Feeding station for the natural, species-appropriate ground feeding of animals, especially horses

Abstract

The present invention relates to a feeding station for the natural, species-appropriate ground feeding of animals, in particular horses, with at least one feeding module, wherein two container side walls (24) joined together in frameless block construction with front (28) and rear wall (16a) and a drive block (36) are joined to form a roughage container (46), in which the feed drive device (36) stationed here serves to convey feed (64) out of the feeding module (45).

Description

[0001] This patent application aims to contribute to further improving horse husbandry.

[0002] However, this is not simple, as countless factors determine how keeping horses is made possible in the relevant era, the existing landscape, or the prevailing circumstances.

[0003] It is generally assumed that The horse is mainly native to the steppe landscape. It spends approximately 16-18 hours a day consuming the necessary food, close to the ground, while moving slowly forward at a walk. But this is true in all weather and temperature conditions.

[0004] Our horse has evolved for over 50 million years, mostly in steppe regions. From this, they have acquired characteristics that humanity has come to appreciate for approximately 5,000 years.

[0005] Horses were initially "used" as hunting trophies, and then immediately afterward for hunting other animals. They were quickly deployed in warfare, as draft animals pulling all kinds of wagons, including cannons, as tractors for agricultural equipment, for the ceremonial carriages of royal families, for fast mail riders and stagecoaches, and later for sporting purposes in long-distance, cross-country, show jumping, and dressage riding.

[0006] Over these 5,000 years, it is clear that the horses, despite all the activities required of them, were unable to obtain their necessary food in the same way as they had been accustomed to doing in the wild for 50,000,000 years.

[0007] It simply couldn't be any other way, because, to put it simply, humans "used" the horse for their own purposes. This was understandable, given the various circumstances that demanded it. Feeding times constantly had to be adjusted, and the different feeding methods (in the stable, out on the trail, at the cart, etc.) left little room for flexibility. Everything always had to be done "quickly," "without problems," and "effectively."

[0008] After World War II, everything changed abruptly because the horse as a working animal was replaced by cars, tractors, etc., practically everywhere in the world. While the horse then found its place in sports, for over 40 years now it has been making its unstoppable entry into the "leisure" and "hobby" sectors.

[0009] This creates the positive "side effect" that horse owners take much more care of their horses' needs, also because many keep their "darlings" at their homes in the countryside.

[0010] The individual needs of the horses are given more attention, as it has now become widely known: The better the needs of the respective horse husbandry are met, the more horse-friendly and "natural" the horse husbandry is.

[0011] The horse feels more comfortable.

[0012] Regardless of whether in paddock boxes, open, running or exercise stables, namely as: "running animal", "continuous grazer", "herd animal", etc.

[0013] Over the last 35 years, the needs of the "running animal" and "herd animal" horse have made great strides, while the "continuous grazer" horse seems to have been "forgotten".

[0014] After 5,000 years of experience with horses, we are now in the comfortable position of being able to give our horses the time to eat that we, for understandable reasons, had to deny them.

[0015] Our modern future world (e.g., with the targeted climate change) should be capable of this.

[0016] How can we ensure that in 2050 our grandchildren will enjoy keeping horses as much as we do now?

[0017] How is the private keeping of a horse "for pleasure" viewed in society at this time?

[0018] Even 500 years ago, Martin Luther believed that one had to

[0019] "Listen to the people!" so that their language could be better understood. Luther knew perfectly well that this was the only way to make the Bible understandable to the common people.

[0020] If one considers the feeding of horses today from the same perspectives, one quickly arrives at the same result: You have to pay particular attention to the horse's mouth while it's eating.

[0021] For the question may be asked whether our horse, with its mouth, encounters at least similar conditions to those it has been accustomed to for 50 million years.

[0022] Namely, that his body was perfectly designed "from front to back" to effortlessly absorb the necessary food for free life in nature, e.g. the steppe. State of the art

[0023] The present invention relates to a feeding station for the natural, species-appropriate ground feeding of animals, particularly horses, with roughage of various types and material states, but also other types of feed (such as grain, pellets, or succulent feed). Depending on the housing conditions, the horses are generally fed by hand or mechanically with the necessary feed, which preferably consists of hay (dried grass) or haylage (grass with 45-60% dry matter, airtightly packaged in film) and straw. The feed is stored loose or compressed, also wrapped in film (e.g., in the form of small or large rectangular or round bales). In individual stall housing, the feed is presented several times a day by hand or with a feed fork. For this purpose, feed racks are attached to the wall or placed in corners to allow for easy filling (even from the stable aisle).A mechanical time-controlled allocation (storage container opens and closes a feed grid to the box) is also possible.

[0024] In group housing, both indoors and outdoors, a wide variety of options are available, ensuring that each individual horse can consume its allocated feed as undisturbed, uniformly in quantity and of good quality as possible.

[0025] The feed should be dry and remain so, not soiled or scattered, and should be equally accessible to all horses. With all feeding methods, horses should be able to take their allotted portions by chewing thoroughly (salivating the food) and then swallowing calmly. Greedy, hasty eating should be avoided.

[0026] Currently, the following feeding options are possible: Fig.Figure 1 shows feeding via so-called "hay nets," which is often used for smaller groups. It is important to distribute the nets widely (to prevent competition for food and encourage movement), to choose net mesh sizes that are small enough (to avoid waste from pulling out tufts of hay), and not to hang them too low (to prevent damage from hooves). Fig. Figure 2 represents the so-called "feeding table." Its primary purpose is to provide feed to horses that are free-roaming but separated from the main feeding area. This can be done both inside and outside the feeding area. It is important to ensure that, on the horse side, each horse has its own feeding space (e.g., using dividers) and that, on the work side, the feed is presented easily and evenly (e.g., with a forage wagon). Furthermore, the horses' selective feeding and pushing of the feed away must be monitored and balanced. Fig.Figure 3 symbolizes the modern automated feeding system, where horses can be supplied with roughage or haylage, as well as grains or pellets, practically all day long via a timer or computer-controlled feeding system. A distinction is made between allowing specific groups to feed together at a predetermined time and allowing each individual horse to access its allocated feed quantity at designated feeding stations throughout the day via computer-controlled feeding. Fig. Figure 4 shows the usual feeding (e.g. in feed bowls, feed buckets, etc.), whereby it is known that the horse is always given a large amount of feed (as can be seen). Fig.Figure 5 is intended to represent the familiar "trough feeding" system, which, depending on the design and purpose, allows for the feeding of concentrated feed and roughage, either together or separately. To save resources or extend feeding times, versions with top-mounted grids or perforated plates, etc., are also used, which move towards the bottom (due to their weight) as feed is taken. Fig. Figure 6 shows the outline of a horse as it has been for 50,000,000 years, in approximately 16 to 18 hours per day, searching for and consuming its necessary food in the steppe by slowly walking forward, in modern terms: “horse slow food”.

[0027] His entire body, with all its specialized, high-performance organs and body parts, is in complete relaxation.

[0028] The horse is so finely adapted to its habitat (the steppe) that no adverse weather conditions or extreme temperature fluctuations can harm it. (But, it's also clear: if even one small cog in this complex equine marvel isn't running smoothly, others will quickly follow suit, and the horse will be placed on sick leave.)

[0029] This feeding method, which is perfect for horses, is generally referred to as "ground feeding" because the horse takes in its food "close to the ground", just like in nature.

[0030] With all the feeding methods described here, the aim is to leave the horses "in peace" while they are eating, so that they are "not disturbed".

[0031] Since we are dealing with the feeding options shown in Fig. 1 - Fig.3. Since horses can hardly be identified as "ground feeding", but can always "stuff" their mouths with food as much as they like with all feeding methods, two examples will be used to show why we should feed our horses "differently": Our horses are practically not fed at all (i.e., from the ground). Regardless of the feeding method, our horses can always "stockpile" food to satisfy their hunger, quell food envy, etc. However, all of this is detrimental to the necessary breakdown of the food and its healthy digestion.

[0032] In summary, it can be said that It is not common to have food available 24 hours a day. Ground feeding is almost never practiced, The horse does not eat at walking pace. Feeding is not practiced under "natural restlessness", Feeding is practically not offered in different terrain sections and substrates, Feeding outdoors "without a roof" in all seasons, in all weather conditions, is generally not practiced.

[0033] Therefore, the purpose of the invention is to address the feeding-related problems described here and to lead to a satisfactory solution. Task

[0034] The invention is therefore based on the objective of improving existing feeding methods / systems or adding new ones so that they can fulfill the tasks set out.

[0035] The 2019 / 2020 study commissioned by the German Equestrian Federation (FN) and conducted by IPSOS should definitely be taken into account, as it provides a comprehensive overview of the current strength and future trends in equestrian sport and leisure riding for the coming years. Two things are probably most important for this task: If one extrapolates the various types of horse keeping identified among all 1.3 million horses / ponies living in Germany, one unfortunately has to conclude that approximately 600,000 horses are still kept in stalls. Furthermore, over 600,000 households have at least one horse, with a clear trend towards keeping two horses, primarily for hobby or leisure rather than for sport.

[0036] It is quite surprising that the FN study also reveals that, despite the enormous positive progress in horse husbandry, the aforementioned 600,000 horses are still kept individually in stalls.

[0037] The study may also provide a clue here, as the sometimes carelessly and unimaginatively pre-built paddocks are said to already be on the decline.

[0038] However, no clear improvement for the horses has yet been observed with stall feeding.

[0039] These circumstances have led to the development of feeding stations, called "feeding modules" (for individual feeding, e.g., in boxes) and "feeding blocks" (for group feeding), being "simplified" to such an extent that they can be easily retrofitted into any horse box, thus fulfilling at least the horse's natural need for "continuous feeding" along with "ground feeding".

[0040] The needs of horses are listed in order of importance from the “Horse Keeping Catalog, published 1996-2021”.

[0041] Of the seven basic needs listed, "constant grazing" is in second place, because, for example, the digestive tract constantly processes ingested food particles, since horses do eat, more or less, "constantly"!

[0042] The most common figure in the literature is that horses on the steppe graze for approximately 16 hours per day. However, other sources cite grazing times ranging from 12 hours per day (Van Dierendonck et al. 1996) to 18 hours per day (Salter & Hudson 1976).

[0043] Dr. Helmut Ende, Isernhagen, a specialist veterinarian known beyond the borders through his trade fair demonstrations, seminars and lectures, as well as books, formulated the feeding times as follows: "The horse has to spend practically the entire day consuming enough food to meet its nutritional needs for survival."

[0044] These long feeding times are also fundamentally related to the fact that horses in the steppe can only ingest very small pieces of food, because they can only take tens of thousands of bites (50,000 bites / day!) of the available steppe grasses and herbs near the ground in order to secure the necessary food.

[0045] This ground-level feeding is, as already mentioned, generally referred to as "ground feeding". The horse assumes its typical "grazing" posture ("lunge" cf. ). Fig. 6) one, when moving slowly forward at a walk.

[0046] equino.de, by Maria Engel, describes this very precisely. Thanks to her extensive expertise, she can summarize all the essential details and explain them concisely and clearly. Head lowered vertically, lower jaw pushed forward = teeth exactly on top of each other - Cervical vertebrae are relaxed The first two cervical vertebrae are relaxed, the shoulder blade straightens - Stabilization of the skeleton The neck strap holds the whole head in place. - Muscles are completely relaxed The hindquarters provide a counterweight to the neck and head. - no effort required in this position Horse standing on its toes - no strain on the fetlock joints.

[0047] It's important to remember that horses typically move forward at a walk when being fed on the ground. As continuous grazers, horses are constantly searching for food and therefore need to consume it continuously. This means they are always chewing and grinding their food, producing plenty of saliva to better prepare it for digestion. This relieves the small stomach and the complex intestinal tract, which is just as important as the physical movement of walking to keep the entire digestive system functioning properly.

[0048] It's common knowledge that walking is considered fundamental in equestrian sports. Especially in eventing and endurance riding, the enormous benefits of walking training are highly valued. "No foot, no horse!" as the saying goes, and therefore it's essential to feed horses while they're walking. This protects and strengthens their hocks and provides gentle exercise, all while they're being fed!

[0049] Dr. Margit Zeitler-Feicht, ethologist, head of the Department of Ethology, Animal Husbandry and Animal Welfare at the Weihenstephan Science Center of the Technical University of Munich, author of several specialist books on animal welfare in horse husbandry, problem behavior and animal welfare aspects in the handling and use of horses, says the following about ground feeding: "From an ethological point of view - and that is my field of expertise - it should be noted that this is the species-typical feeding posture."

[0050] Because of all these circumstances, it is absolutely necessary to give horses the opportunity to eat 24 hours a day if they want to.

[0051] In modern horse husbandry, we have to make do with limited resources. This includes ensuring that each horse can actually consume its allocated feed. In this context, it's understandable that more sensitive horses will find it easier to secure a feeding spot within the group if the total available feeding time is as long as possible (e.g., 24 hours a day) and not reduced to the familiar 16 hours a day or even less (e.g., the "usual" three feedings per day).

[0052] The specialist literature advises that the feed should be offered under "calm" (undisturbed) conditions.

[0053] Zoologist Professor Nicolaus Peter from Hamburg discovered in brain examinations of domestic animals that they had lost up to 35% of their brain mass compared to their wild counterparts. This was primarily due to the fact that domestic animals were kept away from all natural stimuli, such as foraging for food, protection from predators, etc.

[0054] To prevent the horse's existing sensory organs from atrophying, the horses must be kept busy with appropriate "natural disturbances".

[0055] The same applies to horses in winter, as they are naturally very resilient and can easily withstand daily temperature drops of 40°C and more (e.g., in the Arabian deserts). They possess an excellent thermoregulation system, which, however, needs to be maintained. Therefore, horses should be able to eat outdoors in all seasons – for the sake of their health!

[0056] natural-horse-care.com: Bettina Gerken and Kathrin Rosseburg observed in their thesis: "Horses very quickly develop a sense of time, which allows them to consume the same amount of feed in a shorter time by eating more hastily, e.g. with computer feeding or time-controlled feed presentation, also with hay nets."

[0057] How quickly and how much does a horse eat, as is known from literature and experts: In approximately 40 minutes, one horse eats about 1 kg of hay. In approximately 10 minutes, one horse eats about 1 kg of oats.

[0058] The following results were obtained when feeding with time- or computer-controlled dosing systems: October 18, 2022 Weinsberger Triple Dosage. Wolfram Stendel, 1 kg of oats approx. 15 min. October 19, 2022 Schauer-Agrotronic, Carola Brandt, Free-range stable, computer feeding 1kg oats approx. 25 min Free-range stable, computer feeding 1kg of hay takes approximately 20-40 minutes. Movement stable, time-controlled 1kg of hay takes approximately 20-40 minutes.

[0059] Initial trials with a "slow food" approach for horses, conducted at Eva Maier-Zeilhofer's horse farm in Hallbergmoos (85399), in September / October 2022, with horse Inato (born March 7, 2003, 163 cm tall), clearly demonstrated that slowing down the feeding process is both sensible and practical. However, many more trials are needed.

[0060] When foraging in nature, horses must navigate varying terrain, requiring attention, agility, and a certain level of fitness. Modern horse husbandry aims to preserve these qualities, which is why the self-propelled feeder used for feeding provides this training opportunity, further promoting the horse's health and well-being.

[0061] By now, all of Germany is aware of the problems caused by the increasing heat and drought in all regions. Since weather records began, the summer of 2022 ranks among the three hottest and six driest on record, and it seems this trend could continue... or so one might think! Considering the current water scarcity and drought across entire regions (including rivers, streams, etc.), it's understandable that lush green horse pastures are becoming increasingly rare, while "lean pastures" with specially bred grasses and herbs are gaining popularity. According to the invention, the newly conceived "steppe pasture" (see subsequent applications) could play a significant role in the future of modern group horse husbandry.

[0062] The impetus for this arose, more or less, on its own, especially because traditional pastureland is becoming increasingly scarce (for whatever reason!), The currently common 6-month grazing season will certainly no longer be sustainable due to climate change (high soil dryness, severe weather, etc.). The questionable developments are exacerbating the shortage, The climate requires more resilient grasses / herbs in the pastures, The horse, being a "continuous grazer", must be provided with the appropriate necessities and However, the horses are still given more exercise.

[0063] So in the future, in addition to the exercise area, lying area, integration area, social area, shelter, straw bedding, watering trough, etc., the "steppe pasture" mentioned here will also be added.

[0064] Since the horses, as described, have the opportunity to graze continuously 24 hours a day, this "steppe pasture" area must always be accessible to them. Nevertheless, thanks to the controlled feed dispensing from the feed blocks, a truly "slow-feed" approach for horses, similar to what has been offered to humans worldwide for years, is always available, allowing the horses to chew thoroughly and slowly (stimulating saliva production). The assumed group of 30 horses is supplied fully automatically by the self-propelled feed blocks, or rather, the horses help themselves to the feed. Findings from: infothek.bmk.gv.at Feed movement in the barn https: / / wasserbauer.at the automatic cattle littering

[0065] To be able to move chassis smoothly across different terrains, the following are already being used: Chassis with low-pressure tires, chassis with rubber tracks and chassis with rail-bound running wheels.

[0066] For the "steppe pasture" described here, a small directional antenna inserted into the ground can be used to guide the self-propelled feed block, as this guidance system is certainly the most practical, simplest, and most cost-effective to implement. Since the ground-feeding station, with its "steppe pasture" design, is a completely new feeding system, no prior practical experience can be drawn upon. Therefore, only the data already described will be used in the following sections.

[0067] For example, in One horse weighs 500 kg and eats 10 kg of hay per day in "stable keeping" in 6.66 feeding hours. = hours for feeding 1 horse In nature, 16.0 Fh = feeding hours 1 horse Assuming 18.5 acres (FH) = feeding hours in steppe pasture that all horses in a group of 30 horses on the steppe pasture eat their 10 kg daily (within 24 hours / day), which amounts to a total of 300 kg / day.

[0068] Each "steppe" horse can thus eat its food 277% slower than in a "stable". and consume food 240% more slowly than in "nature". This means, firstly, that the horses on the steppe pasture can consume food much more slowly and therefore more healthily, and secondly, that the likelihood of them being able to move between feeding areas without problems will increase significantly (contentment, no food competition). With this in mind, the "steppe pasture" is used for For example, 30 horses were used experimentally with 6 self-propelled feeding units. That is to say... 1 horse / feeding area requires 300 kg / day : 30 horses = 10.0 kg / horse : 18.5 feed units = 545 g / feeding area / feeding area 6 feeding blocks with 4 feeding stations each = 24 feeding stations, available 24 / 7 for 30 horses = 545 gr / Fh / PfPl / day × 24 FPl × 24 h =313 kg / day.

[0069] This should ensure that the 30 horses of the "Steppenweide" will be able to consume their feed quantity of approximately 300 kg / day with the six feed blocks.

[0070] In addition, the feeding time of each individual horse can also be influenced by regulation via the feeding computer, so that it is quite conceivable that fewer feeding places = fewer feed blocks can be used without any visible disadvantage.

[0071] At least this method could encourage a faster change of feeding sites.

[0072] The availability of feed 24 hours a day and the forward movement at walking pace are ensured by computer feeding, as is the dosage into the smallest feed particles of, for example, hay and grain feed.

[0073] The relaxed body posture during ground feeding at the feed blocks promotes important health of the stomach / intestines and ankles.

[0074] To prevent the horses from becoming dull in their daily routine, appropriate "disturbance herds" (e.g., "windmills", fluttering ribbons, etc.) are placed along the path of the feed blocks to keep the horses' senses alert.

[0075] The same applies to traversing various varied terrain sections, such as hard and soft ground surfaces, water features, hills, etc., so that the horses remain attentive and, for example, their hooves experience useful use. Example 1

[0076] Further details and advantages of the present invention will be explained in more detail below with reference to the description of the figures and the embodiments shown in the drawings.

[0077] Before the individual drawings are named and described, the basic ideas behind them should be explained.

[0078] The “feed modules” and “feed blocks” are generally manufactured in a frameless block and truss-like construction, because this allows for easier and faster assembly, but also disassembly (recycling).

[0079] The material used is primarily a plywood-like wood panel material (e.g., multiplex panels) that can be easily and securely joined using prefabricated angle brackets, without requiring specialized knowledge. It should be highly environmentally friendly, weatherproof (for both indoor and outdoor use), and easily recyclable.

[0080] The feeding module is a stationary feeding option, while the feeding block is designed for both stationary and mobile use. Feeding module = individual feeding, feeding block = group feeding, 2-4 feeding stations (or more).

[0081] Feeding modules and feed blocks are solar-powered, but can also supply electricity.

[0082] They provide the horses with roughage, succulent feed, grain, and pelleted feed, either individually or together.

[0083] Due to the basic block and timber frame construction methods, larger production volumes (since identical parts are always used) are achieved per hour, resulting in lower unit costs, machine prefabrication is possible, manufacturing and assembly can be done with simple tools (cordless screwdrivers, drills, etc.), repair-friendly, even by unskilled workers, easier warehousing due to identical parts, cheaper transport both internally and externally, simpler delivery scheduling, recycling - also feasible for female workers, semi- and fully automatic filling is possible.

[0084] The crucial aspect is the application of the principle: focusing on the most important point. In the case of this invention, this is the "feeding module," namely the almost perfect "natural" feeding of a single horse.

[0085] This focus on the smallest part of the newly invented feeding station led, at the beginning of development, to abandoning the previously built model. The prototype now being developed meets all the requirements of the "feeding module" in every respect and size, so that it is known with certainty: if the prototype feeding module works, then the product "real green feed block" will also work! In this way, a considerable amount of testing costs has been saved.

[0086] If you permanently attach a second feed module to the functioning prototype product, you immediately create a fully functional feed block for 2 horses.

[0087] This process of assembling tiny, high-performance products has been successfully used in the computer industry for decades, or in the construction of high-performance batteries, etc.

[0088] However, according to current knowledge in feeding technology, this design is completely new.

[0089] The feed modules and feed blocks according to the invention, manufactured in block construction, consist of the following blocks, which are all "only" manually connected to each other, prefabricated ready for installation, stored clearly and according to plan and therefore made available for production very quickly.

[0090] (Side note: "Of course," the containers could also be prefabricated using a welded steel frame with crossbars and uprights, prepared for galvanizing, and then conventional 2 mm thick galvanized sheet metal could be screwed onto the frame, etc. However, for environmental reasons (e.g., CO2 reduction) and especially because of the more difficult manufacturing (requiring skilled workers!), transport routes, recycling, and, of course, costs, the "other" approach was chosen according to the invention: lots of wood and little metal! This has proven successful, for example, in the well-known "truly green," solar-powered "hay rest station" for over 12 years.)

[0091] (It would be quite conceivable that a well-equipped but underutilized medium-sized carpentry workshop - e.g., a kitchen manufacturer - could produce complete feed modules and feed blocks together with, e.g., metal construction, electrical, etc. partners). Support block 1 Support components, feet, base (possibly movable) with feed guide plates or hay funnels (fabric, foil, etc.) Container block 2, roof block 3 Base container and corresponding attachments; roof with "roof angles", struts, gutter, as well as roof posts, etc. Drive block 4 Drive motor and transmissions etc. for transport systems such as conveyor belts, screws, scraper floors and similar. Control block 4a mechanical-optical monitoring / detection (or previous transponders) Electrical Block 5 Control cabinet with computer, controller, solar charge controller, batteries Solar Block 5a Solar modules Energy Block 5b Charging and unloading station Driving block 6 Motion control unit for mobile feed block

[0092] As already described in detail, this application according to the invention is based on the smallest high-performance product (namely the one for just 1 horse) in order to then combine it with other, similar products.

[0093] However, this also immediately made it clear that the conventionally used square and round bales could no longer be used with the familiar hay racks and computer feeding systems.

[0094] Therefore, the applicant in Fig.Eight ways to easily unwrap large round bales are outlined. In the image above, the bale is first easily rolled onto the specially designed transport cart 2 using a lever 1, while the cart is secured to the ground (brake, wedge 3). Then, the ramp 4 is folded up and locked so that the bale cannot roll off. If an electric motor provides the drive, the farmer doesn't have to break a sweat. The cart is then driven directly in front of the respective container 5, and the bale can be easily unrolled by hand because it rests on three support rollers 6. The other option is well-suited if a tractor 7 is available on the farm. The applicant discovered this automatic unwrapper 8 at auerlmb.at. Although it is only intended for feeding dairy cows, it can certainly also be converted, as shown in the image, for feed modules and feed blocks using a chute 8a.

[0095] In Fig.Figure 9 shows how, for example, a wheel loader 9 and a special push and divider platform 10 can be used to transport a rectangular hay bale 11 to a container 5 to be filled. There, the rectangular bale can be hydraulically pushed into the correct position 12 relative to the container. The divider (cutting disc or chain) 13 then starts moving and separates the portion of hay to be conveyed into the container from the bale, pushing it into the open container via a pivot lever 13a. The container is then closed with the hinged or swing door 14, and the next container can be filled.

[0096] The following are descriptions of the feeding modules and feeding blocks.

[0097] Fig. Figure 10 shows, schematically for better clarity, one of the main basic ideas of the invention, namely the block construction design of the smallest, perfectly efficient feeding station, the feeding module, for only one horse.

[0098] On the left are the individual blocks shown, namely electrical block 15, container block 16 with the two side walls 16a and the front wall 23, as well as rear wall 16a for e.g. hay, drive block 17 with conveyor belts, drive motor, gear ratios etc., support block 18 with base supports, feet 18a, in the middle the side view of the feed module 19, below it a top view of the carrier and container block 20, as well as bottom right feed block with attached “truss” container 21 for holding concentrate feed containers, and top with built-in, e.g., time-controlled feed module 22 in a single box.

[0099] Fig.Figure 11 shows the further advantages of the block construction when three feed modules are simply joined together. For example, the three front walls 23 of a feed module are shown in the upper left, which have now been combined into a single unit to form a feed block for three horses. A significant advantage arises from the fact that two complete intermediate walls 24 and corresponding parts of the supports of the associated modules are eliminated during assembly. The front walls 23 each have an inspection hatch (door) 25 to provide easy access to the conveyor belts. The open front wall 26 has no back wall to allow for better visibility of the conveyor belts 27. The back wall of the front wall 28 is visible at the rear (hatched). The upper right shows a side cross-section of a feed module for hay feeding in the initial feeding stage 29.

[0100] The lower left shows the top view of the three support blocks with their feet and the container walls 30. The right shows the complete feed block from the rear 31 with a possible lid 32. 31a shows the side front of the module, 31b the top view.

[0101] Fig. Figure 12 is intended to illustrate further advantages of the inventive invention of the feeding station using the example of a feeding block for three horses 33, in which the four basic components support block 34, container block 35 hatched, drive block 36 and electrical block 37 can be clearly seen in the drawing.

[0102] The deliberately chosen block construction allows for easy and complete access to each individual feed module without having to shut down the other feed modules of the feed block that are in operation.

[0103] The illustration shows the already removed container block, placed on storage pallet 38. The drive block 17 is already attached to the loader 39, which lowers it onto the empty workbench 40 for operationally accessible repair work. In this way, quick access to all components is always guaranteed. This is made possible by a special transport wall 41, which replaces the right-hand wall of the attached feed modules.

[0104] The truss design plays a crucial role here. It allows the ring-shaped suspension device 42 to be attached at the junction 44 of the three "truss" struts 43. A gusset plate 44a, just visible on the back, further assists in this process by securely bolting the relevant cross struts 43 together.

[0105] The second necessary ring suspension is simply hooked onto the remaining side wall using the provided suspension plate 42a.

[0106] The "truss braces" 43 consist of sharp-edged angle iron 43a 40 × 40 × 3 mm, or 30 × 30 × 3 mm, etc., and multiplex strips 43b 18 mm thick, 50, 100, and 150 mm wide, and can therefore be used from the available lengths with virtually no waste. The two materials are screwed together with conventional machine screws, but also with suitable wood screws to achieve the same effect as with nail trusses.

[0107] How the "truss struts" will then be used in practice will have to be determined by further static calculations.

[0108] The same applies to the calculations and constructions of the nodes 44 with gusset plates 44a etc.

[0109] Fig.Figure 13 shows an illustration of a feeding module 45 for feeding from the lower roughage container 46 behind the left "side wall" and from the upper "timber frame" container 47 with the "grain-pellet tank" 48. For clarity, the base 49 of the support block has been drawn separately below the feeding module to indicate that a "base" is present. The same applies to the lid 50 of the timber frame container, which is shown above it. The idea for the "timber frame construction" arose from decades of practical experience with multiplex panels in barn construction and over 12 years with the "real green hay rest station". Advantages :

[0110] More wood than metal, durable indoors and outdoors, easy to work with using simple tools, can be done by unskilled workers in a short time, environmentally friendly, easily recyclable, easily degradable for recycling, suitable for high product volumes (production, storage, transport, price, etc.).

[0111] The "truss braces" 43 consist of sharp-edged angle iron 43a 40 × 40 × 3 mm, or 30 × 30 × 3 mm, etc., and multiplex strips 43b 18 mm thick, 50, 100, and 150 mm wide, and can therefore be used from the available lengths with virtually no waste. The two materials are screwed together with conventional machine screws, but also with suitable wood screws to achieve the same effect as with nail trusses.

[0112] The connecting plates 51 and the wall mounting plates 52 each serve to provide a firm connection between the two containers or between the support block and the container.

[0113] Fig. Section 14 describes the function of the feeding module and feeding block, which are only stationary, time-controlled feeding stations.

[0114] In the upper left is a hay container "full" 53 and on the right a hay container "half full" 54. The main part in the containers is the drive block 36, which is completely (see Fig.13) can be removed from any base support 18a for any work. It consists of the electric motor 57 and various gearboxes 58 to reduce the motor speed accordingly. The hay is placed on a movable chute 59, which is held on the left and right by two mutually sliding support rods 60 (telescopic tubes possible). These two support rods 60 are connected by a rope 61, which is tensioned or slackened by a winding motor 62 by means of, for example, light barrier sensors 62b. With a vibrator 62a, which acts, for example, on the rope 61, hay residue can be fed to the conveyor belts 27 by means of the resulting shaking movements of the chute 59. The infeed conveyor belt 63 ensures that the feed material hay 64 is deposited onto the transport conveyor belt 65, which transports the feed material 64 into the feeding area 66.To better feed the decreasing amount of feed to the conveyor belts 27, two additional retaining rods 60a are tensioned during filling with feed 64 by the tension spring 67 in the tension spring cable 61a and the cloth / film 59a stretched between them, which gradually releases on its own. The transport conveyor belt 65 is covered in the feeding area 66 by a stable feeding plate 68, which has only one centrally located feeding opening 69.

[0115] The infeed conveyor belt 63 and the transport conveyor belt 65 can have different running speeds in order to compensate for changing material properties of the feed.

[0116] In the illustration of a feed block 70, viewed from the side, the possible concentrate dosage 71, e.g., by grains, pellets, etc., is shown. In this example, it is supplied from the concentrate tank 72 with grain concentrate, but can also be supplied from the two upper small concentrate tanks 72a.

[0117] The complete working method of the feed block can be described as follows: The feeding module is specifically designed for horses that are still kept in individual stalls, for whatever understandable reason. This provides them with at least the most horse-friendly feeding option possible under these circumstances.

[0118] The most common feedstuff, hay 64, is loaded at the swing door 25a onto the sliding plate 59 located at the bottom 49 of the container 55 / 56. This plate is connected by the retaining bars 60. With the swing door 25a closed, the relatively loose hay is pressed against the infeed conveyor 63, which in turn deposits small amounts of hay 64 onto the transport conveyor 65. The infeed conveyor 63 can operate at varying speeds to better accommodate different hay qualities. If the hay loses volume, a first light barrier sensor 62 is activated, setting the winding motor 62 in motion. This pulls the rope 61, with its attached retaining bars and sliding plate 59, up to a designated stopping point.Should the hay 64 not reach the infeed conveyor belt 63 in this position, a vibrator 62a sets the rope 61 and the sliding plate 59 into a shaking motion, causing the hay 64 to be shaken against the conveyor belt 63 and from there onto the transport conveyor belt 65. Here, the feed 64 is conveyed further under the processing station 101, where the individual feed components undergo further processing, which is facilitated by the faster transport conveyor belt 65. Finally, the feed components of the feed 64 end up in the feeding area 66, which is covered by the feeding plate 68. The horse can only take the individual feed components from the transport conveyor belt via the horse-friendly feeding opening 69 if it has previously been recognized by the computer as being entitled to feed. If that were not the case, the conveyor belt 65 would not even begin transporting and thus would not offer the horse any food.

[0119] The initial start of the feed module and feed block always occurs when a horse is in the corresponding feeding area 66 of the motion sensor 75. Only then does the respective, specific feeding program begin to run.

[0120] All feeding modules and stationary feeding blocks, which supply the horses exclusively with straw, are supplied at their feeding stations according to a timed schedule.

[0121] All other feeding options are described in detail in Fig. 16 described.

[0122] The drawing below shows a feed block 70, as seen from the side in the versions for two, three, and four horses. To better illustrate the interior of the two containers, the respective left side walls have been omitted from the drawing. The feed block can be equipped for outdoor use with the wide, projecting prefabricated roof block 80. This keeps the feeding area dry at all times. The prefabricated roof 80 consists of the roof panel, the frame support, front and back trim, the rain gutter, and the roof posts. The individual roof designations for two-horse feed blocks 82, three-horse feed blocks 83, and four-horse feed blocks 84 are shown in parentheses, which also correspond to 2, 3, and 4 feeding spaces, respectively.

[0123] The upper container has two shelves, on which sit the two smaller tanks and, below, the large tank. As indicated in the large tank, they contain grain or pelleted feed. The feed trickles by gravity into the dosing unit 71, from where it falls onto the appropriate conveyor belt.

[0124] Fig. 15 The following drawings are intended to illustrate various possible uses of the feed blocks.

[0125] (A) is a feed block with only one solar module 85, which is responsible for the power supply of the station.

[0126] How the horses are identified at this feeding station will be described, for example, using the "transponder feeding" method that has been conventional for over 30 years.

[0127] To identify individual horses when they visit a feeding station 31a of a feeding block, conventional transponder technology (RFID) is used. Each horse receives a transponder (equated with an identification code), for example, attached to its halter or girth, or braided into its mane, so that it can be detected by appropriately positioned antennas 74. The code information is transmitted to a special reader, which processes the data for the feeding computer or the control unit for the feeding devices and sends out and receives the operating commands (e.g., when feed has been consumed).

[0128] Specifically, a horse's feeding process will proceed as follows: The horse approaches one of two feeding stations 31a and attempts to eat feed in feeding area 66. This is registered by the ground-level antenna 74, which transmits the horse's identification code to the reader. The reader then converts the code into a format readable by the feeding computer and forwards it. The computer compares this code to its pre-programmed data on the horse and determines which feed 64 and how much of it should be dispensed. The two conveyor belts 63 and 65 then begin to move, and if concentrated feed is to be added, the dosing unit 71 is activated. The transport conveyor belt 65, carrying the offered feed 64, runs slowly beneath the feeding plate 68 towards the feeding opening 69, allowing the horse to access the feed. If the concentrated feed ration 72 is exhausted, the dosing unit 71 is switched off; if the hay ration is finished, the intake conveyor belt 63 stops.If the horse is no longer presented with feed 64 in feeding area 66, it will leave its feeding place 31a, for example to go to the watering place.

[0129] In contrast, the “optical recognition method” presented here under patent law, which in Fig. 15a is described in more detail.

[0130] In (B) the novel recognition method is already illustrated. Fig.Figure 15a illustrates this, although the drawings are not always to scale (due to space constraints) and for clarity. The second solar module 85 has been installed because, for example, these three horses might consume more electricity, which needs to be verified. The required optical sensors 90 / 93 are only symbolically represented by their beams 94. Nevertheless, the ingenious feature is evident: the distance-reflection sensor 93 is precisely aimed at the horse's neck / polling area 95. The grazing horse stands still at a single point, namely at the feeding opening 69. This allows for very precise measurements because the horse provides the desired data many times in exactly the same position.

[0131] (C) is an “energy feed block” because it is intended not only to provide the horses with the necessary feed and encourage them to engage in promising movement, but also to generate “green” electricity for the general grid.

[0132] Therefore, three solar modules 85 are installed on the roof of the feed block 80. They supply the station with the necessary operating current, but also feed excess electricity into the grid via a special discharge station (e.g., steppe pasture 14).

[0133] To ensure that this solar power generation is as successful as possible, it is planned that the angles of the solar modules (small picture 96) will be set slightly steeper towards the sun, so that the shadow of the modules in the neighborhood does not cause too great an energy loss.

[0134] The second option is indicated in the three top-view images of the three modules 96. To ensure that the best sunlight is always captured, the three solar modules are mounted on a rotating ring 97, as shown. With its aid, the modules can be adjusted to the sunlight in a conventional manner (e.g., electric gear motor, hydraulic pump, pressure cylinder, etc.), fully automatically for day and night.

[0135] Fig. Figure 15a shows the more detailed structure of the novel “Optical Recognition System for Horses” according to the invention, as already described in Fig. 15 mentioned. The object of the invention is, among other things, that when recognizing the horses, they no longer need to be made recognizable beforehand (e.g. by transponders that are attached to the horse by means of a strap, braiding, etc.), but are recognized by "optical sensors" when they enter the feeding area.

[0136] Distance sensors 90 are mounted above and in front of the horses on the front side 26 for this purpose. They are installed so that their measuring beams 91 each strike the same body parts 92 of the horses. Furthermore, a distance reflection sensor 93 is mounted on the same front side 26 above the horses' heads, in the feeding area 66, so that its beams 94 strike additional body parts of the feeding horse.

[0137] Additionally, the motion sensor 93a will register the arriving horses.

[0138] These different radiation values ​​are recorded by the computer and entered into lists.

[0139] This is where the actual invention of the "Optical Recognition System for Horses" comes in. The system deliberately accepts that individual measurements of a horse will not be (or could not be) perfectly accurate. This is a fact that must be taken into account in practice, as the horse's movements, varying environmental conditions, and changing appearance will inevitably result in different readings during each measurement.

[0140] Therefore, according to the invention, only the very specifically selected values ​​are taken into account in the created computer program, so that one can be very sure that exactly the "right" horse has been "identified".

[0141] Just like with the police or election predictions!

[0142] Furthermore, the computer program includes a so-called "fixed run" function. This "fixed run" can be initiated immediately by the station operator, for example via mobile phone or other device, when a specific horse is spotted at the feeding area and it needs to be entered into the computer system. This also ensures that, from time to time, "reliable" fixed data is recorded for each horse.

[0143] In this way, when commissioning a system with "optical recognition", the first "fixed" basic data of the horse currently eating is entered, so that the computer already has "reliable" data available on the second visit of a horse.

[0144] According to the invention, the horse is not measured precisely; instead, the computer collects the multitude of data points submitted for each horse. From this diverse data, the "correct" horse can then be identified with a fairly high degree of probability, as with other methods.

[0145] A report issued by the computer system, detailing the collected and remaining feed quantities (64 per horse), indicates whether the "optical recognition" is working as expected or whether the feed ration needs to be adjusted.

[0146] The results recorded by the computer are then sent to the machine control unit, which executes the necessary commands to the individual devices in the feeding modules or feed blocks. The current data at each device is constantly and automatically synchronized with the computer.

[0147] This ensures that each horse receives its share of feed throughout the day. This means that each horse is offered precisely the amount of feed it is entitled to at that time, or can access the feed provided through feeding opening 69.

[0148] Given these circumstances, it can be asserted that claim 7 is thus fulfilled according to the invention.

[0149] Fig.16 The invention relating to a “feeding station for the natural, species-appropriate ground feeding of horses” primarily concerns the well-known method of “ground feeding.” Although it is uniformly described in expert circles as the most “natural” feeding method for horses, it is very rarely used in practice for a variety of reasons. This invention aims to change that, so that the horse, finally after 5,000 years, is allowed to engage in its “innate” feeding behavior, namely ground feeding. After all, the horse spends by far the most time in its life with its body in the typical ground feeding position (lunging forward and holding its head vertically above the ground) for more than 16 hours a day.

[0150] If the horse is now allowed to graze on the ground, it is ensured that the needs of the "continuous grazer" horse, with regard to food intake, are fully met.

[0151] How this can be implemented in practice will be explained in the Fig. 16 will be shown more clearly and described here in the text.

[0152] The aim is to give the horse the opportunity to feed itself close to the ground, as it is accustomed to on the steppe. Therefore, the feeding area should be 10 to 15 cm high (from the ground) to ensure all the advantages of ground feeding are maintained at this height.

[0153] The two images at the top right show, as previously described, the basic feeding station, already known as a feeding module, in front and side view, with the feed container stage “full” 53 present.

[0154] In the front view of the feed module, as seen in cross-section, the two side walls 24 are noticeable on the left and right, between which the drive unit 36 ​​is installed. Behind these, the two retaining bars 60 can be seen on the left and right in their end position, shortly before the feed (hay) 64 is consumed. The electric motor 57 with the necessary gears and transmissions is located in the upper part of the drive unit 36. Finally, the infeed conveyor 63 and the transport conveyor 65 follow, and at the very bottom, the waste hopper 109.

[0155] In the cross-sectional drawing of the side view of the feeding module, the rear side wall 24a has been left hatched. The feed material 64 is depicted as hay and in its initial stage of development. Therefore, the retaining bars 60 are still lying on the floor 49, beneath the sliding floor 59a and the sliding plate 59. The two conveyor belts for the intake 63 and transport 65 of the hay 64 are clearly visible in the cross-section. The crucial design of the feeding area 66, with its robust, replaceable feed plate 68 and the horse-friendly feeding opening 69, is the key to the feeding technology according to the invention. For it is precisely here, at this specially prepared point, that the horse should be able to consume its feed almost exactly as horses have been accustomed to doing for millions of years. It will certainly take months to determine the most horse-friendly size for the feeding opening 69 in practice. Therefore, the robust 68-inch feed plate is replaceable, allowing for quick gain of new experience.

[0156] Because there are no practical results yet for this feeding regime, one still has to feel one's way towards the ideal conditions.

[0157] For this purpose, the possibilities in the middle A and bottom right B, as well as the top left C, were drawn.

[0158] For example, the lower right design A shows a difference of approximately 15 cm in the feeding height to the floor in the feeding area 66, compared to only approximately 10 cm in the middle left design B. The distance to the floor is also lower in the upper left design C. This is due to the smaller diameter of the belt drums of the transport conveyor belt 65, which allows the feeding area to be positioned slightly lower.

[0159] However, one significant improvement over version A should be mentioned. Again, there is currently no relevant experience with this, because Feeding area placed near the ground, with the smallest pieces of feed (horse slow food), over 24 hours a day, To our knowledge, this has not existed before. Therefore, all processes must be tested individually in order to find the optimal solution.

[0160] Therefore, in this design, the operating principle of the "scraper floor" from agriculture has been adopted to a similar extent, i.e., it has been modified for the specific requirements of the feed module and the feed block. Originally, only the two conveyor belts 63 / 65 were responsible for processing the feed 64 up to the feed area 66, while now the feed chute 100 with the working stations 101 of the feed plate 68 has been added.

[0161] Further details will follow in Fig. 17

[0162] Fig.Figure 17 shows further developments in various details, which can be better described and illustrated here: Figure A shows the feed plate 68 with its feeding opening 69 in cross-section and front view, as well as a top view of the feed plate 68. The operation of the transport conveyor belt 65 below the feeding opening 69 is clearly visible, with the feed 64 placed on the conveyor belt 65. It should be noted that the transport conveyor belt 65 is made considerably wider than the feeding opening 69 so that the horse cannot reach the edge 65a of the conveyor belt. Furthermore, the feeding opening 69 is positioned further forward to accommodate the horse's mouth, thus facilitating easy feed intake. The same applies to the angled opening 69, which can be further adjusted based on experience.

[0163] Further considerations, particularly regarding the efficient transport of small feed particles, have led to the decision to run the transport conveyor belt 65 through or over a modified, scraper-floor-like feed chute 100. This offers the advantage of ensuring that, immediately after the infeed conveyor belt 63, the required small amount of feed 64 receives the necessary structure from processing stations 101 mounted on the extended feed plate 68. This process ensures that only the desired minimum quantity of feed 64 is actually offered to the horse in the feeding area 66. See also Fig. 17a !

[0164] All this is achieved because on the feed chute 100 the transported feed 64 is treated by the specially designed working stations 101 to be "suitable for the horse's mouth" and offered in the feeding area 69.

[0165] In this way, the infeed conveyor belt 63 with subsequent feed chute 100 and its operating stations 101 perform the following “work” (see 17a): Feed 64: Hay should be presented to the horses, preferably “combed”. "Direct" larger feed items (e.g., pellets?) accordingly, "Collect" feed grains (e.g. oats), Pay attention to fine and coarse leaves or stems, "Processing" hard stems and similar material Disposing of large stones and similar items, etc.

[0166] This means that different "tools" are required to "treat" the feed material accordingly. These requirements have nothing to do with the operation of a "scraper floor" used for spreading manure in agriculture.

[0167] To slowly transport the feed material 64 to the feeding area 66, only a small amount of force is required. The drums, belts, drive belts, or chains used can therefore be of a lighter design, also because the required tensile forces will be correspondingly low.

[0168] The graphic representation at B shows a simple method, e.g. with the illustrated feed funnel 59a made of textile fabric, plastic films or a combination thereof, with which the feed material 64 hay can be effortlessly fed to the intake conveyor belt 63.

[0169] Fig. 17a At C, a possible operating station 101 is shown, in which the stem-grass-hay parts are guided into "ordered" paths by a "raking process" 103 or smoothed by a "rolling process" 104 or "pushed" by a snowplow-like pusher 105.

[0170] The illustrations at D show how uneaten feed 64 a) mechanically by means of a toggle lever 107, in case of excessive congestion, triggers an alarm or b) electronically, whereby the waste is optically recorded 108, and if the counted quantities are too large, necessary steps are initiated.

[0171] Illustration E shows a nature-friendly design, for example of a hay block, which blends in better with the terrain and is certainly more appealing to the horses. This involves using adhesive foil printing or artificial plants.

[0172] Fig.Figure 18 shows the self-propelled feed block 110 with its two independently operating rubber tracks 111. Here, too, the modular design proves advantageous, as each individual track can be easily replaced. For safety and to prevent damage, the mobile feed block, located close to the ground, is surrounded by a heavy-duty foil, as is common practice in agriculture. Furthermore, appropriately positioned sensors ensure an immediate stop if an object gets under the foil. Charging and discharging of the batteries is carried out automatically at designated stations, as has been standard practice for other devices for many years. The driving speed (adjusted to the grazing pace of a horse = approx. 2 km / h) is automatically adjustable, as is forward and reverse movement.

[0173] Thus, the mobile feed block now allows for feeding in a natural, "gasping" gait, making "nature" even more tangible for our horse.

[0174] With this comprehensive ground covering, the needs of the "continuous grazer" horse have been fully met, especially considering that this is the case throughout the entire year. Reference symbol list: Fig. 1 Hay net 2 Feeding table 3 Computerized feeding 4 Feed bowl 5 Feed trough 6 Grazing horse Fig. 8 1 lever bar 2 transport trolleys 3 wedge 4. Access section 5 containers of hay 6 carrying rollers 7 tractor 8 roll unroller 8a Slide Fig. 9 5 containers of hay 9 wheel loaders 10 Separation platform 11 square bales 12 correct unloading positions 13 Separating device 13a Swivel lever 14 Swing doors Fig. 10 15 Electrical block 16 container block = 2 side walls, 1 front wall, 1 back wall 17 Drive block 18 carrier block 18a Carrier feet 19 Feeding module 20 Carrier and container block 21 timber-framed containers 22 Feeding module (time-controlled) in individual box Fig. 11 23 Front wall 24 side walls or partition walls 25 Control flap / door 25a Loading door 26 Front wall open 27 conveyor belts 28 Front wall 29 Initial feeding stage 30 container walls 31 Feed room space from the rear 31a Feeding area from side 31b Feeding area from above 32 lids Fig. 12 33 Feed room for 3 horses 34 carrier block 35 Container Block 36 Drive block 37 Electrical block 38 storage pallets 39 chargers 40 Workbench empty 41 Transport wall 42 Suspension device 42a Suspension plate 43 Truss / cross braces 44 Junction 44a Gusset plate Fig. 13 43 truss struts 45 Feed module 46 containers of roughage 47 containers “timber frame” 48 Kötner / Pellets tank 49 Bottom of the container 50 lids for timber-framed containers 51 connecting plates 52 mounting plates Fig. 14 25a Swing door 27 conveyor belts 36 Drive block 53 containers “full” 54 containers “half full” 57 Electric motor 58 Gearboxes / Translations 59 sliding sheet metal 60 support rods / telescopic tubes 61 Rope of the support rods 61a Rope of the support poles 61b Tension spring rope 62 Winding motor rope 62a Light barrier sensor 62b Vibrator 63 Infeed conveyor belt 64 Feed / Hay 65 Transport conveyor belt 66 Feeding area 67 Cable tension spring 68 Food Platter 69 Feeding opening 70 Feed room 71 Dosing system for grains, etc. 72 grain tank with grains 72a Small tank 75 motion detectors 80 Prefabricated roof 82 Feed room for 2 horses 83 Feed room for 3 horses 84 Feed room for 4 horses Fig. 15 31a Feeding area 64 Feedstuff Hay 66 Feeding area 68 Feed plate 69 Feeding opening 74 Antenna 80 Prefabricated roof 85 solar modules 90 Distance Sensor 91 rays 93 Distance Reflection Sensor 95 horse bodies Fig. 15a 26 Front wall 68 Feed plate 69 Feeding area 90 distance sensor 91 rays 92 horse bodies 93 Distance Reflection Sensor 93a Distance sensor 95 horse bodies Fig. 16 23 Front wall 24 side wall 24a Rear side wall 36 Drive block 53 containers “full” 57 Electric motor 59 sliding sheet metal 59a Slippery floor 60 support bars 64 Feedstuff Hay 64 Feed quantity 68 Feed plate 69 Feeding opening 100 Feed Slide 101 Operational Station 109 Waste bin Fig. 17 64 Feedstuff Hay 64 Feed quantity 65 Transport conveyor belt 65a Transport conveyor belt edge 66 Feeding area 68 Feed plate 69 Feeding opening 100 Feed Slide 101 Operational Station 102 feed hoppers 109 Waste bin Fig. 17a 101 Operational Station 103 arithmetic 104 roller 105 sliders 109 Waste bin Fig. 18 110 Mobile Feed Block 111 rubber tracks

Claims

[1] Feeding station for the natural, species-appropriate ground feeding of animals, especially horses, with at least one feeding module characterized by the fact that In a frameless block construction, two container side walls (24) with front (28) and rear wall (16a) and a drive block (36) are joined together to form a roughage container (46), so that the drive block (36) designed for this purpose conveys the feed material (64) e.g. hay located in the container block (35) by means of an infeed conveyor belt (63), which places it onto a transport conveyor belt (65) and thus brings the feed material (64) to the feeding area (66), which is covered by a feeding plate (68), to a feeding opening (69), in particular the infeed conveyor belt (63) and the transport conveyor belt (65) may have different speeds. [2] Feeding station for the natural, species-appropriate ground feeding of animals, in particular horses, according to claim 1, characterized by, that each feed module (45), which is essentially cubic in shape, consists mainly of assembled building blocks, such as container walls (16), electrical control (15), support with base (18), feed drive (36), feed feeding plate (68) and feeding area (66). [3] Feeding station according to claim 1 or 2, characterized by , that the feed module block components, such as supports with base (18) and containers with walls (16), are essentially made of wood, the wood being in the form of screen printing or multiplex panels, which may be weatherproof glued and have a smooth surface coating and is easily recyclable. [4] Feeding station according to one of claims 1 to 3, characterized by , that in addition to the feed module, several feed modules (45) may be provided for a feed block, whereby the adjacent side wall (24) and the corresponding support part (18) can even be saved for each connected module (45). [5] Feeding station according to any one of claims 1 to 4, characterized by , that the feeding areas (66) of the feed modules (45) and blocks (33) have a feed intake height close to the ground of approximately 10 to 15 cm and below for the horses from their standing surface. [6] Feeding station according to any one of claims 1 to 5, characterized by , that for the operation of the feed modules (45) and the feed blocks (33) the power supply, which is intended, among other things, for the feed drive device, is secured exclusively by solar modules on or away from the feed modules (45) or feed blocks (33), whereby solar power can also be supplied from the feed blocks (33). [7] Feeding station according to any one of claims 1 to 6, characterized by, that each feed module (45) can be equipped with optical distance and reflection sensors (93) for the detection of a horse (fP) eating at the module, so that their measurement data can be supplied to a computer which, with a specially developed program, in addition to a “fixed run”, with pre-stored characteristic feed values ​​of the individual horses, controls the feed output with regard to the feed rate, the amount and type of feed, as well as feed proportions, individually for the eating horse (fP). [8] Feeding station according to any one of claims 1 to 7, characterized by , that the feed block can also be made mobile (110), whether for operation in a covered hall or outdoors, whereby the feed blocks (33) are each provided with a roof block (80) so that the following horses, especially at a walking speed of approximately 2 km / h, can consume the feed in dry conditions. [9] Optical recognition system for horses characterized by , that Distance sensors (90) mounted above and in front of the horses, with their measuring beams (91) each striking the same body parts (92) of the horses, a distance reflection sensor (93) mounted above the horses' heads, so that its beams (94) strike further body parts of the grazing horse, in particular the distance reflection sensor (93) aiming precisely at the neck / polling area (95) of the horse, preferably a motion sensor (93a) registers the arriving horses, The different radiation values ​​are recorded by the computer and entered into lists. It is consciously accepted that the individual measurements of a horse will not be exact in each individual measurement, which is why, especially in the computer program created, only the values ​​very specifically selected, particularly in a "fixed run", are taken into account, so that one can be very sure that exactly the right horse has been identified. where the horse is not measured precisely, but the computer collects the multitude of data submitted per horse, from these different data points, it is quite likely that the correct horse can be found based on the data obtained.

Images