Cubicle and shed

Abstract

Cubicle for a cow, provided with two floating limiters (2) extending along a substantially horizontal plane to delimit a cow walk-in area, wherein a cow body lying area (S) is available under the two limiters (2), wherein a cross delimitation of a lying surface (R) furnished by the cubicle (1) is provided, which delimitation comprises a horizontal girder, tube and / or rod (12) which extends on or just above the lying surface (R), in a direction at right angles with respect to a longitudinal direction of the cubicle (1), wherein the cubicle (1) is provided with an integral cushion part (50) behind the cross delimitation (12) of the lying surface.

Description

[0001] Title: Cubicle and shed

[0002] The invention concerns a cubicle for a cow.

[0003] Cubicles for cows are generally known. In cattle farming, normally, use is made of loose houses with dunging passages and lying boxes for keeping cattle. A lying box is a more or less screened-off space (‘cubicle’) where a cow can lie down to ruminate and rest, without being disturbed by other cows loafing in the shed. For milk production it is important that a cow passes a large part of the day (about 10-14 hours a day) lying down. Further, it is important that the lying surface remains free of excrements, so that the cow does not get soiled with excrements and, in particular, the udders remain clean.

[0004] Such lying boxes generally have a rectangular lying surface, tailored to the minimum dimensions that a cow needs to be able to lie and stand. The cow enters and exits the lying box via an entrance at a rear end of the lying box proximal to the dunging passage. The bottom of the lying box is generally raised with respect to the dunging passage running along the rear ends of the lying boxes, which dunging passage may be equipped with provisions for carrying off excrements. The bottom may be formed by, for example, hard material, a covering from soft material, for example a cow mattress, or loose litter such as sawdust or straw.

[0005] Conventional cubicles comprise fences along the two long sides of the lying box, which fences, on the one hand, screen off the space, for instance from adjacent lying boxes or from other cows, and further serve to counteract the cow rising or lying down crosswise or obliquely in the lying box, in consequence of which, upon defecation, the bottom of the lying box would get soiled.

[0006] The cows occupying the lying boxes should, in a length direction, on the one hand, preferably stand or lie forwards so far that also the hind legs stand or rest on the bottom of the lying box. On the other hand, the cows should not stand forwards so far that the dung, upon excretion, ends up on the bottom of the lying box.

[0007] To this end, the conventional lying boxes are provided with a continuous shoulder beam at a height above the floor of the lying box, which is positioned such that the freedom of forward movement of the cow is limited in that the shoulders of the cow contact the shoulder beam when the cow attempts to walk forwards in the lying box too far. Furthermore, lying boxes are sometimes each equipped with a further limiting device on the bottom, to prevent the cows, once they are lying, from moving forwards too far. Shoulder beams, however, have various drawbacks, as is explained in more detail in NL 1033422.

[0008] The vertical fences of the known cubicles provide relatively little comfort. A possible solution to this problem is described in EP1579760B1, in which it is proposed to apply floating bent profiles. The bent profiles are set up in an upwardly pivotable manner. The bent profiles comprise bend parts, such that ends of the profiles are next to each other and thus form a central walk-through obstacle (as a shoulder beam), while entrance parts of the profiles are relatively far removed from each other. Seen in top plan view, the profiles follow the contours of the animal. A free space extending between the profiles is therefore strongly variable. During use, a cow can take up position under the profiles. Furthermore, the cubicles are provided with narrow bumpers for stopping lying animals by the breast. A drawback of this known configuration is that there is a relatively high chance, in practice, that a cow does not reach a desired lying position but (seen in top plan view) takes up an oblique position, as a result of which the cow is partly outside a rest area available to the cow, for instance within a lying area of an adjacent cubicle. In such a case, moreover, there is a high chance that dung ends up in the lying area of the cows instead of behind the lying box. Further, it is a drawback that the cow, when moving from standing position to lying position, and vice versa from lying position to standing position, is hindered by the profiles, at least at a head part of the animal. In addition, the bumpers of the known cubicle are little comfortable.

[0009] The present invention contemplates the provision of an improved cubicle for a cow. In particular, the invention contemplates the provision of a cubicle that is extra comfortable for the cow, while the cubicle can preferably also bring about a desired lying position of the cow (such that the cow takes up a position in the cubicle correctly, that is, in a straight position rather than obliquely).

[0010] According to a first aspect of the invention, to this end, a cubicle is provided that is characterized by the features of claim 1.

[0011] With great advantage, the invention presents a cubicle for a cow, provided with two floating limiters extending along a substantially horizontal plane to delimit a cow walk-in area, wherein a cow body lying area is available under the two floating limiters, wherein a cross delimitation of a lying surface furnished by the cubicle is provided, which cross delimitation comprises a horizontal girder, tube and / or rod which extends on or just above the lying surface, in a direction at right angles with respect to a longitudinal direction of the cubicle, wherein the cubicle is provided with an integral cushion part behind the cross delimitation of the lying surface, in particular on a side of the cross delimitation remote from the cow body lying area.

[0012] In this manner, a cow can take up position on the lying surface comfortably, with the floating limiters and the lying-surface cross limiter being able to furnish a relatively ample lying area for the body of the cow. Preferably, the cross limiter (also referred to as knee bar) is relatively low, for instance having a height of not more than 15 cm (in particular not more than 13 cm, for example 10 cm at a maximum). A minimum height of the cross limiter can amount to, for example, 5 cm. The cow can use the integral cushion part, which is behind this cross limiter, to have its head comfortably resting thereon. In practice, it has been found that a cow likes to make use of the integral cushion part, having its head reaching over the cross limiter, and thus tending to reach a desired, relatively central, end lying position in the cubicle.

[0013] The above-mentioned substantially horizontal plane is, in particular, a plane that includes an angle of circa 25 degrees at a maximum with a horizontal plane.

[0014] The cushion part can be implemented in different manners.

[0015] The cushion part can comprise an elastic foam block.

[0016] Preferably, the cushion part has a height that is at least equal to a half height of the cross delimitation. Optionally, an upper side of the cushion part can extend substantially on or above a vertical level of the cross delimitation.

[0017] The cushion part can present a resilient supporting surface to a cow’s head and forelegs (reaching over the delimitation during use).

[0018] Preferably, the cushion part is sufficiently large to support a cow’s head completely. To this end, the cushion part can have a width (measured in a transverse direction of the cubicle, i.e., parallel with respect to the cross delimitation) of at least 30 cm, preferably at least 40 cm. Further, a depth of the cushion part (measured in a longitudinal direction of the cubicle) is preferably at least 40 cm and more preferably at least 50 cm. Thus the depth of the cushion part is preferably significantly greater (for instance, at least 5x greater) than a width of the adjacent cross limiter (measured in the same direction).

[0019] According to a further elaboration, the cushion part can be detachably coupled to a mattress and / or cubicle frame. In this manner, the cushion part can for instance be exchangeable, and / or be taken away for a separate wash.

[0020] According to a further elaboration, means are provided to set a position of the cushion part between different cow (head) supporting positions. In this way, the cushion part, if so desired, can be adjusted to a cushion position that is extra comfortable for a cow.

[0021] The cushion part may be integrated in the cubicle in different manners. For instance, the cubicle may be provided with a frame to couple an above-mentioned limiter to a ground, while the cushion part is fixed with respect to the frame (for instance directly or indirectly to the frame). Further, the cubicle may be provided with a cow mattress to furnish the cow lying surface, while the cushion part may be coupled to the cow mattress, for instance via fixation means and / or a common sleeve, canvas or lying surface covering.

[0022] According to an extra advantageous elaboration, a walk-through barrier is provided at the floating limiters, the walk-through barrier being configured to define a central free space, while the cushion part is at a position behind the walk-through barrier, seen from a cubicle entrance.

[0023] It has been found that such a walk-through barrier and the cushion part jointly give extra steering to a cow positioning itself, such that there is a high chance that the cow takes up a straight rest position.

[0024] According to a further elaboration, at least at an entrance of the cubicle, a mutual distance between the floating limiters can amount to 105 cm at a maximum. Surprisingly, a cubicle that is provided with these features, having a relatively narrow entrance (i.e., an entrance having a width of 105 cm at a maximum) in combination with use of the floating limiters mentioned (which define the entrance mentioned) has been found to furnish not only a particularly comfortable cubicle but also a cubicle where the cow will take up a position in the box straightly. Without wishing to be bound by any theory, it is noted that a cow wishing to enter the cubicle (generally from a dunging passage) will have to “park” into the cubicle straightly as a result of the narrow entrance that is available between the floating limiters. The cow will enter the cubicle and walk parallel to the limiters, from the entrance in the direction of an opposite cubicle end (in particular up to a walk-through limiter of the cubicle), in order then to reposition itself from standing position to lying position. A repositioning of a cow usually involves fixed movement patterns, comprising kneeling, bending, and stretching movements, such that a length direction of the cow remains substantially unchanged during that displacement. Since the cow in the standing position is already standing parallel to the floating limiters due to parking-in straightly, it will likewise, in the lying position, be lying straightly, and centrally, in the length direction of the cubicle. It is noted here that a bottom surface covered by the cow seen in top plan view (‘footprint’) is much greater in the lying position than in the standing position. By use of the two floating limiters, the cow, in the lying position, can extend comfortably under the two floating limiters. Further, it has been found that in this manner relatively wide lying boxes can be defined in a shed or like resting environment, yielding an extra boost of comfort for the cows. Together with the application of a cushion part, behind the cross limiter (seen from the cow body lying area), a highly comfortable cow cubicle can be achieved.

[0025] Preferably, opposite parts of the two floating limiters are provided not with bend parts, but with parallel straight limiter parts which extend, in particular, throughout the length of the limiters, at an above-mentioned mutual distance from each other of 105 cm at a maximum, so as to furnish a desired straight parking / guiding for the cow. Indeed, it has been found in practice, in particular, that the opposite (elongate, straight) parts of the two limiters, seen in top plan view, should not follow the contour of a cow. Further, it has been found advantageous to configure the floating limiters such that a width of a free space extending between the limiters (seen in top plan view) is substantially constant.

[0026] According to an extra advantageous aspect, a width of a cow lying area which is under the two floating limiters (in particular, of the cubicle lying surface) can be greater than 130 cm and amount to, for instance, circa 150 cm, for example a width in the range of 140-160 cm. In this manner, a particularly comfortable lying area for the cow can be furnished.

[0027] According to a further elaboration, the two floating limiters can be provided with substantially parallel, mutually facing cow guide edges, wherein the guide edges extend in particular over a distance of at least 50 cm (e.g., at least 100 cm) parallel to each other from the entrance of the cubicle, and are at the mentioned mutual distance of 105 cm at a maximum, measured in a direction at right angles to a longitudinal direction of the guide edges.

[0028] In this manner, ‘parking-in’ of a cow can be guided over a relatively long distance so as to increase the chances that the cow enters the cubicle straightly (i.e., parallel to a central axis of the cubicle), then to settle down straightly into a desired central and straight lying position.

[0029] Extra good results are achieved if the mutual distance between the floating limiters amounts to 95 cm at a maximum at the entrance of the cubicle and preferably 90 cm at a maximum (in other words: preferably, distal ends of the limiters are at the above-mentioned, relatively short, distance of 95 cm at a maximum and preferably 90 cm at a maximum, for example 85 cm at a maximum).

[0030] The floating limiters can each be implemented in different manners. According to a further implementation, one or each limiter can be part of a respective (substantially horizontally extending) U-shaped profile, which can present a relatively simple, durable and forceful configuration. Alternatively or additionally, each limiter can for instance comprise an elongate straight profile or profile part, preferably having a length of at least 50 cm, in particular at least 100 cm, for example a length in the range of 120-200 cm, which leads to good results.

[0031] As mentioned, the cubicle is preferably provided with a frame to couple a floating limiter to a ground, in particular behind a cubicle end remote from the cubicle entry. To the skilled person it will be clear that such a (supporting) frame can be implemented in different manners, and may for instance consist of one or several frame parts, can comprise different frame bend pieces, and that a limiter may be attached to that frame in different manners. The frame can for instance comprise a tube frame. Further, the frame may for instance be partly or wholly integrated with one or more limiters or be manufactured in one piece therewith.

[0032] According to a further elaboration, floating limiters of neighboring cubicles may be coupled to each other and / or be manufactured in one piece, for instance by forming part of and / or being formed by a U-shaped profile. In this manner, an extra stable and durable construction can be achieved.

[0033] According to a second aspect of the invention, which can be combined with the first aspect described hereinabove, a cubicle for a cow is provided with two floating limiters extending along a substantially horizontal plane to delimit a cow walk-in area, wherein a cow body lying area is available under the two limiters, wherein a walk-through barrier is provided at the limiters, wherein the walk-through barrier is configured to define a central free space, wherein the cubicle is also provided with a cushion part which is disposed substantially centrally behind the central free space furnished by the walk-through barrier, in particular seen from an entrance of the cubicle.

[0034] In this manner, extra comfort can be offered, whereby a cow that walks into the cubicle can reach the walk-through barrier and, for instance, can stick its head into the central free space furnished by that barrier. Shoulders of the cow can for instance touch the walk-through barrier, which can be the signal for the cow to reposition from standing position to a lying position, and, doing so, to lay its head on the comfortable cushion part (behind the walk-through barrier). The central position of the free space of the walk-through barrier can cause the cow to move so as to park straightly in the cubicle, with the cushion part furnishing extra steering to the cow. A combination of this second aspect of the invention with the above-described first aspect (whereby the cubicle is provided with a cross limiter) can furnish a most favorable cubicle configuration. A width of the free space that is furnished by the walk-through barrier is preferably greater than 15 cm, for example at least 20 cm, for example a width in the range of 25-40 cm, which yields good results.

[0035] The walk-through barrier, according to a further elaboration, preferably comprises two mutually spaced apart, floating barrier elements (between which the central free space mentioned is available). A distance between the two floating barrier elements is preferably greater than 15 cm, in particular greater than 20 cm, and is for instance in the range of 15-40 cm, in particular 25-40 cm. Furthermore, it may be advantageous when each of the two floating barrier elements is at a higher level than a height of the two floating limiters of the cubicle. The barrier elements can be implemented in different manners, but are preferably provided with rounded or substantially round, mutually facing outer surfaces. To this end, preferably at least partly spheroidal (for example, spherical) barrier elements are used. In addition, it is advantageous if each of the floating barrier elements, from a first position, is upwardly displaceable (for instance relative to the floating limiters), preferably against a spring force and / or gravity. Both floating barrier elements may for instance be pivotable from the first position away from each other. In this manner, the barrier elements can move upwards and / or pivot apart during rising of the cow, to make rising easier.

[0036] In addition, the invention provides a shed provided with at least one row of cubicles, which row of cubicles extends along a respective cow walk-through path, wherein at least a number of the cubicles of the row comprise a cubicle according to the invention.

[0037] In this manner, the above-mentioned advantages can be achieved, whereby a number of cows can make use of the shed in a very comfortable way and in a particularly hygienic way. The invention will now be further elucidated on the basis of an exemplary embodiment which is shown in the drawings.

[0038] Figure 1 shows a side view of a non-limiting exemplary embodiment of the invention;

[0039] Figure 2 shows a rear view of the example shown in Fig. 1;

[0040] Figure 3 shows a top plan view of the example shown in Fig. 1;

[0041] Figure 4 shows a perspective view of a part of a shed, provided with a row of cubicles according to the invention; and

[0042] Figure 5 shows a perspective viewof an alternative implementation of the cushion part.

[0043] Like or corresponding features are designated in this patent application with like or corresponding reference signs.

[0044] Figures 1-3 show schematically a cubicle 1 for a cow. The cubicle 1 can be part of a row of such cubicles, and, for instance, be in a shed (see Figure 4). The cubicle 1 or respective row of cubicles can extend along a respective cow walk-through path P (with a cubicle longitudinal direction at right angles to a longitudinal direction of the path P), from which path P a cow can enter the cubicle 1 during use.

[0045] The cubicle 1 comprises, for instance, a bottom which furnishes a cow lying surface R, for instance a substantially rectangular lying surface R (having a width Z and a depth / length M). As mentioned, such a surface R may for instance be raised with respect to the path (or dunging passage) P running along an entrance of the cubicle 1. The bottom may be formed by, for example, hard material, a covering from soft material, for example, a cow mattress KM, or loose litter such as sawdust or straw, and / or the like.

[0046] The cubicle 1 is provided with a (preferably rigid, during use not deformable) cross delimitation 12 (not visible in Fig. 4), in particular knee bar, for delimitation of a cow body lying surface furnished by the cubicle 1. This cross delimitation may be furnished by, for example, a horizontal (straight) cross girder, tube and / or rod (for example, a steel tube or wooden cross beam) 12, which extends on or just above the bottom along the lying surface R (in a direction at right angles to a longitudinal direction of the cubicle 1, i.e., parallel to the path P). The cross delimitation 12 may for instance be fixed to a cubicle frame 5, for instance via coupling pieces 5a (tubular parts, supporting elements or the like). When a cow mattress KM is used to furnish the lying surface, the cross limiter 12 can for instance extend at right angles across the mattress KM (and divide an upper surface of the mattress into a cow body supporting part and a head supporting part). A height (e.g. diameter) of the knee bar / cross limiter 12 can for instance amount to 15 cm at a maximum (for instance 13 cm at a maximum and in particular 10 cm at a maximum), in other words, preferably, the cross limiter 12 extends at a height of not more than 15 cm above the lying surface R.

[0047] A depth M of the cubicle 1, at least, of an available cow body lying surface R (measured between a cubicle entrance and the cross limiter 12), can amount to, for example, at least circa 150 cm, for example, a depth M in the range of circa 170-220 cm. The entrance of the cubicle is in particular at a longitudinal edge E of the adjacent path P.

[0048] Advantageously, the cubicle 1 is provided with two floating (elongate) limiters 2 extending along a substantially horizontal plane (i.e., each limiter 2 extends substantially horizontally) to delimit a cow walk-in area. In this regard, substantially horizontal is understood to mean a horizontal (virtual) plane, or a (virtual) plane that includes an angle B of circa 25 degrees at a maximum with a horizontal (virtual) plane V (see Figure 1), in particular an angle 6 of 15 degrees at a maximum (for example, circa 11 degrees). Each floating limiter 2 may for instance extend slightly upwardly inclined seen from a distal limiter end in the direction of an opposite (proximal) cubicle end (i.e., in the direction of a supporting frame 5). The two limiters 2 are preferably at an equal distance from a central, vertical, longitudinal median plane Y of the cubicle 1 (i.e., are positioned mirror-symmetrically with respect to that plane). Distal ends of the limiters 2 are at or near the entrance of the cubicle.

[0049] The cubicle 1 is provided with an integral cushion part 50, for supporting a cow’s head reaching over the cross limiter. Preferably, the cushion part 50 is manufactured of an elastic material, for example an elastic foam, to furnish lying comfort to the cow. In particular, the cushion part 50 is positioned behind the above-mentioned cross delimitation 12 of the lying surface (i.e., along a side of the cross limiter 12 remote from the entrance edge E). The cushion part is preferably centrally positioned (for instance at right angles to a longitudinal central axis Y of the cubicle 1). Further, the cushion part 50 is preferably, at least during use, fixed with respect to a cubicle frame 5 (so that a cow cannot shift the cushion part 50).

[0050] The cushion part 50 is preferably configured so as to present a resilient supporting surface to a cow’s head reaching over the cross delimitation 12 during use, and optionally also to a cow’s forelegs (should the cow wish to lay its forelegs over the cross limiter).

[0051] The cushion part 50 can comprise, for example, a foam block, for example a single foam block, a number of foam layers and / or a series of adjacent foam blocks. Optionally, the cushion part 50 can be positioned on a part of a cow mattress KM (and thus form a local mattress heightener), in particular if the mattress KM extends under the cross limiter 12 (see Figure 1). Optionally, the cushion part 50 may be integrated with an underlying cow mattress KM.

[0052] Alternatively, the cushion part 50’ may be formed separately from a cow mattress KM (see Figures 4 and 5), for placement behind the cross limiter 12 (i.e., on a side of the cross limiter 12 remote from the entrance edge E).

[0053] According to a further elaboration, the cushion part 50 has a thickness (height) HK which is at least equal to a half height (e.g. half diameter) of the cross delimitation 12. The height (or thickness) HK of the cushion part 50 is for instance such that a cow’s head-receiving upper side of the cushion part 50 extends substantially on or above a vertical level of an upper edge of the cross limiter 12, which leads to good results.

[0054] The cushion part 50 can have a width BK (measured in a direction parallel to the cross limiter 12) of at least 30 cm, preferably at least 40 cm. Further, the cushion part can have a depth DK (measured in a direction parallel to a cubicle longitudinal median plane Y) of at least 40 cm and preferably at least 50 cm.

[0055] The use of the cushion part 50 provides a relatively high measure of comfort to the cow, and it has been found in practice that the use can lead to an improved cow lying orientation.

[0056] As follows from the drawing, the cubicle 1 is preferably provided with a walk-through barrier at an end part of the floating limiters 2 (remote from the entrance of the cubicle). The walk-through barrier is described in more detail hereinbelow. The walk-through barrier is configured to define a central free space W. Preferably, the cushion part 50, seen from the entrance of the cubicle, is behind the walk-through barrier (seen in a top plan view of the cubicle), see Figures 1-3.

[0057] Preferably, a relatively ample cow body lying area S is available above the cow body lying surface R and under the two floating limiters 2 (i.e., both limiters 2 extend above the lying area S, and wholly remotely from the lying surface R). To this end, the two limiters 2 are each preferably at a height H of at least 50 cm above the cow lying surface R of the cubicle 1, in particular at or near a cow shoulder height, or slightly below a cow shoulder height. The floating limiters 2 therefore do not touch the bottom (i.e., the lying surface R) as such. The height H mentioned may for instance be in the range of circa 50-80 cm.

[0058] A width Z of a cow body lying area under the two floating limiters 2 (i.e., of a respective lying surface R) is preferably greater than 130 cm and amounts to, for instance, circa 150 cm, for example a width in the range of 140-160 cm.

[0059] A width L of a free space extending between the limiters 2 is preferably substantially constant (seen in top plan view). In this manner, a substantially straight parking direction / gui dance can be offered to the cow during use. Each floating guide / limiter 2 can for instance have a length K of at least 50 cm, in particular at least 100 cm, and preferably extends in a straight line (in particular parallel to a longitudinal direction and the longitudinal median plane Y of the cubicle 1, and for instance at right angles to an above-mentioned cross limiter 12 if present). Each limiter 2 can for instance comprise an elongate straight profile or profile part, preferably having a length of at least 50 cm (e.g., at least 100 cm), for example a length K in the range of 120-200 cm, more in particular 120-180 cm. According to a further elaboration, the two floating limiters 2 are provided with substantially parallel, mutually facing cow guide edges 2a, the guide edges 2a extending in particular over a distance of at least 50 cm (preferably at least 100 cm) parallel to each other from the entrance of the cubicle (i.e., from the distal limiter ends).

[0060] According to a further elaboration, two neighboring floating limiters 2 of two adjacent cubicles 1 may be integrated with each other, for instance by forming part of the same profile or the like (see Figures 2 and 3), for instance by forming part of a U-shaped profile (in which case the elongate legs of the U-profile can furnish the limiters).

[0061] With great advantage, at least at the entrance of the cubicle 1, a mutual distance L between the limiters 2 is 105 cm at a maximum (i.e., distal ends of the limiters 2 extend at this relatively short distance from each other). With such a relatively narrow entry space furnished by the limiters, it has been found that the chance is relatively high that a cow parks straightly during the entry of the cubicle 1, to be able then to take up a straight lying position. The mutual distance L between the limiters 2 can amount to, for example, 95 cm at a maximum (at least, at the entrance of the cubicle) and preferably 90 cm at a maximum. In the use of straight limiters 2, this mutual distance moreover remains preferably constant, viewed in a longitudinal direction of the limiters 2.

[0062] At a proximal cubicle part (i.e., a part of the cubicle remote from the cubicle entrance), an above-mentioned supporting frame 5 may be provided to couple a limiter 2 to a ground, behind a cubicle end remote from the cubicle entrance, for instance behind a mattress end of a respective mattress KM. In particular, the frame 5 may be implemented to keep the limiter 2 in the respective floating position, opposite the lying surface R. As mentioned, such a frame may be configured in different ways. The cushion part 50 may be coupled to the frame 5 in different manners, for instance directly or indirectly, via an underlying cow mattress KM and / or via a sleeve (not shown).

[0063] Optionally, each of the floating limiters 2 may be pivotable from the depicted (first, substantially horizontal) position to a second substantially higher position and vice versa, to offer space to a cow during rising. To this end, the limiter 2 may for instance be hingeably coupled to the frame 5, while a respective hinge coupling 15 is arranged to furnish the desired freedom of movement of the limiter 2. A hinge axis furnished by the hinge coupling 15 can for instance extend horizontally and at right angles to a longitudinal direction of the floating limiter 2. A stop or supporting means may be provided (for instance be integrated with the hinge coupling) to hinder downward displacement of a limiter 2 that is in the first position. The floating elongate limiter 2, when in the above-mentioned respective second position, can for instance include an angle greater than 25 degrees with a horizontal plane V.

[0064] Alternatively, for instance, a part of such a supporting frame can extend along the limiter, above the lying surface, with the limiter being pivotably coupled to that supporting frame part by a number of pivoting arms (to pivot upwards from an above-mentioned first position to a second position). In that case, a pivot axis of the floating limiter may be parallel to a longitudinal direction of that limiter.

[0065] Preferably, the cubicle 1 is provided with the earlier-mentioned walk-through barrier 7 at a proximal part of the cubicle 1 (see Fig. 1). This walk-through barrier is preferably used in combination with the above- mentioned floating limiters 2, but may also be provided in a cubicle that is not provided with such floating limiters. The combination of the walkthrough barrier and the integrated cushion part 50 has been found to lead to extra good results.

[0066] The present walk-through barrier is configured to define a central free space W (at a proximal part of the cubicle), having a width drawn in with arrow X (Fig. 3). This space W offers the cow extra parking-in guidance during the entry of the cubicle, whereby the cow can stick its head through that central free space W and, doing so, walk up (by shoulders) against the walk-through barrier. To that end, the walk-through barrier can comprise two mutually spaced-apart, preferably at least partly or wholly spheroidal, floating barrier elements 7 (between which the central free space W is available). The two barrier elements 7 are preferably at equal distances from a central vertical longitudinal median plane Y of the cubicle 1 (i.e., are set up mirror-symmetrically with respect to that plane Y).

[0067] Good results are achieved when a distance X between the two floating barrier elements 7 is greater than 15 cm, for instance a distance X in the range of 15-40 cm. Each of the two floating barrier elements 7 is preferably at a higher level than a height of the two floating limiters 2 (if present). Further, it is advantageous when each of the floating barrier elements 7 is upwardly displaceable from the depicted initial position (i.e., a first position), preferably against a spring force and / or gravity, so as to make rising easier for the cow. Both floating barrier elements 7 may for instance be arranged so as to be pivotable from the first position, away from each other, to a second position (and vice versa). The two floating barrier elements 7 may for instance be coupled to an above-mentioned supporting frame 5 by arms (whether pivotable or not so), and be held in a desired floating position above the lying surface R (in particular at or near a cow shoulder height). A distance N between the walk-through barrier 7, in particular each barrier element 7, and an entrance of the cubicle, seen in top plan view, is for instance in the range of 120-200 cm, in particular a range of 135-170 cm.

[0068] During use of the present exemplary embodiment, a cow can enter the cubicle 1 from the longitudinal path P. Doing so, the cow will move into the cubicle 1 straightly as a result of the particularly narrow entrance (furnished by the two limiters 2), and then reach the walk-through barrier 7 and bring its head straightly (forwards) between or along the two floating barrier elements 7, toward a position above the (comfortable) cushion part 50. In practice, the chance thus appears to be particularly high that the cow extends completely parallel, centrally, along the longitudinal median plane Y. When the cow thereupon takes up a lying position (and, doing so, goes through customary repositioning steps), the cow will also reach a central lying position, straight, on the available lying surface R (in the cow body lying area S). There is a high chance then that the cow has its head resting on the cushion part 50 which is behind the cross limiter 12, and possibly also its forelegs (by putting head and optionally the forelegs over the cross limiter 12). An unwanted oblique position can thus be avoided, yielding attendant advantages.

[0069] The cow’s rising again at a later stage can be made easier by use of floating parts (i.e., limiters 2 and barrier elements 7) that are capable of yielding upwardly a bit and / or moving along with the cow, as described hereinabove. In practice, it has been found that the present cubicle, provided with the integral cushion part 50, affords the cow the possibility to assume natural body postures (both standing and lying) while soiling of the lying box can be properly avoided.

[0070] It will be clear to the skilled person that the invention is not limited to the above-described exemplary embodiment. Various changes are possible within the scope of the invention as defined in the appended claims.

[0071] Thus, the cushion part 50 may be formed in different manners, and be manufactured from different materials. Optionally, a position of the cushion part 50’ is settable, for instance for setting a pivoting position of the cushion part. Thus, the cubicle may be provided with means 51, 52 (see Figure 4) to set a position of the cushion part 50’ between different cow head supporting positions (for instance between a first position where an upper side of the cushion part 50’ is horizontally positioned and a second position where the upper side of the cushion part includes an angle greater than zero degrees with a horizontal plane, i.e., an oblique position). Thus, the cushion part 50’ may, for instance via a specific supporting means 51 (for instance, pivoting support), be pivotably coupled to a cubicle supporting frame 5 and / or a ground, optionally in combination with spring means 52 to counteract pivoting of the cushion part 50’ with spring force.

[0072] In yet another implementation (see Figure 5), the cushion part comprises a floating, elastic or nonelastic, supporting sheet (for instance made of cloth), or alternatively a supporting plate 50”, which by a floating frame 150 is arranged in the position behind the cross limiter 12 (spaced from a ground). In that case too, setting means may be provided to set a use position of the cushion part 50”.

Claims

CLAIMS1. A cubicle for a cow, provided with two floating limiters (2) extending along a substantially horizontal plane to delimit a cow walk-in area, wherein a cow body lying area (S) is available under the two limiters (2), wherein a cross delimitation (12) of a lying surface (R) furnished by the cubicle (1) is provided, which cross delimitation comprises a horizontal girder, tube and / or rod (12) which extends on or just above the lying surface (R), in a direction at right angles with respect to a longitudinal direction of the cubicle (1), wherein the cubicle (1) is provided with an integral cushion part (50) behind said cross delimitation (12) of the lying surface, in particular on a side of the cross delimitation (12) remote from the cow body lying area.

2. A cubicle according to claim 1, wherein the cushion part (50) comprises an elastic foam block.

3. A cubicle according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the cushion part (50) offers a resilient supporting surface to a cow’s head.

4. A cubicle according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the cushion part (50) has a height that is at least equal to half the height of the cross delimitation (12), wherein an upper side of the cushion part preferably extends substantially on or above a vertical level of the cross delimitation (12).

5. A cubicle according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the cushion part has a width of at least 30 cm, more preferably at least 40 cm, and wherein the cushion part preferably has a depth of at least 40 cm and more preferably at least 50 cm.

6. A cubicle according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the cushion part is detachably coupled to a mattress and / or a cubicle frame.

7. A cubicle according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the cubicle is provided with means to set a position of the cushion part between different cow head support positions.

8. A cubicle according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the cushion part (50) is centrally positioned.

9. A cubicle according to any one of the preceding claims, provided with a frame (5) to couple a floating limiter (2) to a ground, wherein the cushion part (50) is fixed with respect to the frame (5).

10. A cubicle according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein a walk-through barrier is provided at the limiters (2), wherein the walk-through barrier is configured to define a central free space, wherein the cushion part (50) is preferably at a position behind the walk-through barrier seen from an entrance of the cubicle.

11. A cubicle according to claim 10, wherein the walk-through barrier comprises two mutually spaced apart, preferably at least partly spheroidal, floating barrier elements (7), wherein a distance between the two floating barrier elements (7) is preferably greater than 15 cm, in particular greater than 20 cm, and is for instance in the range of 15-40 cm, in particular 25-40 cm, wherein each of the two floating barrier elements (7) is preferably at a higher level than a height of the two floating limiters (2) of the cubicle.

12. A cubicle according to claim 11, wherein each of the floating barrier elements (7) is, from a first position, upwardly displaceable, for instance relative to the floating limiters (2), preferably against a spring force and / or gravity, wherein both floating barrier elements are preferably pivotable from the first position away from each other.

13. A cubicle according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein at least at an entrance of the cubicle (1) a mutual distance (L) between the floating limiters (2) amounts to 105 cm at a maximum.

14. A cubicle according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein a width of a free space extending between the two floating limiters (2) is substantially constant.

15. A cubicle according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the two floating limiters (2) each extend at a height (H) of at least 50 cm above a lying surface of the cubicle, for example a height (H) in the range of circa 50-80 cm.

16. A cubicle according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein a width (Z) of a cow lying area which is under the two floating limiters is greater than 130 cm and amounts to, for instance, circa 150 cm, for example a width in the range of 140-160 cm.

17. A cubicle according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the two floating limiters are provided with substantially parallel, mutually facing cow guide edges, wherein the guide edges in particular extend parallel to each other over a distance of at least 50 cm, from the entrance of the cubicle and are at said mutual distance of 105 cm at a maximum measured in a direction at right angles to a longitudinal direction of the guide edges.

18. A cubicle according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the mutual distance (L) between the floating limiters (2) amounts to 100 cm at a maximum at the entrance of the cubicle and preferably 95 cm at a maximum, in particular 90 cm at a maximum.

19. A cubicle according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein at least one of said floating limiters forms part of a substantially horizontally extending U-shaped profile.

20. A cubicle according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein each floating limiter comprises an elongate straight profile or profile part, preferably having a length of at least 50 cm, in particular 100 cm, for example a length in the range of 120-200 cm.

21. A cubicle according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein each of the floating limiters is pivotable from a first position to a second position.

22. A cubicle according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the two floating limiters (2) extend along a plane which is a horizontal plane, or a plane which includes an angle of circa 25 degrees at a maximum with a horizontal plane (V).

23. A cubicle for a cow, for example a cubicle according to any one of the preceding claims, provided with two floating limiters (2) extending along a substantially horizontal plane to delimit a cow walk-in area, wherein a cow body lying area is available under the two limiters, wherein a walkthrough barrier (7) is provided at the limiters (2), wherein the walk-through barrier is configured to define a central free space (W), wherein the cubicle (1) is also provided with a cushion part (50) which is disposed substantially centrally behind the central free space (W) furnished by the walk-through barrier, in particular seen from an entrance of the cubicle.

24. A shed provided with at least one row of cubicles, which row of cubicles extends along a respective cow walk-through path, wherein at least a number of the cubicles of the row comprise a cubicle according to any one of the preceding claims.

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