Animal brushing arrangement

Abstract

The disclosure concerns an animal brushing arrangement (2) comprising a support part (6) a brush (8), and a suspension structure (12). A first member (14) is connected to the support part (6) and is pivotable about a first pivot axis (30), a second member (16) is connected to the first member (14) and is pivotable about a second pivot axis (26) in relation to the first member (14), and a third member (18) is connected to the second member (16) and is pivotable about a third pivot axis (28) in relation to the second member (16). The first pivot axis (30) extends substantially horizontally, the second pivot axis (26) extends at an angle (γ) to the first pivot axis (30) and in a common plane with the first pivot axis (30), and the third pivot axis (28) has a directional component extending perpendicularly to the second pivot axis (26).

Description

[0001] Animal Brushing Arrangement

[0002] TECHNICAL FIELD

[0003] The invention relates to an animal brushing arrangement.

[0004] BACKGROUND

[0005] Animal brushing arrangements and devices of various kinds are known.

[0006] One particular kind of animal brushing arrangement includes a rotatable cylindrical brush that is mounted to a fixed support structure, such as a wall or a post. The rotatable brush is suspended hanging downwardly like a pendulum that can swing back and forth, often in more than one direction. This kind of animal brushing arrangement is devised for brushing farm animals, such as cows and horses.

[0007] Animals go voluntarily to the animal brushing arrangement for being brushed. The brushing is a way of keeping the animals clean, giving them massage and calming them down.

[0008] Further, the brushing may be a way of improving the health of the animals and to provide for an increased feeling of well-being and comfort.

[0009] One animal brushing arrangement of this kind is presented e.g. in WO 03 / 084316, which discloses a treatment device for livestock wherein an oblong brush is carried by a carrying means. The brush can be set in a preferably rotating motion by a drive unit. The motion is initiated by the animal coming into contact with the brush. By means of a flexible element in the carrying means, the brush is able to swivel from a vertical to a substantially horizontal orientation upon a force acting on it.

[0010] WO 2010 / 040631 and WO 2013 / 176596 disclose further developments of this kind of animal brushing arrangement. Specifically, two pivot axes extending in horizontal directions when the brushing arrangement is at rest provide for the pendulum movement of the rotatable brush.

[0011] SUMMARY

[0012] It would be advantageous to provide an animal brushing arrangement that interacts with an animal being brushed in an alternative manner. In particular, it would be desirable to provide an animal brushing arrangement wherein the rotatable brush is able to easily move in three dimensions and / or to provide an efficient brushing of animals of different heights. To better address one or more of these concerns, an animal brushing arrangement having the features defined in the independent claim is provided.

[0013] According to an aspect there is provided an animal brushing arrangement for attaching to a support structure. The animal brushing arrangement comprises a support part configured to be attached to the support structure, a brush, an electric motor arranged to rotate the brush about a rotational axis, and a suspension structure for suspending the brush and the electric motor from the support part. The suspension structure comprises a first member, a second member, and a third member. The first member is connected to the support part at a first interface and is pivotable in relation to the support part about a first pivot axis at the first interface, the second member is connected to the first member at a second interface and is pivotable about a second pivot axis in relation to the first member at the second interface, and the third member is connected to the second member at a third interface and is pivotable about a third pivot axis in relation to the second member at the third interface. When the animal brushing arrangement is attached to the support structure, the first pivot axis extends substantially horizontally, the second pivot axis extends at an angle to the first pivot axis and in a common plane with the first pivot axis, and the third pivot axis has a directional component extending perpendicularly to the second pivot axis.

[0014] Since the suspension structure comprises the first member pivotably connected to the support part at the first interface, the second member pivotably connected to the first member at the second interface, and the third member pivotably connected to the second member at the third interface, and since when the animal brushing arrangement is attached to the support structure, the first pivot axis extends substantially horizontally, the second pivot axis extends at an angle to the first pivot axis and in a common plane with the first pivot axis, and the third pivot axis has a directional component extending perpendicularly to the second pivot axis - the brush, which is connected to, or forms part of, the third member, has an improved or enhanced freedom of movement in three dimensions.

[0015] Namely, in comparison with an animal brushing arrangement comprising a suspension structure with second and third pivot axes extending horizontally, the herein described second pivot axis extending at an angle to, and in a common plane with, the first pivot axis and the third pivot axis having a directional component extending perpendicularly to the second pivot axis, in combination, provide a different interaction pattern of the brush with an animal that pushes against the brush for being brushed by the brush. By the first pivot axis extending substantially horizontally and the second pivot axis extending at an angle to the first pivot axis and in a common plane with the first pivot axis, the second pivot axis is being pivotable with the common plane and around the first pivot axis. The third member is therefore pivotable with this common plane, but since the third pivot axis has a directional component extending perpendicularly to the second pivot axis, the third pivot axis provides an enhanced freedom of movement out of this common plane.

[0016] The herein discussed animal brushing arrangement, also referred to simply as the brushing arrangement, is arranged for brushing livestock animals, such as farm animals e.g. cows, horses, pigs, etc., utilising the rotatable brush. For use by the animals, the animal brushing arrangement is attached to the support structure such that the brush is suspended hanging downwardly.

[0017] The animal brushing arrangement may be arranged indoors in a barn or sty wherein the animals can move about and go to the animal brushing arrangement for being brushed by the brush as it is rotated by the electric motor. Alternatively, the brushing arrangement may be arranged outdoors e.g., in connection with a pasture where the animals are held.

[0018] The support structure may be any fixed structure sufficiently strong to carry the animal brushing arrangement. The support structure may be a wall or a post.

[0019] The suspension structure extends between the brush and the support part that is attachable to the support structure. The suspension structure, due to it comprising at least two members that are pivotable in relation to each other about at least one pivot axis, permits the brush to be positioned at different angles and in different spatial positions. An animal thus, may manipulate the brush by pushing against it with varying force and in different directions for the brush to reach different body parts of the relevant animal.

[0020] Herein, the term interface relates to a portion of the suspension structure where two different members of the suspension structure are arranged adjacent to each other or where the first member is arranged adjacent to the support part. In connection with an interface, the two adjacent members are pivotably connected to each other and the first member is pivotably connected to the support part, respectively.

[0021] A member of the suspension structure may have at least one end-face. The end-face may be arranged at an interface between the relevant member and an adjacent member. An end-face of a member is an axial end of a member. Accordingly, a normal line of the endface extends along a tangent of an axial extension of the member at its axial end. The endface may comprise a surface, which extends over at least part of the end-face.

[0022] An interface between a member and an adjacent member may be arranged at end-faces of the two adjacent members. The pivot axis may extend perpendicularly to the two end-faces.

[0023] The brush may be connected to, or may form part of, the third member of the suspension structure. Put differently, the brush may be connected to, or may form part of, the member of the suspension structure most distal from the support part.

[0024] In use of the animal brushing arrangement, the brush is rotated by the electric motor. Herein, the brush therefore, may alternatively be referred to as the rotatable brush. Accordingly, an electric power supply in the form of mains power or a battery has to supply electric power to the electric motor.

[0025] In a known manner, a built-in sensor for sensing the presence of an animal engaging with the brush and a control arrangement may be utilised for starting the electric motor to rotate the brush.

[0026] The electric motor may be arranged partially or entirely within the brush, such as within a central cavity of the brush. A transmission may be arranged between the electric motor and the brush.

[0027] A rest position is defined as a position, at which the brushing arrangement orients itself with the rotatable brush suspended from its suspension structure when no external force (other than gravity) acts on the brushing arrangement. In at least one rest position of the brushing arrangement when no animal is being brushed by the brushing arrangement, the brush may be hanging with its rotational axis extending substantially vertically. The brushing arrangement may have further rest positions, in which the brush may be hanging with its rotational axis inclined.

[0028] The second pivot axis extending at an angle to the first pivot axis entails that the second pivot axis, within the common plane with the first pivot axis, may extend in any direction but in parallel with the first pivot axis. The third pivot axis having a directional component extending perpendicularly to the second pivot axis entails that, when having the second pivot axis as a reference, the third pivot axis has a directional component extending perpendicularly to the second pivot axis. The third pivot axis may also have a directional component extending in parallel with the second pivot axis. Thus the third pivot axis has a non-parallel relationship with the second pivot axis, which may be orthogonal or non-orthogonal.

[0029] According to embodiments, the second pivot axis may extend at a substantially perpendicular angle to the first pivot axis. In this manner, at the second interface, the first and second members may be arranged without any, or with only a minimal, bending torque between the first and second members when the animal brushing arrangement is in a rest position. This may at least partially relieve the second interface from mechanical stress when the animal brushing arrangement is not used by an animal.

[0030] According to embodiments, the second pivot axis and the third pivot axis may be arranged at a first obtuse, inner, angle to each other. The first obtuse angle being within a range of 91 - 179 degrees, preferably within a range of 100 - 150 degrees, or more preferably within a range of 110 - 130 degrees. In this manner, a non-orthogonal relation between the second and third pivot axes may be provided. This, in turn provides for the first, second, and third members to pivot in relation to each other in a way that allows the rotatable brush to reach an animal being brushed in an efficient manner.

[0031] More specifically, the defined first obtuse angle ranges, between the second and third pivot axes, provide for a trajectory of the third member to form at least part of a conical shape instead of pivoting in a flat plane, which is the case when the second and third pivot axes extend orthogonally to each other. Thus, in corresponding brushing situations, the brush will reach an animal to be brushed with its rotational axis in a more vertically extending direction than when the pivot axes extend orthogonally. One practical implication this may have, is that the brush of the brushing arrangement may reach and brush animals of different heights in a better way than when the pivot axes extend orthogonally to each other. Moreover, the brush being possible to be positioned with its rotational axis having such more vertically extending direction means that a larger portion of lateral body portions of an animal may be reached by the brush.

[0032] Further, in this manner, when the second pivot axis is arranged substantially vertically, the third pivot axis will extend at an angle to the horizontal plane. Thus, in comparison with a horizontally extending third pivot axis, a lesser force will be required by the animal for pushing the brush in a lateral direction. This may be particularly advantageous when the brush is heavy e.g., due to the electric motor being positioned at least partially within the brush.

[0033] Further, in this manner, the third member and the brush are pivotable in relation the second member such that at least distal portions of the brush will be pivotable to positions laterally of a vertical plane extending through the second member. Thus, a reach of the brush from the second member is increased in comparison with the reach of a brush suspended from a suspension structure wherein a third member is pivotable about a horizontal axis in relation to a second member and accordingly, which third member will only pivot to positions within a vertical plane extending through the second member.

[0034] Moreover, as also indicated above, when the brush is hanging in a rest position with its rotational axis substantially vertically, since the third pivot axis extends at an angle within one of the above defined ranges, a lesser force is required by an animal to pivot the third member in relation to the second member in comparison with a brush having a rotational axis extending perpendicularly to the second pivot axis. Namely, not the entire gravitational force component acting on the brush and the third member has to be lifted for pivoting the third member and the brush about the third pivot axis.

[0035] According to embodiments, the first member may have a first end portion at the second interface and may comprise a first end-face at its first end portion. The second member may have a first end portion at the second interface and the second member may comprise a first end-face at its first end portion. At the second interface, the first end-face of the first member and the first end-face of the second member may be arranged facing each other.

[0036] Furthermore, the first end-face of the first member and the first end-face of the second member may extend perpendicularly to the second pivot axis. In this manner, the first and second members may be configured to be positioned close to each other for the first and second members to prevent dirt from reaching the second pivot axis and / or to prevent animal access to the second pivot axis from outside the support structure.

[0037] Namely, the first and second members having end-faces facing each other, which end-faces possibly extend perpendicularly to the second pivot axis, entails that the two end-faces are positionable close to each other, even in abutment with each other, without hindering pivoting of the second member in relation the first member about the second pivot axis. The close positioning of the end-faces will prevent the second pivot axis from being exposed and accessible from outside the suspension structure. More specifically, in this manner the second pivot axis may be arranged within outer boundaries of the first and second members. Accordingly, the suspension structure is configured for limited access to the second pivot axis. Dust and debris are thus, kept away from the second pivot axis and animal body parts are prevented from being caught or pinched between the first and second members at the second pivot axis and the second interface.

[0038] According to embodiments, the second member may have a second end portion at the third interface and may comprise a second end-face at its second end portion. The third member may have a first end portion at the third interface and may comprise a first end-face at its first end portion. At the third interface, the second end-face of the second member and the first end-face of the third member may be arranged facing each other. Furthermore, the second end-face of the second member and the first end-face of the third member may extend perpendicularly to the third pivot axis. In this manner, the second and third members may be configured to be positioned close to each other for the second and third members to prevent dirt from reaching the third pivot axis and / or to prevent animal access to the third pivot axis from outside the support structure.

[0039] Moreover, since the above-described end-faces may be arranged facing each other at the relevant interface, the relevant pivot axis may extend, from one of the members to the other member at the relevant interface, centrally through both end-faces at said relevant interface. For example, at the second interface where the first and second members each may comprise a respective first end-face which are arranged facing each other, the second pivot axis may extend, from the first member to the second member, centrally through the first end-faces of both the first and second members. Thereby, an alternative movement pattern of the second member in relation to the first member may be provided in comparison with prior art solutions. This, in turn, leads to an improved, or at least alternative, overall movement pattern of the whole animal brushing arrangement regarding the reach of the brush on an animal body and comfort for said animal during use of the animal brushing arrangement.

[0040] More specifically, in prior art brushing arrangements where members of a suspension structure are pivotably connected to each other at e.g. a horizontal pivot axis, which may extend in parallel with the axial ends of the members and / or perpendicular to the longitudinal direction of the members, the members will have a swinging movement in relation to each other. Namely, if one of members in such prior art solutions is hanging from the pivot axis and is subjected to a lateral force, the member will swing out laterally, like a pendulum, in relation to the other member. In the alternative movement pattern referred to above, the pivoting of the second member about the second pivot axis in relation to the first member is a rotational motion of the second member with the second pivot axis extending, at least partly, through the second member. Thereby, the second member is able to pivot around the second pivot axis, i.e. rotate back and forth with the second pivot axis as an axis of rotation, during which the respective first end-faces of the first and second members will continue to be arranged facing each other. A corresponding alternative movement pattern may, of course, be achieved at the third interface regarding the pivoting of the third member about the third pivot axis in relation to the second member by having the second end-face of the second member and the first end-face of the third member arranged facing each other. In such an embodiment, the third pivot axis may, thus, extend, from the second member to the third member, centrally through the second end-face of the second member and the first endface of the third member.

[0041] An animal brushing arrangement according to the embodiments where the respective endfaces are arranged facing each other at the relevant interface will, thus, provide for a trajectory of the constituent members which differs from prior art solutions where the constituent members mainly swing / pivot in a flat plane in relation to each other. Thus, in corresponding brushing situations, the brush of such embodiments of the herein described brushing arrangement may reach an animal to be brushed in a more efficient, enhanced or at least different manner compared to prior art solutions.

[0042] According to embodiments, the brush may be connected to, or form part of, the third member. In this manner, the rotational axis of the brush may extend along a defined direction in relation to the third member. Accordingly, forces applied to the brush by an animal may be directly translated to the third member and affect its pivotal position in relation to the second member.

[0043] The brush is rotatable about its rotational axis in relation to the third member. For instance, the electric motor configured to rotate the brush may be connected to the third member such that the electric motor can rotate the brush. According to some embodiments, a stator of the electric motor may be integrated in or connected to the third member and the brush may be connected to or form part of a rotor of the electric motor. In such embodiments, the rotor may be arranged at least partially around the stator.

[0044] According to embodiments, the second pivot axis, the third pivot axis, and the rotational axis may extend in a common substantially vertical plane when the animal brushing arrangement is attached to the support structure and is in a rest position. In this manner, a configuration of the second and third pivot axes and the rotational axis may be provided, which provides for an animal to apply a force to the brush, which force engages laterally of each of the second pivot axis and of the third pivot axis.

[0045] Thus, there is provided a moment arm for pivoting of the second member in relation to the first member as well as a moment arm for pivoting the third member in relation to the second member, as an animal pushes against the brush. Accordingly, pivoting about the second and third pivot axes is facilitated.

[0046] The configuration with the second pivot axis extending substantially vertically in the rest position, and of the second and third pivot axes with the first obtuse angle therebetween within one of the above defined ranges may provide for the arrangement of the second and third pivot axes in the common plane together with the rotational axis of the brush.

[0047] According to embodiments, the second pivot axis and the rotational axis may be arranged in parallel and off-centre from each other when the animal brushing arrangement is attached to the support structure and is in a rest position. In this manner, the brush may be arranged laterally displaced from the second pivot axis.

[0048] This may provide for the brush to reach an animal being brushed laterally of at least a portion of the suspension structure, such as laterally of the second pivot axis. Thus, a moment arm is provided for pivoting of the second member about the second pivot axis in relation to the first member as an animal pushes against the brush. The moment arm provides leverage and accordingly, pivoting about the second pivot axis is facilitated.

[0049] Moreover, while the off-centre arrangement of the second pivot axis and the rotational axis provides a moment arm facilitating pivoting about the second pivot axis, the off-centre arrangement also limits a pivoting movement about the second pivot axis caused by the rotation of the brush about its rotational axis. Namely, the rotation of the brush causes the brush to engage with the animal being brushed. This engagement initiates a torque, which affects pivotal motion about the second pivot axis. The off-centre arrangement of the second pivot axis and the rotational axis limits the effect of this torque since the off-centre arrangement causes a lateral displacement of the third member and the brush as they pivot about the second pivot axis. Eventually, the lateral displacement of the third member and the brush may cause the torque to be neutralised by the moment arm between the brush and the second pivot axis and pivotal movement may stop. Further, if the second pivot axis and the rotational axis would be aligned, the torque of the electric motor and / or the moment of inertia of the brush, as it rotates, would be transmitted to the second member and could pivot the second member in relation to the first member about the second pivot axis. The off-centre arrangement of the second pivot axis and the rotational axis at least mitigates this effect of the electric motor torque and / or the moment of inertia of the brush.

[0050] The arrangement with the first obtuse angle between the second and third pivot axes within one of the above defined ranges may provide for this off-centre arrangement between the second pivot axis and the rotational axis of the brush.

[0051] According to embodiments, the first member may have an elongated extension between the support part and the second member. In this manner, the second member, the second pivot axis, and the brush may be arranged at a distance from the first pivot axis, the support part, and the support structure. Thereby, collisions between the support structure and the brush may be avoided, facilitating a more free swinging of the brush.

[0052] According to embodiments, the first and / or second and / or third interface may each comprise at least one bearing. In this manner, at least one of the first, second, and third members may be journaled for being pivotable about at least one of the first, second, and third pivot axes.

[0053] The bearing may comprise one or more of a plain bearing, a ball bearing, or a roller bearing.

[0054] According to embodiments, the suspension structure may comprise a limiting mechanism arranged to limit the extent of pivotal movement of the second member in relation to the first member about the second pivot axis. In this manner, full circumferential rotations of the second member about the second pivot axis may be prevented.

[0055] Namely, the limiting mechanism will provide two pivotal end positions for the pivoting of the second member in relation to the first member.

[0056] For instance, the limiting mechanism may prevent that the rotation of the brush, as an animal is brushed, leads to the second member rotating full circumferential rotations about the second pivot axis. Thus, a controlled movement range of the second member in relation to the first member may be provided and accordingly, also a controlled movement of the brushing arrangement. According to embodiments, the suspension structure may comprise a damping mechanism arranged to induce resistance in a pivotal movement of the second member in relation to the first member about the second pivot axis. In this manner, free pivoting of the second member in relation to the first member may be prevented. Accordingly, a force applied to the brush may cause pivoting about one or more other pivot axes, such as about the third pivot axis, to take at least partial precedence over the pivoting of the second member about the second pivot axis. This may promote certain movements between the members of the suspension structure and / or the support part as an animal applies a force to the brush.

[0057] Also, the resistance induced by the damping mechanism may prevent, or at least reduce the risk of uncontrolled, pivoting of the second member about the second pivot axis caused by the torque of the electric motor and / or the moment of inertia of the brush, as it rotates.

[0058] According to embodiments, seen along the second pivot axis, the first end-face of the first member and the first end-face of the second member may have substantially the same radial extension from the second pivot axis. In this manner, an even transition between the first and second members may be provided in the suspension structure. For instance, an axial edge at one of the adjacent first end-faces of the first or second members thus, may be prevented.

[0059] Thus, access to the respective end-faces and the second pivot axis is further limited, thereby further reducing risk of pinching of body parts and debris reaching the second pivot axis.

[0060] Similarly, according to embodiments, seen along the third pivot axis, the second end-face of the second member and the first end-face of the third member may have substantially the same radial extension from the third pivot axis. In this manner, an even transition between the second and third members may be provided in the suspension structure. For instance, an axial edge at one of the second end-face of the second member and the first end-face of the third member thus, may be prevented.

[0061] Thus, access to the respective end-faces and the third pivot axis may be further limited, thereby further reducing risk of pinching of body parts and debris reaching the third pivot axis.

[0062] According to embodiments, the first and second members may have a substantially tubular form. In this manner, the second pivot axis may be provided within the tubular form of the first and second members. Thus, the second pivot axis may be arranged protected within the first and second members. For instance, the tubular form may have a round cross section.

[0063] According to embodiments, the first member may have a bent shape. In this manner, when attached to the support structure, the second member may be arranged at a level below the support part. Thus, the suspension structure may be configured for the brush to be suspended below the support part. The first member may be L-shaped, or J-shaped, or curved, along the elongated extension between the support part and the second member, providing an improved lateral reach of the brush.

[0064] Further features of, and advantages with, the invention will become apparent when studying the appended claims and the following detailed description.

[0065] BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0066] Various aspects and / or embodiments of the invention, including its particular features and advantages, will be readily understood from the example embodiments discussed in the following detailed description and the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0067] Fig. 1 schematically illustrates an animal brushing arrangement according to embodiments, Figs. 2a - 2c schematically illustrate cross sections of interfaces between pairs of members and an axial view of a member of an animal brushing arrangement,

[0068] Fig. 3 schematically illustrates portions of an animal brushing arrangement,

[0069] Figs. 4a - 4c schematically illustrate an animal brushing arrangement in three different operational positions, and

[0070] Figs. 5a and 5b schematically illustrate cross sectional portions of an animal brushing arrangement.

[0071] DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0072] Aspects and / or embodiments of the invention will now be described more fully. Like numbers refer to like elements throughout. Well-known functions or constructions will not necessarily be described in detail for brevity and / or clarity.

[0073] Fig. 1 schematically illustrates an animal brushing arrangement 2 according to embodiments in a side view.

[0074] The animal brushing arrangement 2 is arranged for being attached to a support structure 4.

[0075] The animal brushing arrangement 2 comprises a support part 6, which is configured to be attached to the support structure 4. For instance, the support part 6 may be provided with through holes, through which bolts or pins extend for securing the support part 6 to the support structure 4. Alternatively, or additionally, the support part 6 may be e.g., clamped, strapped, hooked, welded, riveted, glued, and / or chemically connected to the support structure 4.

[0076] The support structure 4 may be any fixed structure sufficiently strong to hold up the animal brushing arrangement 2 when animals push against a brush 8 thereof for being brushed. The support structure 4 may form part of a wall or a post of a larger construction such as a building, a roofing structure, or an enclosure. Alternatively, the support structure 4 may be a dedicated support structure devised for supporting the brushing arrangement 2 at a suitable height in an area where animals are held.

[0077] The brushing arrangement 2 further comprises the brush 8 and an electric motor 10 arranged to rotate the brush 8 about a rotational axis 11. Electric motors arranged to rotate the rotatable brush 8 of an animal brushing arrangement are known in the art. Therefore, the electric motor 10 is only schematically indicated in Fig. 1.

[0078] As indicated in Fig. 1 , the electric motor 10 may be arranged within the brush 8. A rotor of the electric motor 10 may be connected to the brush 10 or the rotor may form part of the brush 8. The rotor may be connected to the brush 8 via a transmission.

[0079] Further, the brushing arrangement 2 comprises a suspension structure 12 for suspending the brush 8 and the electric motor 10 from the support part 6.

[0080] The suspension structure 12 extends from the support part 6 to the brush 8. The suspension structure 12 comprises a first member 14, a second member 16, and a third member 18.

[0081] The first member 14, which is closest to the support part 6, is connect to the support part 6 at a first interface 24. Each of the members 14, 16, 18 is connected to an adjacent member of the members 14, 16, 18 at a second and third interface 20, 22, respectively. Also, See further below for a discussion of the respective interfaces 20, 22, 24.

[0082] At each interface 24, 20, 22 there is arranged one of a first, second, and third pivot axis 30, 26, 28 such that the members 14, 16, 18 are pivotable around the relevant pivot axis in relation to each other and in relation to the support part 6, respectively. Generally, at an interface 20, 22 between two members 14, 16, 18, a pivot axis 26, 28, extends along an extension of at least one of the members 14, 16, 18 at the relevant interface 20, 22. This is distinctly different from prior art animal brushing arrangements having a pivot axis between two connected members where the pivot axis extends perpendicularly to an extension of at least one of the relevant members.

[0083] In all, the suspension structure 12, due to it comprising the members 14, 16, 18 that are pivotably connected to each other, permits an animal pushing against the brush 8 with varying force and in varying directions, to displace the brush 8 at different angles and in various spatial positions in order to reach different animal body parts.

[0084] As discussed in more detail below with reference to Figs. 2a - 2c, at an interface 20, 22 between two adjacent members 14, 16, 18, each of the members 14, 16, 18 has an end-face facing the respective adjacent member 14, 16, 18. At each interface 20, 22 between two members 14, 16, 18, the end-faces of the relevant members 14, 16, 18 may extend perpendicularly to the relevant pivot axis 26, 28.

[0085] Figs. 2a - 2c schematically illustrate cross sections of interfaces between two members of the suspension structure 12, as well as an axial view of a member, of the brushing arrangement 2 discussed above with reference to Fig. 1. The cross sections of Figs. 2a and 2b extend along a pivot axis at the respective interface and the axial view of Fig. 2c inter alia shows an end-face of one of the members.

[0086] Fig. 2a shows the first member 14 and the second member 16 being connected to each other at the second interface 20. At the second interface 20, the second member 16 is pivotable about a second pivot axis 26 in relation to the first member 14. At the second interface 20, each of the first and second members 14, 16 has an end-face 32, 34 extending perpendicularly to the second pivot axis 26.

[0087] More specifically, the first member 14 has a first end portion 36 at the second interface 20 and the second member 16 has a first end portion 38 at the second interface 20. The first member 14 comprises a first end-face 32 at its first end portion 36 and the second member 16 comprises a first end-face 34 at its first end portion 38.

[0088] At the second interface 20, the first end-face 32 of the first member 14 and the first end-face 34 of the second member 16 extend perpendicularly to the second pivot axis 26 and are arranged facing each other. Since both first end-faces 32, 34 of the respective first and second member 14, 16 extend perpendicularly to the second pivot axis 26, the first and second members 14, 16 can be positioned close to each other. Thus, dirt is prevented by the first and second members 14 from reaching the second pivot axis 26, which, accordingly, is arranged within outer circumferences of the first and second members 14, 16. Moreover, thus also, the second interface 20 is devised to prevent animal access in between the first and second members 14, 16 and to the second pivot axis 26. Accordingly, reliable pivoting of the second member 16 about the second pivot axis 26 may be provided, service life may be prolonged, and safety aspects may be improved.

[0089] The first end-faces 32, 34 of the first and second members 14, 16 may be arranged in abutment with each other. Alternatively, as indicated in Fig. 2a, the first end faces 32, 34 of the first and second members 14, 16 may be arranged at a slight distance from each other, such as 0.5 - 10 mm from each other.

[0090] Optionally, a seal 41 may be provided between the first end-faces 32, 34 of the first and second members 14, 16. In Fig. 2a a labyrinth seal 41 is schematically illustrated. Other kinds of seals that permit relative rotation between the first and second members 14, 16 may alternatively be used.

[0091] Fig. 2b shows the second member 16 and the third member 18 of the suspension structure. The third member 18 is connected to the second member 16 at the third interface 22. The third member 18 is pivotable about a third pivot axis 28 in relation to the second member 16.

[0092] The second member 16 has a second end portion 40 at the third interface 22 and comprises a second end-face 42 at its second end portion 40. The third member 18 has a first end portion 44 at the third interface 22 and comprises a first end-face 46 at its first end portion 44.

[0093] At the third interface 22, the second end-face 42 of the second member 16 and the first endface 46 of the third member 18 extend perpendicularly to the third pivot axis 28 and are arranged facing each other.

[0094] Again, similarly to the discussion above of the second interface 20, the second end-face 42 of the second member 16 and the first end-face 46 of the third member 18 extending perpendicularly to the third pivot axis 28 and arranged facing each other provides for the respective end-faces 42, 46 to be configured to be positioned close to each other such that dirt is prevented from reaching the third pivot axis 28 and / or to prevent animal access in between the second and third members 16, 18 and to the third pivot axis 28.

[0095] Similarly to the second interface 20, as discussed above, the respective end-faces 42, 46 of the second and third members 16, 18 may be arranged in abutment with each other or at a slight distance from each other, such as 0.5 - 10 mm from each other. Optionally, a seal 48 may be provided between the second end-face 42 of the second member 16 and the first end-face 46 of the third members 18.

[0096] For illustrative purposes of all end-faces of the members 14, 16, 18 discussed herein, Fig. 2c shows a perspective view of the second interface 20 with the second member removed. Fig. 2c shows the first end-face 32 at the first end portion 36 of the first member 14. The first endface 32 forms an axial end of the first member 14. Accordingly, a normal line, as indicated by a broad arrow, of the first end-face 32 extends along a tangent of an axial extension of the first member 14 at the axial end at the first end portion 36 and its first end-face 32. As shown with a wavy pattern in Fig. 2c, an end-face 32 of a member 14 may comprise a surface, which extends over at least part of the end-face 32. Accordingly, the end-face 32 may form an axial end surface of the relevant member 14.

[0097] Referring to Fig. 2a, the second interface 20 comprises at least one bearing 50, such as one or more ball bearings, roller bearings, or plain bearings. The at least one bearing 50 may be arranged at the first end portion 36 of the first member 14. Alternatively, the at least one bearing 50 may be arranged at the first end portion 38 of the second member 16. A further option may be for bearings to be arranged at the respective first end portion 36, 38 of both the first and second member 14, 16.

[0098] An axle 52 may extend between the first and second members 14, 16 and may be journaled by the at least one bearing 50.

[0099] Referring to Fig. 2b, the third interface 22 comprises at least one bearing 54, such as one or more ball bearings, roller bearings, or plain bearings. The at least one bearing 54 may be arranged at the second end portion 40 of the second member 16. Alternatively, the at least one bearing 54 may be arranged at the first end portion 44 of the third member 18. A further option may be for bearings to be arranged at the second end portion 40 of the second member 16 and at the first end portion 44 of the third member 18. An axle 56 may extend between the second and third members 16, 18 and may be journaled by the at least one bearing 54.

[0100] Referring to Fig. 2a, seen along the second pivot axis 26, the first end-face 32 of the first member 14 and the first end-face 34 of the second member 16 have substantially the same radial extension from the second pivot axis 26. Thus, a smooth transition between the first and second members 14, 16 is provided. This may further prevent dirt and / or animal body parts to reach the respective end-faces 32, 34 and the second pivot axis 26.

[0101] The radial extension from the second pivot axis 26 extends perpendicularly to the second pivot axis 26.

[0102] Referring to Fig. 2b, seen along the third pivot axis 28, the second end-face 42 of the second member 16 and the first end-face 46 of the third member 18 have substantially the same radial extension from the third pivot axis 28. Thus, a smooth transition between the second and third members 16, 18 is provided.

[0103] The radial extension from the third pivot axis 28 extends perpendicularly to the third pivot axis 28.

[0104] As can be seen in Figs. 2a - 2c, the first and second members 14, 16 have a substantially tubular form. Similarly, also the third member 18 has a substantially tubular form.

[0105] The tubular form has a closed structure, at least in a direction perpendicularly, or radially, to an extension of the relevant member 14, 16, 18.

[0106] Thus, the second pivot axis 26 may be arranged protected within the first and second members 14, 16 and the third pivot axis 28 may be arranged protected within the second and third members 16, 18 by the tubular form of the first, second and third members 14, 16, 18.

[0107] An example of a tubular form is one that has a round hollow cross section.

[0108] Fig. 3 schematically illustrates portions of the animal brushing arrangement 2 of Figs. 1 - 2c in a side view. Accordingly, in the following reference is also made to the discussion above related to Figs. 1 - 2c. The second pivot axis 26 of the second interface 20 and the third pivot axis 28 of the third interface 22 are arranged at a first obtuse, inner, angle a to each other. The first obtuse angle a may be within a range of 91 - 179 degrees, preferably within a range of 100 - 150 degrees, or more preferably within a range of 110 - 130 degrees.

[0109] More specifically, the second and third pivot axes 26, 28 extend in substantially the same plane. The first obtuse angle a is defined between the second and third pivot axes 26, 28, where they meet extending from the second and third interfaces 20, 22.

[0110] In the illustrated embodiments, the first obtuse angle a is approximately 120 degrees.

[0111] The first obtuse angle a being within the range of 91 - 179 degrees, preferably within a range of 100 - 150 degrees, or more preferably within a range of 110 - 130 degrees entail that there is provided a non-orthogonal relation between the second and third pivot axes 26, 28.

[0112] Thus, the first, second, and third members 14, 16, 18 will pivot in relation to each other in a manner that allows the rotatable brush 8 to brush an animal in an efficient manner. As discussed below with reference to Figs. 4a and 4b, the rotational axis 11 of the brush 8 will have less inclination in certain brushing situations than in a brushing arrangement with horizontally and / or orthogonally extending pivot axes.

[0113] The second pivot axis 26 extends along a substantially vertical extension when the animal brushing arrangement 2 is attached to the support structure and is in a rest position.

[0114] Accordingly, the second and third members 16, 18 as well as the brush 8 are arranged to pivot about the second pivot axis 26 without the pivoting causing a difference in distance between the brush 8 and the first end portion 36 of the first member 14.

[0115] This, in combination with one of the above discussed ranges of the first obtuse angle a, means that the third pivot axis 28 is devised for providing inter alia lateral positional changes of the third member 18 and the brush 8 in relation to the first member 14. This may provide for an increased reach of the brush 8 on an animal being brushed in the brushing arrangement 2.

[0116] Herein, the term substantially vertically, or horizontally, means a direction extending within 10 degrees of the vertical and horizontal direction, respectively. The rotational axis 11 is arranged at a second obtuse angle p to the third pivot axis 28. The second obtuse angle may be within a range of 91 - 179 degrees, preferably within a range of 100 - 150 degrees, or more preferably within a range of 110 - 130 degrees.

[0117] According to some embodiments, such as in the illustrated embodiments, in a rest position of the brushing arrangement 2 with the rotational axis 11 of the brush 8 extending vertically, the second pivot axis 26 and the rotational axis 11 may extend in parallel. Accordingly, when in the rest position, the first obtuse angle a between the first and second pivot axes 26, 28 and the second obtuse angle p between the rotational axis 11 and the third pivot axis 28 form alternate angles. In such embodiments, the above discussed ranges of the first obtuse angle a between the second and third pivot axes 26, 28 of 91 - 179 degrees, 100 - 150 degrees, and 110 - 130 degrees may correspond to the above discussed ranges of the second obtuse angle p between the rotational axis 11 and the third pivot axis 28 of 91 - 179 degrees, 100 - 150 degrees, and 110 - 130 degrees, respectively.

[0118] The herein mentioned rest position of the brushing arrangement 2 with it attached to the support structure wherein the rotational axis 11 of the brush extends substantially vertically, relates to at least one rest position of the brushing arrangement 2. This at least one rest position, in which the rotational axis 11 of the brush 8 extends substantially vertically, may be a position wherein the suspension structure 12 is positioned such that the brush 8 is positioned with its rotational axis 11 extending in a common vertical plane with the first pivot axis 30 i.e. , in a common vertical plane with the first pivot axis 30 at the first interface 24 between the first member 14 and the support part 6. In Fig. 3, this common vertical plane is the plane of the figure.

[0119] The brushing arrangement 2 may have further rest positions for different rotational positions of the second member 16 around the second pivot axis 26, in which further rest positions the brush 8 may be hanging with its rotational axis 11 inclined in relation to the vertical direction, see further below with reference to Fig. 4a.

[0120] Accordingly, in the at least one rest position, in the absence of a force being applied to the brush 8, the brush 8 has a substantially vertical orientation. That is, in the at least one rest position, the rotational axis 11 of the brush 8 extends substantially vertically. On the other hand, when a force is applied to the brush 8, typically by an animal, the suspension structure 12 with its members 14, 16, 18 permits a pivoting of the brush 8 to a substantially horizontal orientation. That is, the brush 8 can be pivoted such that its rotational axis 11 extends substantially horizontally. Herein, the term substantially horizontally means a direction extending within 5 degrees of the horizontal direction.

[0121] When the animal brushing arrangement 2 is attached to the support structure: i) the first pivot axis 30 extends substantially horizontally, ii) the second pivot axis 26 extends at an angle y to the first pivot axis 30 and in a common plane with the first pivot axis 30, and iii) the third pivot axis 28 has a directional component extending perpendicularly to the second pivot axis 26. These three features apply irrespective of whether the brushing arrangement 2 is in a rest position or not.

[0122] The third pivot axis 28 having a directional component extending perpendicularly to the second pivot axis 26 entails that, when having the second pivot axis 26 as a reference, the third pivot axis 28 has a directional component extending perpendicularly to the second pivot axis 26. The third pivot axis 28 may also have a directional component extending in parallel with the second pivot axis 26. For explanatory purpose, in Fig. 3, the directional component of the third pivot axis 28 extending perpendicularly to the second pivot axis 26 is indicated with an arrow marked Per and the directional component of the third pivot axis 28 extending in parallel with the third pivot axis 28 is indicated with an arrow marked Par.

[0123] The angle y between the first and second pivot axes 30, 26 may be any suitable angle e.g., within a range of 70 - 150 degrees.

[0124] According to embodiments, such as the illustrate embodiments, the first pivot axis 30 may extend at a substantially perpendicular angle y to the second pivot axis 26.

[0125] Herein, the term substantially perpendicular means a direction extending within 5 degrees of a perpendicular angle.

[0126] The second pivot axis 26 and the rotational axis 11 of the brush 8 are arranged in parallel and off-centre from each other when the animal brushing arrangement 2 is attached to the support structure and is in a rest position.

[0127] Accordingly, the brush 8 is arranged laterally displaced in relation to the second pivot axis 26. This provides a moment arm for pivoting of the second member 16 in relation to the first member 14 as an animal pushes against the brush 8. Thus, pivoting about the second pivot axis 26 is facilitated. Thus, the rotational axis 11 of the brush 8 may be arranged laterally displaced from the second pivot axis 26.

[0128] Also, the off-centre arrangement of the second pivot axis 26 and the rotational axis 11 limits pivoting about the second pivot axis 26. Namely, as the rotating brush 8 engages with an animal being brushed, the third and second members 18, 16 are subjected to a torque, which affects pivotal motion about the second pivot axis 26. This torque is partly desirable for displacing the brush 8 to reach different parts of the animal body but uncontrolled and / or excessive pivoting about the second pivot axis 26 may not be desirable. As the torque causes pivoting about the second pivot axis 26, the moment arm provided by the off-centre arrangement of the second pivot axis 26 and the rotational axis 11 may eventually balance the torque and thus, stop pivoting about the second pivot axis 26.

[0129] Furthermore, if the second pivot axis 26 and the rotational axis 11 would be aligned, the torque of the electric motor and / or the moment of inertia of the brush 8, would be transmitted to the second member 16 and could pivot the second member 16 in relation to the first member 14 about the second pivot axis 26. The off-centre arrangement of the second pivot axis 26 and the rotational axis 11 eliminates, or at least reduces this problem.

[0130] The off-centre arrangement between the second pivot axis 26 and the rotational axis 11 may be a consequence of the above discussed first obtuse angle a between the second and third pivot axes 26, 28 being within one of the above mentioned ranges.

[0131] The second pivot axis 26, the third pivot axis 28, and the rotational axis 11 of the brush 8 extend in a common substantially vertical plane when the animal brushing arrangement 2 is attached to the support structure and is in a rest position.

[0132] Accordingly, as an animal pushes against the brush 8, it produces a force that is applied laterally of both the second pivot axis 26 and of the third pivot axis 28. A moment arm for pivoting of the second member 16 in relation to the first member 14 and a moment arm for pivoting the third member 18 in relation to the second member 16 thus, are provided for facilitating for displacing the brush 8 in relation to the first and second members 14, 16.

[0133] At an end opposite to its first end portion 36, the first member 14 has a second end portion 58 at the support part 6. At its second end portion 58, the first member 14 is connected to the support part 6. Further, at its second end portion, the first member 14 is pivotable about the first pivot axis 30 in relation to the support part 6.

[0134] The first pivot axis 30 extends substantially horizontally when the brushing arrangement is attached to the support structure.

[0135] The second pivot axis 26 and the first pivot axis 30 extend in a common plane. In Fig. 3, this common plane is the plane of the figure. However, since both the first and second pivot axes 30, 26 are linked to the first member 14, irrespective of a pivotal position of the first member 14 about the first pivot axis 30, the second pivot axis 26 and the first pivot axis 30 extend in a common plane.

[0136] The first member 14 has an elongated extension between the support part 6 and the second member 16. Thus, the second member 16 and the second pivot axis 26 are arranged at a distance from the first pivot axis 30, from the support part 6, and from the support structure 4, see Fig. 1.

[0137] The brush 8 is connected to, or forms part of, the third member 18. Thus, when an animal pushes against the brush 8, the force applied by the animal directly causes the third member 18 to pivot in relation to the second member 16 about the third pivot axis 28.

[0138] The first member 14 has a bent shape, see also Fig. 1. Thus, the second member 16, the third member 18, and the brush 8 may be suspended downwardly of the support part 6 when the brushing arrangement 2 is attached to the support structure 4, see also Fig. 1.

[0139] Figs. 4a - 4c schematically illustrate the previously discussed animal brushing arrangement 2 in three different operational positions. In the figures, the animal brushing arrangement 2 is shown in the same side view, towards a support structure, to which the support part 6 is attached. Cross sections of bodies of animals 60, 60’ are schematically shown.

[0140] In Fig. 4a, the brushing arrangement 2 is shown in a rest position when no animal is pushing against the brush 8. An animal 60 is shown about to push against the brush 8 as indicated by a broad arrow. The rest position shown in Fig. 4a is different than the rest position shown in Figs. 1 and 3.

[0141] In Fig. 4b, the animal 60 has pushed against the brush 8 and pivoted the brush 8 about at least one of the first, second, and third pivot axes 30, 26, 28 at the first, second, and third interfaces 24, 20, 22 between the first, second, and third members 14, 16, 18 of the suspension structure 12 and the support part 6, respectively.

[0142] In Fig. 4c, an animal 60’ of greater height than the animal 60 in Figs. 4a and 4b has pushed against the brush 8 and pivoted the brush 8 about at least two of the first, second, and third pivot axes 30, 26, 28 at the first, second, and third interfaces 24, 20, 22 between the first, second, and third members 14, 16, 18 of the suspension structure 12 and the support part 6, respectively.

[0143] The brushing arrangement 2 is attached with its support part 6 to the support structure at a height that is suitable for providing good brushing reach for an average height animal of the animals being brushed.

[0144] For a prior art animal brushing arrangement with its suspension structure comprising members pivotable about three horizontally extending pivot axes, in similar brushing situations, the rotational axis of the rotatable brush will have different inclinations depending on the height of the animal being brushed. This means that the brush of such prior art animal brushing arrangements will reach a greater portion of the body of an average height animal than of a lower height animal or a greater height animal. Particularly, lateral sides of the animal bodies of lower than average or higher than average height animals are reached to a lesser degree.

[0145] In the present animal brushing arrangement 2, the rotational axis 11 of the brush 8 is able to be positioned at similar inclinations in similar brushing situations of animals of different heights. This means that the brush 8 will have approximately the same reach over lower height animals and greater height animals as over animals of average height. Also, in corresponding brushing situations, the brush 8 of the present brushing arrangement 2 may reach an animal to be brushed with the rotational axis 11 in a more vertically extending direction than in prior art brushing arrangements with the pivot axes extend orthogonally. Accordingly, the present brush 8 being possible to be positioned with its rotational axis 11 in a comparatively more vertically position may mean that a larger portion of lateral body portions of an animal may be brushed. Thus, an efficient brushing of the animals of a group of animals is provided.

[0146] Accordingly, as discussed herein, the brushing arrangement 2, and specifically its suspension structure 12 is configured for efficiently brushing animals 60, 60’ of different heights. One or more, in combination, of the following above discussed features provides for this efficient brushing of animals 60, 60’ of different heights:

[0147] - The second pivot axis 26 and the rotational axis 11 of the brush 8 being arranged in parallel and off-centre from each other when the animal brushing arrangement 2 is attached to the support structure and is in a rest position. In this case the rest position is any rest position, such as one of the rest positions that are illustrated in Figs. 1, 3, and 4a.

[0148] - The first obtuse, inner, angle a between the first and second pivot axes 26, 28 being within the range of 91 - 179 degrees, preferably within a range of 100 - 150 degrees, or more preferably within a range of 110 - 130 degrees.

[0149] - The second pivot axis 26, the third pivot axis 28, and the rotational axis 11 of the brush 8 extending in a common substantially vertical plane when the animal brushing arrangement 2 is attached to the support structure and is in a rest position. In this case the rest position is any rest position, such as one of the rest positions that are illustrated in Figs. 1, 3, and 4a.

[0150] - The rotational axis 11 of the brush 8 being arranged at a second obtuse angle p to the third pivot axis 28. The first and second obtuse angles a and may be the same, or substantially the same.

[0151] - The collection of the following three characteristics when the animal brushing arrangement 2 is attached to the support structure: i) the first pivot axis 30 extending substantially horizontally, ii) the second pivot axis 26 extending at an angle y to the first pivot axis 30 and in a common plane with the first pivot axis 30, and iii) the third pivot axis 28 having a directional component extending perpendicularly to the second pivot axis 26.

[0152] Figs. 4b and 4c illustrate how animals 60, 60’ with a height difference AH push against the brush 8 to reach the same inclination of the rotational axis 11 of the brush 8. The same inclination is reached with corresponding same body portions P of the different height animals 60, 60’ contacting the brush 8 at the same distance D from the top of the brush 8.

[0153] With the Fig. 4a position of the brush 8 and the suspension structure 12 as reference, in Fig. 4b, the lower height animal 60 has pushed against the brush 8 such that the first member 14 has pivoted about the first pivot axis 30. Again, with the Fig. 4a position of the brush 8 and the suspension structure 12 as reference, in Fig. 4c, the greater height animal 60’ has pushed against the brush 8 such that the first member 14 has pivoted about the first pivot axis 30, the second member 16 has pivoted about the second pivot axis 26, and the third member 18 has pivoted about the third pivot axis 28. By pushing in different directions against the brush 8, the brush 8 will be pivoted to different inclinations and to different spatial positions. Thus, an animal 60, 60’ can control which portions of its body are being brushed.

[0154] Moreover, as the animal 60, 60’ pushes against the brush 8, in a known manner, the electric motor is automatically started to rotate the brush 8 about its rotational axis 11. The rotation of the brush 8 may cause the brush 8 to travel along the body of the animal 60, 60’. The distance and direction travelled by the brush 8 depends on the position of the animal 60, 60’ in relation to the brush 8 as well as the inclination and spatial position of the brush 8. Animals 60, 60’ learn to use this travelling of the brush 8 for it to reach different parts of the animal body: Also, animals 60, 60’ learn to change their position in relation to the brush 8 to control the travelling of the brush 8.

[0155] Figs. 5a and 5b schematically illustrate cross sectional portions of the animal brushing arrangement 2 discussed above with reference to Figs. 1 - 4c. Accordingly, in the following reference is also made to Figs. 1 - 4c.

[0156] In Fig. 5a, a portion of the second interface 20 between the first and second members 14, 16 is shown.

[0157] The suspension structure 12 comprises a limiting mechanism 62 arranged to limit the extent of pivotal movement of the second member 16 in relation to the first member 14 about the second pivot axis 26, see also e.g. Fig. 1.

[0158] The limiting mechanism 62 provides two pivotal end positions 64, 66 for the pivoting of the second member 16 in relation to the first member 14. The pivotal end positions 64, 66 may be arranged at 180 degrees from each other, as indicated by the broad full line in Fig. 5a. According to alternative embodiments, the pivotal end positions may provide arranged at up to 360 degrees from each other, as indicated by the broad full and broken lines in Fig. 5a.

[0159] The limiting mechanism 62 may be provided by a circumferential slot 68 extending in body of the first and / or second member 14, 16 at its respective end-face e.g., as indicated by the full line in Fig. 5a. The other or both of the first and second members 14, 16 may be provided with a protrusion 70, which extends into the slot or slots 68. At the pivotal end positions 64, 66, the protrusion 70 abuts against the body of the first and / or second member 14, 16 to thus, limit the extent of movement in the circumferential direction about the second pivot axis 26 of the second member 16 in relation to the first member 14. The limiting mechanism 62 prevents that the rotation of the brush 8, as an animal is brushed, leads to the second member 16 rotating full circumferential rotations about the second pivot axis 26. Moreover, the limiting mechanism 62 may prevent that the above discussed electric motor torque and moment of inertia of the brush 8 causing full rotations of the second member 16 about the second pivot axis 26.

[0160] The suspension structure 12 may comprises a further limiting mechanism arranged to limit the extent of movement in a circumferential direction about the third pivot axis 28 of the third member 18 in relation to the second member 16. The further limiting mechanism may be of the same or similar kind as the limiting mechanism 62.

[0161] In Fig. 5b, a portion of the second interface 20 between the first and second members 14, 16 is shown.

[0162] The suspension structure 12 comprises a damping mechanism 72 arranged to induce resistance in a pivotal movement of the second member 16 in relation to the first member 14 about the second pivot axis 26, see also e.g. Fig. 1.

[0163] The damping mechanism 72 thus, prevents free pivoting of the second member 16 in relation to the first member 14. Put differently, in order to pivot the second member 16 about the second pivot axis 26, the force that causes the pivoting has to overcome the resistance induced by the damping mechanism 72.

[0164] This means that, when a force is applied to the brush 8, pivoting of the third member 18 about the third pivot axis 28 and / or the first member 14 pivoting about the first pivot axis 30, may take at least partial precedence over the pivoting of the second member 16 about the second pivot axis 26. This may promote certain movements of the brush 8 and between the members 14, 16, 18 and / or between the suspension structure 12 and the support part 6, as an animal applies a force to the brush 8.

[0165] The damping mechanism 72 may comprise an elastic member 74, such as a rubber member. The elastic member 72 is fixedly connected at the first end-face 32, 34 of one of the first or second members 14, 16 and abuts against the end-face 32, 34 of the other of the first and second members 14, 16.

[0166] The suspension structure 12 may comprises a further damping mechanism arranged to induce resistance in a pivotal movement of the third member 18 in relation to the second member 16 about the third pivot axis 28. The further damping mechanism may be of the same or similar kind as the damping mechanism 72.

[0167] According to alternative embodiments, the limiting mechanism 62 and the damping mechanism 72 may be provided by a common mechanism. For instance, a torsional spring arranged at the second interface 20 may induce resistance in the pivotal movement of the second member 16 in relation to the first member 14 about the second pivot axis 26. Moreover, as the torsional spring is tensioned, eventually, it will limit the extent of pivotal movement of the second member 16 in relation to the first member 14 about the second pivot axis 26.

[0168] It is to be understood that the foregoing is illustrative of various example embodiments and that the invention is defined only by the appended claims. A person skilled in the art will realize that the example embodiments may be modified, and that different features of the example embodiments may be combined to create embodiments other than those described herein, without departing from the scope of the invention, as defined by the appended claims.

Claims

CLAIMS1. An animal brushing arrangement (2) for attaching to a support structure (4), the animal brushing arrangement (2) comprising a support part (6) configured to be attached to the support structure (4), a brush (8), an electric motor (10) arranged to rotate the brush (8) about a rotational axis (11), and a suspension structure (12) for suspending the brush (8) and the electric motor (10) from the support part (6), wherein the suspension structure (12) comprises a first member (14), a second member (16), and a third member (18), wherein the first member (14) is connected to the support part (6) at a first interface (24) and is pivotable in relation to the support part (6) about a first pivot axis (30) at the first interface (24), the second member (16) is connected to the first member (14) at a second interface (20) and is pivotable about a second pivot axis (26) in relation to the first member (14) at the second interface (20), and the third member (18) is connected to the second member (16) at a third interface (22) and is pivotable about a third pivot axis (28) in relation to the second member (16) at the third interface (22), and wherein when the animal brushing arrangement (2) is attached to the support structure (4), the first pivot axis (30) extends substantially horizontally, the second pivot axis (26) extends at an angle (y) to the first pivot axis (30) and in a common plane with the first pivot axis (30), and the third pivot axis (28) has a directional component extending perpendicularly to the second pivot axis (26).

2. The animal brushing arrangement (2) according to claim 1 , wherein the second pivot axis (26) extends at a substantially perpendicular angle (y) to the first pivot axis (30).

3. The animal brushing arrangement (2) according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the second pivot axis (26) and the third pivot axis (28) are arranged at a first obtuse angle (a) to each other.

4. The animal brushing arrangement (2) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the first member (14) has a first end portion (36) at the second interface (20) and comprises a first end-face (32) at its first end portion (36), wherein the second member (16) has a first end portion (38) at the second interface (20) and the second member (16) comprises a first end-face (34) at its first end portion (38), and whereinat the second interface (20), the first end-face (32) of the first member (14) and the first end-face (34) of the second member (16) are arranged facing each other.

5. The animal brushing arrangement (2) according to claim 4, wherein seen along the second pivot axis (26), the first end-face (32) of the first member (14) and the first end-face (34) of the second member (16) have substantially the same radial extension from the second pivot axis (26).

6. The animal brushing arrangement (2) according to claim 4 or 5, wherein the second member (16) has a second end portion (40) at the third interface (22) and comprises a second end-face (42) at its second end portion (40), wherein the third member (18) has a first end portion (44) at the third interface (22) and comprises a first end-face (46) at its first end portion (44), wherein at the third interface (22), the second end-face (42) of the second member (16) and the first end-face (46) of the third member (18) are arranged facing each other.

7. The animal brushing arrangement (2) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the brush (8) is connected to, or forms part of, the third member (18).

8. The animal brushing arrangement (2) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the second pivot axis (26), the third pivot axis (28), and the rotational axis (11) extend in a common substantially vertical plane when the animal brushing arrangement (2) is attached to the support structure (4) and is in a rest position.

9. The animal brushing arrangement (2) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the second pivot axis (26) and the rotational axis (11) are arranged in parallel and off-centre from each other when the animal brushing arrangement (2) is attached to the support structure (4) and is in a rest position.

10. The animal brushing arrangement (2) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the first pivot axis (30) and the second pivot axis (26) extend in a common plane.

11. The animal brushing arrangement (2) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the first member (14) has an elongated extension between the support part (6) and the second member (16).

12. The animal brushing arrangement (2) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the rotational axis (11) of the brush (8) is arranged laterally displaced from the second pivot axis (26).

13. The animal brushing arrangement (2) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the first and / or second and / or third interface (24, 20, 22) each comprises at least one bearing (50, 54).

14. The animal brushing arrangement (2) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the suspension structure (12) comprises a limiting mechanism (62) arranged to limit the extent of pivotal movement of the second member (16) in relation to the first member (14) about the second pivot axis (26).

15. The animal brushing arrangement (2) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the suspension structure (12) comprises a damping mechanism (72) arranged to induce resistance in a pivotal movement of the second member (16) in relation to the first member (14) about the second pivot axis (26).

16. The animal brushing arrangement (2) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the first and second members (14, 16) have a substantially tubular form.

17. The animal brushing arrangement (2) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the first member (14) has a bent shape.

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