Forage feeding and watering system

Abstract

A method to feed or hydrate livestock is comprised of placing forage in a container defining an interior cavity having a door panel to provide selective access to the interior cavity, opening the door panel allowing access to the forage by the livestock at a feeding time for a period of time during a day closing the door panel after the period of time, and repeating steps (ii) and (iii) at a later time. The container may be mobile or have multiple cavities separately accessed as well having separate containers commonly controlled to force movement of livestock when feeding, drinking or medically dosing. The method and devices having the container may be mobile as well as including further time delivery of pharmaceuticals or treated forage that is remotely or self-controlled including, for example, solar power delivery to operate the device.

Description

FORAGE FEEDING AND WATERING SYSTEMFIELD

[0001] The present disclosure relates generally to the field of forage feeding and watering systems for livestock.BACKGROUND

[0002] Livestock, such as horses, are prone to various health complications if they are stationary for too long. Typical slow feed nets for forage and box forage systems do not require livestock to physically move their bodies across a pasture or similar feeding area. Additionally, these systems typically do not allow the forage to be automatically or manually soaked or steamed to improve the condition of the forage. Additionally, these systems can result in forage waste.

[0003] Accordingly, it would be desirable to provide a method and systems employing devices / apparatus for treating and improving the health of individual or herds of livestock efficiently without the need for manual oversight or labor.SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0004] Applicant has discovered methods and systems that are able to remotely or independently feed, hydrate or medicinally dose livestock remotely or by self-contained implementation. The method employs one or more apparatus that may be remotely controlled or independently controlled whereby forage or water is selectively accessed during desired periods during the day. The apparatus may have one or more doors or access panels that independently open and close using operating systems such as mechanical motors, pneumatics and hydraulics to slide or swing open the doors to allow access to the forage or water, which may be dosed with medicine. The apparatus may have one door and be movable by its own drive system to cause the migration of livestock to feed or drink throughout the day. Alternatively, the apparatus may have two or more doors that open and close during the day at differing time (e.g., sequentially) to cause the livestock to migrate to continue feeding, drinking or both. The apparatus may also have provision for both feeding and hydrating, with doors being sequentially open and closed(e.g., feed and then hydrate). The forage may also be treated in certain instances to improve or alter the forage depending on the condition of the livestock (e.g., diabetic) such as by steaming or exposing to water (e.g., soaking, washing, steaming, spraying and humidfying). The method may employ apparatus or devices that signal, train, or warn (bells buzzers and the like that may vary prior or during opening and closing of the doors) the livestock of the opening or closing of the doors. Such treating may also be self-contained in the apparatus. In each case, the apparatus may be moveable under its own drive system with the positioning, drive system, feeding, treating of forage and hydrating being a control system that may be common or individual, any combination thereof with each being linked to realize the desired feeding, hydrating, medicinally dosing and moving of the livestock during each day.

[0005] A first illustration is a method feeding livestock comprising, placing forage in a container defining an interior cavity having a door panel to provide selective access to the interior cavity, opening the door panel allowing access to the forage by the livestock at a feeding time for a period of time during a day, closing the door panel after the period of time, and repeating the aforementioned steps of opening and closing.

[0006] A second illustration is a method of hydrating livestock comprising, placing water in a container defining an interior cavity having a door panel to provide selective access to the interior cavity, opening the door panel allowing access to the water by the livestock at a watering time for a period of time during a day, closing the door panel after the period of time, and repeating opening and closing at a later time.

[0007] A third illustration is a device for feeding livestock, comprising: a housing defining an internal cavity, the housing including a door assembly including a door panel configured to provide selective access to the internal cavity; a forage storage portion positioned within the internal cavity; a reservoir positioned within the internal cavity; and a fluid distribution assembly positioned within the internal cavity, the fluid distribution assembly in fluid communication with the reservoir and the forage storage portion and configured to selectively direct fluid from the reservoir to the forage storage portion, wherein the door panel is configured to open and close to selectively allow livestock to access the forage storage portion.

[0008] A fourth illustration is an automated feeding apparatus, comprising:a housing defining at least two compartments for holding an amount of forage; a fluid distribution system positioned within the housing and configured to deliver fluid to the compartments; a roof portion rotatably coupled to the housing and configured to rotate to an open position to allow access to the compartments; and a door assembly including a door panel coupled with the roof portion and configured to open to provide selective access to the compartments.

[0009] The third and fourth illustrations are particularly useful in the methods of the first and second illustrations.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0010] FIG. l is a schematic front perspective view illustration of a forage feeding system, according to an implementation.

[0011] FIG. 2 is a schematic rear perspective view illustration of the forage feeding system of FIG. 1.

[0012] FIG. 3 is a schematic side perspective view illustration of the forage feeding system of FIG. 1 in an open configuration.

[0013] FIG. 4 is a schematic side perspective view illustration of the forage feeding system of FIG. 1 in a closed configuration.

[0014] FIG. 5 is a schematic front perspective view illustration of the forage feeding system of FIG. 1, illustrating two forage treatment units, according to an implementation.

[0015] FIG. 6 is a schematic overhead view illustration of the forage feeding system of FIG. 5.

[0016] FIG. 7 is a schematic front perspective view illustration of a forage feeding system, illustrating a drainage system for two forage treatment units, according to an implementation.

[0017] FIG. 8 is a schematic overhead view illustration of the drainage system shown in FIG.7.

[0018] FIG. 9 is a schematic front perspective view illustration of a forage feeding system in a closed configuration, according to another implementation.

[0019] FIG. 10 is a schematic front perspective view illustration of the forage feeding system of FIG. 9 in an open configuration.

[0020] FIG. 11 is a schematic front perspective view illustration of a forage feeding system, according to another implementation.

[0021] FIG. 12 is a schematic front perspective view illustration of a forage feeding system, according to another implementation.

[0022] FIG. 13 is a schematic front perspective view illustration of a forage feeding system, according to another implementation.

[0023] FIG. 14 is a schematic front perspective view illustration of a forage feeding system of the forage feeding system shown in FIG. 13.

[0024] FIG. 15 is a schematic front perspective view illustration of a water distribution system, according to an implementation.

[0025] FIG. 16 is a schematic front perspective view illustration of a water distribution system, according to another implementation.

[0026] FIG. 17 is a schematic side view illustration of a docking station for a forage feeding system, according to an implementation, prior to a docking event.

[0027] FIG. 18 is a schematic side view illustration of the docking station shown in FIG. 17, during a docking event.DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0028] The disclosure herein relates to systems to alleviate feeding and health issues in livestock, such as horses, by increasing exercise, decreasing or limiting access to forage consumption, treating forage to reduce water soluble carbohydrates and fructans, and reducing forage waste. The implementations discussed herein provide for a timed, slow feed system accompanied, in some implementations, by a timed forage soaking, steaming, and draining system. In various combinations, the implementations discussed herein allow limited access to treated (i.e., steamed and drained) forage. Reducing access to a specific amount of hay or forage and having multiple feeding systems across pastures increases the exercise performed by the livestock which promotes health. Steaming and soaking of the hay or forage decreases sugars, mold, and / or bacteria, which treats for and assists in the prevention of various diseases, conditions, and afflictions. Slow feeding systems, such as those disclosed herein, with timed- opening doors, forage nets, and a steaming system also may reduce hay or forage waste.

[0029] Some of the implementations discussed herein include panels or doors on timers that open to allow access to the forage and close to restrict access to the forage and may include warning signals such as bells and buzzers and the like when the doors / panels are opened indicating to the livestock access to the forage or warn that the door / panel is closing. Thewarning signal may be incorporated into the control systems described herein. This requires livestock to move at timed intervals to access the forage either through another opening or at another feeding station. In various implementations, the panels or doors can be open for any useful interval such as 15-30 minute intervals. Variable control of access to the forage may also be used in some implementations. When the doors or panels close to restrict access to the forage, the livestock can move between two feeding stations or between sides of the feeder or feeding station in search of another opening allowing access to a source of forage. In various implementations, timing variability may be managed to customize the amount of time the doors are open and closed to guarantee that livestock have enough time to walk between feeders or sides of the feeder.

[0030] Various implementations of the feeding systems disclosed herein incorporate watering or soaking system that can steam or soak the forage to reduce the water-soluble carbohydrates. By adding sufficient amounts of water, the sugars, starches, and fructans are leached from the forage and are dissolved into the water which is then drained away with the wastewater. The soaked or steamed forage is more suitable for insulin resistant and / or laminitic horses, for example, for which controlled sugars can reduce associated inflammation. Likewise, such treated forage may also be particularly useful for livestock having allergies and heaves or other asthma like ailments. Soaked forage is also better for older animals who may have less teeth or who may have various digestive issues exacerbated due to consuming dry hay or forage.

[0031] The forage systems disclosed herein include a containment device such as a walled storage container. Along with the timed opening / closing panels and soaking system, these systems reduce forage waste and provide a healthier feeding option for livestock.

[0032] FIG. 1 is a schematic front perspective view illustration of a forage feeding system 100, according to an implementation. FIG. 2 is a schematic rear perspective view illustration of the forage feeding system 100 shown in FIG. 1. The forage feeding system 100 is a feeding device, feeder, or feeding system that provides controlled access to forage to encourage movement of livestock during grazing or feeding periods. The forage feeding system 100 includes a housing 102. The housing 102 is, in some implementations, a multi-sided rigid structure (i.e., a rectangular housing or a square housing) that is configured to enclose forage, such as a rectangular flake bale of hay. The housing 102 may be formed from any type of rigid or semirigid material such as plastic, metal, or wood. Any portion of the housing may also include materials useful for structures exposed to the elements. For example, it may be desired toinsulate or heat the housing.

[0033] The housing 102 includes a first sidewall 104, a first endwall 106, a second sidewall 108, and a second endwall 110. In the illustrated implementation, the first sidewall 104 and the second sidewall 108 are solid. However, in other implementations, the first sidewall 104 and the second sidewall 108 may include openings, doors, and / or access panels to provide access to an interior space 103 (e.g., an interior cavity) defined by the housing 102.

[0034] The housing 102 also includes a first roof panel 112 and a second roof panel 114. The first roof panel 112 and the second roof panel 114 preferably form a pitched or angled roof allowing for ease of access and impeding the collection of detritus or precipitation, such as snow. It has been discovered that for ease of feeding and maintaining the device free of detritus from the feeding area the slope of the roof desirably has an angle from 30 or 35 to 60 or 55 degrees. Other roof angles may be useful depending on the terrain, livestock being fed, hydrated or medicinally dosed as well as climate. In some instances, the access may be granted through the walls and may even include ejection of the forage, for example, from vertical door panels making up the walls of the device.

[0035] In some implementations, the first roof panel 112 includes a first opening 116 and the second roof panel 114 includes a second opening 118. The first opening 116 and the second opening 118 allow access to the interior space 103 of the housing 102. In some implementations, a first door assembly includes a first rail 120 and a second rail 122 coupled with the first roof panel 112. The second rail 122 is spaced apart from and generally parallel to the first rail 120. The first rail 120 and the second rail 122 are adjacent to the first opening 116. The door assembly also includes a first panel 128 and a second panel 130 configured to travel along the first rail 120 and the second rail 122 between a closed position, as shown in FIG. 1, and an open position.

[0036] Similarly, in some implementations, a second door assembly includes a third rail 124 and a fourth rail 126 coupled with the second roof panel 114. The fourth rail 126 is spaced apart from and generally parallel to the third rail 124. The third rail 124 and the fourth rail 126 are adjacent to the second opening 118. The second door assembly includes a third panel 132 and a fourth panel 134 configured to travel along the third rail 124 and the fourth rail 126 between a closed position and an open position, as shown in FIG. 2. While FIGS. 1 and 2 illustrate two panels in each of the first door assembly and the second door assembly, it is understood that the first door assembly may include a single movable panel configured to move to regulate a size of the first opening 116 and the second door assembly may include a single movable panelconfigured to move to regulate a size of the second opening 118.

[0037] In various implementations, the first rail 120, the second rail 122, the third rail 124, and the fourth rail 126 include a groove or track to guide the travel of the first panel 128, the second panel 130, the third panel 132, and the fourth panel 134 between the open and the closed positions. In some implementations, a single rail system may be used instead of the two-rail system described herein.

[0038] In some implementations, movement of the first panel 128, the second panel 130, the third panel 132, and the fourth panel 134 between the open and the closed positions is controlled by a panel control system 135. Each of the first panel 128, the second panel 130, the third panel 132, and the fourth panel 134 can be connected to an actuator. The actuators may be electric motors in electronic communication with the panel control system 135. The panel control system 135 can include a controller configured to control the first panel 128, the second panel 130, the third panel 132, and the fourth panel 134 to regulate a size of the first opening 116 and / or the second opening 116. In various implementations, the first panel 128 and the second panel 130 can be automatically controlled to allow access to forage within the housing 102 via the first opening 116 for a first predetermined period of time. Similarly, the third panel 132 and the fourth panel 134 can be automatically controlled to allow access to forage within the housing 102 via the second opening 118 for a second predetermined period of time. In various implementations, the first predetermined period of time is between approximately 15-30 minutes; however, access to the forage via the first opening 116 can be automatically controlled to be any desired period of time. Similarly, the second predetermined period of time may be between approximately 15-30 minutes with similar access to forage via the second opening 118 set to any desired period of time.

[0039] In various implementations, the first opening 116 can be opened independently of the second opening 118. For example, the first panel 128 and the second panel 130 can be controlled to allow access to forage via the first opening 116, while the second opening 118 remains closed. After a predetermined period of time, the first opening 116 may be closed while the third panel 132 and the fourth panel 134 are opened to allow access to forage via the second opening 118. By closing the opening on one side of the housing 102, livestock are motivated to move to an opposite side of the forage feeding system 100, or to another forage feeding system 100 at another location within a pasture, to further access forage. This encourages healthy movement.

[0040] In various implementations, a sound, tone, or alert may be played prior to opening orclosing one or both of the first opening 116 and the second opening 118. This tone or alert is used to condition the livestock to movement of the first panel 128, the second panel 130, the third panel 132, and / or the fourth panel 134.

[0041] In various implementations, the first panel 128, the second panel 130, the third panel 132, and the fourth panel 134 may each include a ratcheting slide mechanism to lock each panel in either a fully open, partially open, partially closed, or fully closed position. The mechanism may include one or more locks to prevent movement of one or more of the first panel 128, the second panel 130, the third panel 132, and the fourth panel 134 from a designated position by the livestock. In various implementations, the panels are configured to open and remain fixed at positions that correspond to bale stops positioned on the interior surface of the housing 102.

[0042] While FIGS. 1 and 2 illustrate the forage feeding system 100 having two openings in the roof, it is understood that in other implementations, the forage feeding system 100 may have multiple openings in the first roof panel 112 and / or the second roof panel 114. Alternatively, some implementations of the forage feeding system 100 may have a single opening in either the first roof panel 112 or the second roof panel 114. It is also understood that while two panels are shown coupled to each roof panel, in some implementations a single roof panel may be coupled to the first roof panel 112 and / or the second roof panel 114 to cover the first opening 116 and / or the second opening 118, respectively.

[0043] With continued reference to FIGS. 1 and 2, the first roof panel 112 and the second roof panel 114 are rotatably coupled to housing 102. FIG. 1 illustrates a first roof hinge 136 and a second roof hinge 138 coupled with the first roof panel 112 and the first sidewall 104. The first roof panel 112 is rotatable between an open position (shown in FIG. 3) and a closed position to allow access to the interior space 103 defined by the housing 102. Similarly, FIG. 2 illustrates a third roof hinge 140 and a fourth roof hinge 142 coupled with the second roof panel 114 and the second sidewall 108. The second roof panel 114 is rotatable between an open position (shown in FIG. 3) and a closed position to allow access to the interior space 103 defined by the housing 102. For example, the first roof panel 112 and / or the second roof panel 114 may be rotated to the open position to allow forage to be placed within the housing 102, to allow access to a fluid distribution system positioned within the housing 102, or for any other reason.

[0044] FIG. 3 is a schematic side perspective view illustration of the forage feeding system 100 with the first roof panel 112 and the second roof panel 114 in an open configuration or position. As shown, the first roof panel 112 and the second roof panel 114 are rotated to an openposition relative to the first endwall 106. In the open position, the first roof panel 112 and the second roof panel 114 do not substantially block or impede access to the interior space 103 of the housing 102.

[0045] Positioned within the interior space 103 of the housing 102 is a first forage treatment system 144 (e.g., forage storage portion) and a second forage treatment system 146 (e.g., forage storage portion). In various implementations, the first forage treatment system 144 is configured to hold forage for treatment, such as steaming or soaking. Similarly, the second forage treatment system 146 is configured to hold forage for treatment. In some implementations, the first forage treatment system 144 and the second forage treatment system 146 may each be configured to hold a rectangular bale of hay that includes multiple flakes that can be easily separated apart. It is understood that the forage treatment system may be configured to receive any useful geometric shape of hay such as those commonly employed (e.g., cylindrical and cubic).

[0046] FIG. 4 is a schematic side perspective view illustration of the forage feeding system 100 with the first roof panel 112 and the second roof panel 114 in the closed configuration or position. When the first roof panel 112 and the second roof panel 114 are in the closed position, the housing 102 provides selective access to the forage contained within the housing 102 via openings in the housing 102 that can be selectively opened and close, such as the first opening 116 and the second opening 118.

[0047] In some implementations, the second endwall 110 includes an access panel 148. The access panel 148 may provide access to a portion of the interior space 103 of the housing 102. In various implementations, the access panel 148 provides access to components of the first forage treatment system 144 and the second forage treatment system 146, various control systems, etc. In various implementations, the access panel 148 includes or provides access to a valve 150. The valve 150 may be connected to a fluid distribution system or assembly within the housing 102. The fluid distribution system, described in greater detail below, can be used to treat or soak the forage within the first forage treatment system 144 and / or the second forage treatment system 146. In various implementations, a fluid source, such as a hose or pipe, may be connected to the valve 150 to provide a source of fluid for treating the forage. In some implementations, the valve 150 is mechanically adjustable to adjust a flow of fluid to the fluid distribution system. In other implementations, the valve 150 is electronically controlled, or is in electronic communication with a controller, to automatically regulate a flow of water or fluid to the fluid distribution system.

[0048] FIG. 5 is a schematic front perspective view illustration of the forage feeding system 100, illustrating two forage treatment systems, according to an implementation. As shown, the first forage treatment system 144 is positioned along one wall of the housing 102. The second forage treatment system 146 is positioned along an opposite wall of the housing 102. It is understood that the first forage treatment system 144 and the second forage treatment system 146 may be positioned adjacent to each other within the housing 102. In some implementations, one, two, three, or more forage treatment systems may be positioned within the housing 102.

[0049] A first fluid distribution system 154 is positioned within the housing 102. The first fluid distribution system 154 is configured to direct fluid such as water or steam to the forage contained within the first forage treatment system 144. Similarly, a second fluid distribution system 156 is also positioned within the housing 102. The second fluid distribution system 156 is configured to direct fluid such as water or steam to the forage contained within the second forage treatment system 146. In the illustrated implementation, the first fluid distribution system 154 and the second fluid distribution system 156 are positioned near or adjacent to an upper portion of the interior space 103 of the housing 102. That is, the first fluid distribution system 154 is positioned above the first forage treatment system 144 and similarly, the second fluid distribution system 156 is positioned above the second forage treatment system 146.

[0050] In the illustrated implementation, the first fluid distribution system 154 includes a first rail 158. The first rail 158 is a pipe, rail, or channel configured to distribute fluid to the first forage treatment system 144 positioned below the first rail 158. The first rail 158 includes a plurality of openings 160. The openings 160 direct fluid toward the forage within the first forage treatment system 144.

[0051] Similarly, the second fluid distribution system 156 includes a second rail 162. The second rail 162 is a pipe, rail, or channel configured to distribute fluid to the second forage treatment system 146 positioned below the second rail 162. The second rail 162 includes a plurality of openings 164. The openings 164 direct fluid toward the forage within the second forage treatment system 146.

[0052] The first fluid distribution system 154 and the second fluid distribution system 156 are coupled with a fluid source. The fluid source may be an external fluid source such as a hose. In other implementations, the fluid source may be a tank or reservoir. The tank or reservoir may be positioned within the interior space 103 of the housing 102. In other implementations, the tank or reservoir may be positioned exterior of the housing 102. In various implementations, the firstfluid distribution system 154 and the second fluid distribution system 156 include heating elements to heat the fluid distributed to the forage. In some implementations, fluid is heated within the tank or reservoir prior to transmission to the forage via the first fluid distribution system 154 and / or the second fluid distribution system 156.

[0053] An overhead view of the forage feeding system 100 is shown in FIG. 6. In this implementation, the first rail 158 of the first fluid distribution system 154 is coupled with the second rail 162 of the second fluid distribution system 156 via a first connection 163 and a second connection 165. As shown in FIG. 6, the first forage treatment system 144 includes a plurality of compartments or sections to section, for example, a bay of hay, into separate portions. Each portion may be then selectively treated or steamed, as desired. The first forage treatment system 144 is divided into five compartments or sections, labeled 171-175. Similarly, the second forage treatment system 146 is divided into five compartments or sections, labeled 181-185. Bales of hay are typically divided into separate portions or flakes. One or more flakes can be placed within each compartment or section for treatment, such as soaking.

[0054] In the illustrated implementation shown in FIG. 6, the fluid distribution system includes a plurality of distribution members, labeled 176-180 and 186-190. The distribution members are configured to distribute fluid from the first rail 158 and / or the second rail 162 to the compartments of the first forage treatment system 144 and the second forage treatment system 146. Fluid flow through each of the distribution members 176-180 and the distribution members 186-190 can be electronically or mechanically controlled, such as via an electronically-controlled or manually-controlled valve or another regulating member. In some implementations, the distribution members 176-180 and / or the distribution members 186-190 are configured to deliver fluid to the forage within the first forage treatment system 144 and the second forage treatment system 146 from above (that is, by dripping water or directing steam downward toward the forage). In other implementations, the distribution members 176-180 and / or the distribution members 186-190 are configured to deliver fluid to the forage within the first forage treatment system 144 and the second forage treatment system 146 from below (that is, by directing steam or fluid upward into the forage). In various implementations, the distribution members 176-180 and the distribution members 186-190 are formed integrally with the first rail 158 and / or the second rail 162. In some implementations, the distribution members 176-180 and the distribution members 186-190 are flexible, semi-rigid, or rigid members such as pipes, hoses, sprinklers, or faucets that are configured to direct warm and / or cold fluid to specified portions of the firstforage treatment system 144 and the second forage treatment system 146.

[0055] FIG. 7 is a schematic front perspective view illustration of a forage feeding system 200, illustrating a drainage system for two forage treatment units, according to an implementation.The drainage system may be any useful such as those known in the art for draining buildings and vehicles of water. The drainage system may be configured to empty a pan at prescribed intervals that may be controlled by the control system to provide, for example, dissolution of sugars in the hay. The operating of a valve connected a drainage pan may be activated by a measuring sensor or device such as a water level. The forage feeding system 200 is similar to the forage feeding system 100 discussed herein, except as otherwise noted. The forage feeding system 200 includes a drainage pan 205. In various implementations, the drainage pan 205 is a metal or plastic rigid or semi-rigid material. The drainage pan 205 is positioned within the housing 102. The drainage pan 205 is positioned below the first forage treatment system 144 and the second forage treatment system 146. The drainage pan 205 allows fluid, such as water, and other materials or substances from the soaked forage, to drip or fall into a retention area 246. The drainage pan 205 is raised some distance off the floor of the housing 102 to allow for the retention area 246 between the bottom of the drainage pan 205 and the floor of the housing 102. This gives the fluid from the soaked forage a place to accumulate and for eventual removal.

[0056] FIG. 8 illustrates an overhead view of the housing 102 including the drainage pan 205. The drainage pan 205 includes a plurality of openings disposed beneath each section of the first forage treatment system 144 and the second forage treatment system 146. The openings are generally designated as 276-280 and as 286-290. The openings are preferably evenly distributed throughout each section or compartment of the first forage treatment system 144 and the second forage treatment system 146 to promote even drainage of fluid from the soaked forage. Additionally, the drainage pan 205 drains the water or steam away from any livestock to prevent an injury, such as a burn, and to prevent flooding the pasture in the vicinity of the forage feeding system 200. The forage feeding system 200 allows the water and steam to be removed from the immediate area around the livestock.

[0057] FIG. 9 is a schematic front perspective view illustration of a forage feeding system 300 in a closed configuration, according to another implementation. FIG. 10 is a schematic front perspective view illustration of the forage feeding system 300 in an open configuration. The forage feeding system 300 is similar to the forage feeding system 100 and the forage feeding system 200 discussed herein, except as otherwise discussed below.

[0058] In this implementation, the forage feeding system 300 includes an opening 316. The opening 316 is formed in the first sidewall 104 of the housing 102. The opening 316 allows access to the interior space 103 of the housing 102 and thus to the treated forage within the first forage treatment system 144 and the second forage treatment system 146. A first rail 320 and a second rail 322 are coupled with the first sidewall 104. The second rail 322 is spaced apart from and generally parallel to the first rail 320. The first rail 320 and the second rail 322 are adjacent to the opening 316. A first panel 328 and a second panel 330 are configured to travel along the first rail 320 and the second rail 322 between a closed position, as shown in FIG. 9, and an open position, shown in FIG. 10.

[0059] As discussed above with respect to FIG. 1, the first rail 320 and the second rail 322 include a groove or track to guide the travel of the first panel 328 and the second panel 130 between the open and the closed positions. In some implementations, a single rail system may be used instead of the two-rail system described herein.

[0060] In some implementations, movement of the first panel 128 and the second panel 130 as well as the first panel 328 and the second panel 330, between the open and the closed positions, is controlled by the panel control system 135. Each of the first panel 128, the second panel 130, the first panel 328, and the second panel 330 can be connected to an actuator. The actuators may be electric motors in electronic communication with the panel control system 135. The panel control system 135 can include a controller configured to control the first panel 128, the second panel 130, the first panel 328, and the second panel 330 to regulate a size of the opening 116 and / or the opening 316. In various implementations, the first panel 128 and the second panel 130 can be automatically controlled to allow access to forage within the housing 102 via the first opening 116 for a first predetermined period of time. Similarly, the first panel 328 and the second panel 330 can be automatically controlled to allow access to forage within the housing 102 via the opening 316 for a second predetermined period of time. In various implementations, the first predetermined period of time is between approximately 15-30 minutes; however, access to the forage via the first opening 116 can be automatically controlled to be any desired period of time. Similarly, the second predetermined period of time may be between approximately 15-30 minutes with similar access to forage via the opening 316 set to any desired period of time. In various implementations, the first opening 116 and the opening 316 may both be open at the same time to allow access to the forage within the housing 102 at different levels. While not shown, the housing 102 may also include an opening in the second sidewall 108 and at least onemovable panel coupled with at least one rail on the second sidewall 108 to provide access to the interior space 103 of the housing 102 from the opposite side. While the illustrated implementation includes two panels configured to allow and restrict access to the first opening 116 and the opening 316, it is understood that in other implementations a single panel may be used to allow and restrict access to the first opening 116 and a single panel may be used to allow and restrict access to the opening 316.

[0061] In some implementations, the forage feeding system 300 includes a solar panel 391. In the illustrated implementation, the forage feeding system 300 includes a plurality of solar panels. The solar panel 391 is illustrated as positioned on and coupled with the first roof panel 112. However, in other implementations, the solar panel 391 or a plurality of solar panels may be positioned on one or both of the first roof panel 112 and the second roof panel 114. The solar panel 391 provides power to the forage feeding system 300 to power, for example, the actuators used to move the panels to open and close the openings, to heat fluid contained within a reservoir within the housing 102, and / or to activate one or more valves or regulating units associated with the fluid distribution systems, such as the first fluid distribution system 154 and the second fluid distribution system 156.

[0062] In various implementations, the forage feeding system 300 is a mobile unit. The mobility may be provided by any suitable method such as those known in the art. Illustratively the mobility maybe by rotation (e.g., wheel or tracked) or articulation. The forage feeding system 300 includes at least one wheel 307. As illustrated, the forage feeding system 300 includes at least three wheels per side; however, in other implementations, the forage feeding system 300 may include a single wheel 307 (similar to a wheelbarrow) or multiple wheels to allow the forage feeding system 300 to be moved to various positions. In some implementations, each wheel 307 is coupled with a drive system 335 (self-contained drive system) that may include a motor such that the forage feeding system 300 can be automatically or manually moved. In various implementations, the drive system 335 is in electronic communication with a control system 337. The control system 337 may be a wired or wireless control system including one or more controllers in communication with the drive system 335 and configured to control the drive system 335 to move the forage feeding system 300 to a desired location, such as a new feeding position, a repair location, a location with water for refilling a fluid reservoir, or another location for refilling the forage feeding system 300 with forage. In various implementations, the control system 337 is located remotely from the forage feeding system 300. In otherimplementations, the control system 337 is positioned on or within the housing 102 of the forage feeding system 300.

[0063] FIG. 11 illustrates another forage feeding system 400, according to an implementation. The forage feeding system 400 is similar to the forage feeding system 100, the forage feeding system 200, and the forage feeding system 300 and may include any of the forage treatment systems and / or fluid distribution systems discussed with reference to those forage feeding systems. In the illustrated implementation, the forage feeding system 400 includes a track system 415. The track system 415 includes a rotatable track or tread 417 that rotates around a plurality of rollers 419. The rollers 419 are coupled with the housing 102 of the forage feeding system 400. Rotation of the rollers 419 allows the tread to 417 to rotate in order to move the forage feeding system 400 to a new position or location. In some implementations, the track system 415 includes one or more actuators or motors as components of a drive system 435. The drive system 435 may be in electronic communication with a control system, such as the control system 337 described herein, such that the movement of the track system 415 may be electronically controlled.

[0064] FIG. 12 illustrates another implementation of a forage feeding system 500. The forage feeding system 500 is similar to the forage feeding system 100, the forage feeding system 200, and the forage feeding system 300 and may include any of the forage treatment systems and / or fluid distribution systems discussed with reference to those forage feeding systems. In this implementation, the first forage treatment system 144 and the second forage treatment system 146 are positioned near or toward the bottom of the housing 102. An upper portion of the housing 102 is empty to allow access to the forage through the first opening 116. A single panel 528 is positioned to slide in a first direction to prevent access through the first opening 116 and in a second direction opposite the first direction to allow access through the first opening 116. A first fluid distribution system 554 includes a fluid reservoir 555 positioned within the housing 102. A first rail 558 is coupled with the fluid reservoir 555 such that fluid from the fluid reservoir is routed to the portions or compartments of the first forage treatment system 144. While not shown, the forage feeding system 500 may also include a second fluid distribution system similar to the first fluid distribution system 554 with a second pipe connected to the fluid reservoir 555 to distribute fluid to the forage within the second forage treatment system 146.

[0065] FIGS. 13 and 14 illustrate another implementation of a forage feeding system 600, similar to the other forage feeding systems discussed herein. In this implementation, the firstforage treatment system 144 is positioned adjacent to the first sidewall 104 and the second forage treatment system 146 is positioned adjacent to the second sidewall 108. In this implementation, a central area 603 of the housing 102 is open. In various implementations, this open central area 603 can accommodate a fluid reservoir, such as the fluid reservoir 555, the fluid distribution systems, control systems, motors, actuators, or other components such as a battery 657. The implementation shown in FIG. 13 includes the first fluid distribution system 154, as discussed herein. The implementation shown in FIG. 14 includes the first fluid distribution system 554 as discussed herein. In each implementation of the forage feeding system 600, the central area 603 of the housing 102 provides space for components, such as the fluid reservoir 555 and fluid heating and distribution elements, such as heaters, lines, hoses, etc.

[0066] FIG. 15 is an implementation of a water distribution system 700. The water distribution system 700 includes a fluid reservoir 797 contained within the housing 102. In various implementations, the fluid reservoir 797 may include a heating element to heat the fluid therewithin. The water distribution system 700 also includes at least one wheel 307 coupled with the housing 102 and configured to rotate to enable the water distribution system 700 to be moved from one location to another. In various implementations, the wheel 307 is coupled with a drive system 735 that may include a motor in electronic communication with a control system 737. Similar to the control system 337, the control system 737 may be a wired or wireless control system including one or more controllers in communication with the drive system 735 and configured to control the drive system 735 to move the water distribution system 700 to a desired location, such as a new watering position, a repair location, or a location with water for refilling a fluid reservoir.

[0067] The water distribution system 700 may also include a power generation system 739. In various implementations, the power generation system 739 may include solar panels, such as the solar panel 391, batteries, a generator, or any other portable source of power to provide power to systems of the water distribution system 700. The water distribution system 700 is movable to provide a semi-stationary but movable water source for livestock to encourage health movement or accommodate changes in pasture conditions, etc.

[0068] FIG. 16 is an implementation of a water distribution system 800 that is similar to the water distribution system 700 except as described herein. The water distribution system 800 includes a fluid reservoir 797 contained within the housing 102. In various implementations, the fluid reservoir 797 may include a heating element to heat the fluid therewithin or maintain theheat of the forage. The water distribution system 800 includes the track system 415, as described herein with reference to FIG. 11. The track system 415 is configured to be controlled by the drive system 735 to enable the water distribution system 800 to be moved from one location to another. The drive system 735, as discussed herein, includes one or more actuators or motors configured to rotate the plurality of rollers 419 to move the tread 417. The drive system 735 is in electronic communication with the control system 737 such that the control system 737 is configured to control the amount of movement and direction of movement of the water distribution system 800 via the drive system 735.

[0069] In various implementations, the forage feeding systems and the water distribution systems discussed herein are mobile and movable to a desired location. The movement of the forage feeding systems and the water distribution systems may be automated or may be manually controlled. In some implementations, a mobile forage feeding system, such as the forage feeding system 300, the forage feeding system 400, the forage feeding system 600, the water distribution system 700, and the water distribution system 800, can communicate with and navigate to and from a fixed location, such as a docking station or port. The docking station or port provides a source of power, fluid, and / or forage. Additionally, the docking station or port is a location to which the forage feeding system can return for maintenance or repair. In various implementations, the docking station or port is located near a water source, such as a well, pump, or hydrant, a power source such as a wall charger, and / or a forage source, such as a barn or hay storage area.

[0070] As shown in FIGS. 17 and 18, a docking station 900 includes a first portion 902, a second portion 904, and a third portion 906. Each of the first portion 902, the second portion 904, and the third portion 906 provide a different functionality to the docking station 900 and may be arranged in any structural configuration that enables interaction with the forage feeding system, such as the forage feeding system 600 illustrated in FIGS. 17 and 18.

[0071] In the illustrated implementation, the first portion 902 includes a recharging portion 908. The recharging portion 908 is configured to provide electrical power to the battery 657 of the forage feeding system 600. In some implementations, the first portion 902 also includes a fluid source 910. The fluid source 910 can be a hose coupled with a fluid source such as a hydrant or well, or may be a fluid reservoir. The fluid source 910 is configured to be coupled with the fluid reservoir 555 of the forage feeding system 600 such that fluid can be transferred from the fluid source 910 to the fluid reservoir 555 to top off or fill the fluid reservoir 555.

[0072] The second portion 904 of the docking station 900 includes a waste receptacle 912. The waste receptacle 912 is positioned such that when the forage feeding system 600 is docked with the docking station 900, as shown in FIG. 18, waste fluid from the forage feeding system 600 can be released to the waste receptacle 912. The waste fluid can be manually released from the forage feeding system 600 or may be automatically released based on proximity of the forage feeding system 600 to the docking station 900.

[0073] The third portion 906 of the docking station 900 includes a forage storage area 914. The forage storage area 914 is configured to hold forage (for example, rectangular hay bales) and release the rectangular hay bales into the forage feeding system 600 when the forage feeding system 600 is docked with the docking station 900. In some implementations, the forage feeding system 600 can receive forage from the forage storage area 914 and, along with fluid received from the fluid source 910, initiate steaming the forage. That is, forage may be steamed either when the forage feeding system 600 is remotely located, such as in a pasture, or when docked at the docking station 900.

[0074] In various implementations, the docking station 900 includes a control system 916. The control system 916 includes one or more controllers, sensors, and communication devices configured to electronically communicate with, detect, and control the forage feeding system 600. In various implementations, the control system 916 is configured to interact with the control system 337 located on board or in communication with the forage feeding system 600. The control system 916 can detect a location of the forage feeding system 600 and direct the control system 337 to control the forage feeding system 600 to move towards the docking station 900. In some implementations, the control system 916 includes sensors that detect a proximity of the forage feeding system 600 and can more accurately provide control instructions for the control system 337 to position the forage feeding system 600 relative to the docking station 900.

[0075] In some implementations, the control system 337 and the control system 916 may be controlled by a remote application run on a mobile device, such as a cell phone or tablet. A user may provide docking instructions, movement instructions, or other commands via the remote application and these instructions are transmitted to the control system 337 and / or the control system 916 to direct movement of the forage feeding system 600.

[0076] The docking station 900 is illustrated with the forage feeding system 600. However, it is understood that the docking station 900 could be used with any of the mobile forage feeding system discussed herein. It is further understood that the docking station 900, or a similardocking station, could be used with the water distribution system 700 illustrated in FIG. 15 to provide a source of refill fluid and power for the water distribution system 700.

Claims

What is claimed is:

1. A method feeding livestock comprising,(i) placing forage in a container defining an interior cavity having a door panel to provide selective access to the interior cavity,(ii) opening the door panel allowing access to the forage by the livestock at a feeding time for a period of time during a day,(ii) closing the door panel after the period of time, and(iii) repeating steps (ii) and (iii) at a later time.

2. The method of claim 1, wherein there are at least two door panels and each door panel is individually opened at differing feeding time during the day causing the livestock to migrate from one door panel to another door panel to continue feeding.

3. The method of claim 1 further comprising physically moving the container after the closing of the door panel and prior to step (iii).

4. The method of claim 3, wherein the physically moving is by a self-contained drive system.

5. The method of claim 1, wherein the container is comprised of at least two containers physically separated geographically with each container having its own door panel.

6. The method of claim 5, wherein the door panel of a first container is opened at the feeding time for the feeding period and the door panel of second container is opened at the later time of step (iii) causing the livestock to migrate from the first container to the second container to feed.

7. The method of any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein the container has a warning signal when opening and closing the door panel.

8. The method of any one of claims 1-6, wherein the container is further comprised of aforage treatment system for introducing water or steam to the forage.

9. The method of claim 8, wherein the forage is treated with water or steam prior to the opening of the door panel by the forage treatment system.

10. The method of any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein the opening of the door panels is implemented by a control system.

11. The method of claim 8, wherein the forage treatment system is implemented by a control system.

12. The method of claim 10, wherein the self-contained drive system is implemented by the control system.

13. The method of claim 10, wherein the control systems is self-contained, remote or combination thereof.

14. A method of hydrating livestock comprising,(i) placing water in a container defining an interior cavity having a door panel to provide selective access to the interior cavity,(ii) opening the door panel allowing access to the water by the livestock at a watering time for a period of time during a day,(ii) closing the door panel after the period of time, and(iii) repeating steps (ii) and (iii) at a later time.

15. The method of claim 14, wherein there are at least two door panels and each door panel is individually opened at differing water time during the day causing the livestock to migrate from one door panel to another door panel to continue drinking.

16. The method of claim 14 further comprising physically moving the container after the closing of the door panel and prior to step (iii).

17. The method of claim 16, wherein the physically moving is by a self-contained drive system.

18. The method of claim 14, wherein the container is comprised of at least two containers physically separated geographically with each container having its own door panel.

19. The method of claim 18, wherein the door panel of a first container is opened at a feeding time for a feeding period and the door panel of second container is opened at a later time of step (iii) causing the livestock to migrate from the first container to the second container to feed.

20. The method of any one of claims 14 to 19, wherein the container has a warning signal when opening and closing the door panel.

21. The method of claim 14, wherein the container is further comprised of a pharmaceutical delivery system for introducing medicine to the water.

22. The method of claim 21, wherein the water dosed with a pharmaceutical by the pharmaceutical delivery system prior to the opening of the door panel.

23. The method of claim 14, wherein the opening of the door panels is implemented by a control system.

24. The method of claim 21, wherein the pharmaceutical delivery system is implemented by the control system.

25. A device for feeding livestock, comprising: a housing defining an internal cavity, the housing including a door assembly including a door panel configured to provide selective access to the internal cavity; a forage storage portion positioned within the internal cavity; a reservoir positioned within the internal cavity; and a fluid distribution assembly positioned within the internal cavity, the fluid distribution assembly in fluid communication with the reservoir and the forage storage portion andconfigured to selectively direct fluid from the reservoir to the forage storage portion, wherein the door panel is configured to open and close to selectively allow livestock to access the forage storage portion.

26. The device according to claim 25, wherein the door assembly includes an actuator coupled with the door panel and the actuator is configured to selectively open and close the door panel.

27. The device according to claim 26, further comprising a controller coupled with the actuator and configured to generate a control signal to control the actuator to open the door panel in response to a first input and to generate a control signal to control the actuator to close the door panel after a predetermined elapsed time.

28. The device according to claim 27, further comprising a sensor in electronic communication with the controller, and wherein the first input includes first sensor data indicating a presence of a livestock within a predetermined distance of the housing.

29. The device according to claim 25, wherein the forage storage portion is positioned below the fluid distribution assembly such that fluid directed from the reservoir to the forage storage portion passes through the forage storage portion from a first end to a second end.

30. The device according to claim 29, wherein the second end of the forage storage portion includes a plurality of holes to permit fluid to drain out of the forage storage portion.

31. The device according to claim 25, further comprising a heating assembly coupled with the reservoir, the heating assembly configured to heat fluid within the reservoir such that the fluid distribution assembly is configured to delivered steam to the forage storage portion.

32. The device according to claim 25, further comprising the device being mobile.

33. The device according to claim 25, wherein the forage storage portion is divided into a plurality of compartments and each compartment is configured to receive a portion of forage.

34. The device according to claim 33, wherein the fluid distribution assembly is configured to selectively deliver fluid from the reservoir to one or more of the plurality of compartments of the forage storage portion.

35. The device according to claim 25, wherein the door assembly is comprised of an upper portion of the housing that is coupled with the housing with a hinge and the upper portion is configured to rotate relative to the housing to allow access to the internal cavity.

36. The device according to claim 35, wherein the door panel is a portion of the upper portion.

37. The device according to claim 25, wherein the fluid distribution assembly includes a pump coupled with the reservoir and configured to move fluid from the reservoir through the fluid distribution assembly.

38. The device according to claim 37, wherein the fluid distribution assembly includes a timer configured to selectively activate the fluid distribution assembly to deliver fluid to the forage storage portion.

39. The device according to claim 25, further comprising a power generating assembly coupled with the door assembly.

40. An automated feeding apparatus, comprising: a housing defining at least two compartments for holding an amount of forage; a fluid distribution system positioned within the housing and configured to deliver fluid to the compartments; a roof portion rotatably coupled to the housing and configured to rotate to an open position to allow access to the compartments; and a door assembly including a door panel coupled with the roof portion and configured to open to provide selective access to the compartments.

41. The automated feeding apparatus according to claim 40, further comprising a timing mechanism coupled with the door assembly and configured to close the door panel after a predetermined elapsed time since opening the door panel.

42. The automated feeding apparatus according to claim 40, further comprising a sensor coupled with the door assembly, the sensor configured to detect a presence of livestock within a proximity of the housing to trigger the door assembly to open the door panel to allow access to the compartments.

43. The automated feeding apparatus according to claim 40, wherein the door assembly includes a locking mechanism to lock the door panel in an open position and in a closed position.

44. The automated feeding apparatus according to claim 40, wherein the door assembly is configured to move the door panel to a plurality of positions to enlarge or reduce an opening in the roof portion.

45. The automated feeding apparatus according to claim 40, wherein the roof portion has a slope of 30 to 60 degrees.

46. The automated feeding apparatus according to claim 40, wherein the housing is formed from a weather-resistant material.

47. The automated feeding apparatus according to claim 40, wherein the housing is formed from plastic, wood, metal or combination thereof.

48. A method for providing livestock selective access to forage, comprising: providing a container defining an interior cavity and having a door panel to provide selective access to the interior cavity, a forage distribution assembly positioned within the interior cavity, and a fluid distribution system in fluid communication with the forage distribution assembly to selectively provide fluid to the forage distribution assembly; determining an amount of fluid to distribute to the forage distribution assembly; opening the door panel to allow livestock access to the forage distribution assembly;starting a first timer when opening the door panel; closing the door panel to restrict livestock access to the forage distribution assembly after an elapsed time as determined by the first timer; starting a second timer when closing the door panel; and opening the door panel to allow livestock access to the forage distribution assembly after an elapsed time as determined by the second timer.

49. A watering apparatus for livestock, comprising: a housing defining a water storage compartment; a wheel assembly coupled with the housing, the wheel assembly including a wheel and a motor coupled to the wheel, the motor configured to rotate the wheel; a power generation assembly coupled with the housing and the wheel assembly and configured to provide power to the wheel assembly; and a timing assembly coupled with the wheel assembly, wherein the wheel assembly is configured to rotate the wheel to move the housing in response to data from the timing assembly.

50. The watering apparatus according to claim 49, wherein the data from the timing assembly includes an elapsed time since a previous rotation of the wheel of the wheel assembly.

51. The watering apparatus according to claim 49, wherein the power generation assembly includes a solar panel.

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