ENCLOSURES FOR FARM ANIMALS

Description

[0001] The invention relates to an enclosure for demarcating a running area for farm animals with a connecting wall for creating a connection to another enclosure, a connecting wall for an enclosure, a system consisting of several enclosures and a method for retrofitting enclosures for farm animals equipped with side walls for demarcating a running area with a connecting wall according to the invention.

[0002] Species-appropriate enclosures are used, for example, in calf rearing. Newborn calves are typically isolated during their first few weeks of life to protect them from infections and to ensure optimal care and feeding. For this purpose, the young animals are kept in separate enclosures of the species-appropriate type during these initial weeks. Mobile enclosures are often used, as they are easy to clean and can be quickly assembled, disassembled, or moved as needed. In this isolated environment, the calves can be closely monitored and fed according to their specific requirements.

[0003] Young animals are often kept individually to allow for tailored care and reduce the risk of disease transmission. However, there is now a desire to keep young animals in groups of two or more, at least temporarily, during their first few weeks of life, to promote social interaction with other members of their species.

[0004] German patent DE 102016105990 A1 discloses a housing system for calves, comprising a common area with side walls. This common area can be divided into separate compartments using partitions, which can be pulled out of the housing. These partitions can then be pulled out further until they are completely detached. This creates a large common area for all the animals living in the compartments. However, the removed partitions obstruct the access of staff outside the housing who are caring for the animals. Furthermore, when the partitions are fully removed, they must be stored securely to prevent them from falling over or otherwise causing a nuisance. When the partitions are reinserted, they must be precisely fitted into their respective openings, which is always time-consuming.

[0005] CH 714333 A2 proposes providing a mobile calf pen with two sections separated by a partition. A closable opening in the partition allows the two sections of the calf pen to be connected or separated, thus enabling social contact between the animals housed in those sections.

[0006] US patent 20200305386 A1 discloses a deployable enclosure system mounted on the wall of a livestock trailer. The enclosure comprises a pair of spaced-apart, extendable boundary elements with a pivotable crossbar extending from the distal end of each extendable wall suspension. When the extendable wall elements are extended, the crossbars are spaced from an outside surface of the livestock trailer, and when the extendable wall elements are retracted, the crossbar is located near an upright wall of the trailer.

[0007] US Patent 20110120384 A1 discloses a mobile cattle sorting system consisting of a central chute, a left sorting area, and a right sorting area. The central chute comprises a rear chute, a front chute, a left central chute section, and a right central chute section. The front chute includes a breakaway coupling, which in turn consists of left and right breakaway coupling sections. The left and right breakaway coupling sections fold together to form the breakaway coupling used to connect to the towing vehicle.

[0008] US Patent 7350480 B1 discloses a temporary electrified fencing system that uses movable, storable fence posts and flexible, electrified tapes that can be wound up inside the fence post. Each fence post includes an internal power source. Each electrified tape is mechanically connected to other fence posts to form the enclosure. The system is preferably stored on a trailer, such as a horse trailer, or attached in a removable manner and can be set up quickly and easily.

[0009] US patent 2009000564 A1 discloses an enclosure system with a gate that can be closed by means of a chain that can be locked in a locking device. The chain is guided along one surface of the locking device until it encounters another surface. The chain then slides along this second surface to its end. There, the chain is guided into a slot in the device, thereby securely locking it. A method for connecting two mobile enclosures is also described. A portable enclosure panel comprises a support structure and an integrated door that, when closed, is flush with the panel structure. Furthermore, a method for controlling the movement of farm animals with a collapsible, portable enclosure system is described, in which a rotatably mounted gate is opened to allow the animals to pass through.

[0010] EP 1138196 A2 describes an animal shelter comprising a stable and a movably coupled fence that forms an enclosure, for example for a calf, in front of the stable's front wall. The fence can be swung completely over the house for cleaning the enclosure. The fence includes a movable section relative to the fence, forming a lockable, openable closure for the enclosure and located in a recess that is lower than the rest of the fence. This allows the enclosure to be easily cleaned while the fence as a whole can still be moved or swung along or over the house. Preferably, after the fence has been moved or swung, the movable section forms an openable closure for the stable, so that cleaning of the enclosure is possible even when a calf is present in the stable. The section is preferably completely removable from the front wall of the fence.Rollers can be attached to the front wall of the stable so that the entire animal shelter – after the fence or stable has been swung open – can be lifted and pulled or pushed for cleaning the floor underneath. The object of the present invention is to provide an enclosure that allows for the needs-based keeping of individual calves or other farm animals, pairs of animals, or small groups, while simultaneously offering the possibility of quickly and easily bringing the animals into social contact with other animals, pairs of animals, or small groups when necessary.

[0011] The problem is solved by an enclosure according to claim 5 with a connecting wall according to claim 1. Claims are made for a connecting wall according to claim 1, an enclosure with a connecting wall according to claim 5, a system consisting of several enclosures according to claim 11, and a method for retrofitting enclosures with a connecting wall according to claim 12. Advantageous embodiments are specified in the dependent claims.

[0012] According to the invention, an enclosure for demarcating a running area for farm animals has a front wall, two opposing side walls and a rear opening for arrangement on a dwelling accessible from the running area, wherein at least one of the side walls is designed as a connecting wall according to the invention, wherein the connecting wall has a passage and a movable wall element, wherein in a closed position of the wall element the passage is closed by the wall element and in an open position of the wall element releasing the passage a fastening area of ​​the movable wall element is attached to the connecting wall or to a wall segment of the enclosure adjacent to the connecting wall and a coupling area of ​​the movable wall element points outwards and is designed for coupling with a similar connecting wall of another enclosure arranged at a distance from the enclosure.

[0013] Using movable wall elements between two enclosures placed at a distance from each other, the running areas of the two enclosures can be easily connected by creating a connecting passage defined by the wall elements. This allows the animals kept in two separate enclosures to share the running areas of both enclosures. At the same time, the individual enclosures can be quickly and easily separated again.

[0014] The enclosures according to the invention can be used to care for individual animals. However, it is also readily conceivable to care for pairs of animals or larger groups of animals in the enclosures. The size of the enclosures is to be selected, among other things, according to the number and / or type of animals being cared for in each enclosure. When several enclosures are connected, individually cared animals or groups of animals, or individual animals with groups, can be brought together. It is therefore also conceivable to connect enclosures of different sizes and / or enclosures with different numbers of animals in them in order to promote social contact between the animals.

[0015] Typically, on farms with cattle, several enclosures are placed at intervals depending on the number of young animals being cared for. Mobile enclosures, in particular, can be set up and taken down quickly and easily. For cleaning individual enclosures and for maintenance purposes, it is advantageous to place the enclosures far enough apart that they are easily and quickly accessible from all sides and can be worked on independently of neighboring enclosures. The solution according to the invention makes it possible to place the enclosures at intervals using a proven method, while still allowing the walking areas of adjacent enclosures to be connected with just a few simple steps.

[0016] The movable wall element closes the opening in the connecting wall when closed, so that the animals in the enclosure can only remain within its designated running area. When the wall element is open, the opening in the connecting element is open, allowing the animals to exit their enclosure through the opening.

[0017] The movable wall element is designed to create a connecting passage between two adjacent enclosures. In the open position, the wall element projects outwards into the space between the enclosures. When a second movable wall element from the enclosure positioned at a distance is moved into the open position, it too projects into the space between the enclosures. The outward-projecting sides of the wall elements are connected to the opposite connecting wall in such a way that a connecting passage is created, bordered on both sides of the openings in the connecting walls. This passage allows the animals to access both areas of the two adjacent enclosures.

[0018] It is intended that the front wall can incorporate features typically found in enclosures suitable for this species, particularly calf pens. For example, the front wall may have a feeding gate through which the animals can extend their heads. Recesses may be provided on the front wall, especially on the outside, for example, to hold containers for drinking water and feed.

[0019] The front and side walls can each be designed as individual, interconnected wall segments that can be directly joined together, for example, by means of screw and / or plug connections. An indirect connection of the wall segments to each other using posts or similar means is also conceivable. Alternatively, each wall segment can be composed of several elements that can be connected directly or indirectly.

[0020] Typically, the front wall is arranged almost perpendicular to the side walls, thus defining a roughly rectangular running area. Of course, a different arrangement, particularly an angled arrangement of the wall segments to each other, is also conceivable.

[0021] The basic idea is that the front and side walls should each be in the same plane. However, the wall segments can also be curved or, especially in multi-part designs, angled. Depending on the size and design of the enclosure, additional wall segments can be arranged between the front and side walls. These additional wall segments can, for example, incorporate or include further functional elements such as an entrance door or similar features.

[0022] Opposite the front wall, the enclosure has a rear opening that connects to a shelter. As is typical for calf pens of this species, the shelter can be a mobile hutch.

[0023] In one initial design, the structure is intended to be directly connected to the side walls. However, an indirect connection using posts and / or additional wall segments to close gaps between the structure and the side walls is also conceivable.

[0024] In a preferred embodiment, the connecting wall is designed to have a locking device by means of which the movable wall element can be secured in the closed position against an unwanted opening of the passage by a farm animal staying in the enclosure.

[0025] If an animal moves within the enclosure and bumps into or rubs against the connecting wall, the locking device can prevent the passage through the connecting wall from opening unintentionally.

[0026] The connecting wall according to the invention has a coupling device which is designed such that a complementary wall element of a connecting wall of a further enclosure placed at a distance from the enclosure can be coupled to the connecting wall to create a connecting passage between the running areas of the two enclosures.

[0027] For a stable connection between the outer side of a movable wall element and the connecting wall of a further enclosure placed at a distance, the coupling device can be designed in such a way that even occasional rubbing or bumping by the animal at the connection points between the movable wall element and the connecting wall does not cause the fastening between the movable wall element and the connecting wall to loosen.

[0028] The coupling device is designed in two parts, with a first coupling element being connectable to a second coupling element to create a force-fit and / or form-fit connection. In one possible embodiment, the first coupling element has, for example, a locking pin that can be inserted into a complementary pin receptacle. The locking pin can be secured to the pin receptacle by an additional locking element, such as a shackle or a locking pin, or even by gravity within the pin receptacle. It is understood that the locking pin is not limited to a pin-shaped design. For example, a ridge-shaped design of the locking pin or the like could also be provided.Various mechanical connecting elements are available as alternatives for such coupling devices, for example, snap-fit ​​or latching connections, straps, cable ties, or similar devices. Form-fitting coupling devices, which allow the movable wall element to be inserted, hooked, or placed into corresponding receptacles, can also be used.

[0029] In this embodiment with two coupling elements, a first coupling element is arranged on one side of the movable wall element, and a second coupling element is arranged on the connecting wall, particularly in the area of ​​the opening edge of the connecting wall's passage. It is generally possible for the receptacle to be arranged either on the movable wall element or on the connecting wall. It is preferred, however, that in such an embodiment the receptacle is arranged on the connecting wall, particularly in the area of ​​the opening edge of the connecting wall's passage.

[0030] In a particularly advantageous embodiment, it is considered that the coupling device is formed completely or partially by means of the locking device.

[0031] For a complete coupling mechanism using the locking device, it is envisaged, for example, that the coupling mechanism is designed in two parts, as previously described. In a closed position, a locking pin on the movable wall element can be guided into a complementary receptacle in the connecting wall to secure the movable wall element to the connecting wall. The same coupling element, in this case the locking pin of the movable wall element, can, in the open position, serve to couple the movable wall element to the connecting wall of an enclosure placed at a distance.

[0032] In a partial design of the coupling device using the locking mechanism, it can be provided, for example, that in a two-part configuration with two coupling elements as described above, a locking pin on the movable wall element engages in a locking receptacle of the connecting wall when the movable wall element is in the closed position. In the open position, however, the locking pin could engage in a coupling receptacle of the further connecting wall, which is located at a distance from the locking receptacle. In this case, a common locking and coupling element designed as a locking pin is provided, along with separate locking and coupling receptacles.

[0033] As already mentioned, the coupling and locking elements can be arranged interchangeably on the side of the wall element or on the connecting wall. Also as previously described, different shapes and configurations of such mechanical connections are possible.

[0034] According to a preferred embodiment, the movable wall element is designed as a single-leaf or double-leaf door pivotally mounted on the connecting wall. In another embodiment, the movable wall element can, for example, also be designed as a plug-in element.

[0035] A particularly advantageous design is one in which the movable wall element can be pivoted both inwards and outwards with respect to the running area and / or in such a way that the movable wall element can be selectively stopped against a right or left opening edge of the passage of the connecting wall.

[0036] These designs make it possible to use a single type of connecting wall on both sides of the enclosure. This reduces the effort required for manufacturing and logistics.

[0037] If the passageway is located in the center of the connecting wall, and the enclosures are aligned, it is sufficient for the movable wall element, designed as a door, to pivot both outwards and inwards. For an enclosure positioned at a distance, the connecting wall simply needs to be installed in reverse so that the two movable wall elements of the two enclosures are aligned in the open position, creating a connecting passage between the enclosures, bordered on both sides by the passageway openings of the connecting walls.

[0038] If the passageway is positioned off-center on the connecting wall, the movable wall element, designed as a door, can be pivoted in both directions and hinged in different positions, allowing a single version of the connecting element to be used on both sides of the enclosure. The movable wall element, designed as a door, on the opposite side of the connecting wall would only need to be hinged on the other side of the passageway to bring the wall elements into the appropriate open position for a connecting passage with boundaries on both sides, provided the spaced enclosures are aligned.

[0039] In a first embodiment of the connecting wall according to the invention, the passage is designed to be narrower than the width of the connecting wall. This creates a passage that is limited on at least one side by an edge of the connecting wall. However, it is also possible for the passage to span the entire width of the connecting wall. In this case, the passage is limited on both sides by posts or by adjacent wall segments of the enclosure. However, if the passage width corresponds to the full width of the connecting wall, it should be noted that the overall footprint required for the enclosure system will be larger.

[0040] The passageway can be closed or opened by a movable wall element, either in one or multiple parts. As described, the movable wall element can, for example, be formed by a single plug-in element or by several plug-in elements that can be coupled together.

[0041] As mentioned, the enclosure according to the invention is designed so that the passage can extend across the entire width of the connecting wall. The connecting wall is essentially or completely formed by the movable wall element itself. In this embodiment, the connecting wall, for example designed as a single or double-leaf door, can have one or two movable wall elements. In a closed position of the wall element(s), the connecting wall is closed. In an open position of the wall element, which opens the connecting wall, a mounting area of ​​movable wall elements is attached to the connecting wall or to a wall segment of the enclosure adjacent to a connecting wall. A coupling area of ​​the movable wall element faces outwards and is designed for coupling with a similar connecting wall of another enclosure arranged at a distance from the enclosure.

[0042] In one configuration of the movable wall element as a double-leaf door, the side wall, designed as a connecting wall, can be divisible in the middle. The two parts of the connecting wall form the two leaves of the connecting wall. Two identical, opposing connecting walls of two enclosures arranged at a distance from each other can then be opened in such a way that the leaves meet in pairs and are coupled to each other in their coupling areas, thus creating a passageway connecting the running areas of the enclosures. In this particularly easy-to-manufacture variant of the enclosure according to the invention, the connecting wall is therefore formed completely or at least substantially by the movable wall element.

[0043] With a centrally located passage or a passage width corresponding to the width of the connecting wall, and a double-leaf design of the movable wall element, enclosures placed at a distance from one another can be connected particularly easily. A connecting wall designed in this way according to the invention can also be used on both sides of the enclosure without difficulty, especially if the leaves of the wall element can be opened inwards and outwards like a swing door. With enclosures arranged in a straight line at a distance from one another, the leaves of the opposing connecting walls can be easily brought together and coupled in their coupling areas. This particularly advantageous design allows for the simple construction of an enclosure system with two or more interconnected enclosures.

[0044] The passage of the connecting wall according to the invention is limited in the horizontal direction on two opposite sides by an edge area of ​​the connecting wall or by an edge area of ​​a wall segment of the enclosure adjacent to the connecting wall and in the vertical direction below and / or above by a stiffening element attached to the connecting wall or to an edge area of ​​a wall segment of the enclosure adjacent to the connecting wall.

[0045] Depending on the size and arrangement of the passageway, it may be designed to be horizontally limited on one or both sides by an edge of the connecting wall, by posts, or by the edges of adjacent wall segments of the enclosure. For example, if the passageway is narrower than the total width of the connecting wall, it may be limited on both sides by edges of the connecting wall. If the passageway is located at the far right or far left of the connecting wall, it may be limited on one side by an edge of the connecting wall and on the other by a post of the connecting wall or by an edge of an adjacent wall segment of the enclosure. If the passageway spans the entire width of the connecting wall, it may be limited on both sides by posts and / or by the edges of adjacent wall segments of the enclosure.

[0046] The stability of the connecting wall, particularly when the movable wall element is open, is increased by using stiffening elements positioned above and / or below the passageway. Alternatively, it is also possible to forgo the use of stiffening elements at the top or bottom of the passageway, so that the connecting wall is separated into two unconnected parts when the movable wall element is open. In such a configuration, however, additional anchoring of the individual elements to the ground at the installation site and / or very strong bracing of the connecting wall to the front wall or to a structure located at the rear should be provided to ensure the necessary stability of the enclosure wall.

[0047] A stiffening element limiting the passage at the top can preferably be designed as an arch or in a U-shaped profile to increase the passage height for the animals or to facilitate passage for people.

[0048] A further preferred embodiment is one in which the two opposing side walls of the enclosure are each designed as a connecting wall with a passage and a movable wall element according to the invention.

[0049] In this configuration, the enclosure can be selectively connected to other enclosures located at a distance on either side. This allows for the simple and straightforward creation of an enclosure system with more than two interconnected enclosures.

[0050] For a simple way of relocating the enclosure, one embodiment provides that the enclosure has a chassis designed for the rolling transport of the enclosure or for the rolling transport of parts of the enclosure, wherein the chassis preferably comprises two transport wheels, each arranged on the opposite side walls of the enclosure.

[0051] The transport wheel can be designed and arranged in such a way that it is suitable both for the rolling transport of the enclosure or parts thereof and for supporting the side wall or the connecting wall on the ground at the installation site of the enclosure.

[0052] In a further embodiment of the enclosure according to the invention, it is envisaged that the front wall has an entrance door to provide access to the running area.

[0053] Preferably, a feeding grid is installed in the entrance door through which the animals can stick their heads.

[0054] To protect the animals kept in the enclosure from environmental influences such as sunlight, wind, or temperature, the enclosure may include a shelter for farm animals, accessible from the exercise area and connected to the rear opening of the enclosure. This allows the animals to retreat from the exercise area to the shelter of a suitable shelter when necessary.

[0055] For comprehensive animal protection, the enclosure is designed to have a roof and walls. In one design, the roof and walls can be formed as a single, integrated unit. For example, the enclosure can be manufactured as a single, continuous piece, such as by injection molding, laminating fiber and stabilizing mats, or similar methods.

[0056] For a mobile enclosure, a compact structure that can be moved easily is preferred. Such compact structures can usually be moved and handled by one person without the need for additional lifting equipment like wheel loaders or skid steer loaders. When caring for animals in larger groups, for example, groups of up to or more than 14 animals, the use of an igloo-shaped enclosure has proven advantageous. Igloo-shaped enclosures, which can be moved using lifting equipment typically available on a farm, such as wheel loaders or skid steer loaders, have an approximately circular inner diameter of about 4.5 meters near the ground. Animals of this size can be accommodated in groups of up to 14 or 15. The animals sharing this enclosure can spread out and move around freely inside the igloo. Corner areas that restrict free movement are eliminated.Problems that can make the available space in the dwelling difficult to access can be avoided by using an igloo shape with an approximately round floor plan.

[0057] The enclosure may be designed to have, in addition to an entrance opening connected to the running area, another opening, particularly a closable one, through which the enclosure can be accessed from outside the enclosure, for example, to bring in hay, straw, or similar materials. Furthermore, ventilation openings may be provided in the enclosure, especially in the roof. Such openings serve to ensure optimal fresh air supply and air circulation, and offer the possibility of temperature regulation.

[0058] The roof and the walls of the dwelling can of course also be designed separately.

[0059] According to the invention, a connecting wall for enclosures of previously described embodiments is also provided, comprising a passage and a movable wall element, wherein in a closed position of the wall element the passage is closed by the wall element and in an open position of the wall element releasing the passage a fastening area of ​​the movable wall element is attached to the connecting wall or to a wall segment of the enclosure adjacent to the connecting wall and a coupling area of ​​the movable wall element points outwards and is designed for coupling with a similar further connecting wall arranged at a distance from the connecting wall.

[0060] Possible designs and advantages of the connecting wall according to the invention will become apparent from the above explanations concerning the connecting wall in relation to the enclosure according to the invention.

[0061] According to the invention, a system consisting of at least two enclosures of inventive design placed at a distance from each other is also provided, wherein the connecting walls of the enclosures are aligned to each other in such a way that a connecting passage between the running areas of the enclosures can be created by means of the movable wall elements.

[0062] As already explained in relation to the enclosure according to the invention, a connecting passage, bounded laterally by the passages of the connecting walls, can be created by means of two movable wall elements of the connecting walls extending into the space between the enclosures placed at a distance, in order to connect the running areas of the two enclosures.

[0063] The enclosure according to the invention readily allows for the connection of running areas from several enclosures. A stable system according to the invention can therefore consist of a plurality of enclosures according to the invention.

[0064] Finally, according to the invention, a method for retrofitting an enclosure for farm animals equipped with side walls to limit a running area with a connecting wall of the inventive embodiment is provided, wherein in a first step a side wall or part of a side wall of the enclosure is removed and in a second step the gap created by the removal of the side wall or part of the side wall is closed again using the connecting wall.

[0065] The invention is explained in more detail below with reference to exemplary embodiments illustrated in the drawings. These show Fig. 1a a schematic representation of an enclosure according to the invention in a first variant, Fig. 1b a schematic representation of an enclosure according to the invention in a second variant, Fig. 2 an isometric representation of an enclosure system with two enclosures according to the invention, Fig. 3a a schematic representation of an enclosure system with two enclosures according to the invention of a first variant with separate and connected running areas, Fig. 4 a schematic representation of an enclosure system with five enclosures according to the invention with connected running areas, and Fig. 5a a schematic representation of an enclosure system with two enclosures according to the invention of a second variant with separate and connected running areas. Fig. 6a-c Steps of a method according to the invention for retrofitting an enclosure with a connecting wall according to the invention.

[0066] The Figures 1a and 1bEach figure schematically shows an enclosure 10 according to the invention in a top view. The running area 12 of the enclosure 10 is bounded at the front by a front wall 14 and laterally by two side walls 16. At the rear, opposite the front wall 14, an opening 18 is provided, which in the present examples is connected to a shelter 20. The shelter 20 has an entrance 50 through which it is accessible from the running area 12.

[0067] The right-hand side wall 16 of enclosure 10 in the drawing plane is designed as a connecting wall 22, with a passage 24 and a movable wall element 26 shown here in the open position. The movable wall element 26 projects outwards towards the running area 12. A fastening area 28 of the wall element 26 is attached to the connecting wall 22.

[0068] As in Figure 1aAs illustrated, the fastening area 28 can be attached to a free end of a projection of the connecting wall 22. Figure 1b Figure 1 shows that the fastening area 28 can also be attached directly to a corner point, such as a post of the side wall 16, which is designed as a connecting wall 22. It is also possible for the fastening area 28 to be attached to a wall segment of the enclosure adjacent to the connecting wall 22. A coupling area 30 of the movable wall element 26, projecting outwards with respect to the running area 12, is ready for coupling to a connecting wall of another enclosure.

[0069] Figure 1a illustrates the design of the movable wall element 26 as a single-leaf door. Figure 1b Figure 26 shows the design of the movable wall element 26 as a double-leaf door. The mounting area 28 of a single-leaf door, as in Figure 2, is shown. Figure 1aAs shown schematically, it is formed on a first side of the door leaf. This first side of the door leaf is pivotally attached to a stationary part of the connecting wall 22. The attachment area 28 of a double-leaf door, as shown in Figure 1b As schematically indicated, a first side of each door leaf is formed. These first sides of the door leaves are each pivotally attached to the connecting wall 22. How Figure 1b To illustrate, the connection point between the door leaf and the connecting wall 22 can be a mullion of the connecting wall 22. It is also conceivable, particularly if the width of the passage 24 corresponds to the width of the connecting wall 22, as shown in Figure 1b indicated, or in the case of the perimeter arrangement of the passage 24, that the fastening area 28 of the wall element 26 is attached to an adjacent wall segment of the enclosure 10.

[0070] A two-part locking device 32 is provided for securing the wall element 26 to the connecting wall 22. In the example according to Figure 1a A first element of the locking device 32 is arranged in the coupling area 30 of the wall element 26; a second element of the locking device 32 is arranged on a stationary part of the connecting wall 22. In the closed position of the wall element 26, as for example in Figure 3b As shown, the first element of the locking device 32 works together with a second element of the locking device 32 arranged on the stationary part of the connecting wall 22, such that accidental opening of the passage 24 is prevented.

[0071] In the example according to Figure 1bIn the movable wall element 26, which is designed in two parts, both elements of the locking device 32 are arranged in the coupling area 30 of the wall element 26. In the closed position of the wall element 26, as for example in Figure 5b As shown, the two elements of the locking device 32 work together in such a way as to prevent accidental opening of the passage 24.

[0072] A coupling device 34, also designed in two parts, serves, as in the Figures 2 , 3a , 4 and 5a indicated, for coupling the wall element 26 with a second connecting wall 22 of another enclosure 10. The coupling area 30 of the movable wall element 26 can be coupled either to a stationary part of a connecting wall 22, a post or another wall segment of a second enclosure 10, as shown in the Figures 2 and 3aindicated, or with a movable wall element 26 of the connecting wall 22 of a second enclosure 10, as in Figure 5a indicated. Details and preferred design options for the locking device 32 and the coupling device 34 can be found in the description.

[0073] In the examples of Figures 1a and 1b A dwelling 20 is shown, which can be part of the enclosure 10. As schematically indicated, the dwelling 20 preferably has a roof 36 and a dwelling wall 38.

[0074] Figure 2 Figure 1 shows an isometric representation of a housing system comprising two enclosures 10 according to the invention placed at a distance from each other. As already mentioned in Figure 10, the following is a description of the enclosure system. Figures 1a and 1bAs described, the running area 12 of each enclosure 10 is bounded by a front wall 14 and side walls 16. A shelter 20 can be connected to the side walls 16 at the rear of each enclosure. Wall segments 52, which are attached to the shelter wall 38 on one side and to the side walls 16 on the other, serve to fill the gaps between the shelter 20 and the side walls 16. Explanations of the individual components of the enclosures 10 are included in the description of the Figures 1a and 1b and the description of the Figures 3a, 3b , 4 , 5a and 5b removable. For the sake of clarity and to avoid repetition, the figures omit the use of reference symbols for components already described if this does not promote understanding of the invention.

[0075] In Figure 2The two running areas 12 of the enclosures 10 are connected to each other by means of a connecting passage 46 formed by the movable wall elements 26 of the connecting walls 22. The movable wall elements 26 of the two connecting walls 22 are each in the open position. Both wall elements 26 project outwards into the space formed between the enclosures 10 and are coupled to the respective opposite connecting wall 22.

[0076] As in Figure 2As shown, the opening edge of the passage 24 in the connecting wall 22 can be limited vertically at the bottom by a stiffening element 40 and at the top by a stiffening element 42. Such stiffening elements increase the stability of the enclosure 10, especially when the passage 24 in the connecting wall 22 is open. The lower stiffening element 40 can, as shown, be designed as a straight connecting strut at the bottom of the connecting wall 22. The upper stiffening element 42 can, as shown, be a U-shaped profile that widens the passage upwards. As already explained in the general description, it is also possible to use only one stiffening element, for example the lower stiffening element 40, or even no stiffening element at all for additional stabilization.

[0077] The front wall 14 can, as shown in the present example, have a feeding gate 56 with an opening through which an animal in the walking area 12 (not shown) can extend its head. A container receptacle 58, designed to hold feed containers, is arranged on the outside of the front wall 14, in the immediate vicinity of the opening of the feeding gate 56. In this example, the feeding gate 56 and the container receptacle 58 are arranged at an entrance door formed in the front wall.

[0078] As in the example of the Figure 2As further shown, the enclosure 10 can have a chassis with transport wheels 44. In this example, the transport wheels 44 are each arranged on the outside, in a bottom-side section of the rear area of ​​the side walls 16. A support foot 60 on the bottom side of the side walls 16, opposite the transport wheel 44, ensures a stable and balanced position of the enclosure 10 at its installation site.

[0079] As in Figure 2 As further shown, a dwelling 20 connected to the rear opening 18 of the enclosure 10 can have a closable opening 54 through which the interior of the dwelling can be accessed from outside the enclosure 10, for example to fill with straw or hay or to take a look inside the dwelling.

[0080] Figure 3a The enclosure system is shown. Figure 2In a simplified schematic view from above, it is shown how the movable wall elements 26 of the connecting walls 22 are each swung into their open position into the space between the enclosures 10, which are positioned at a distance from each other, in order to form a connecting passage 46 between the running areas 12. The openings 24 of the connecting walls 22 are each open, so that animals (not shown) can reach and use the running areas 12 of both enclosures 10.

[0081] As in Figure 3aAs indicated by the respective rotation arrows, the movable wall elements 26 can each, preferably, be designed as flaps or doors pivotally mounted on the connecting walls 22. Alternatively, as already explained in the general description, the movable wall elements 26 can each be designed as locking elements that can be completely removed from the connecting wall 22, for example, in the form of a plug-in system.

[0082] In Figure 3b The movable wall elements 26 are each in the closed position. The passages 24 of the wall elements 22 are each closed by means of the movable wall elements 26. The space formed between the enclosures 10 can be used by operating personnel in this operating position, for example as a passageway or to access the enclosure 10 from the outside for maintenance work or the like.

[0083] Figure 4Figure 1 shows an enclosure system with more than two enclosures 10 according to the invention. In this case, the enclosure system consists of five enclosures 10 connected to each other by means of connecting passages 46. In the operating position shown, all movable wall elements 26 are in the open position. The movable wall elements 26, which define the connecting passages 46, are each connected to the connecting walls 22 on both sides.

[0084] As in Figure 4 To illustrate, both side walls 16 of the enclosures 10 can be designed as connecting walls 22. In the present example, the two outer enclosures 10 are equipped with a connecting wall 22 on the side facing inwards in the plane of the drawing, and the enclosures 10 arranged between them are equipped with connecting walls 22 on both sides.

[0085] In this operating position shown, all walking areas 12 of the enclosures 10 are connected to each other by means of the connecting passages 46, so that animals that are in the enclosures 10 (not shown) can reach and use all walking areas 12 of the enclosures 10.

[0086] Figure 5a shows an enclosure system consisting of two enclosures 10 according to the in Figure 1bThe variant shown is a schematic top view. This view illustrates how the movable wall elements 26 of the connecting walls 22, each designed as a double-leaf door, are swung into the space between the enclosures 10, which are positioned at a distance from each other, in order to form a connecting passage 46 between the running areas 12. The openings 24 of the connecting walls 22 are open so that animals (not shown) can reach and use the running areas 12 of both enclosures 10. The two leaves of the movable wall elements 26 are coupled to each other in their coupling areas 30.

[0087] As in Figure 5aAs indicated by the respective rotation arrows, the two wings of the movable wall elements 26 can each, preferably, be designed as flaps or doors pivotally mounted on the connecting walls 22 or on posts or adjacent wall segments. Alternatively, as already explained in the general description, the movable wall elements 26 can each be designed as locking elements that can be completely removed from the connecting wall 22, for example, in the form of a plug-in system.

[0088] In Figure 5b The movable wall elements 26 are each in the closed position. The passages 24 of the wall elements 22 are each closed by means of the movable wall elements 26. The space formed between the enclosures 10 can be used by operating personnel in this operating position, for example as a passageway or to access the enclosure 10 from the outside for maintenance work or the like.

[0089] The Figures 6a to 6c Illustrating steps of a method according to the invention for retrofitting an enclosure 10' with a connecting wall 22 according to the invention. Here, the following is described: Figure 6a The enclosure shown has been retrofitted with 10 additional units. As shown in Figure 6b As shown, first a side wall 16 of the enclosure 10' is removed. This creates a gap 48 in the enclosure wall. The gap 48 is then filled as shown in Figure 6c illustrated, closed by means of a connecting wall 22 according to the invention. How Figure 6c As shown, an enclosure 10 according to the invention can thus be produced.

[0090] The connecting wall 22 can be attached to the front wall 14 in a form-fit and / or force-fit manner, for example by means of screws and / or a plug connection or the like. If the enclosure includes a housing 20, the connecting wall 22 can be connected to the housing 20 in a form-fit and / or force-fit manner. The connection between the elements can be made directly or by using another wall segment and / or an additional intermediate element such as a pillar or the like. REFERENCE MARK LIST

[0091] 10, 10' Enclosure 12 Running area 14 Front wall 16 Side wall 18 Rear opening 20 Housing 22 Connecting wall 24 Passage 26 Movable wall element 28 Mounting area 30 Coupling area 32 Locking device 34 Coupling device 36 Roof of the housing 38 Housing wall 40 Stiffening element 42 Stiffening element 44 Transport wheel 46 Connecting passage 48 Gap 50 Entrance 52 Wall segment 54 Opening in the housing 56 Feeding grid 58 Container holder 60 Base

Claims

1. A connecting wall (22) for an enclosure (10) with a through-passage (24) and a movable wall element (26), wherein, when the wall element (26) is in a closed position, the through-passage (24) is closed by the wall element (26) and, when the wall element (26) is in an open position that unblocks the through-passage (24), an attachment region (28) of the movable wall element (26) is attached to the connecting wall (22) or to a wall segment of the enclosure (10), said wall segment adjoining the connecting wall (22), and a coupling region (30) of the movable wall element (26) faces outward and is designed to be coupled to a further connecting wall (22) of the same type arranged at a distance from the connecting wall (22) and can be coupled to said further connecting wall, wherein the through-passage (24) of the connecting wall (22) is delimited in the horizontal direction on two opposing sides by an edge region of the connecting wall (22), wherein the through-passage (24) of the connecting wall (22) is delimited in the vertical direction at the bottom and / or at the top by a reinforcement element (40, 42) attached to the connecting wall (22) or to an edge region of a wall segment of the enclosure (10), said wall segment adjoining the connecting wall (22), wherein the connecting wall (22) has a coupling apparatus (34) that is designed such that a complementarily designed wall element (26) of a connecting wall (22) of a further enclosure (10) placed at a distance from the enclosure (10) can be coupled to the connecting wall (22) in order to establish a connecting passage between the walking areas (12) of the two enclosures (10), wherein the coupling apparatus (34) is designed in two pieces and comprises a first coupling element and a second coupling element, wherein the first coupling element is arranged on one side of the movable wall element (26) and the second coupling element is arranged on the connecting wall (22), characterized in that the first coupling element can be coupled to the second coupling element in order to establish a force-fit or form-fit connection.

2. The connecting wall (22) according to claim 1, characterized in that the connecting wall (22) has a locking apparatus (32), by means of which the movable wall element (26) in the closed position can be secured to prevent the through-passage (24) from being unintentionally opened by livestock located in the enclosure (10).

3. The connecting wall (22) according to claim 2, characterized in that the coupling apparatus (34) is formed completely or partially by means of the locking apparatus (32).

4. The connecting wall (22) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the movable wall element (26) is designed as a single-leaf or double-leaf door mounted pivotably on the connecting wall (22).

5. An enclosure (10) for limiting a walking area (12) for livestock with a front wall (14), two opposing side walls (16) and a rear opening (18) for arranging a shelter (20) that is accessible for the livestock from the walking area (12), characterized in that at least one of the side walls (16) is formed as a connecting wall (22) according to one of claims 1 to 4.

6. The enclosure (10) according to claim 5, characterized in that the two opposing side walls (16) of the enclosure (10) are each formed as a connecting wall (22) each having a through-passage (24) and a movable wall element (26) according to claim 1.

7. The enclosure (10) according to one of claims 5 or 6, characterized in that the enclosure (10) has a chassis designed for rolling transport of the enclosure (10) or for rolling transport of parts of the enclosure (10), wherein the chassis preferably comprises two transport wheels (44), which are each arranged on the opposing side walls (16) of the enclosure (10).

8. The enclosure (10) according to one of claims 5 to 7, characterized in that the front wall (14) has an entrance door for establishing access to the walking area (12).

9. The enclosure (10) according to one of the preceding claims 5 to 8, characterized in that the enclosure (10) comprises a shelter (20) for livestock that is accessible from the walking area (12) and is connected to the rear opening (18) of the enclosure (10).

10. The enclosure (10) according to claim 10, characterized in that the shelter (20) has a roof (36) and a shelter wall (38).

11. A system consisting of at least two enclosures (10) according to one of claims 5 to 10 placed at a distance from each other, wherein the connecting walls (22) of the enclosures (10) are aligned in relation to each other such that a connecting passage (46) can be established between the walking areas (12) of the enclosures (10) by means of the movable wall elements (26).

12. A method for retrofitting an enclosure (10) equipped with side walls (16) for delimiting a walking area (12) for livestock with a connecting wall (22) according to one of claims 1 to 4, wherein, in a first step, a side wall (16) or a part of a side wall (16) of the enclosure (10) is removed and, in a second step, the gap (48) created by removing the side wall (16) or the part of the side wall (16) is closed again using the connecting wall (22).