Brushing module and brushing device for livestock

The brushing module with a lamellar-shaped brush and durable thermoplastic fibers addresses durability and friction issues in existing devices, ensuring effective, energy-independent brushing for livestock.

FR3166788A1Pending Publication Date: 2026-04-03ACTIWORK
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Patent Information

Authority / Receiving Office
FR · FR
Patent Type
Applications
Current Assignee / Owner
Filing Date
2024-10-01
Publication Date
2026-04-03

AI Technical Summary

Technical Problem

Existing livestock brushing devices, both static and motorized, suffer from durability issues due to fragile bristles, high maintenance costs, and insufficient friction, failing to meet the natural rubbing needs of animals effectively.

Method used

A brushing module with a lamellar-shaped brush comprising a core and fibers, attached to a profiled rail with complementary guiding means, allowing for tilting and distributed force absorption, made of durable thermoplastic material, ensuring effective and pleasant friction without external energy.

Benefits of technology

The solution provides increased durability, cost-effectiveness, and improved animal well-being by offering robust, energy-independent brushing that meets the natural rubbing needs of livestock, reducing wear and maintenance costs.

✦ Generated by Eureka AI based on patent content.

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Abstract

Brushing module and brushing device for livestock. Brushing module (2) for a brushing device (1) intended to allow a livestock animal to rub itself against it autonomously, the brushing module (2) comprising a support structure (4) having at least one profiled rail (5), a brush (7) comprising a core (8) and a plurality of fibers (9), the fibers (9) protruding from the core (8), the core (8) and the fibers (9) being spatially oriented such that the brush (7) has a lamellar shape, the rail (5) having a first guiding means, the core (8) having a second guiding means, the guiding means being complementary to each other and allowing the core (8) to be fitted onto the rail (5) so as to allow the brush (7) to be retained on the support structure (4). Figure for the abridged version: Fig. 1.
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Description

Title of the invention: Brushing module and brushing device for livestock

[0001] The present invention relates to the technical field of devices intended for the welfare of livestock.

[0002] In this text, "livestock" refers to ungulate animals, which includes animals belonging to the bovine family (e.g., cows, oxen, bulls, bison), equine family (e.g., horses or donkeys), porcine family (typically pigs), and caprine family (e.g., goats or sheep).

[0003] Throughout the rest of the text, the term “animals” or “livestock” refers to the expression “livestock animals”.

[0004] More particularly, the invention relates to a brushing device to allow cattle to rub themselves against autonomously.

[0005] Animal welfare, and in particular that of livestock on farms, is of increasing importance. On the one hand, it is important for consumers to know that animals are healthy and well-treated. On the other hand, it has been proven that this has a direct economic impact: healthier and less stressed animals are generally more productive, whether in milk production, growth, or reproduction, thus optimizing agricultural yields.

[0006] In this context, it is essential to take into account the natural needs of livestock. For example, it has been observed that livestock, and cows in particular, have a habit of rubbing themselves against hard surfaces, notably to relieve itching, stimulate blood circulation, and remove dirt and parasites from their coats. Such behavior also helps to reduce their stress.

[0007] In the wild or in pastures, cows use trees, rocks, or other rough surfaces to scratch themselves. However, such surfaces may be lacking in modern farms. It is therefore important to provide suitable facilities to ensure their well-being.

[0008] In the prior art, several animal brushing devices exist.

[0009] Static brushes use bristles inserted into a fixed base, allowing animals to rub themselves freely without human intervention or the need for external power. Although simple and inexpensive to manufacture, such brushes have the major drawback of lacking durability: the bristles, often fragile or poorly attached, break off under the constant pressure of the animals, particularly cattle, which can weigh up to 800 kg.

[0010] This leads to rapid wear of the device, requiring frequent replacements to avoid compromising brushing efficiency, as the bristles of such brushes quickly lose stiffness. Finally, the impact on cow welfare is debated, as the hardness of such brushes is insufficient to meet their needs.

[0011] Motorized roller brushes are also used, which allow for the massage and brushing of cows. However, such brushes require a constant power supply to operate, resulting in significant implementation, maintenance, and energy consumption costs. Furthermore, the complexity of the mechanisms implies a risk of breakdowns and malfunctions, which reduces their long-term reliability. Finally, the problem of wear remains. In addition, just like static brushes, the bristles of motorized brushes are often too soft to provide sufficiently firm friction for the cows, thus limiting their effectiveness.

[0012] The invention aims to address the drawbacks of the prior art.

[0013] A first object is to propose a brushing module offering effective and pleasant friction for livestock.

[0014] A second object is to propose such a module which does not require external energy to operate.

[0015] A third object is to propose such a module capable of withstanding frequent use by livestock, particularly cattle, and having increased durability compared to known brushes.

[0016] A fourth object is to propose a brushing device incorporating a module as presented above.

[0017] For this purpose, a brushing module is provided firstly for a brushing device intended to allow a livestock animal to rub itself against it autonomously, the brushing module comprising a support structure having at least one profiled rail, a brush comprising a core and a plurality of fibers, the fibers protruding from the core, the core and the fibers being spatially oriented such that the brush has a lamellar shape, the rail having a first guiding means, the core having a second guiding means, the guiding means being complementary to each other and allowing the core to be fitted onto the rail so as to allow the brush to be retained on the support structure.

[0018] The following features may be provided alone or in combination:

[0019] - the first guiding means and the second guiding means define a gap functional allowing the core to tilt relative to the rail when a livestock animal rubs against the brush;

[0020] - the rail incorporates a base, the core comprising a curved section, the first means a guide encompassing a protruding part extending from the base, the second guide incorporating a groove, the groove receiving the protruding part;

[0021] - the rail comprises two projecting parts incorporating returns, the curved section comprising two grooves formed on either side of a plane passing through the middle of the curved section;

[0022] - the brushing module comprises at least two rails, each equipped with a brush ;

[0023] - the rails are parallel to each other;

[0024] - the brushing module includes several cheeks defining the sides of a reception assembly, the reception assembly being provided with a base and forming with the cheeks a cavity having a base, the support structure being integral with the base;

[0025] Secondly, a brushing device is provided comprising a supporting structure, and at least one brushing module as presented above, the brushing module being attached to the supporting structure, the supporting structure being able to be attached to an anchoring surface;

[0026] The following features may be provided alone or in combination:

[0027] - the supporting structure includes a mast comprising a first portion, a the brushing module being attached to the first portion and to a base, the base being intended to be attached to an anchoring surface;

[0028] - the base defines a general tetrahedral shape having a base and a vertex, the first portion being attached to the base, the first portion passing through the top, when the base rests on the ground, the first portion extends orthogonally from the base.

[0029] - the mast incorporates a second portion, and a third portion orthogonal by in relation to the first portion, a brushing module being attached to the second portion and / or a brushing module being attached to the third portion, the second portion being attached on one side to the first portion, and on the other side to the third portion, the first and third portions extending in directions orthogonal to each other.

[0030] - an adjustment shim is interposed between the brushing module and the structure carrier

[0031] Other features and advantages of the invention will become more apparent and concrete upon reading the following description of embodiments, given by way of non-limiting example, and made with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0032] [Fig-1] Fig. 1 represents a schematic perspective view of a first implementation of a brushing device;

[0033] [Fig.2] Fig.2 represents a schematic exploded perspective view of the first implementation of a brushing device;

[0034] [Fig.3] Fig.3 represents a schematic cross-sectional view of a brushing module according to plan III-III of [Fig.1], with a detail on the attachment of the brushes;

[0035] [Fig.4] Fig.4 represents a schematic perspective view of a brush and of a rail, with details on a core of the brush, and an extreme part of the brush;

[0036] [Fig. 5] Fig. 5 represents a schematic perspective view of a second implementation of a brushing device;

[0037] [Fig.6] Fig.6 represents a schematic cross-sectional view of a third setting operation of the brushing device according to the VLVI plan of [Fig.5];

[0038] [Fig.7] Fig.7 represents a schematic perspective view of a third implementation of a brushing device;

[0039] [Fig.8] Fig.8 represents a schematic cross-sectional view of a third setting operation of the brushing device according to plan VIII-VIII of [Fig.7].

[0040] Reference is made to [Fig. 1], and to figures 4 to 7 representing different possible implementations of a brushing device 1.

[0041] Common to all implementations, the brushing device 1 comprises a brushing module 2 attached to a supporting structure 3. As detailed later in this text, the supporting structure 3 allows the brushing module 2 to be attached to an anchoring surface (not shown in the figures). The possible anchoring surfaces are detailed later in this text.

[0042] Such a load-bearing structure 3 is sufficiently rigid to be able to resist the mechanical actions exerted by a livestock animal (not shown in the figures) rubbing against the brushing module 2.

[0043] The brushing module is described in more detail with reference in particular to figures 2 to 4.

[0044] As shown, the brushing module 2 comprises a support structure 4 including a support plate 6 on which at least one profiled rail 5, for example made of metallic material, is fixed. The support structure 4 advantageously has a flat face, facilitating the mounting of the rails on the support structure 4.

[0045] Advantageously, the rails 5 are welded or screwed onto the support structure 4. Each rail 5 is designed to receive a brush 7, and a welded or screwed assembly provides high rigidity. This feature helps prevent any deformation due to the force exerted by the animal on the brushing module 2.

[0046] In the embodiments shown, the rails 5 are straight and arranged parallel to each other to form rows. It is possible to have an increased brush density compared to known designs. However, other arrangements are possible, for example chevron, or according to other geometries, for example non-parallel rows.

[0047] In embodiments not shown, one or more rails 5 extend by defining a curve, or have a straight portion and a curved portion.

[0048] The brushing module 2 comprises a brush 7 incorporating a core 8 and a plurality of fibers 9, also called bristles. The brush 7 has a general lamellar shape. In other words, the fibers 9 extend substantially from the core 8 in the same direction. In other words, when viewed as a whole, the fibers 9 are arranged relative to each other along a generatrix defined by the general extensional shape of the core 8.

[0049] Such a shape of lamella is advantageous because it allows for a high degree of rigidity, which is particularly appreciated by the animal rubbing against the brushing module 2. In addition, such a shape of lamella facilitates the positioning of the brushes 7 in rows, allowing for a high density of fibers 9, which has the effect of increasing the rigidity effect, and therefore the feeling of well-being for the animal using the brushing device 1.

[0050] Throughout the remainder of this text, an orthogonal frame XYZ comprising three axes perpendicular in pairs is defined with respect to the core 8, namely:

[0051] - an X axis, coinciding with the general direction of extension of the core 8, defining a longitudinal direction;

[0052] - a Y axis, defining a vertical direction, which together with the X axis defines an XY plane vertical ;

[0053] - a Z axis, defining a transverse direction, the YZ axes defining a plane transverse, the XZ axes defining a horizontal plane.

[0054] Advantageously, the core 8 is made of a deformable material so as to be able to adapt to the shape of the rail 5 when fitted into the rail 5, as specified later in this text.

[0055] Advantageously, the fibers 9 and the core 8 are made of thermoplastic material, or a similar material. Such a material is advantageous because it is inexpensive, moldable, and offers the rigidity necessary to withstand the forces exerted by the livestock during the use of the brushing device 1.

[0056] Advantageously, the fibers 9 are formed from the same material as the core 8, i.e., they are produced simultaneously with the core 8. In other words, the fibers 9 appear as an integral extension of the core 8 itself, without a distinct dividing line. The strength of the brush 7, and the pull-out resistance of the fibers 9, is thus reinforced. In this way, the durability of the brushing module 2 is increased.

[0057] Advantageously, the fibers 9 have a length that can be adapted according to the type and morphology of the animals intended to use the brushing device 8.

[0058] For example, a fiber 9 is intended to have a diameter ranging from 1.5 mm to 4 mm, preferably from 2.5 mm to 3.5 mm, and ideally around 3.2 mm. Such a diameter is the one for which the best compromise between stiffness and durability is obtained.

[0059] Advantageously, the fibers 9 have a variable length, depending on the type and morphology of the animals intended to use the brushing device 8.

[0060] For example, it is envisaged that from the core 8, a fiber extends, for example, over a range of 15 to 35 cm, and more preferably between 20 and 30 cm. Such a length is that for which the best compromise between rigidity and durability is obtained.

[0061] In order to retain the brush 7 on the support structure 4, the rail 5 is provided with a first guiding means, the web 8 incorporating a second guiding means, complementary to the first guiding means. Thus, the first guiding means and the second guiding means allow the web 8 to be assembled onto the rail 5 by interlocking.

[0062] As can be seen in the embodiments shown, and in particular in [Fig. 4], the first and second guide means are configured to allow for insertion by threading the core 8 onto the rail 5 in a longitudinal direction. Such insertion is simple and requires no special effort or tools. This insertion allows for easy replacement of the brush 7 if it is damaged.

[0063] In other embodiments not shown, the first guiding means and the second guiding means are made to allow interlocking in a transverse direction, for example by pressure of the web 8 on the rail 5.

[0064] Advantageously, a functional clearance 18 is provided between the first and second guide means, visible in [Fig. 3]. Such a functional clearance 18 facilitates the insertion of the web 8 into the rail 5.

[0065] Such a functional play 18 also allows a slight rotational movement of the core 8 within the rail 5 when an animal rubs against the brush 7, which results in the brush 7 tilting. This tilting improves the feeling of well-being for the livestock using the brushing device 1, because it allows the general orientation of the fibers 9 to change.

[0066] Advantageously, the rail 5 incorporates a substantially flat base 10, so as to be able to distribute to the maximum on the support structure 4 the forces exerted by the livestock on the brush 7.

[0067] Advantageously, a first guiding means comprises at least one projecting part 11, preferably two projecting parts 11 extending from the base 10.

[0068] In the embodiments shown, the projecting parts 11 form a 90° angle with respect to the base 10 and extend parallel to each other. The projecting parts 11 are symmetrical with respect to each other with respect to a plane passing through the midpoint of the base 10. In this way, the rail 5 is given a U-shaped cross-section.

[0069] Advantageously, a projecting part 11 includes a return 12, connected by a junction section 13 to the base 10. In the embodiments shown, it is provided that each projecting part 11 integrates a junction section 13 and a return 12 to prevent the brush 7 from being pulled away from the rail 5.

[0070] Advantageously, the return 12 substantially defines a first guide surface 14, which facilitates the fitting of the web 8 onto the rail 5 by planar sliding with a complementary surface arranged on the web. Furthermore, when a transverse force is exerted on the brush 7, this force is distributed homogeneously over the first guide surface 14.

[0071] The web 8 is described more specifically, with reference in particular to Figures 3 and 4.

[0072] Advantageously, the web 8 comprises a curved section 15 having a rounded structure, for example oval or circular, which allows the web 8 to flex when subjected to compressive stress from longitudinal forces. Such an arrangement improves the fit of the web 8 onto the rail 5, particularly if the rail 5 does not extend in a straight line. Furthermore, such a rounded structure allows the web 8 to exhibit increased resistance to mechanical stresses.

[0073] Advantageously, the second guiding means comprises a groove 16 formed within the web 8. Preferably, the web 8 comprises two grooves 16 formed in the curved section 15. Each groove 16 is suitable for receiving the first guiding means, in this case a projecting part 11. As can be seen in the figures, in particular [Fig. 4], the curved section comprises two grooves 16 formed on either side of a plane passing through the middle of the curved section 15.

[0074] As can be seen in the figures, the grooves 16 comprise at least a second guiding surface 17, advantageously extending along a longitudinal plane. In this way, the interlocking between the web 8 and the rail 5 is facilitated, by creating a plane-to-plane connection.

[0075] In embodiments not shown, the web 8 defines a flat or angular shape, i.e., it has a polygonal cross-section. For such a web shape, grooves 16 are formed on one side of the web, the rail having a shape complementary to such a web 8.

[0076] As shown in the detail of [Fig.3], it can be observed that the protruding part 11 advantageously comprises two first parallel guide surfaces 14, one opposite the base 10, the other on the opposite face of the return 12, opposite the fibers 9.

[0077] A groove 16 advantageously comprises two second guide surfaces 17 facing each other and parallel to each other.

[0078] Advantageously, the distance between the first two guide surfaces 14 is greater than the distance between the second two guide surfaces 17, which makes it possible to provide the functional clearance 18 when assembling the brush 7. The clearance 18 can thus be easily adapted by modifying this distance gap.

[0079] Advantageously, the brushing module 2 includes a cheek 19 disposed at an extreme part 20 of a rail 5, preferably at each extreme part 20 of each rail 5. Such a cheek 19 makes it possible to stop in translation the webs 8 fitted into each rail 5, by forming a stop.

[0080] Advantageously, a cheek 19 is also arranged juxtaposed, adjacent to a rail 5, and extends longitudinally. Preferably, the rails 5 adjoining extreme edges 21 of the support structure 4 are concerned.

[0081] Advantageously, a cheek 19 extends from the core 8 to be positioned opposite the fibers 9 between the core 8 and one of the terminations 22 of the fibers 9. In other words, a cheek 19 includes a stopping surface 23 facing a part of the fibers 9. More specifically, and as can be seen in particular in [Fig.3], the fibers 9 have a covered portion 24, i.e. not extending transversely beyond the cheek 19, and a free portion 25, in continuation of the covered portion 24.

[0082] In such a configuration, the fibers 9 which undergo bending caused by an animal rubbing on the brush 7, collide with a stop surface 23, which blocks the deformation of the covered portions, causing the fibers 9 to bend by an edge of a cheek 19. Thus, the deflection of the fibers 9 is controlled, which offers an optimal result in terms of welfare for the cattle using the brushing device 1.

[0083] In the embodiments shown, the brushing module 2 integrates a receiving assembly 26 comprising a base 27 intended to be attached to a free face 28 of the support plate 6, i.e. without a rail 5 (visible in the detail of [Fig.3]).

[0084] Advantageously, the base 27 has a general quadrilateral shape, preferably a rectangle. Sides, preferably four, extend from the base 27 so as to form a housing.

[0085] As can be seen in the embodiments shown, the sides form cheeks 19 as described above. The cheeks 19 form with the bottom 27 a cavity. Such an arrangement facilitates assembly and disassembly, since it is sufficient to detach the support structure 4 from the receiving assembly 26 to be able to release the brushes 7 from the rails 5 in translation. The advantages related to the use of the cheeks 9 remain.

[0086] Advantageously, the support structure 4 includes coaxial perforations 30 with holes 31 provided on the receiving assembly 26, allowing the support structure 4 to be secured to the bottom 27 by means of a fixing means 29, for example a screw.

[0087] To facilitate the attachment of the receiving assembly 26 to the supporting structure 3, the holes 31 are coaxial with openings 33 provided on the supporting structure 3, so as to use the same fastening means 29 as those used to secure the support structure 4 to the base 27. This reduces the number of parts required to construct the brushing device 1. This arrangement also facilitates the assembly of the brushing device 1.

[0088] Various implementations of the brushing device 1 are now presented in a non-limiting manner.

[0089] Commonly in all implementations, the brushing device 1 incorporates one or more brushing modules 2 as described above.

[0090] In a first embodiment shown in [Fig. 1] to 3, the brushing module 2 is intended to be attached to an anchoring surface (not shown) extending along a longitudinal plane. Such an anchoring surface is, for example, a wall, a partition, or a base plate attached to a post. In other words, in this first embodiment, the support structure 4 advantageously extends along a longitudinal plane.

[0091] Such a load-bearing structure 3 includes, for example, a load-bearing portion 34, adapted to accommodate at least one brushing module 2, preferably several brushing modules 2, and two fixing portions 35 intended to be secured to a fixed location (not shown), for example a wall, for example by means of screws (not shown).

[0092] Such a first implementation is very simple, inexpensive, and gives satisfaction to the livestock using the brushing device 1.

[0093] In a second embodiment, a brushing module 2 is positioned similarly to that of the first embodiment, i.e. the support structure 4 extends in a longitudinal plane.

[0094] In the second embodiment shown in Figures 5 and 6, the supporting structure 3 includes a mast 36 intended to be preferably secured to an anchoring surface formed by the ground, via a base 37.

[0095] In a variant of the second embodiment, the load-bearing structure is attached to an anchoring surface extending longitudinally, for example a wall, a partition or a plate attached to a post.

[0096] Advantageously, the mast 36 extends from the ground, defining a first portion 38, for example, in a direction advantageously orthogonal to the ground. The first portion 38 comprises at least one brushing module 2, preferably several brushing modules 2 fixed to the first portion 38, the first portion 38 being integral with the base 37.

[0097] Advantageously, the mast 36 is detachable from the base 37 by means of a mechanism allowing easy and secure removal, not visible in the figures and not detailed here.

[0098] In the second embodiment, the base 37 comprises a seat 39, intended to come into contact with the ground, for example by means of a flat support, and a vertex 40, giving the base 37, for example, a tetrahedral shape. The mast 36 is secured to the base 37 by passing through the vertex 40, for example by being held in position in a housing provided for this purpose (not visible in the figures).

[0099] Such a tetrahedral shape is advantageous because it maximizes the base 39, thereby promoting the stability of the brushing device 1. Furthermore, it avoids excessive height, which could hinder livestock access to the brushing module 7 or risk injuring the animal's lower body. Excessive height could also impede vehicle passage.

[0100] Alternatively, the base 37 includes a simple plate, or a stud.

[0101] A third implementation is now described, shown in Figures 7 and 8.

[0102] Such a third implementation takes up the characteristics of the second implementation with regard to the base 37 and the first portion 38 equipped with at least one brushing module 2.

[0103] In such a third embodiment, the mast comprises a second portion 41, equipped with at least one brushing module 2. The second portion 41 is advantageously integral with and an extension of the first portion 38, but extends in a different direction from the first portion 38.

[0104] In such an embodiment, the mast 36 defines a preferentially acute angle between the first portion 38 and the second portion 4L. As represented, the first portion 38 extends orthogonally with respect to the base 39, the second portion 41 is oblique.

[0105] Alternatively, the angle between the first portion 38 and the second portion 41 is a right angle, the second portion 41 extending along a direction belonging to a plane passing through the plane defined by the base 39.

[0106] In this way, it is possible to have a brushing device 1 comprising several brushing modules 2 extending in directions, orientations different. Thus, an animal can rub itself simultaneously against several brushing modules arranged in different orientations, allowing it to target various parts of its body, which improves its well-being.

[0107] Advantageously, the third embodiment includes a third portion 42, equipped with at least one brushing module 2. The third portion 42 is integral with and an extension of the second portion 41, but extends in a different direction from the second portion 41.

[0108] Advantageously, the extension direction of the second portion 41 and the extension direction of the third portion 42 define an acute angle. In other embodiments, the third portion 42 extends in a direction orthogonal to the extension direction of the first portion 38. Also, in such configurations, a brushing module 2 is positioned so as to target the animal's back, or its head.

[0109] The second and third embodiments are advantageous when no anchoring surface other than the ground is available to the user. Such a case concerns, for example, a meadow or field without trees, or the situation where it would be desirable to position a brushing device 1 at a distance from walls or partitions.

[0110] According to the different implementations, the first portion 38 and / or the second portion 41 and / or the third portion 42 comprise several brushing modules 2.

[0111] Commonly in embodiments, the brushing device 1 comprises one or more adjustment shims 43 interposed between the support structure 3 and the brushing module 2. By adjusting the height of the adjustment shims 43, the position of a brushing module 2 is modified relative to the support structure 3, i.e., either moved further away or closer. In this way, the brushing device 1 can be adapted to the morphology of the animals rubbing against the brushes 7.

[0112] Common to the various implementations, and as shown in Figures 7 and 8, the supporting structure 3 includes fairing plates 44 to protect the cheeks 19 of the brushing modules 2, and thus contributes to making the brushing device more durable.

[0113] The brushing device 1 finds advantageous applications for a large number of livestock animals and in particular bovines (for example cows, oxen, bulls, or bison), equine animals (for example horses or donkeys), porcine animals (typically pigs), and caprine animals (for example goats or sheep).

[0114] The brushing device 1 is intended to be installed on a farm, both in indoor spaces, for example a stable, a milking area, or a treatment area, and in outdoor spaces, namely a grazing area, a rest area. However, some of the implementations of the brushing device 1 can be installed within the vehicle.

[0115] The brushing device 1 can also be installed in other areas receiving animals, for example in agricultural shows or fairs, shelter areas, animal parks, or veterinary establishments.

[0116] The brushing device 1 as presented above offers numerous advantages, including:

[0117] - the modular nature of the brushing module 2, allowing for assembly and simple dismantling of the brushing device 1;

[0118] - easy replacement of brushes 7;

[0119] - an easy adaptation of the brushing device 1 to different animals, and to their morphology;

[0120] - economical use, since it requires no external energy input;

[0121] - a design of the brushes 7 preventing tearing and / or premature wear of the 9 fibers, limiting the frequency of brush replacement 7.

Claims

Demands

1. Brushing module (2) for a brushing device (1) intended to allow a livestock animal to rub itself against it autonomously, the brushing module (2) comprising: - a support structure (4) having at least one profiled rail (5), - a brush (7) comprising a core (8) and a plurality of fibers (9), the fibers (9) projecting from the core (8), the core (8) and the fibers (9) being spatially oriented such that the brush (7) has a lamellar shape, - the rail (5) having a first guiding means (11), the core (8) having a second guiding means (16), the guiding means (11, 16) being complementary to each other and allowing the core (8) to be fitted onto the rail (5) so as to allow the brush (7) to be retained on the support structure (4).

2. Brushing module (2) according to the preceding claim, characterized in that the first guiding means (11) and the second guiding means (16) define a functional clearance (18) allowing the core (8) to tilt relative to the rail (5) when a livestock animal rubs against the brush (7).

3. Brushing module (2) according to the preceding claim, characterized in that the rail (5) integrates a base (10), the core (8) comprising a curved section (15), the first guiding means encompassing a projecting part (11) extending from the base (10), the second guiding means integrating a groove (16), the groove (16) receiving the projecting part (11).

4. Brushing module (2) according to the preceding claim, characterized in that the curved section (15) is circular or oval, the rail (5) comprises two projecting parts (11) incorporating returns (12), the curved section (15) comprising two grooves (16) formed on either side of a plane passing through the middle of the curved section (15).

5. Brushing module (2) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that it comprises at least two rails (5), each being equipped with a brush (7).

6. Brushing module (2) according to the preceding claim, characterized in that the rails (5) are parallel to each other.

7. Brushing module (2) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that it comprises at least one cheek (19) disposed at an extreme part (20) of a rail (5) and / or juxtaposed to the rail (5), the cheek (19) extending from the core (8) until it is positioned opposite the fibers (9), between the core (8) and one of the terminations (22) of the fibers (9).

8. Brushing module (2) according to the preceding claim, characterized in that it comprises several cheeks (19) defining the sides of a receiving assembly (18), the receiving assembly (18) being provided with a bottom (27), the bottom (27) forming with the cheeks (19) a cavity, the support structure (4) being integral with the bottom (27).

9. Brushing device (1) comprising a support structure (3), and at least one brushing module (2) according to any one of the preceding claims, the brushing module (2) being integral with the support structure (3), the support structure (3) being capable of being integral with an anchoring surface.

10. Brushing device (1) according to claim 8 or 9, characterized in that the supporting structure (3) comprises a mast (36) comprising a first portion (38), a brushing module (2) being integral with the first portion (38) and a base (37), the base (37) being intended to be integral with an anchoring surface.

11. Brushing device (1) according to the preceding claim, characterized in that the base (37) defines a general tetrahedral shape having a base (39) and a vertex (40), the first portion (38) being integral with the base (37), the first portion (38) passing through the vertex (40), when the base (39) rests on the ground, the first portion (38) extends orthogonally from the base (37).

12. Brushing device (1) according to claim 10 or 11, characterized in that the mast (36) incorporates a second portion (41), and a third portion (42) orthogonal to the first portion (38), a brushing module (2) being integral with the second portion (41) and / or a brushing module (2) being integral with the third portion (42), the second portion (41) being integral with the first portion (38), and with the third portion (42), the first portion (38) and the third portion (42) extending in directions orthogonal to each other.

13. Brushing device (1) according to any one of claims 9 to 12, characterized in that an adjustment wedge (43) is interposed between the brushing module (2) and the supporting structure (3).

Citation Information

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