely to the neck, or conversely in the absence of such tension.

[0096] Preferably, the bag is made of a single plastic material, such as a thermoplastic, advantageously a polyolefin, such as polypropylene (PP).

[0097] According to an embodiment of the wet animal feed bag, the bag comprises means configured to cooperate with the squeezing and / or pressing assembly and with the clamping element or the clamping element and the holding element of the feed dispensing device to enable wet feed dispensing.

[0098] According to another embodiment of the wet animal feed bag, the bag has a generally rectangular shape when lying flat and not filled with wet feed, and the bag is provided with four apertures located at the four corners of the rectangle formed by the bag. Preferably, of the two apertures located at the upper corners of the rectangle formed by the bag, one of the apertures has a rectangular shape, the length of the rectangular aperture being oriented along the width of the rectangle formed by the bag, and the other aperture has a generally triangular shape. Such a configuration of apertures facilitates mounting and keeping the bag in place within the wet feed dispensing unit of the feed dispensing device.

[0099] According to yet another embodiment of the wet animal feed bag, the means for fastening the upper part of the bag in the housing (typically bag fastening jaws) comprises a first pair of pins configured to be inserted into two apertures located at the upper corners of the rectangle formed by the bag. The means for clamping at least one edge of the bag (typically motorized clamps) comprises a second pair of pins configured to be inserted into two apertures located at the bottom corners of the rectangle formed by the bag. This cooperation between the pins and the apertures in the bag makes it possible to easily install the bag in the wet feed dispensing unit of the device.

[0100] According to yet another embodiment of the wet animal feed bag, the ratio between the height of the funnel (HE) and the width of the neck (LG) is greater than 1.5 and preferably greater than 2 when the neck allows the wet feed to pass through and when it is at rest (ie not under tension).

[0101] According to a third aspect, the invention also relates to an assembly comprising an apparatus for dispensing animal feed as described above and a wet animal feed bag as described above, mounted in the apparatus and accommodated in a wet feed dispensing unit of the apparatus.

[0102] According to a fourth aspect, the present invention also relates to a method for distributing wet animal feed, the method being implemented by a wet feed distributing unit of an apparatus for distributing animal feed as described above, the method comprising the following steps:

[0103] installing a wet feed bag as described above in a wet feed dispensing unit such that the neck of the bag extends opposite the feed receptacle; and

[0104] - activating control means of the electromechanical device to control the dispensing of wet feed from the bag to the feed receptacle, activation of the control means causing the clamping means to move towards a position pushing the at least one edge of the bag towards the neck, thereby allowing the neck to be opened.

[0105] According to one embodiment of the invention, the data processing unit activates the control means of the electromechanical device to control the dispensing of wet feed from the bags to the feed storage container, the activation being caused by the neural network recognizing an animal type corresponding to a predetermined animal type when the animal is present in the field of view of the camera.

[0106] According to one embodiment of the invention, each activation of the control means of the electromechanical device also causes the two rollers to move vertically downwardly within the housing with a vertical downward pitch, the length of which the rollers are lowered with the vertical downward pitch being predetermined and corresponding to the dispensing of a predetermined dose of wet feed.

[0107] According to a further aspect of the invention, the invention relates to a device for dispensing feed for animals, the device comprising a housing comprising a feed receptacle and a wet feed dispensing unit, the wet feed dispensing unit being adapted to accommodate a removable wet feed bag, adapted to be held and fastened within the housing and provided with a neck for opening the bag, the neck being deformable between at least an open position and a closed position, being provided on a lower part of the bag and being arranged to face the feed receptacle when the bag is accommodated in the wet feed dispensing unit, the wet feed dispensing unit comprising:

[0108] - an electromechanical device for supplying wet feed from the bag to the feed reservoir; and

[0109] - A control device for an electromechanical device capable of controlling the transfer of wet feed from a bag to a feed storage container.

[0110] According to the invention, the upper part of the wet feed dispensing unit comprises fastening elements for hanging the upper part of the bag, the fastening elements being hooks whose base has a circular or substantially circular cross section.

[0111] Preferably, the base of each of the hooks has a circular cross-section.

[0112] In fact, it is important that the cross section does not have any angles so as not to create weak points in the bag.

[0113] Advantageously, the diameter of the bag hole intended to receive the hook is slightly smaller than the diameter of the corresponding hook base, so that when the bag hole comes into contact with the hook base, the material of the bag deforms. This deformation creates a bead of material in the portion of the bag surrounding the hole, which creates greater friction and thus ensures better grip and improves retention of the bag in place.

[0114] This design also allows the bag to be pulled tighter with the squeezing and / or pressing assembly and the block. It is advantageously observed that the forces are better distributed.

[0115] The hooks may be curved, for example.

[0116] The terms "horizontal", "vertical" or "lateral", "lower", "upper", "top", "bottom", "side" are defined relative to the orientation of the feed dispensing device according to the invention. In particular, in the present application, the term "vertical" refers to an orientation perpendicular to a horizontal plane, while the term "horizontal" refers to an orientation parallel to a horizontal plane.

[0117] The invention will be described in more detail by way of non-limiting embodiments and on the basis of the accompanying drawings, which comprise:

[0118] -[ Figure 1 ] is a perspective view of an assembly according to the present invention, the assembly comprising a feed dispensing apparatus and a wet feed bag, the apparatus comprising a housing in which the wet feed bag and the feed receptacle are mounted;

[0119] -[ Figure 2 ] is similar to Figure 1 a view of a view of a housing in a bag mounted configuration, and in particular a wet feed bag housed in a wet feed dispensing unit of the apparatus, with the feed receptacle in an open position, the wet feed dispensing unit including an electromechanical device in the form of a motorized roller for supplying wet feed from the bag to the feed receptacle;

[0120] -[ Figure 3 ]yes Figure 2 a front view of the assembly shown with the feed receptacle in a closed position;

[0121] -[ Figure 4 ] is similar to Figure 2 's view with the wet feed bag omitted;

[0122] -[ Figure 5 ] is shown Figure 2a perspective view of a detail of the assembly shown;

[0123] -[ Figure 6 ]yes Figure 2 Front view of wet feed bag shown;

[0124] -[ Figure 7 ] is similar to Figure 2 a view of a view of the rollers in a lowered position, the feed container in a closed position, the electromechanical device including means for clamping two opposing edges of the wet feed bag;

[0125] -[ Figure 8 ]yes Figure 7 A perspective view of the interior of the housing of the wet feed bag and feed dispensing device is shown;

[0126] -[ Fig. 9 ] is similar to Figure 7 's view with the wet feed bag omitted;

[0127] -[ Fig.10 ]yes Fig. 9 Another perspective view of the components of

[0128] -[ Fig.11 ] is similar to Figure 8 A view of a view of the invention in which the wet feed bag is omitted, the electromechanical device comprising two roller support members;

[0129] -[ Fig.12 ]yes Fig.11 A side view of one of the roller support members is shown;

[0130] -[ Fig.13 ]yes Figure 7 a perspective view of the clamping device and the lower portion of the wet feed bag in a non-dispensing wet feed configuration corresponding to a pulled position of the clamping device; and

[0131] -[ Fig.14 ] is similar to Fig.13 , the clamping device and the lower portion of the wet feed bag are in a wet feed dispensing configuration corresponding to the pushed position of the clamping device;

[0132] -[ Fig.15 ] is a schematic diagram of an assembly including a feed dispensing device and a wet feed bag according to another embodiment of the present invention, the assembly being viewed from the rear;

[0133] -[ Fig.16 ]yes Fig.15 An enlarged partial view of the assembly is shown, showing the hooks for hanging the bag, which are located on the upper part of the housing.

[0134] -[ Fig.17 ] is a schematic diagram of a hook for hanging a bag in another embodiment;

[0135] -[ Fig.18 ] is a schematic diagram of a hook for hanging a bag in another embodiment;

[0136] -[ Fig.19 ] is a schematic diagram of a movable drawer accommodated in the lower part of the housing of a feed dispensing device according to another embodiment of the present invention;

[0137] -[ Fig. 20 ] is a perspective view from below the movable drawer in the lower part of the housing;

[0138] -[ Fig.21 ] shows a material recovery apparatus according to a specific embodiment of the present invention;

[0139] -[ Fig. 22 ] shows a dry feed dispensing unit according to a particular embodiment of the present invention;

[0140] -[ Fig.23 ] is a partial schematic diagram of a block of electromechanical equipment of a wet feed dispensing unit according to another specific embodiment of the present invention;

[0141] -[ Fig.24 ] is only Fig.23 Schematic diagram of the jaws of the clamping element of the block shown in;

[0142] -[ Fig.25 ] is a schematic diagram of a bag according to another embodiment of the present invention;

[0143] Figures 1 to 3 , Figure 5 and Figure 7 There is shown an assembly 1 comprising an apparatus 2 for dispensing animal feed and a bag of wet animal feed 4 mounted within the apparatus 2. The apparatus 2 is typically designed for dispensing feed for a small pet, such as a cat or a dog.

[0144] The feed dispensing device 2 comprises a housing 6 in which are arranged at least one feed storage 8A, 8B, a wet feed dispensing unit 10, a dry feed dispensing unit 12, a scale, a data processing unit and a wireless communication device (these latter three elements are not shown in the figure for the sake of clarity). Figures 1 to 4 , Figure 7 , Fig. 9 and Fig.10As shown, the feed storage 8A, 8B is arranged in a drawer 14 that is movably mounted in the housing 6, and the feed dispensing device 2 also includes means for controlling the movable drawer 14 (not shown in the figure for the sake of clarity). Even more preferably, the feed dispensing device 2 also includes a camera 16, which is connected to the data processing unit and is positioned on one side of the housing 6, typically on the front side 18 of the housing 6 (the front side 18 of the housing 6 is defined as the side facing the animal when the animal wishes to eat). Even more preferably, the feed dispensing device 2 also includes a light or sound indicator 19 for indicating the operation of the device 2, which is connected to the data processing unit and is positioned on one side of the housing 6, typically on the front side 18 of the housing 6. Even more preferably, the feed dispensing device 2 also includes a speaker (not shown in the figure for the sake of clarity), which is connected to the data processing unit and is positioned on one side of the housing 6, typically on the front side 18 of the housing 6. Even more preferably, the feed dispensing device 2 further comprises an interface for manually controlling the device 2 (not shown in the figure for the sake of clarity), which interface is connected to the data processing unit and is positioned on one side of the housing 6, typically on the upper side 20 of the housing 6. The feed dispensing device 2 further comprises a series of servomotors and sensors, which will not be described in more detail herein. Figures 1 to 4 as well as Figures 7 to 10 As shown, the housing 6 is advantageously provided with a door 21 which is pivotally mounted on the housing 6 and which allows access to the interior of the housing 6 when opened.

[0145] exist Figure 2 and Figure 4 In the particular embodiment shown, the feed dispensing device 2 includes two feed receptacles 8A, 8B, namely a first receptacle 8A for containing wet feed and a second receptacle 8B for containing dry feed. The first feed receptacle 8A is arranged opposite to the wet feed bag 4. The second feed receptacle 8B is arranged opposite to the dry feed dispensing unit 12 (the latter is a conventional dry feed dispensing unit, which will not be described in more detail below, but in particular includes a dry feed storage). The dry feed is, for example (but not limited to), dry kibble. For example, each feed receptacle 8A, 8B is a removable, interchangeable receptacle. The drawer 14 is in an open position (such as Figure 2 and Figure 4 as shown) and the closed position (as Figure 1 , Figure 3 , Figure 7 , Fig. 9 and Fig.10The movable drawer 14 is movably mounted in the housing 6 between the housing 6 and the drawer 14 (shown), in the open position, the feed can enter from the outside of the housing, and in the closed position, the feed cannot enter from the outside of the housing 6. The movable drawer 14 is, for example, clamped in an opening formed in the housing 6. Therefore, the movable drawer 14 can be released from the housing 6 so that the entire drawer 14 can be easily cleaned. The control device of the movable drawer 14 can control the opening or closing of the movable drawer 14. Figure 2 and Figure 4 In the particular embodiment shown, the removable drawer 14 also contains another removable "crumb catcher" type receptacle 22. This "crumb catcher" type receptacle 22 collects wet feed residues that may fall from the bag 4 when the removable drawer 14 is in its open position or when the movable drawer 14 is in its translational movement between its open and closed positions. A scale (not shown in the figures), for example an electronic scale connected to a data processing unit, is arranged inside the movable drawer 14. This scale allows accurate weighing of each dose of wet feed dispensed and of the wet feed consumed by the animal (the difference between the weight of the contents of the drawer 14 before and after it has been opened).

[0146] The wet feed dispensing unit 10 comprises an electromechanical device 24 for supplying wet feed from the bag 4 to the first feed storage 8A; and means for controlling the electromechanical device 24 (not shown in the figure, but for example connected to a data processing unit or comprising a data processing unit). The control means for the electromechanical device 24 are capable of controlling the delivery of wet feed from the bag 4 to the first feed storage 8A. The wet feed is, for example (but not limited to), animal pate. Preferably, the wet feed dispensing unit 10 also comprises means 25 for fastening the upper part of the bag 4 in the housing 6.

[0147] The wet animal feed bag 4 is removably mounted in the feed dispensing device 2 and is housed in a wet feed dispensing unit 10 of the device 2. More precisely, as Figure 2 , Figure 3 , Figure 7 and Figure 8 As can be seen, the wet feed bag 4 is held and fastened in the housing 6, in particular by means 25 for fastening the upper part of the bag 4. The bag 4 is provided with a neck 26 for opening the bag 4, which is arranged on the lower part of the bag 4. The neck 26 is in the open position (in Fig.14 ) and the closed position (shown in Figure 2 , Figure 3 , Figure 5 , Figure 7 , Figure 8 and Fig.1327A, 27B) and is arranged opposite to the first feed storage container 8A when the bag 4 is accommodated in the wet feed distribution unit 10. The neck 26 is configured to be selectively opened or closed by pushing or pulling on at least one edge 27A, 27B of the bag 4.

[0148] According to a specific embodiment of the present invention, Figure 2 , Figure 3 and Figures 5 to 8 As shown, the wet feed bag 4 is formed by two walls (in particular two substantially rectangular walls) joined together at a portion 28A of their periphery 28 and defining between them a volume for containing wet feed. Figure 6 As shown, the two walls are not connected to each other at another portion 28B of their periphery 28 and are configured to form a neck 26 for opening the bag 4 at this other portion 28B. The neck 26 thus comprises two lips, each forming part of a separating wall of the bag, which lips are closed in the open position of the neck 26 (in the Fig.14 The two lips are spaced apart in the closed position of the neck 26 (in Figure 2 , Figure 3 , Figure 5 , Figure 7 , Figure 8 and Fig.13 ) in contact with each other and extending parallel to each other. Preferably, as Fig.14 As shown, the neck 26 has an eye-shaped cross section in its open position. In a variant not shown, the neck 26 has a substantially circular or oval cross section in its open position.

[0149] The wall of the bag 4 is made of, for example, a metal material such as aluminum or an aluminum-based alloy or a plastic material such as polypropylene. The use of polypropylene materials such as these ensures the recyclability of the bag 4. The wall of the bag 4 has one or more internal seams 30 in its interior, which connect the walls to each other in the bag 4. Preferably, as Figure 6 As shown, the wall of the bag 4 has two internal seams 30 on its internal face, which connect the walls to each other inside the bag 4, and when the bag 4 is laid flat and not filled with wet feed, the two internal seams 30 are arranged to form a "V" shape. The two internal seams 30 have a symmetrical arrangement around the middle longitudinal plane of the bag (such a plane is a vertical plane extending perpendicular to the extension plane of the rectangle formed by the bag when there is no feed), each internal seam 30 extending in a direction D1, D2, which forms an angle a1, a2 with the direction corresponding to the length of the rectangle formed by the bag when there is no feed (this direction is also a vertical direction). Preferably, and as Figure 6As shown, each of the angles a1, a2 is between 25 and 35 degrees, preferably substantially equal to 30 degrees. The internal seams 30 are interconnected to form a funnel 32 within the bag 4, which is in fluid communication with the open neck 26 of the bag 4. This funnel shape enables the wet feed to be effectively and fluidly directed downward through the bag 4, and in particular directed toward the neck 26 having a narrower diameter. This ensures a controlled, stable flow of the wet feed from the outlet 26, regardless of the descending height of the rollers 36A, 36B (see below) relative to the bag 4.

[0150] like Figure 6 As shown, the wet feed bag 4 is provided with four apertures 34A, 34B, 34C, 34D to enable it to be fastened to the wet feed dispensing unit 10 within the housing 6. The four apertures 34A, 34B, 34C, 34D are positioned at the four corners of the rectangle formed by the bag 4 when the bag 4 is laid flat and without feed. Two first "top" apertures 34A, 34B are positioned at the top corners of the rectangle formed by the bag 4. One of these apertures 34A has a rectangular shape, the length of which is oriented along the width of the rectangle formed by the bag 4. The other aperture 34B, located at the upper corner of the rectangle formed by the bag 4, is roughly triangular in shape. Two further "bottom" apertures 34C, 34D, which are generally circular in shape, are positioned at the bottom corners of the rectangle formed by the bag 4. Preferably, as Figure 6 As shown, each top aperture 34A, 34B is vertically aligned with a corresponding bottom aperture 34C, 34D with a lateral variation of ±1 cm. Each bottom aperture 34C, 34D is spaced from the edge of the neck 26 by a distance of, for example, between 2.5 cm and 5.5 cm, preferably substantially equal to 4 cm.

[0151] Preferably, in particular Figure 3 , Figure 5 and Figure 6 As can be seen, the wet feed bag 4 is provided with a cover 35 on its lower part to protect the neck 26, which covers protrude downwards below the neck 26. Before using the bag 4, the protective cover 35 seals the neck 26, thereby preventing any loss of feed before it is placed in the device 2. Figure 7 , Figure 8 , Fig.13 and Fig.14 The bag 4 is shown in use in an apparatus 2 (for dispensing wet feed) with the lid 35 previously removed by the user to enable the neck 26 to function. The lid 35 is advantageously pre-cut to facilitate tearing by the user.

[0152] For example, after the bag 4 has been opened and the lid 35 has been torn off, the neck 26 has a length between 16 mm and 24 mm, preferably about 20 mm. For example, the neck 26 has a width in its closed position of between 16 mm and 24 mm, preferably substantially equal to 20 mm, the width being measured in the thickness direction of the bag 4.

[0153] As another illustration, when the neck 26 has a substantially circular cross section in its open position, the diameter of the neck 26 is, for example, between 11 mm and 15 mm, preferably substantially equal to 13 mm.

[0154] The electromechanical device 24 comprises means 36A, 36B for squeezing and / or pressing the bag 4 and means 38 for clamping at least one edge 27A, 27B of the bag 4. The electromechanical device 24 also comprises at least one motor or servomotor 40, for example an electric servomotor 40, which is connected to the squeezing means 38 so as to enable actuation thereof. Preferably, when the squeezing and / or pressing means 36A, 36B are rollers (see below), the electromechanical device 24 also comprises two parts 42 supporting the rollers 36A, 36B and another motor or servomotor (not shown in the figure) connected to the rollers 36A, 36B so as to enable actuation thereof.

[0155] The clamping device 38 is mounted so that it can be pushed at one of the edges 27A of the bag 4 to the pushed position of the neck 26 (this position corresponds to the open position of the neck 26 and is Fig.14 ) and the edge 27A of the bag 4 is pulled away from the pulled position of the neck 26 (which corresponds to the closed position of the neck 26 and is in the Figure 2 , Figure 3 , Figure 5 , Figure 7 , Figure 8 and Fig.13 Therefore, the clamping device 38 is configured to selectively open or close the neck 26 of the bag 4.

[0156] exist Figures 1 to 14In the particular embodiment shown, the squeezing device 38 is a device for squeezing two opposite bottom edges 27A, 27B of the bag 4, and is composed of two clamps 38A, 38B. Each clamp 38A, 38B includes two fins, one of which is pivotally mounted relative to the other fin (e.g., by means of a hinge). Each clamp 38A, 38B is configured to clamp one of the lower edges 27A, 27B of the bag 4. Therefore, when the bag 4 is held by the clamps 38A, 38B, the two clamps 38A, 38B are arranged on either side of the neck 26 of the bag 4. At least one of the two clamps 38A, 38B is connected to an electric servomotor 40 (in the example shown in the figure, the first clamp 38A is connected to the electric servomotor 40). The first clamp 38A is thus mounted to translate horizontally between a pushed position in which the edge 27A of the bag 4 is pushed towards the neck 26 and a pulled position in which the edge 27A of the bag 4 is pulled away from the neck 26, the translational movement of the first clamp 38A being substantially in the same plane as the plane of extension of the bag 4 when it is empty of feed. Figure 3 , Figure 8 , Fig.10 and Fig.11 As shown, each clamp 38A, 38B is provided, for example, on the inner face of one of its wings, with a pin 44A, 44B designed to be inserted into one of the bottom apertures 34C, 34D of the bag 4, so as to enable the bag 4 to be effectively positioned and retained in the clamp 38A, 38B (the bottom aperture 34C, 34D being located on the lower edge 27B, 27A of the bag 4 retained by the clamp 38A, 38B in question). Preferably, each clamp 38A, 38B is provided with means 46 for locking the bag 4 in place in the clamp 38A, 38B, such as a latch for locking the clamp tabs.

[0157] exist Figures 1 to 14 In the particular example shown, the means 36A, 36B for squeezing and / or pressing the bag 4 comprises two parallel motorized rollers. Each roller 36A, 36B extends in a direction transverse to (preferably perpendicular to) the vertical direction. The bag 4 extends between the rollers 36A, 36B and is held by being squeezed between the rollers 36A, 36B, with the neck 26 of the bag 4 extending below the rollers 36A, 36B, facing the first feed storage container 8A. When in the position to squeeze the bag 4, the two parallel rollers 36A, 36B extend in the same horizontal plane. The motorization of the two rollers 36A, 36B is for example via Figures 8 to 12The following arrangement shown in FIG. 4 is realized: the ends of each roller 36A, 36B are housed in two support members 42, each support member 42 being mounted to be movable in vertical translation on a vertical track 48. The two support members 42 are connected to each other via a horizontal crossbar 50 extending behind the rollers 36A, 36B, each support member 42 extending in front of the horizontal crossbar 50. The horizontal crossbar 50 has a central opening 52 through which a vertical auger 54 can pass. The auger 54 is mechanically connected to the servomotor shaft mentioned previously together with the rollers 36A, 36B. The opening 52 is sized to match the diameter of the auger 54 and has a thread so that its internal thread cooperates with the thread of the auger 54. In this way, when the servomotor is activated, it rotates the auger 54, which in turn vertically translates the assembly consisting of the horizontal crossbar 50, the support members 42 and the rollers 36A, 36B, and the vertical translation movement is performed along the vertical track 48.

[0158] like Fig.12 As shown, each support member 42 includes a first portion 56 for holding one of the two rollers 36A and a second portion 58 for holding the other roller 36B. Each support member 42 extends in a generally vertical plane. The first portion 56 of the support member 42 is configured to form a pivot connection for the roller 36A it holds. Fig.12 As shown, the first portion 56 of the member 42 consists, for example, of a circular aperture into which one end of the first roller 36A is inserted. The second portion 58 of the member 42 is provided with an elliptical recess 60 configured to accommodate the second roller 36B in the first portion 60A of the recess 60 (corresponding to the position where the rollers 36A, 36B are brought together) or in the second portion 60B of the recess 60 (corresponding to the position where the rollers 36A, 36B are moved apart) according to the translational movement of the rollers 36A, 36B in the housing 6. Thus, when downward pressure is exerted on the support member 42 (to push the wet feed down the bag 4), for example via the action of a servomotor on the auger 54, the second roller 36B moves upward from the second portion 60B of the recess 60 into the first portion 60A of the recess 60. This movement thus brings the second roller 36B closer to the first roller 36A. In the absence of pressure exerted on the support member 42, the second roller 36B falls back into the second portion 60B of the recess 60, causing the rollers 36A, 36B to move apart. The first portion 60A and the second portion 60B of the rectangular recess 60 are offset vertically and horizontally from each other. The length of the rectangular recess 60 can advantageously be oriented along an axis D3 inclined to the vertical direction, in particular along an axis D3 forming an angle a3 with the vertical direction between 15 and 45 degrees, for example approximately equal to 20 degrees. For example, each support member 42 is made of plastic material.

[0159] In the particular embodiment shown in the figures, each of the two rollers 36A, 36B is preferably rotatably mounted about a main axis extending therefrom in each of the two support members 42. Each of the two rollers 36A, 36B is, for example, mounted to rotate freely about a rod which itself is inserted in each of the two support members 42.

[0160] The means 36A, 36B for squeezing and / or pressing the bag 4 enable the bag 4 to be pressed so that the wet feed contained therein gradually moves downwards to the bottom of the bag, thus exerting pressure on the neck 26 of the bag 4 to ensure a good flow and a controlled rate of wet feed when the neck 26 is in its open position. A linear regression law may advantageously be implemented in the data processing unit to control the movement (profile, speed, pressure, height of lowering, etc.) of the rollers 36A, 36B so as to control the flow of wet feed and the uniform distribution of doses, regardless of the position of the rollers 36A, 36B. Therefore, the wet feed dispensing unit 10 is equipped with at least one sensor (connected to the data processing unit and not shown in the figures) for measuring the vertical position of the rollers 36A, 36B. A slight upward and downward movement of the rollers 36A, 36B (over a very short length compared to the total descent range of the rollers 36A, 36B) may be performed by the control means after each delivery of a dose of wet feed. This creates a little slack at the top of the bag 4 to facilitate the subsequent distribution of the wet feed. The means 38 for clamping at least one edge 27A, 27B of the bag 4 are used to control the opening and closing of the bag 4. Due to the specific configuration of the wet feed bag 4 (and in particular its deformable neck 26), in combination with the presence of the means 36A, 36B for squeezing and / or pressing the bag 4 and the means 38 for clamping at least one edge 27A, 27B of the bag 4 in the electromechanical device 24, the feed dispensing device 2 according to the invention thus makes it possible to meter precise amounts of wet feed suitable for the animals (and in particular to deliver precise individualized doses of feed, typically doses of wet feed in the range of 10 g to 100 g).

[0161] The means 38 for clamping at least one edge 27A, 27B of the bag 4 thus ensures a hermetic (and airtight) closure of the bag 4 when the device 2 is not used by an animal (and in particular when no animal has been identified by the data processing unit - see below). Thus, due to the sealing of the neck 26, the interior of the neck 26 (and therefore the interior of the bag 4) remains airtight outside the period of wet feed dispensing. The contents of the opened bag 4 remain airtight and germ-proof for the duration of the emptying process, since the opening surface of the neck 26 is minimal, almost always sealed, free of residues (which fall due to gravity) and within a completely closed machine (no contact with pets or insects). This guarantees an effective bacterial and antioxidant protection of the wet feed.

[0162] In the particular embodiment shown in the figures, the means 25 for fastening the upper part of the bag 4 inside the housing 6 consist of a jaw fastened in the housing 6. The jaw 25 extends over substantially the entire width of the rectangle formed by the bag 4 and comprises two flaps, one of which is pivotally mounted relative to the other (for example by means of a hinge). The jaw 25 is configured to clamp (or grip) the upper part of the bag 4 over substantially the entire width of the bag. The jaw 25 is preferably coated on one or more of its faces in contact with the bag 4 with a rubber strip (not visible in the figures) defining, for example, a serrated tangle (not shown) to facilitate squeezing of the bag 4 by the jaw 25.

[0163] like Figure 3 , Figure 8 and Fig.11 As shown, the jaw 25 is provided, for example, on the inner face of one of its wings, with two pins 62A, 62B, which are designed to be inserted into the two top orifices 34A, 34B of the bag 4, respectively, so as to effectively position and retain the bag 4 in the jaw 25. For example, two orifices corresponding in shape to the pins 62A, 62B (and the two top orifices 34A, 34B of the bag 4) are provided on the outer flaps of the jaw 25 to allow these pins 62A, 62B to pass through when the jaw 25 is closed. Preferably, the jaw 25 has at least one (and advantageously two in the example shown in the figures) device 66 for locking the bag 4 in place in the jaw 25, such as a latch for locking the flaps of the jaw 25.

[0164] The data processing unit is connected to the control means of the electromechanical device 24 and to the control means of the movable drawer 14. Alternatively, the data processing unit constitutes the control means. The data processing unit is also connected to the wireless communication means. The data processing unit comprises storage means storing the neural network. The neural network has previously been trained using training data comprising data from at least one database containing images of animals (usually images of cats). In this way, the data processing unit is able to detect the presence of an animal of a predetermined type (for example a "cat" type) in front of the feed dispensing device 2 (in particular by obesity detection via the camera 16) and thus initiate a feed supply sequence. Preferably, the data processing unit is configured in such a way that whenever the neural network recognizes an animal that is in the field of view of the camera 16 and corresponds to an animal of the predetermined type, the data processing unit saves a photograph of the animal (taken by the camera 16) in its storage means. Saving such a photograph makes it possible to inform the owner of the animal that the animal has been recognized by the device 2 and that the device 2 has therefore triggered the dispensing of feed. In a second stage, an anonymous photograph of the animal can be used to feed the training data to the neural network.

[0165] The data processing unit is implemented, for example, in the form of a microcontroller or a printed circuit board (PCB) with firmware integrated therein. The firmware is equipped with an artificial intelligence module storing, for example, a neural network.

[0166] The wireless communication means of the device 2 are capable of communicating with a communication device (landline or mobile) and / or with a remote server, in particular enabling the configuration of feed doses, manual activation of feed distribution, reporting of various parameters and monitoring of parameters. The wireless communication means of the device 2 are thus configured to send and / or receive data to and from the mobile communication device and / or the remote server via a wireless network. The communication device is for example a smartphone, a tablet or a computer (but not limited thereto), on which a dedicated web application is installed to enable remote control of the device 2 and use of the various configuration, reporting and parameter monitoring functions.

[0167] The camera 16 is configured to capture an image in front of the housing 6. Preferably, the camera 16 is an infrared camera. The infrared camera 16 is, for example, configured to present a field of view substantially equal to 120 degrees.

[0168] The method of operation of the feed dispensing device 2 will now be described, and in particular the method of wet feed dispensing according to the invention implemented by the wet feed dispensing unit 10 of the device 2. Initially, the user of the device 2 installs the wet feed bag 4 in the wet feed dispensing unit 10 so that the neck 26 of the bag 4 extends opposite to the first feed receptacle 8A. To do this, the user opens the door 21 of the housing 6, opens the clamps 38A, 38B and the jaws 25, inserts the bag 4 between the rollers 36A, 36B from bottom to top, and then adjusts the bag 4 so that the pins 44A, 44B are inserted into the bottom orifices 34C, 34D and the pins 62A, 62B are inserted into the top orifices 34A, 34B. The user then closes the clamps 38A, 38B and the jaws 25, locks the latches 46, 66, and tears the cover 35 off the bag 4. As Fig.13 As shown, the neck 26 of the bag 4 is in its sealed position and the means 38 for clamping at least one edge 27A, 27B of the bag 4 is in a pulled position with the edge 27A pulled away from the neck 26. Then, the user closes the door 21. Initially, the drawer 14 is in its closed position (eg, Figure 1 , Figure 3 , Figure 7 , Fig. 9 and Fig.10 shown).

[0169] The method for dispensing wet feed comprises a subsequent step consisting in activating the control means of the electromechanical device 24 to control the dispensing of the wet feed from the bag 4 to the first feed reservoir 8A. This activation of the control means is for example performed manually by the user (either via the manual control interface of the device 2, or remotely via their mobile communication device), or automatically by the data processing unit after the neural network has recognized that an animal corresponding to a predetermined type of animal (e.g. a cat) is present in the field of view of the camera 16. In the latter case, the data processing unit saves the photograph of the animal (taken by the camera 16) in its storage means.

[0170] Activation of the control means of the electromechanical device 24 causes the means 36A, 36B for squeezing and / or pressing the bag 4 and the means 38 for clamping at least one edge 27A, 27B of the bag 4 to move. In particular, at least one of the two clamps 38A, 38B (in this case the first clamp 38A in the example shown in the figures) is in the pulled position ( Fig.13 ) and the edge 27A of the bag 4 is pushed toward the pushed position of the neck 26 ( Fig.14 ) between the first clamp 38A and the second clamp 38A. This movement of the first clamp 38A deforms and moves the neck 26 from its closed position to its open position. The two rollers 36A, 36B then descend vertically in the housing 6 at a vertical descent pitch. The length by which the rollers 36A, 36B descend at this vertical descent pitch is predetermined (e.g., via the implementation of a linear regression law in a data processing unit) and corresponds to the distribution of a predetermined dose of wet feed in the first feed storage container 8A. It should be noted that the length by which the rollers 36A, 36B descend at this vertical descent pitch can therefore vary depending on the vertical position of the rollers 36A, 36B in the housing 6.

[0171] Once the predetermined dose of wet feed has been dispensed into the first feed container 8A (i.e. when the rollers 36A, 36B have completed their vertical downward movement with the vertical movement pitch), at least one of the two clamps 38A, 38B (in this case, the first clamp 38A in the example shown in the figure) is pushed towards the neck 26 at the edge 27A of the bag 4 ( Fig.14 ) and the edge 27A of the bag 4 is pulled away from the position of the neck 26 ( Fig.13 ). This movement of the first clamp 38A causes the neck 26 to deform and move from its open position to its closed position. In addition, the data processing unit activates the control device of the movable drawer 14, which then controls the movable drawer 14 to move toward its open position (as shown in FIG. Figure 2 and Figure 4The animal can then take the dispensed dose of wet feed. With the automatic recognition of the presence of an animal in the field of view of the camera 16, each dose of wet feed is extracted from the bag 4 only when an animal corresponding to a predetermined type of animal (e.g. a cat) appears in front of the device 2. If the animal does not finish its dose of wet feed, the movable drawer 14 closes and the dispensed wet feed remains protected from oxidation and contamination.

[0172] Dispensing of dry feed via the apparatus 2 has not been discussed in the context of the steps of the method detailed above, but such dispensing may of course be via manual control by a user and / or detection of an animal by a neural network, subsequently activating the dry feed dispensing unit 12 to deliver a dose of dry feed.

[0173] Fig.15 and Fig.16 An assembly comprising a feed dispensing device and a wet feed bag according to another embodiment of the invention is shown, the assembly being viewed from the rear.

[0174] With Figures 1 to 4 Elements with the same reference numerals as shown in the drawings denote the same objects and will not be described again below.

[0175] This dispensing device 40 differs from the above described dispensing devices in that it has six fastening hooks 41 located in the upper part of its wet feed dispensing unit 10 for hanging the bags.

[0176] These fastening hooks 41 are designed to cooperate with corresponding orifices at the upper end of the bag in order to suspend the bag, in which case they have an open shape with a cross section that increases towards their base.

[0177] The number of orifices depends on the rheology of the wet feed contained in the bag 4 , the strength of the motor and the material from which the bag 4 is constructed.

[0178] The feed distributing device 2 also comprises guide rail portions 42 positioned relative to each other in the upper part of the housing, which enable the roller 43 to be guided between a stowed or retracted position and an operating position. The upper ends of the guide rail portions 42 that bring the roller 43 to its retracted position are inclined to increase the distance separating the rollers 43 and thus facilitate the positioning of the bag in the wet feed distributing unit 10 when the roller 43 is in its retracted position.

[0179] Fig.17 and Fig.18 Different hook geometries for hanging the bag in the upper part of the wet feed dispensing unit 10 are shown.

[0180] Fig.19 and Fig. 20An enlarged view of a detail of an animal feed dispensing apparatus 2 according to another embodiment is shown.

[0181] In particular, the figure represents the lower portion of the housing 6 of the feed dispensing apparatus 2 , which houses the feed receptacles 8A, 8B mounted in a removable drawer 50 .

[0182] The drawer 50 is movable between an extended position in which the drawer is at least partially placed outside the housing 6 to allow the animals to eat, and a position for distributing feed into each bowl 8A, 8B, in which the movable drawer 50 is housed in the housing 6 so that, in particular, the bowl 8A is positioned below the neck 26 of the bag 4.

[0183] A scale (e.g., an electronic scale) is arranged inside the mobile drawer 50. Such a scale is able to accurately weigh each dose of wet feed dispensed and the wet feed consumed by the animal (the difference between the weight of the drawer contents before and after opening). As an illustration, each feed receptacle 8A, 8B is a magnetized bowl mounted on a corresponding load cell 51 to weigh the bowl 8A, 8B.

[0184] Fig.21 A material recovery device 52, such as a debris collector according to one particular embodiment of the invention is shown. As shown, the debris trap 52 is placed in an active position in the lower portion of the housing 6 so as to be located below the neck 26 of the bag 4, where it can recover any material lost from the bag after the bag has been sealed.

[0185] In this active position of the debris trap 52, the movable drawer 50 is in an extended position so that the bowls 8A, 8B are outside the housing 6 and accessible to the animal for feeding.

[0186] To reach the feed dispensing position (not shown), the debris trap 52 and the movable drawer 50 supporting the bowls 8A, 8B are moved simultaneously so that the debris trap 52 moves from its active position to the clearing position, incorporated into the housing provided for this purpose, and the bowl 8A is then positioned under the neck 26 of the bag 4.

[0187] Fig. 22 A dispensing unit 20 for dry feed, such as kibble, is shown according to one particular embodiment.

[0188] The dry feed dispensing unit 20 features an auger 60 for dispensing the dry feed.

[0189] Advantageously, the groove of the auger 60 is 1.5 cm + / - 0.3 cm.

[0190] Fig.23 and Fig.24is a schematic and partial view of a block 70 of the electromechanical equipment of a wet feed dispensing unit according to another specific embodiment of the invention.

[0191] This block 70 comprises a gripping element formed by gripping jaws 71 , 72 for grasping, from each of the opposite faces of the bag 4 , a portion of the bag arranged transversely to the neck 4 .

[0192] The clamping jaw comprises two jaw parts 71 , 72 which are tiltable relative to one another about an axis of rotation 73 and each comprise a clamping surface.

[0193] These gripping surfaces include complementary shapes and reverse shapes, such as protrusions 74 and recesses 75 having complementary shapes, which are placed relative to each other so that when the gripping jaws 71, 72 are closed around a portion of the bag, each shape is received in the corresponding reverse shape to enhance the grip of the portion of the bag so grasped by the gripping element.

[0194] Fig.25 A bag 80 according to another embodiment of the present invention is shown.

[0195] The bag 80 has the following parameters:

[0196] - HU, the "useful height" of the bag, corresponding to the height of the receptacle, measured between the bottom of the top seam of the bag and the top of the neck after the tab has been opened,

[0197] - or HL, the free height of the receptacle, measured between the bottom of the top seam of the bag and the start of the inner seam extending away from the transverse edge

[0198] - or HE, the height of the funnel, measured between the start of the inner seam extending away from the transverse edges of the bag and the bottom of the open rear neck.

[0199] - or LG, the width of the neck, measured flat with the bag closed. This is the width, not the diameter.

[0200] - or HG, the height of the neck, measured between the height where the inside seam becomes parallel to the edge of the bag and the bottom of the neck when opened.

[0201] - or LBS, the width of the seam tape.

[0202] The wet animal feed bag 80 advantageously has values ​​within the following ranges:

[0203] -LG between 1.5cm and 5cm

[0204] -HG between 0.5cm and 3cm

[0205] - a LG / HG ratio between 1.5 and 10, preferably between 2 and 4 and even more preferably equal to 2.5,

[0206] The HE / LG ratio is greater than 1.5 and even more preferably greater than 2.

[0207] It can be seen that such values ​​for the construction of a wet animal feed bag ensures uniform distribution of the wet feed contained in the bag when the bag is implemented with the feed dispensing apparatus of the present invention.

Claims

1. A device (2) for distributing feed for animals, the device (2) comprising a housing (6), the housing comprising a feed receptacle (8A) and a wet feed distributing unit (10), the wet feed distributing unit (10) being suitable for accommodating a removable wet feed bag (4), the wet feed distributing unit (10) being configured to ensure retention and fastening of the bag (4) so ​​that the bag then extends at least partially along a main axis, the bag being provided with an open neck (26) for the bag (4), the neck (26) being deformable between at least an open position and a closed position, being arranged on a lower part of the bag (4) and being arranged to face the feed receptacle (8A) when the bag (4) is accommodated in the wet feed distributing unit (10), the wet feed distributing unit (10) comprising: - an electromechanical device (24) for supplying wet feed from the bag (4) to the feed reservoir (8A); and - control means for the electromechanical device (24), the control means being able to control the transfer of wet feed from the bag (4) to the feed reservoir (8A); Characterized in that the electromechanical device (24) comprises: - at least one block comprising a gripping element for holding a portion of the bag arranged transversely to the neck, the gripping element being mounted for translational movement along an axis transverse or substantially transverse to the main axis, and a motor for driving the gripping element between a position corresponding to an open position of the neck of the portion of the bag held in this way and a position corresponding to a closed position of the neck of the portion of the bag pulled away from the portion held in this way, when the electromechanical device (24) comprises two blocks, the blocks are configured to hold a first portion and a second portion of the bag placed transversely to the neck and on either side of the neck, - the electromechanical device (24) comprises at least one element for holding a second portion of the bag placed transversely to the neck, when the electromechanical device comprises a single block for clamping a first portion of the bag placed transversely to the neck, the first portion and the second portion being located on either side of the neck, and - The plurality of blocks or the block and the retaining element are configured such that the neck can be selectively opened or closed, wherein the first and second parts of the bag are tensioned in a pulled position to close the neck and ensure bacterial and antioxidant protection of the wet feed.

2. The device (2) for distributing animal feed according to claim 1, characterized in that Each clamping element is configured to clamp a portion of the bag between the neck and a corresponding transverse edge of the bag, the neck being excluded.

3. Device (2) for distributing animal feed according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that The retaining element is a fixed clamping element or a lug.

4. Device (2) for distributing animal feed according to any one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that The neck of the bag has at least two stable opening geometries, each block being configured to selectively travel from a neck-closing position to each open position when the or each block holds a corresponding portion of the bag disposed transversely to the neck in its predetermined open position, each of these positions being reached by translational movement of the one or more blocks along the transverse axis.

5. Device (2) for distributing animal feed according to claim 4, characterized in that A first of the opening positions corresponding to a stable opening geometry of the neck, the so-called forced-open position, corresponds to a position of the block or at least one of the blocks, wherein the device exerts a thrust on a corresponding portion of the bag arranged transversely to the neck.

6. Device (2) for distributing animal feed according to any one of claims 4 or 5, characterized in that Another of the opening positions corresponding to the stable opening geometry of the neck, referred to as the normal opening position of the bag, corresponds to a position of the block or at least one of the blocks, wherein a corresponding portion of the bag arranged transversely to the neck is not tensioned by the block.

7. Device (2) for dispensing animal feed according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that Each block is configured so that, when the bag is held in the housing, the transverse or substantially transverse axis of movement of the clamping element of the block is positioned between the lower and upper ends of the neck.

8. Device (2) for dispensing animal feed according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that Each clamping element comprises one or more objects selected from the group consisting of teeth, pointed elements such as needles or pins, pressure bars with or without rubber, fastening pins or studs intended to cooperate with corresponding orifices provided in the lower part of the bag, shapes and counter-shapes and combinations of these elements.

9. Device (2) for dispensing animal feed according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that Each clamping element is formed by clamping jaws for clamping, by each of the faces of the bag, a portion of the bag arranged transversely to the neck.

10. Device (2) for dispensing animal feed according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that The electromechanical device (24) also includes a component (36A, 36B) for squeezing and / or pressing the bag (4), the component defining a main axis, and the component (36A, 36B) for squeezing and / or squeezing the bag moves along the main axis to squeeze and / or press at least a portion of the bag.

11. Device (2) for distributing animal feed according to claim 10, characterized in that The assembly (36A, 36B) for squeezing and / or pressing the bag (4) comprises two parallel motorized rollers (36A, 36B), each of these rollers (36A, 36B) being mounted to move in translation along the main axis within the housing (6) and to extend in a direction transverse to the main axis, the bag (4) being intended to extend between the rollers (36A, 36B) and to be held by being squeezed between the rollers (36A, 36B) when the bag (4) is accommodated in the wet feed dispensing unit (10), the neck (26) of the bag (4) extending below the rollers (36A, 36B).

12. Device (2) for distributing animal feed according to the preceding claim, characterized in that The device comprises at least one pair of guide rail portions positioned relative to each other in the upper part of the housing, the guide rail portions enabling the rollers (36A, 36B) to be guided between a stowed or retracted position and an operating position, wherein the rollers (36A, 36B) engage the bag (4), the upper ends of the guide rail portions bringing the rollers (36A, 36B) to their retracted position being inclined to increase the distance separating the rollers (36A, 36B) and to facilitate the positioning of the bag in the wet feed distribution unit (10) when the rollers (36A, 36B) are in the retracted position.

13. Device (2) for distributing animal feed according to the preceding claim, characterized in that The retracted position is located above a fastening element for hanging the bag in the wet feed dispensing unit (10).

14. Device (2) for distributing animal feed according to any one of claims 11 to 13, characterized in that The electromechanical device (24) further comprises at least one roller support (36A, 36B) component (42), preferably two roller support (36A, 36B) components (42), the at least one support component (42) being connected to a motor or a servomotor so that the motor or the servomotor can be moved in translation within the housing (6), the at least one support component (42) having a first portion (56) for holding one of the two rollers (36A) and being configured to form a pivot connection for the roller (36A) and a second portion (58) for holding the other roller (36B), the second portion (58) of the component (42) being provided with an elliptical recess (60), the elliptical recess is configured to accommodate the other roller (36B) in a first portion (60A) of the recess (60) according to the translational movement of the roller (36A, 36B) within the shell (6), the first portion of the recess corresponding to the position where the rollers (36A, 36B) are brought together, or to accommodate the other roller in a second portion (60B) of the recess (60), the second portion of the recess corresponding to the position where the rollers (36A, 36B) are moved apart, the first portion and the second portion (60A, 60B) of the elliptical recess (60) being vertically and / or horizontally offset from each other.

15. Device (2) for dispensing animal feed according to any one of the preceding claims, characterised in that The device also includes a data processing unit and a camera (16) connected to the data processing unit, the data processing unit is connected to the control device of the electromechanical device (24), and the camera (16) is positioned on the front side of the shell (6) and is configured to capture an image in front of the shell (6).

16. Device (2) for distributing animal feed according to the preceding claim, characterized in that The data processing unit comprises storage means storing a neural network which has been trained for its learning with the help of training data comprising data from at least one database containing images of animals.

17. Device (2) for dispensing animal feed according to any one of the preceding claims, characterised in that The upper part of the wet feed dispensing unit comprises a fastening element for hanging the bag, the fastening element being selected from the group consisting of a rod, a straight hanging rod, a hanging rod having an elongated body with a curved shape, a hook, and a hook with a cross section increasing towards its base.

18. A wet animal feed bag (4) provided with a neck (26) for opening the bag (4), the neck (26) being deformable between an open position and a closed position and being arranged on a lower part of the bag (4), characterized in that The bag (4) is suitable for being received in a wet feed dispensing unit (10) of a device (2) for dispensing animal feed according to any one of the preceding claims and is characterized in that - the neck (26) comprises a continuous lip which can be separated from each other to define an opening of the bag for the passage of a portion of its contents, the lip forming a sealing barrier when tension is applied thereto by exerting a pulling force on at least one of the bag portions located transversely to the neck, - the neck (26) is configured to present straight cross-sections of different shapes for at least two different open positions thereof, one of the open positions being a so-called forced one and corresponding to a cross-section of the neck of a circular or substantially circular shape when a push is performed on the neck (26), and - When the neck allows the wet feed to pass and when it is at rest, i.e. not tensioned, the ratio between the width (LG) and the height (HG) of the neck is between 1.5 and 10, preferably between 2 and 4, and even more preferably equal to 2.5, in order to ensure a regular flow of the wet feed through the neck.

19. The wet animal feed bag (4) according to claim 18, characterized in that The bag (4) also comprises means (26, 27A, 27B) configured to cooperate with the clamping element (38, 38A, 38B) or the clamping element and the retaining element of the feed dispensing device (2) to achieve wet feed dispensing.

20. An assembly (1) comprising a device (2) for dispensing wet animal feed and a wet animal feed bag (4) mounted in the device (2), characterized in that The feed distributing device (2) is according to any one of claims 1 to 17, and the wet animal feed bag (4) is according to claim 18 or 19, the wet animal feed bag (4) being accommodated in the wet feed distributing unit (10) of the device (2).

Images