Kit and assembly for dispensing clean water to poultry

Abstract

The present specification discloses a kit for assembling a drinker for providing clean water to poultry, such as chickens. The kit includes a water reservoir, at least one dispensing arm, and a valve connected to a water source. The water reservoir includes a top end, a bottom end, a connector port, and at least one sidewall. The at least one dispensing arm includes a first end, a second end, at least one sidewall, and at least one drinking valve. At least one dispensing arm may be mechanically connected to the water reservoir. At least one drinking valve is located in the at least one dispensing arm sidewall. The water reservoir may be connected to a water source.

Description

Cross-references and precedence

[0001] This application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 485,673, filed February 17, 2023, the entire teachings of which are incorporated herein by reference. Background Technology

[0002] Providing clean water for chickens, ducks, guinea fowl, and other poultry is a critical concern for many poultry farmers. The simplest way to provide clean water is to place buckets, bowls, or troughs in enclosures, brooders, or other rearing areas. This simple method has been used for many years, but it requires regular rinsing, cleaning, and refilling of the buckets, bowls, or troughs. If these are not regularly rinsed, thoroughly cleaned, and refilled, the water will stagnate and become dirty, potentially contaminated with feces, and susceptible to bacteria and insect infestations, which can spread serious diseases to poultry. This is especially important for young birds raised in brooders containing clean water, as they are more prone to water contamination and disease. Furthermore, buckets, bowls, and troughs can freeze in cold temperatures, requiring time to thaw or break up the frozen water so that the poultry can access drinking water.

[0003] Some have proposed an article that provides a self-sufficient water source, allowing water to be released into a communal water tank via a valve triggered by poultry. Van der Veer's U.S. Patent No. 4,829,933 discloses such a device, which includes a float-operated actuator for a drinking nozzle that manually releases water into the water tank. A drawback of this method is that once the water is released into the communal water tank, it may become contaminated with dirt, bacteria, and feces.

[0004] Others have proposed a completely self-sufficient system that provides water to poultry when triggered by poultry. Systems for supplying water to poultry via self-sufficient systems have existed since at least the 1940s. These systems typically employ valves or a series of valves that can be activated by the poultry to control the release of water.

[0005] For example, Beckley’s U.S. Patent No. 2,486,729 describes a poultry drinking device that includes a water pipe connected to a low-pressure water supply system and is equipped with a series of accessories that sense poultry contact.

[0006] U.S. Patent No. 3,322,101 to Eagles et al. describes a nozzle having a nipple valve connected to an unknown water source. When an animal contacts the nipple valve, the valve opens and allows water to flow out.

[0007] Godshalk's U.S. Patent No. 3,418,977 describes a poultry drinking device that includes a rigid valve body component inserted through a port in an elongated conduit. The poultry pushes the valve upward with its beak, disengaging the valve element from the valve seat and allowing water to flow through the valve.

[0008] Novey’s U.S. Patent No. 4,416,221 describes a nipple-type drinker and valve having an animal-accessible end fitting with a nipple-shaped tip that can be opened by lateral displacement.

[0009] U.S. Patent No. 4,984,537 to Steudler, Jr. describes a nipple drinker including a channel, a ball valve that closes the channel when in position, and a ball valve actuator rod having a head and a pin. Poultry can actuate the valve rod to disengage the ball valve from its seat to initiate water flow.

[0010] Thompson's U.S. Patent No. 6,058,881 describes a drinking valve for birds and small animals, which has a spring-biased metering pin with a tubular actuator rod. Birds or animals apply a demand force to the actuator rod to move the rod and initiate a flow of water.

[0011] U.S. Patent No. 6,308,657 to Schumacher et al. describes a drinking valve having a housing, a receiving part, a connecting part, and a snap-fit ​​connector.

[0012] Cardaropoli’s U.S. Patent Application No. 20140239215 discloses an alternative drinking valve having a valve body, an actuating pin, a receiving pin, and a ball bearing. Summary of the Invention

[0013] This specification discloses a kit for assembling into a water dispenser. The kit includes a water reservoir with a top, a bottom, and at least one side wall, as well as a connector port.

[0014] The kit also includes at least one dispensing arm, which includes a first end, a second end, and at least one dispensing arm sidewall.

[0015] There is at least one drinking valve configured to be attached to the dispensing port, and at least one dispensing arm configured to mate with the connector port.

[0016] It is also disclosed that the connector port includes a lug, and the lug can be a slanted lug or a straight lug. The lug may also have a lug stop.

[0017] It is also disclosed that at least one distribution arm has a lug, which has an optional lug stop and / or an optional lug lock.

[0018] The kit may also include a gasket configured to form a seal between the connector port and the distribution arm.

[0019] The kit is further described as having a water level control mechanism that can be attached to the top or bottom of the water reservoir. Alternatively, the water level control mechanism can be attached to a cover mounted on top of the water reservoir.

[0020] Preferably, no separate solvent adhesive is used to mate the connector port with the dispensing arm.

[0021] The mounting brackets used for the kit were also disclosed.

[0022] It also disclosed components of any of the kits for which protection is sought. Brief description of the attached figures

[0023] Figure 1 This is a perspective structural diagram of a prior art embodiment of the article described herein.

[0024] Figure 2 yes Figure 1 An exploded view of a prior art embodiment.

[0025] Figure 3 yes Figure 1 A cross-sectional view of a prior art embodiment.

[0026] Figure 4 This is a three-dimensional structural diagram of the main body of the water dispenser of the present invention.

[0027] Figure 5 This is an exploded view of the three-dimensional structure of the water dispenser of the present invention.

[0028] Figure 6 This is a bottom view of an embodiment of the water dispenser.

[0029] Figure 7 This is a front view of an embodiment of the water dispenser of the present invention.

[0030] Figure 8 This is a perspective cross-sectional view of an embodiment of the water dispenser of the present invention.

[0031] Figure 9 This is a front cross-sectional view of an embodiment of the water dispenser of the present invention.

[0032] Figure 10 This is a top perspective view of an embodiment of the water dispenser of the present invention.

[0033] Figure 11 This is a 3D structural diagram of the distribution arm.

[0034] Figure 12 This is a 3D structural diagram of the inside of the distribution arm.

[0035] Figure 13 This is a cross-sectional view of the distribution arm.

[0036] Figure 14 This is a side view of an alternative embodiment of the water dispenser.

[0037] Figure 15 This is a bottom perspective structural diagram of an alternative embodiment of the water dispenser.

[0038] Figure 16 This is a bottom view of an alternative embodiment of the water dispenser.

[0039] Figure 17 This is a three-dimensional structural diagram of the top of the replacement dispensing arm of a water dispenser.

[0040] Figure 18 This is a 3D structural diagram of the bottom of the replacement dispensing arm for a water dispenser.

[0041] Figure 19 This is a side view of an alternative embodiment of the water dispenser.

[0042] Figure 20 This is a three-dimensional structural diagram of the top of the cover and valve of an alternative embodiment of a water dispenser.

[0043] Figure 21 This is a three-dimensional structural diagram of the bottom of the cover and valve of an alternative embodiment of a water dispenser.

[0044] Figure 22 This is a perspective view of the top of the cover of an alternative embodiment of a water dispenser.

[0045] Figure 23 This is a top perspective view of the alternative valve in an alternative embodiment of a water dispenser.

[0046] Figure 24 This is a 3D structural diagram of the top of the mounting bracket.

[0047] Figure 25 This is a bottom perspective view of an alternative embodiment of the water dispenser in the mounting bracket.

[0048] Figure 26 This is a top perspective view of an alternative embodiment of the water dispenser in the mounting bracket.

[0049] Figure 27 This is a three-dimensional view of the side of the cap.

[0050] Figure 28 This is an internal view of the cap. Detailed Implementation

[0051] In this specification and claims, when discussing the mating or matching of the threads of one component with the threads of another component, the terms "mated to" or "mated with" are synonymous. The terms "mated to" or "mated with" mean that the threads of the two components are appropriately designed in terms of pitch, number of threads per inch, thread width, and thread depth so that the two components are securely connected to each other, meaning that there is no looseness or play when the components are pushed and pulled in opposite directions. In the art, when the threads of two components mate, phrases such as "tight fit," "snug fit," "torqued," and "tightened" may be used to describe the mating of the threads of two components.

[0052] An external thread is a thread located on the outer surface of a cylindrical component. An internal thread is a thread located on the inner surface of a cylindrical component. When mated, the outer diameter (excluding the depth of the external thread) of the cylinder with the external thread is smaller than the inner diameter (excluding the depth of the internal thread) of the cylinder with the internal thread.

[0053] The prior art describes an article 10 for providing clean water to poultry, which is sealed to prevent the water source from being contaminated by dirt, feces or microorganisms, thus eliminating the need for constant rinsing, cleaning and refilling of the water source.

[0054] Figure 1 An embodiment of a prior art article disclosed in this specification for providing clean water to poultry is shown, including a water reservoir 100, at least one dispensing arm 200 (including at least one drinking valve 300), and a water level control mechanism 400A.

[0055] like Figure 2 As shown, the prior art water storage device includes a top 105, a bottom 110, at least one side wall, and a cap 120.

[0056] like Figure 3 As shown, at least one sidewall 115 has a length dimension, a width dimension, an inner surface, and an outer surface defining the external shape of the water reservoir. The external shape of the water reservoir is not important. In one embodiment, the water reservoir has a cylindrical shape, wherein it has a single sidewall that extends continuously in a circular or elliptical pattern. In another embodiment, the water reservoir may have a rectangular, triangular, trapezoidal, hexagonal, or octagonal shape, wherein it has multiple sidewalls and the sidewalls are attached to their longitudinal edges to form the desired shape. In any case, at least one sidewall provides a hollow interior for the water reservoir extending from the top of the water reservoir to the bottom of the water reservoir.

[0057] The existing cap 120 is suitable for covering the top 105 of a water reservoir. The cap can be designed such that at least a portion of the cap is embedded within the hollow interior of the water reservoir, such as... Figure 2 As shown. In this embodiment, the portion of the cap embedded in the water reservoir has a shape and size similar to the inner surface of at least one sidewall. The cap may also be screwed into the top of the water reservoir. In this embodiment, the inner surface of at least one sidewall has internal threads at the top of the water reservoir, and the portion of the cap embedded in the hollow interior of the water reservoir has external threads, with the external threads of the cap engaging with the internal threads of at least one sidewall.

[0058] In one embodiment, the cap 120 further includes a vent 130, such as Figure 3 As shown. A preferred vent is an inverted ball check valve having a first end, a second end, a hollow interior, and a ball. When the vent is closed, the ball seals the vent, preventing air, liquid, and solid debris from entering the reservoir, while also preventing air and water from escaping from the reservoir. When the reservoir pressure at the top of the reservoir increases, the ball is pushed away from the ball seat, thereby allowing air and / or water to escape from the reservoir. This is particularly useful during the filling process of the reservoir. If air and / or water are not allowed to escape from the reservoir through the vent, pressure will build up in the reservoir during filling, which may cause the cap to shift. Such an inverted ball check valve is an improvement on a preferred embodiment of the following drinking valve, such as... Figure 13 As shown, the receiver pin and actuator pin of the preferred drinking valve are removed.

[0059] In the prior art, at least one dispensing arm extends beyond the side wall of the water reservoir. For example... Figure 2 As shown, at least one dispensing arm 200 includes a first end 205, a second end 210, at least one sidewall, and at least one drinking valve 300. Figure 3 As shown, at least one sidewall 215 has a length dimension, a width dimension, an inner surface, and an outer surface that define the external shape of the dispensing arm. The prior art does not consider that the external shape of the at least one dispensing arm is not important, except that the external shape of the at least one dispensing arm should enable it to be connected to the water reservoir 100 in such a way that the connection between the at least one dispensing arm and the water reservoir forms a watertight seal under standard atmospheric conditions (sea level, 25°C).

[0060] In this prior art embodiment, the at least one dispensing arm has a cylindrical shape, wherein it has a single sidewall that extends continuously in a circular or elliptical pattern. The at least one sidewall provides at least one dispensing arm having a hollow interior extending from a first end of the dispensing arm to a second end of the dispensing arm.

[0061] exist Figure 3In existing technical embodiments, a first portion of the at least one dispensing arm is integrally connected to the bottom end of the water reservoir sidewall. A second portion of the at least one dispensing arm is not integrally connected to the water reservoir. The connection between the first portion of the at least one dispensing arm and the second portion of the at least one dispensing arm forms a watertight seal.

[0062] In one prior art embodiment, a watertight seal can be created by closely matching the shape and size of the two parts of the dispensing arm and bonding them together using a sealing material such as silicone, PVC adhesive, or both. A preferred PVC adhesive is Medium-Clear PVC Cement #31017, available from Oatey, Cleveland, Ohio, USA.

[0063] The at least one dispensing arm is preferably sealed at the end that is not integrally attached or connected to the water reservoir. Figure 3 In existing technical embodiments, the seal is a cap (210) assembled around the outer surface of the sidewall of the dispensing arm, the shape and size of which are similar to the outer surface of at least one sidewall.

[0064] The drinking valve 300 can be any drinking valve known in the art or to be invented in the future. Examples of drinking valves considered suitable for use in this invention include those disclosed in U.S. Patent No. 3,322,101 to Eagles et al., U.S. Patent No. 3,418,977 to Godshalk, U.S. Patent No. 4,416,221 to Novey, U.S. Patent No. 4,984,537 to Steudler Jr., U.S. Patent No. 6,058,881 to Thompson, and U.S. Patent No. 6,308,657 to Shumacher et al., the teachings of which are incorporated herein by reference. Preferably, the drinking valve is not a design requiring squeezing force to trigger water flow, such as a baby bottle nipple. Preferably, the drinking valve has a self-sealing actuation mechanism that opens the drinking valve when an actuating force is applied and automatically closes the drinking valve when the actuating force is released. An example of such an actuation mechanism is disclosed in U.S. Patent No. 4,984,537 to Steudler, Jr.: a ball valve having a closed passage when it falls on at least one valve seat, and a ball valve actuation rod having a head and a pin, whereby small and large poultry and / or animals can actuate the rod to move the ball valve away in proportion to the force applied to the rod.

[0065] The drinking valve (300) can be attached to the dispensing arm (200) in various ways. In one embodiment, the dispensing arm includes at least one valve hole 220 with internal threads, while the outer surface of the drinking valve has external threads, and the external threads of the drinking valve engage with the internal threads of at least one valve hole. In another embodiment, the dispensing arm includes an externally threaded protrusion that is attached to and projects outwardly from the outer surface of the sidewall of the dispensing arm. In such an embodiment, the inner surface of the drinking valve has internal threads, and the internal threads of the drinking valve engage with the external threads of at least one external protrusion. In another embodiment, a portion of the drinking valve is integrally attached to at least one dispensing arm, e.g., by injection molding.

[0066] In a preferred embodiment, the drinking valve 300 includes a receiver 310, a valve cover 320, and an actuation mechanism. The actuation mechanism is a specific valve configuration and component that realizes the opening and closing of water flow. Figure 13 In one embodiment shown, the actuation mechanism includes a receiver pin 340, an actuation pin 350, and a ball 360.

[0067] In a preferred embodiment of the drinking valve, the receiver 310 has a first end 311, a second end 312, and a receiver hole having a receiver hole diameter. The receiver hole extends from the first end of the receiver through the receiver to the second end. In one embodiment, the receiver hole has a first receiver hole diameter at the first end of the receiver and a second receiver hole diameter at the second end of the receiver, wherein the second receiver hole diameter is larger than the first receiver hole diameter.

[0068] In one embodiment of the preferred drinking valve, the inner surface of the receiver orifice has internal threads at the second end of the receiver. In another embodiment of the preferred valve, the outer surface of the second end of the receiver has external threads. The receiver orifice also includes a receiver pin seat having a diameter equal to that of the receiver pin seat. The receiver pin seat serves as a stop to prevent the receiver pin from being further pushed into the receiver.

[0069] The receiver may also include a washer ridge, in which a washer or O-ring may be located.

[0070] The receiver 310 can be attached to the dispensing arm 200 in several ways. In one embodiment, the dispensing arm includes at least one valve hole 220 with internal threads, and the outer surface of the first end of the receiver has external threads, and the external threads of the first end of the receiver engage with the internal threads of at least one valve hole. In another embodiment, the dispensing arm includes an externally threaded protrusion that is attached to and projects outwardly from the outer surface of the sidewall of the dispensing arm. In such an embodiment, the inner surface of the first end of the receiver has internal threads, and the internal threads of the first end of the receiver engage with the external threads of at least one external protrusion. In yet another embodiment, the receiver is integrally attached to at least one dispensing arm (e.g., by injection molding).

[0071] Because the water is stored independently in the container and drinking arm, it is less susceptible to contamination by dirt, feces, or bacteria. In a preferred embodiment, water flowing from the drinking valve does not drip into the communal bowl or trough. In fact, the preferred method for watering poultry is to do so without a communal bowl or trough, which may or may not be attached to the assembled product. Therefore, the poultry's water supply will remain clean, eliminating the need for constant rinsing, cleaning, and refilling of the bucket, bowl, or trough.

[0072] Each dispensing arm 200 may include one or more drinking valves 300. The number of drinking valves connected to each dispensing arm is not significant. Those skilled in the art will recognize that the number of drinking valves per dispensing arm and the number of dispensing arms can vary depending on the number of animals obtaining water from the device. In prior art embodiments, each drinking valve is attached to a dispensing arm such that each drinking valve is substantially perpendicular to the ground. In alternative non-prior art embodiments ( Figure 19 In this device, the drinking valve can be attached to the dispensing arm at multiple angles ranging from approximately 1° to approximately 45° perpendicular to the ground.

[0073] In a preferred embodiment, the valve cover 320 is red. In a more preferred embodiment, the valve cover and receiver 310 are red. In a further more preferred embodiment, the valve cover and receiver are red, and the dispensing arm 200 is white. Coloring can be achieved by using a material that is inherently red or white, adding a colorant to the composition used to manufacture that part of the article, or applying a colored material to that part of the article by spraying or laminating. It is believed that red attracts poultry, and the preferred contrast of red and white for the dispensing arm and receiver / valve cover is most likely to attract poultry to the device, thereby increasing the likelihood of them drinking from the device.

[0074] Preferably, the water reservoir 100, the dispensing arm 200, the receiver 310, and the valve cover 320 are made of plastic material. Preferred plastics for the water reservoir, dispensing arm, receiver, and valve cover include polyvinyl chloride, foamed polyvinyl chloride, polyethylene, foamed polyethylene, and combinations thereof.

[0075] The water level control mechanism 400A or 400B is any device that adjusts the hydrostatic pressure applied to the drinking valve 300 based on the amount of water in the device when the drinking valve is in the closed position. If there is too much water in the device, the hydrostatic pressure applied to the drinking valve may make it difficult for poultry to open the valve to obtain water. Conversely, if there is insufficient water in the device, the hydrostatic pressure applied to the drinking valve may make the valve open too easily, resulting in water overflow and waste. Those skilled in the art will recognize that the water level control mechanism serves a dual purpose: controlling the water level in the device and the hydrostatic pressure at the drinking valve. The water pressure at the drinking valve is a function of the number of drinking valves and the water level in the device. Therefore, as more drinking valves are added to the device, the water level should be increased to ensure sufficient pressure is maintained at each drinking valve. Preferably, the water level control mechanism is an anti-siphon inlet valve.

[0076] exist Figures 1 to 3 In the prior art embodiment shown, the water level control mechanism is a floatless inlet valve 400A. One such floatless inlet valve is the K830-15 mini pilot-operated anti-siphon toilet inlet valve, available from The Keeney Manufacturing Company in Newington, Connecticut, USA. The floatless inlet valve is located at the bottom of the reservoir 110. The bottom of the reservoir will have an inlet valve port to allow the floatless inlet valve to be connected to an external water source. The floatless inlet valve includes a diaphragm pressure sensing mechanism that opens the inlet valve when the static pressure in the reservoir drops below a predetermined level, thereby refilling the reservoir and increasing the static pressure applied to the drinking valve to the desired level. The floatless inlet valve may also include an inlet hose extending from the floatless inlet valve and into one of a plurality of dispensing arms.

[0077] exist Figures 4 to 6 In the non-priority embodiment shown, the water level control mechanism is a float inlet valve 400B. A preferred float inlet valve is the Kerick float valve M052, available from Kerick Valve, Inc. in Jacksonville, Florida, USA. The float valve is located at the top of the reservoir 105. The side wall of the reservoir will have an inlet valve orifice located near the top of the reservoir to allow the float inlet valve to be connected to an external water source. The float inlet valve includes a float that closes the inlet valve when the water level in the reservoir is at the level required to maintain proper hydrostatic pressure, and opens the inlet valve when the water level in the reservoir drops below the required level. Therefore, by automatically refilling the reservoir, the drinking valve will always have an appropriate amount of hydrostatic pressure in the closed position.

[0078] In one embodiment, the external water source is a hose connected to a conventional faucet. The faucet can be connected to a main water supply system for a residential, agricultural, or industrial facility, such as a well or municipal water supply. The faucet can remain open, and a water level control mechanism regulates the flow of water from the faucet into the reservoir. In embodiments using a float inlet valve and a conventional faucet, the system can be adapted to withstand high pressure (greater than 5 psi) of water entering the reservoir from the conventional faucet. Traditionally, this is achieved by adjusting the type of inlet hose and valve fittings.

[0079] In another embodiment, the external water source is a water tank []500, which can be a barrel, bucket, tub, or other container, including a bottom, at least one side wall, and a top surface. The top surface can be a solid monolithic surface (i.e., covered), a screen surface, or an open surface. A screen surface is preferred, as this allows rainwater to collect in the tank while preventing contaminants (especially mosquitoes, ants, flies, bees, larvae, and other insects) from polluting the water source. Preferably, the screen surface includes a screen with a certain mesh size to exclude even midges or biting flying insects. This screen size is typically no larger than 30 mesh, preferably no larger than 25 mesh, and most preferably no larger than 20 mesh. A preferred screen is white Noseeum Mosquito Netting Fabric from the Online Fabric Store, available at http: / / www.onlinefabricstore.net / white-noseeum-mosquito-netting-fabric-.htm, May 12, 2014.

[0080] Allowing rainwater to collect in the tank reduces or eliminates the need for continuous refilling. The reservoir can be directly connected to the tank via a series of fittings or hoses. Preferably, the reservoir is connected to the tank via a hose. In one embodiment, the hose extends from the bottom of the tank to a float-type inlet valve attached to the side wall of the reservoir. In another embodiment, the hose extends from the bottom of the tank to a floatless inlet valve attached to the bottom of the reservoir. In yet another embodiment, one end of the hose is inserted into the tank through the top surface, and the other end is inserted into the top of the reservoir. The portion of the hose not inserted into the top of the reservoir or tank is kept above the top surface of the tank and the top of the reservoir, allowing water to be siphoned out of the tank and into the reservoir through the hose without the need for an inlet valve.

[0081] The arrangement of the water tank and reservoir should allow water to flow from the tank to the reservoir without external assistance (such as a pressurized water source, increased air pressure, a water pump, or other water delivery devices). For example, placing the water tank above the reservoir relative to the ground allows water to flow from the tank into the reservoir by gravity when at least one drinking valve is opened. Placing the water tank below the reservoir utilizes the siphon principle well-known in the art. The drawback of siphoning is that once the tank is emptied, the siphon effect is broken and must be restarted.

[0082] In this way, the water supply system is portable and can be located in any outdoor site away from a pressurized water source. It is even conceivable that a solar-powered water pump could be used to deliver small amounts of water from a nearby stream, thereby keeping the water tank full and supplying water to the storage tank via a water level control mechanism to maintain a relatively constant pressure at at least one drinking valve.

[0083] Preferably, the component provides a barrier against visible light and its outer range (defined as light that may come into contact with water in the range of 350 nm to 750 nm). Visible light and its outer range promote the growth of photosynthetic organisms such as algae in water. These photosynthetic organisms may cause health problems in animals. In this regard, it is preferable to completely enclose the water from visible light and to make various components, including the water reservoir, cap, dispensing arm, and valve, made of a material that blocks visible light and its outer range from passing through the component. Blocking visible light and its outer range means that at least 50% of the light in the 350 nm to 750 nm range does not pass through the component, more preferably at least 75%, even more preferably 85%, more preferably 95%, and most preferably 100%. 50% of the light refers to 50% of the total light, not 50% of each wavelength. This can be achieved by using an inherently opaque material, using an inherently appropriately colored material, adding additives that block or absorb light, or coating this part of the article with a colored material by spraying or laminating, thereby blocking visible light and its outer range.

[0084] In one embodiment, the component further includes an electric heater. The electric heater includes a power source and a heating element. An example of an electric heater is a 44-watt foil heater. This 44-watt foil heater includes a heater plug extending from the water reservoir for connection to a standard power outlet. In one embodiment, the heating element extends into the water reservoir. In another embodiment, the heating element extends into at least one dispensing arm. In yet another embodiment, the heating element extends into both the water reservoir and at least one dispensing arm. The thermal conductivity of the heating element at 68°F is preferably greater than 50 Btu / (hr. °F·ft). In a more preferred embodiment, the thermal conductivity of the heating element at 68°F is greater than 100 Btu / (hr. °F·ft). In the most preferred embodiment, the thermal conductivity of the heating element at 68°F is greater than 150 Btu / (hr. °F·ft).

[0085] In one preferred embodiment, the heating element comprises copper, wherein the heating element preferably comprises more than 90% copper by weight, more preferably ... Since the amount of silver can also be 0, in the case of only a heating element, the ratio of the weight of silver in the coating of the heating element to the weight of copper in the core can be less than 0.1, and most preferably less than 0.01.

[0086] In a preferred embodiment, the component includes a heating element extending into at least one dispensing arm used in conjunction with a plurality of drinking valves, wherein at least one drinking valve includes a heat transfer pin having the aforementioned specifications and composition. Preferably, each of the plurality of drinking valves includes a heat transfer pin. In such an embodiment, it is preferred that the heating element be silver-plated. More preferably, the heat transfer pin comprises more than 90% copper by weight. In one embodiment, the heat transfer pin may be silver-plated. In one embodiment, the heating element is in direct contact with the heat transfer pin of each of the plurality of drinking valves. In this way, the heat generated by the electric heater heats the water in the dispensing arm, and the heat transfer pin transfers the heat from the dispensing arm to the drinking valve, which delays or prevents the valve from freezing.

[0087] Examples of existing technologies (e.g.) Figures 1 to 3 The illustrated embodiment presents challenges in construction and requires end-user assembly due to the use of various difficult-to-apply liquid sealants or the need to ship parts together. Backyard chicken farmers need an easy-to-assemble kit that requires little or no effort to assemble.

[0088] In this context, the inventors created an easy-to-assemble kit that requires no chemical sealant and can be assembled by hand.

[0089] like Figures 4 to 13As shown, an improved component and kit for the component are illustrated, including a water receiver 1100 with an optional cover 1105 and a vent 1130. The improved water receiver shown has an integrated structure and has two connector ports, one of which is as follows: Figure 5 As shown in 1500.

[0090] Unlike existing connections that consist of a dispensing arm sealed with PVC adhesive and comprising four components (water receiver, connector, reducer, and tube), the improved connection is provided by at least two angled lugs at the open ends, away from the connector port. Figure 5 As shown in 1700, these lugs are located on the outer side of the circular connector wall. In another embodiment, they may be located inside the distribution arm that connects to the connector port.

[0091] (1600) is a groove or recess for a seal (such as an O-ring or gasket). When the dispensing arm rotates in connection with the lug, the lug guides the groove in the dispensing arm and tightens it—that is, applies pressure to the seal between the connector port and the dispensing arm. This compression applies pressure in the direction indicated by arrow (1650).

[0092] An alternative embodiment has threads that travel around the circumference of the connector port. The difference between a lug and a thread is that a thread travels continuously multiple times around the connector port, while a lug is discontinuous, with the distribution arm traveling only a portion of the way around the connector, thereby controlling the magnitude of the torque or pressure applied to the seal.

[0093] Marked as 2000 ( Figures 11 to 13 The dispensing arm has at least one dispensing port (2220), which is a hole in the wall of the dispensing arm and receives a known drinking valve, not shown in the figures but fully described in the prior art. 2500 is a first end of the dispensing arm, opposite a second end which is closed to prevent water flow. The first end has a connecting lug (2700) and a sealing groove 2600 for receiving an O-ring or seal to be compressed when the dispensing arm is twisted and tightened around the connector port.

[0094] The cap can also be threaded to the sidewall of the dispensing arm. In such an embodiment, the outer surface of the dispensing arm sidewall may have external threads, while the portion of the dispensing arm cap fitted around the outer surface of the dispensing arm sidewall has internal threads, and the external threads of the dispensing arm sidewall mate with the internal threads of the dispensing arm cap. In an alternative embodiment, the dispensing arm cap is bonded to the dispensing arm using a sealing material (e.g., silicone, PVC adhesive, or both).

[0095] Figures 14 to 28 Examples of straight lug design, lug stop design, and lug lock design are shown. A wall mount with a bracket attached to a water tank is also shown.

[0096] Figures 14 to 16 Designed for straight lugs (1700). The lugs are not angled around the port, but straight, i.e., parallel to the port inlet. This is due to the O-ring grooves provided around the corresponding ports (1500A and 1500B). Figure 15 ; 1650A, 1650B, Figure 15 Therefore, no tilt angle is required. The placement of the O-ring is shown in the figure ( Figure 15 Only 1660B is shown. (For example...) Figure 7 As shown by the double-headed arrows, the angled lug presses the O-ring against the port in the tightening direction; as... Figure 15 As shown by the arrow, the O-ring with the straight lug is pressed towards the center of the port.

[0097] Figures 14 to 16 Lug stops (1710A and 1710B) are also shown. These lug stops are used to stop the rotation of the distribution arm. Those skilled in the art will understand that lug stops can also be placed on tilted lugs to prevent excessive compression of the O-ring.

[0098] 1720A and 1720B are lug locks, which are more prominently displayed in Figure 16 The lug lock is a sharp protrusion from the side of the lug. It is connected to the lug groove ( Figure 18 (2720) Interaction. The lug lock prevents the dispensing arm from rotating on its own or due to vibration.

[0099] Installation accessories 1200A and 1200B are also shown in Figure 14 and 15 The water reservoir has mounting slots or holes (1210A, 1210B) for the bracket tabs to enter. 4850 and 4800 are the distances from the bottom of the port to the top of the mounting bracket slot or hole, and to the bottom of the mounting bracket slot or hole, respectively.

[0100] Figure 16 A bottom view of a water reservoir (1000) mounted in a bracket (4000) is shown. 1300 is the water reservoir cover surrounding the front (1020) and rear (1030) sides of the water reservoir. The bottom (1010) of the water reservoir has a mounting lock (1020) protruding from the bottom. The mounting bracket base (4100) has a notch that allows the mounting lock to protrude into the notch and prevents the bottom of the water reservoir from moving off the mounting bracket.

[0101] Figures 17 to 19 An alternative distribution arm (2000) with a distribution arm connector (2100) and a distribution arm carrier (2200) is shown. The distribution arm end opposite the connector is 2550.

[0102] like Figure 18As shown, the dispensing arm connector (2100) is configured to interact with a lug on the reservoir port. The dispensing arm lug (2700) has a lug notch (2720) for interacting with a lug lock on the reservoir port. Clearly, the lug lock can be located on the dispensing arm lug, while the lug notch is located on the lug of the reservoir port. It is also clear that straight and angled lug configurations can be used with O-rings around the port. It is also clear that lug stops and / or lug locks / lug notches can be used with O-ring compression strategies or dispensing arms of any shape.

[0103] Figure 18 A valve receiver (2220) for inserting into a drinking valve is also shown. The valve receiver may also be threaded to receive a threaded drinking valve.

[0104] As previously mentioned, the connection of the dispensing arm can be configured such that the drinking valve is not perpendicular to the ground. The drinking valve is preferably angled such that the tip of the valve extends along the line of sight from the ground (L2) beyond the edge of the dispensing arm (Lg). Figure 19 An imaginary line is formed by the water valve at an angle to the same imaginary line. Since the line originating from the ground is perpendicular to the ground, the aforementioned angle is the same angle. This angle (Θ, Figure 19 The angle is preferably between 5 and 45 degrees. This ensures that the drinking area directly above the poultry is not covered by the distribution arm. Poultry prefer this design because it allows them to observe predators in the sky.

[0105] Figures 20 to 22 The cover with the attached water level control device is shown. Water level control device (1400) Figure 23 The inlet port (1450) passes through the cover (1300) as shown in the figure. The cover has two ventilation holes (1320), a top side (1330), a bottom side (1370), an outer wall (1350), and an inner wall (1340). It also has an inlet slot (1360) for wires, probes, or other monitoring equipment. Figure 22 As shown, the bottom side is opposite to the top side. The water level control device can be fixed by adhesive, or the inlet port can be threaded and the device can be fastened to the cover with a nut.

[0106] Figures 24 to 26 A mounting bracket (4000) is shown. The mounting bracket has a base (4500) that connects to a bracket (4520). The base has a support (4540) with a cutout hole (4545). The mounting bracket also has a back (4100) that connects the base to the top of the mounting bracket.

[0107] The top of the mounting bracket has two locking arms (4400, 4300) that can slide on either side of the water reservoir. There are two locking tabs (4450, 4350) that slide into slots or holes (1210A, 1210B) in the mounting bracket (1200A, 1200B). A through hole (4550) is provided for securing the mounting bracket to a wall or column.

[0108] Figure 27 and Figure 28 This relates to an end cap (3000) for sealing one of the distribution ports. Similar to the distribution arm connector, the end cap has a lug (3700), which can be angled or straight, to seal the port from leakage. Figure 28 The optional lug slot (3750) or lug lock is also shown.

[0109] Based on the above figures and explanations, it is clear that the improved water dispenser will have a water reservoir comprising a top, a bottom, at least one side wall, and a connector port. The water reservoir will have at least one connector port and at least one dispensing arm. The connector port may have a straight lug or an angled lug. At least one of the straight or angled lugs may have a lug stop. The dispensing arm may have a lug, which may be straight or angled. The dispensing arm lug may or may not have a lug lock.

[0110] The dispensing arm and connector can be configured to mate or align such that the drinking valve is preferably angled, such that the tip of the valve extends along the line of sight from the ground (L2) beyond the dispensing arm from the ground to the edge (Lg). Figure 19 An imaginary line is formed by the water valve at an angle to the same imaginary line. Since the line originating from the ground is perpendicular to the ground, the aforementioned angle is the same angle. This angle (Θ, Figure 19 The preferred temperature range is 5 to 45 degrees.

[0111] The improved water dispenser also features a gasket, such as an O-ring, which can be tightened in the direction of fastening (e.g., ...). Figure 7 (as indicated by the double-headed arrow) or radial direction (as shown by the arrow) Figure 15 (As shown by the two opposing arrows in the middle) is compressed.

[0112] All of the above-described improved water dispensers have a water level control mechanism, which may be a valve located at the bottom of the water reservoir, a valve located at the top of the water reservoir, or a valve located in the cover.

[0113] The water reservoir in any configuration may or may not have mounting accessories. If mounting accessories are present, the kit may optionally include mounting brackets.

Claims

1. A kit for assembling a device for dispensing clean water to poultry, comprising: A water storage device, comprising a top end, a bottom end, at least one side wall, and a connector port; At least one dispensing arm, including a first end, a second end, at least one dispensing arm sidewall, and at least one drinking valve configured to be attached to a dispensing port; and The at least one distribution arm is configured to mate with the connector port.

2. The kit according to claim 1, wherein, The connector port also includes lugs.

3. The kit according to claim 2, wherein, The lug can be an inclined lug or a straight lug.

4. The kit according to any one of claims 2 and 3, wherein, The lug has a lug stop.

5. The kit according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein, The at least one distribution arm has a lug, which has an optional lug stop and / or an optional lug lock.

6. The kit according to any one of claims 1 to 5 further includes a gasket configured to form a seal between the connector port and the dispensing arm.

7. The kit according to any one of claims 1 to 6 further includes a water level control mechanism.

8. The kit according to claim 7, wherein, The water level control mechanism is attached to the water storage device.

9. The kit according to any one of claims 1 to 4, further comprising a cover.

10. The kit according to any one of claims 1 to 9, wherein, The kit does not include a separate solvent adhesive for mating the connector port to the dispensing arm.

11. The kit according to any one of claims 1 to 10, wherein, The kit also includes a mounting bracket.

12. A component of the kit according to any one of claims 1 to 11.

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