Device for discharging animal feed and method for discharging wet feed implemented by this type of device

Abstract

The present invention relates to an apparatus (2) for discharging animal feed, comprising a feed receptacle (8A) and a casing (6) in which a wet feed discharging unit (10) is arranged. The wet feed discharging unit (10) is suitable for receiving a removable bag (4) of wet feed provided with an opening neck for the bag (4), and the wet feed discharging unit (10) comprises: - an electromechanical device (24) for supplying wet feed from the bag (4) to the feed receptacle (8A), the device including means (36B) for squeezing and / or pressing the bag (4) and means (38, 38A, 38B) for clamping at least one edge of the bag (4), the clamping means (38, 38A, 38B) being motorized and mounted so as to be movable between a pressing position in which the at least one edge of the bag (4) is pressed towards the neck and a pulling position in which the at least one edge of the bag (4) is pulled away from the neck; and - means for controlling the electromechanical device (24) capable of controlling the discharge of wet feed from the bag (4) towards the feed receptacle (8A).

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to the field of devices for discharging animal feed (especially wet feed) for small pets such as typically cats or dogs. Wet feed is, for example, (but not limited to) pet pate for animals. The present invention also relates to an assembly comprising such a device and a bag of wet feed installed in the device, and to a method of discharging wet feed implemented by such a device.

[0002] In the field of devices for discharging animal feed, feed receptacles that control an animal's access to wet feed are known. For example, prior art solutions typically involve equipping an animal (e.g., a cat) with a microchip worn around the animal's neck or via an intradermal chip. For example, the receptacle is equipped with a movable lid that blocks access to the feed when closed. The receptacle comprises electronic control means for opening the lid and chip recognition means (e.g., a detection loop) connected to the control means. In this way, an animal approaching the receptacle with a chip attached controls the opening of the lid and releases access to the wet feed. However, a disadvantage of this type of receptacle is that the user needs to manually refill it each time the feed is discharged. Moreover, wet feed oxidizes in about 4 to 8 hours, even if it is protected from the surrounding air when removed from its package.

[0003] Therefore, it is necessary to automatically and repeatedly discharge wet feed (such as pate), and while satisfying the animal's nutritional requirements, make it easier for the user to go out due to their own work. For this purpose, dispensers that automatically deliver a predetermined dose of wet feed are known. For example, U.S. Patent No. 9,232,769 (B1) describes such a wet feed dispenser. The dispenser includes a feed discharge unit and several bags of wet feed arranged on top of the unit. The feed discharge unit is provided with a casing, a receptacle arranged at the lower part of the casing, an electromechanical device arranged in the middle part of the casing for supplying feed from the bag to the receptacle, and means for controlling the electromechanical device. Each bag is fixed to the casing from the top and bottom via top and bottom holding clips provided on the casing. The electromechanical device includes a servo motor with a shaft mounted thereon, and it itself is connected to a belt / pulley system. The belt is connected to a movable arm via a connector passing through a channel formed in the casing. Therefore, the arm with a rotating blade mounted on its free end is translated along the channel by the action of the electric belt / pulley system. During operation, the arm with the blade cuts open one end of the bag of wet feed pre-positioned in the casing, enabling the wet feed to be discharged into the receptacle. However, the disadvantage of the feed dispenser disclosed in this patent document is that it is necessary to consume the entire bag of wet feed for each dose of feed discharged. This leads to feed waste and overconsumption by animals, weakening the autonomy of the device.

[0004] A further disadvantage of such a dispenser is that it cannot guarantee bacteriological protection and antioxidant protection for wet feed. The reason is that when the feed container and the opening mechanism, and even the bag itself, remain in contact with air when opened, they themselves carry bacteria and bacteria, which are sources of bacteriological contamination.

[0005] Accordingly, an object of the present invention is to provide an apparatus for discharging feed for animals, in particular wet feed, which dispenses an accurate amount of wet feed suitable for animals, thus avoiding feed waste and enabling (while saving on feed replenishment) an increase in the autonomy of the apparatus.

[0006] Another object of the present invention is to provide a simple and reliable automated apparatus for discharging wet animal feed that ensures, in particular, bacteriological and antioxidant protection of the wet feed.

[0007] To achieve these objects, the present disclosure provides an apparatus for discharging animal feed, the apparatus comprising a casing including a feed receptacle and a wet feed discharge unit, the wet feed discharge unit being adapted to receive a removable bag of wet feed, the wet feed discharge unit being configured to securely hold and fix the bag, whereby the latter then extends at least partially along a spindle, an opening neck for the bag being provided in the bag, the neck being deformable at least between an open position and a closed position, provided at the lower part of the bag and arranged facing the feed receptacle when the bag is received in the wet feed discharge unit, the wet feed discharge unit comprising - an electromechanical device for supplying wet feed from the bag to the feed receptacle, - control means for the electromechanical device, capable of controlling the delivery of wet feed from the bag to the feed receptacle.

[0008] According to the present invention, the electromechanical device - At least one block including a gripping element for holding a portion of the bag disposed laterally with respect to the head, the gripping element being mounted for translational movement along an axis that is lateral or substantially lateral to the main axis, at least one block, a position of the portion of the bag thus held corresponding to the head open position, and a motor for driving the movement of the gripping element between a position for pulling away the portion of the bag thus held corresponding to the head closed position. - When the electromechanical device includes two blocks, the blocks are configured to hold a first portion and a second portion of the bag located laterally with respect to the head and are positioned on both sides thereof. - When the electromechanical device includes at least one element for holding a second portion of the bag located laterally with respect to the head and a single block for gripping a first portion of the bag located laterally with respect to the head, the first and second portions are positioned on both sides of the head. - The block, or the block and the holding element, are configured to enable selective opening and closing of the head, and pulling the first and second portions to a tensioned position closes the head, ensuring bacteriological protection and antioxidant protection of the wet feed.

[0009] The present disclosure advantageously enables the same opened bag to be stored longer within a wet feed dispensing unit without changing the quality of its contents. Tests have shown that the same 500-gram bag of wet feed (2 nutrients) can be used within a feed dispenser at room temperature for 2 to 5 days after being opened. There is no need to store the bag in a refrigerated compartment after it is opened.

[0010] Preferably, the casing comprises a one-piece die-cast aluminum shell.

[0011] The present disclosure also relates to an apparatus for discharging animal feed, the apparatus comprising a casing including a feed receptacle and a wet feed discharging unit, the wet feed discharging unit being adapted to receive a removable bag of wet feed, held and fixed within the housing and including a neck for opening the bag, the neck being deformable at least between an open position and a closed position, provided at the lower part of the bag and arranged facing the feed receptacle when the bag is received within the wet feed discharging unit, the wet feed discharging unit - an electromechanical device for supplying wet feed from the bag to the feed receptacle; - control means for the electromechanical device, capable of controlling the delivery of wet feed from the bag to the feed receptacle.

[0012] According to the invention, the electromechanical device comprises - a bag squeezing / pressing assembly movable along a spindle for squeezing and / or pressing at least a part of the bag; - a first block, - a first element for gripping a first part of the bag arranged transversely to the neck, mounted to translate along an axis transverse or substantially transverse to the spindle defined by the axis of movement of the bag squeezing / pressing assembly, the first gripping element; - a motor for moving the first gripping element between - a position for gripping the first part of the bag corresponding to the neck open position, and - a position for gripping the first part of the bag to pull it away corresponding to the neck closed position, the first block; - a second block, - a second element for gripping a second part of the bag positioned transversely to the neck, the second element including the second part of the bag positioned on both sides of the neck, - The second gripping element is fixed to form a retaining element for the second part of the bag or is mounted to translate along an axis transverse or substantially transverse to the main axis defined by the axis of movement of the bag constriction / pressing assembly, a second block, - The first and second blocks are configured to enable selective opening and closing of the neck, tension the first and second parts of the bag in a pulled position, close the neck, and ensure bacteriological and antioxidant protection of the wet feed.

[0013] The present disclosure also relates to an apparatus for discharging animal feed, the apparatus comprising a casing in which a feed receptacle and a wet feed discharge unit are arranged, the wet feed discharge unit being adapted to receive a removable bag for wet feed, held and fixed within the housing and adapted to comprise a neck for opening the bag, the neck being deformable between an open position and a closed position, provided at the lower part of the bag and arranged facing the feed receptacle when the bag is received within the wet feed discharge unit, the wet feed discharge unit comprising - An electromechanical device for supplying wet feed from the bag to the feed receptacle, - Control means for the electromechanical device, capable of controlling the delivery of wet feed from the bag to the feed receptacle.

[0014] According to the present invention, the electromechanical device comprises - Bag constriction and / or pressing means, - a bag constriction and / or pressing means, - means for gripping at least one edge of the bag, the gripping means being motorized and mounted so as to be movable between a pressing position in which at least one edge of the bag is pressed towards the neck and a pulling position in which at least one edge of the bag is pulled away from the neck, the bag being configured such that the pressing position of the at least one edge of the bag corresponds to the neck open position and the pulling position of the at least one edge of the bag corresponds to the neck closed position, and the gripping means being configured to enable selective opening and closing of the neck.

[0015] The device according to the invention is suitable for dispensing feed to all types of animals (especially pets), but is particularly well suited for dispensing feed to cats whose physiological needs require a diet containing moisture (most cats do not consume much moisture), and whose biological rhythm leads to about 10 small meals every 24 hours. The wet feed dispensed can be pet pate, especially cat pate.

[0016] Means for squeezing and / or pressing a bag present within an electromechanical device, and in combination with means for clamping at least one edge of the bag, due to a particular configuration of the bag, the feed dispensing device according to the invention enables the administration of an accurate amount of wet feed suitable for animals (in particular, the delivery of accurately individualized doses of feed, typically doses of wet feed in the range of 10 g to 100 g). Additionally, by pulling or pushing on the edge of the bag, the neck of the bag is deformable between an open position and a closed position, and since the gripping means is configured to enable selective opening and closing of the neck, the interior of the neck (and thus the bag) remains airtight except during the wet feed discharge period due to the closure of the neck. The opening area of the neck is minimal, is almost always sealed, has no residues (falling by gravity), and is confined inside the machine (not in contact with pets or insects), so the contents of the open bag maintain an airtight and bacteria-shielded state during the discharge process. Additionally, due to the means for clamping at least one edge of the bag, the neck of the bag is integral with it and acts as a stopper, so all feed passing through the neck either falls by gravity into the receptacle or remains suspended within the fully sealed neck. As a result, air does not come into contact with the contents of the neck (and thus the bag). This ensures efficient bacteriological and antioxidant protection of the wet feed. Also, this bag has no gaskets, stoppers, or movable attachments, has no residues on the outside, has no suction that draws air into the bag, and it should be noted that the feed is either pushed out of the bag or remains in a safe state inside. A certain upright position of the bag also means that the wet feed closes the opening of the neck and prevents air from entering. On the other hand, the dose of wet feed discharged and any residues are protected from contact with the outside (through the shroud provided by the casing of the device), do not come into contact with the mechanical parts of the device, only come into contact with various feed receptacles, and the feed receptacles are preferably removable and thus constitute only the parts of the device that require cleaning.In practice, the dose and residue of the wet feed being discharged fall directly by gravity into the various feed receptacles of the device without contacting any part of the electromechanical device. Finally, the feed discharging device according to the present invention is simple, reliable and has good autonomy (due to discharging a predetermined dose corresponding to a part of the wet feed contained in the bag).

[0017] According to one embodiment of the device for discharging animal feed, each gripping element is configured to grip a part of the bag positioned between the neck and the corresponding lateral edge of the bag, and the neck is removed.

[0018] According to another embodiment of the device for discharging animal feed, the holding element is a lug or a fixed gripping element.

[0019] The term "lug" refers to a small protrusion designed to engage a hole provided on the corresponding side of the bag for this purpose.

[0020] According to yet another embodiment of the device for discharging animal feed, the neck of the bag has at least two stable opening geometries, and when the or each block holds the corresponding part of the bag disposed laterally with respect to the neck in a predetermined open position of the neck, each block is configured to selectively move from a neck closed position to each open position, and each of these positions is reached by a translational movement of the one or more blocks along the transverse axis.

[0021] Advantageously, it is then possible to adjust the shape of the neck so as to be suitable for the rheology and / or the number of phases / components of wet feed such as two-component pate. In the latter case, the product can be, for example, a pate containing chunks in jelly.

[0022] By way of mere illustration, the first, so-called forced open position of the open position corresponding to the stable opening geometry of the neck portion corresponds to the position of that or each block and pushes in the corresponding part of the bag arranged laterally with respect to the neck portion.

[0023] To effect this pushing-in, the corresponding block is moved towards the neck portion.

[0024] This forced open position corresponds, for example, to a "fully open" neck geometry and also to a circular or substantially circular neck cross-section, the latter being reached when the position of the at least one block is closest to the neck portion.

[0025] According to another illustration, another of the open positions corresponding to the stable opening geometry of the neck portion is called the normal open position of the bag, corresponds to the position of that or each block, and the corresponding part of the bag is not tensioned by the block arranged laterally with respect to the neck portion.

[0026] For example, this stable open position corresponds to a neck opening geometry in which the neck has a straight slit cross-section.

[0027] According to yet another embodiment of the device for discharging animal feed, each block is configured such that when the bag is held within the casing, the lateral or substantially lateral axis of movement of its gripping element is positioned between the lower and upper ends of the neck portion.

[0028] According to yet another embodiment of the device for discharging animal feed, each gripping element comprises one or more objects selected from the group consisting of pointed elements such as teeth, needles or pins, pressure bars with or without rubber, fastening pins or studs intended to cooperate with corresponding orifices arranged in the lower part of the bag, shapes and counter-shapes, and combinations of these elements.

[0029] According to yet another embodiment of the apparatus for discharging animal feed, each gripping element is formed by a gripping jaw for gripping the portion of the bag disposed laterally with respect to the neck by each of the surfaces of the bag.

[0030] According to yet another embodiment of the apparatus for discharging animal feed, the electromechanical device is an assembly for squeezing and / or pressing the bag, and the assembly for squeezing and / or pressing the bag defines a spindle along which the assembly for squeezing and / or pressing the bag moves to squeeze and / or press at least a portion of the bag, and is provided with an assembly.

[0031] Preferably, the bag squeezing and / or pressing assembly is two parallel electric rollers, each of the rollers being mounted to translate along the spindle within the casing, extending laterally with respect to the spindle, and being intended to extend between the rollers such that the bag is held by squeezing between the rollers when the bag is received within the wet feed discharge unit, and the neck of the bag extends below the rollers, and is provided with parallel electric rollers.

[0032] When the rollers move downward, the wet feed slides toward the neck of the bag and thus toward the outlet of the bag, and falls into the feed receptacle by gravity. Such a configuration enables the bag to be effectively pressed by squeezing and / or pressing the bag using parallel electric rollers to cause the wet feed to fall into the receptacle, while at the same time enabling the length by which the rollers descend to be adapted to both the dose of wet feed to be discharged and the height at which the rollers are positioned with respect to the bag (when the rollers descend by 1 cm, various amounts of wet feed are extruded depending on the relative position of the rollers and the bag). For this purpose, advantageously, regardless of the position of the rollers, in order to control the uniform discharge of the wet feed flow and dose, a linear regression method can be implemented in the data processing unit to control the movement (profile, speed, pressure, descended height, etc.) of the rollers.

[0033] Advantageously, the two parallel rollers extend in the same horizontal plane when the bag is in the constricted position, and each of the two rollers extends in a direction perpendicular to the vertical direction.

[0034] Preferably, the device for discharging the animal feed comprises at least a pair of guide rail portions positioned opposite to each other at the upper part of the casing, and the guide rail portions enable guiding the rollers between the storage position or the retracted position and the operating position, the rollers are engaged with the bag, the upper ends of the rail portions guide the rollers to their retracted positions, and when the rollers are in the retracted positions, they are tilted so as to increase the distance separating these rollers and facilitate positioning the bag within the wet feed discharge unit.

[0035] Advantageously, the retracted position is positioned above a fastening element for suspending the bag within the wet feed discharge unit.

[0036] According to yet another embodiment of the apparatus for discharging animal feed, the electromechanical device further comprises at least one roller support, preferably two roller supports, wherein the at least one support is connected to a motor or a servo motor that enables its translational movement inside the casing, and the at least one support is configured to hold one of two rollers configured to form a pivotal connection of the roller, and a second portion for holding the other roller, and the second portion of the support is configured to receive the other roller at a first portion of a recess corresponding to a position where the rollers approach each other or at a second portion of a recess corresponding to a position where the rollers move away from each other inside the casing. An oval-shaped recess is provided, and the first and second portions of the oval-shaped recess are offset from each other vertically and / or horizontally. Such a configured support facilitates inserting the bag between the rollers when installing the bag in the apparatus, while providing an efficient means of bringing the rollers closer together and thus squeezing the bag when the vertical downward movement of the rollers is initiated. The reason is that when the support is driven downward by the motor, the roller inserted into the oval-shaped recess moves upward to the first portion of the recess, bringing it closer to the other roller. When the support is not being translationally driven by the motor, the roller inserted into the oval-shaped recess descends to the second portion of the recess and then moves away from the other roller (enabling insertion or replacement of the bag).

[0037] The support extends, for example, in a substantially vertical plane at right angles to the main extension direction of the roller. The length of the oval-shaped recess can advantageously be oriented along an axis inclined with respect to the vertical direction, in particular along an axis forming an angle of 15 to 45 degrees, for example substantially equal to 20 degrees, with this vertical direction. According to one embodiment of the invention, each of the two rollers is rotatably mounted within the at least one support about the main axis of its extension. Each of the two rollers can be mounted, for example, to rotate freely about a rod, which itself is inserted into the at least one support.

[0038] According to yet another embodiment of the apparatus for discharging animal feed, the gripping element is means for clamping two opposite edges of the bag, consists of two clamps, at least one of the two clamps is electric, and each clamp is configured to hold the lower edge of the bag by clamping, and the lower edge is positioned at the lower part of the bag. This enables precise control of the opening and closing of the neck of the bag, and thus enables control of the effective discharge of each dose of wet feed without damaging the bag.

[0039] According to yet another embodiment of the apparatus for discharging animal feed, the apparatus further comprises a movable drawer in which the feed receptacle is arranged, the drawer being movably mounted inside the casing between an open position where the feed is accessible from the outside of the casing and a closed position where the feed is inaccessible from the outside of the casing, and the apparatus further comprises control means for the movable drawer capable of controlling the opening and closing of the movable drawer. This further enhances the bacteriological protection and antioxidant protection of the wet feed. The reason is that the drawer is opened by the control means only while the animal is eating the feed, so that after the wet feed is discharged into the receptacle, it remains protected from the air. If the animal does not eat all the wet feed, the drawer closes and the wet feed remains protected from oxidation and sources of contamination and fouling.

[0040] Advantageously, the movable drawer is a removable drawer, for example, clipped to the opening of the casing. This facilitates the removal of the drawer for easy cleaning.

[0041] According to another embodiment of the apparatus for discharging animal feed, the apparatus comprises elements for locking the position of the bag when received within the unit, such as a horizontal or vertical hinge, lock, or latch.

[0042] According to yet another embodiment of the apparatus for discharging animal feed, the feed receptacle is a removable and replaceable receptacle.

[0043] Advantageously, the feed discharging device further comprises a scale, for example an electronic scale, disposed within a movable drawer. Such a scale enables accurate measurement of each dose of wet feed discharged (by the difference in weight of the contents before and after the drawer is opened), as well as the weight of wet feed consumed by the animal.

[0044] By way of example, each feed receptacle is a magnetized bowl, which is mounted on a load cell module for measuring the weight of the bowl.

[0045] This load cell module can be powered from the main line. Alternatively, or as a redundant power source, it can comprise a circuit and battery space, to which one or more batteries are coupled.

[0046] According to yet another embodiment of the apparatus for discharging animal feed, the wet feed discharging unit further comprises means for fixing the upper part of the bag inside the casing.

[0047] Advantageously, the means for fixing the upper part of the bag inside the casing comprises a joe fixed inside the casing and configured to hold the upper part of the bag by substantially constricting its entire width. Such a joe securely holds the bag in place inside the casing and distributes the tension on the bag across the entire width of the casing. The joe is preferably covered on its surface that contacts the bag by a rubber strip, which defines, for example, an overlapping serrated pattern to facilitate constricting the bag by the joe.

[0048] According to yet another embodiment of the apparatus for discharging animal feed, the upper part of the wet feed discharging unit comprises a fastening element for suspending the bag, which is selected from the group consisting of a rod, a linear suspension rod, a suspension rod having an elongated body with a curved shape, a hook, and a hook whose cross-section increases towards the base of the hook. Preferably, the bases of these hooks have a circular cross-section. In practice, it is important that this cross-section has no angles so that no weak points occur in the bag.

[0049] Advantageously, the diameter of the bag hole intended to receive the hook is slightly smaller than the diameter of the corresponding hook base such that the material of the bag deforms when the bag hole comes into contact with the hook base. This deformation generates a bead of material in the part of the bag surrounding the hole, which causes more friction and thus ensures better gripping and improved retention of the bag in place.

[0050] This design also allows the bag to be pulled tighter by the constriction and / or pressing assembly and the block. It is then observed that the force is more evenly distributed.

[0051] According to yet another embodiment of the apparatus for discharging animal feed, the apparatus further comprises a data processing unit and a camera connected to the data processing unit, the data processing unit being connected to the control means of the electromechanical device, and the camera being positioned on the front face of the casing and configured to take an image in front of the casing.

[0052] Preferably, the camera is an infrared camera. The infrared camera is configured, for example, to exhibit a field of view substantially equal to 120 degrees.

[0053] According to yet another embodiment of the apparatus for discharging animal feed, the data processing unit comprises memory means for storing a neural network, and the neural network is trained to learn using training data including data from at least one database containing images of animals.

[0054] In this way, the data processing unit can detect the presence of a predetermined type of animal (e.g., the type of "cat") in front of the feed discharging device (especially by obesity detection via a camera), and thus start the feed supply sequence. For example, each dose of wet feed is extracted from the bag only when an animal corresponding to a predetermined type of animal (e.g., a cat) appears in front of the device. If the cat does not eat all of the dose of wet feed, the movable drawer closes, and the feed remains protected from oxidation and contamination. This gives the feed discharging device according to the present invention an automated and intelligent appearance. Preferably, the data processing unit is configured such that every time the neural network recognizes an animal corresponding to a predetermined type of animal within the field of view of the camera, the data processing unit stores a photo of the animal (taken by the camera) in its memory means.

[0055] According to yet another embodiment of the apparatus for discharging animal feed, the apparatus further comprises a unit for discharging dry feed such as kibble, and the dry feed discharging unit is disposed inside the casing.

[0056] Preferably, the dry feed discharging unit comprises an auger for discharging the dry feed.

[0057] Therefore, the feed discharging device configured as such can deliver dry and wet feed (mixed food), and can be controlled by electronic control means and by a (parameterized) data processing unit. In particular, it enables the user to easily and flexibly manage the increasing shift of their pet's (such as a cat) diet towards wet feed (for example, by gradually increasing the ratio of the calories provided by wet feed to the calories provided by dry feed). The feed discharging device is configured to have an autonomy of, for example, about 2 - 5 days with respect to a bag of wet feed and about 20 days with respect to the discharge of dry feed (until replenishment).

[0058] According to yet another embodiment of the device for discharging animal feed, the device comprises a light-emitting or audible indicator of the device operation, which is connected to the data processing unit and positioned on one side (for example, the front side) of the casing.

[0059] According to yet another embodiment of the device for discharging animal feed, the device comprises a speaker connected to the data processing unit and positioned on one side (for example, the front side) of the casing. The speaker is configured to broadcast, for example, a pre-recorded sound or voice within the data processing unit, typically the voice of the animal's owner intended to be delivered via the device according to the present invention (such broadcast of the voice is intended to call the animal to approach the device).

[0060] According to yet another embodiment of the device for discharging animal feed, the device further comprises wireless communication means, which is connected to the data processing unit and is based on, for example, the Wi-Fi protocol, the Bluetooth protocol, or any other protocol well known to those skilled in the art. The wireless communication means of the device can communicate with a mobile communication device and / or a remote server to enable, in particular, the setting of the feed dosage, the manual operation of the feed discharge, the reporting of various parameters, and the monitoring of the parameters.

[0061] According to yet another embodiment of the apparatus for discharging animal feed, the apparatus comprises a material recovery device such as a clam catcher.

[0062] This material recovery device is advantageously movable between a cleaning position and an operating position.

[0063] For example, the material recovery device can slide over the feed receptacle.

[0064] According to yet another embodiment of the apparatus for discharging animal feed, the apparatus comprises a member for tightening the lower fastener via a reverse screw.

[0065] By way of mere illustration, the apparatus can comprise a motor and two fasteners that move away from each other in opposite directions.

[0066] According to a second aspect, the invention also relates to a bag for wet animal feed, provided with a neck for opening the bag, the neck being deformable between an open position and a closed position and provided at the lower part of the bag.

[0067] According to the invention, this bag is adapted to be received within the wet feed discharge unit of the apparatus for discharging animal feed as described above, - the neck being a continuous lip, separable from each other to define an opening of the bag for a portion of the contents of the bag to pass through, and forming a sealing barrier when tension is applied to the lip by applying a pulling force to at least one of the portions of the bag positioned laterally on the neck; - the neck being configured to exhibit cross-sections of different shapes for at least two distinct open positions, one of the open positions being so-called forced and corresponding to a circular or substantially circular cross-sectional shape of the neck when a pushing force is applied to the neck; - The ratio of the width (LG) to the height (HG) of the head part is 1.5 to 10, preferably 2 to 4, and more preferably equal to 2.5 when the head part allows the wet feed to pass through and is not in a tense state, i.e., not under tension, so as to ensure a uniform flow of the wet feed through the head part.

[0068] Advantageously, the head of the above-mentioned bag has a technical feature that ensures a smooth flow of the contents of the bag when used or utilized together with the device for discharging the wet feed described above. This avoids, for example, the formation of jets of wet feed that would make it impossible to control the amount of wet feed discharged.

[0069] This bag is also characterized by at least two "stable opening geometries or shapes" for enabling adjustment of the rheology and / or the number of layers of the wet feed contained within the bag.

[0070] The "stable geometry or opening shape" of the bag head means that when a certain tension is applied to a part of the bag arranged laterally with respect to this head part, or conversely, when such tension does not exist, the configuration of the bag head maintains a stable state over time.

[0071] Preferably, the bag is made of a single plastic material such as a thermoplastic, advantageously a polyolefin such as polypropylene (PP).

[0072] According to an embodiment of the bag for wet animal feed, the bag is provided with means configured to cooperate with the throttling and / or pressing assembly and the gripping element of the feed discharging device, or the gripping element and the holding element, to enable the discharge of the wet feed.

[0073] According to another embodiment of the bag for wet animal feed, the bag has a substantially rectangular shape when laid flat and not filled with wet feed, and the bag is provided with four orifices positioned at four corners of the rectangle formed by the bag. Preferably, of the two orifices positioned at the upper corners of the rectangle formed by the bag, one orifice has an oval shape, the length of the oval orifice being oriented along the width of the rectangle formed by the bag, and the other orifice has a substantially triangular shape. Such configured orifices facilitate the installation and retention of the bag at the position of the wet feed discharge unit of the feed discharge device.

[0074] According to yet another embodiment of the bag for wet animal feed, the means (typically, bag fixing jaws) for fixing the upper part of the bag inside the casing are provided with a first pair of pins configured to be inserted into two orifices positioned at the upper corners of the rectangle formed by the bag. The means (typically, electric clamps) for gripping at least one edge of the bag are provided with a second pair of pins configured to be inserted into two orifices positioned at the lower corners of the rectangle formed by the bag. Such cooperation between the pins and the orifices of the bag enables easy installation of the bag within the wet feed discharge unit of the device.

[0075] According to yet another embodiment of the bag for wet animal feed, when the neck allows the passage of the wet feed and is not in a tense state, i.e., not under tension, the ratio of the height (HE) of the funnel to the width (LG) of the neck is greater than 1.5, preferably greater than 2.

[0076] According to a third aspect, the invention also relates to an assembly comprising a device for discharging the animal feed described above and a bag for the animal feed described above, wherein the bag for wet feed is installed within the device and received within the wet feed discharge unit of the device.

[0077] According to a fourth aspect, the present invention is a method for discharging wet animal feed, implemented by the wet feed discharge unit of the device for discharging animal feed described above, the method comprising: - installing the bag of wet feed described above in the wet feed discharge unit such that the neck of the bag extends opposite the feed receptacle; - actuating the control means of the electromechanical device to control the discharge of wet feed from the bag to the feed receptacle, the actuation of the control means moving the clamping means towards a position pressing towards at least one edge neck of the bag to enable the opening of the neck, and controlling.

[0078] According to one embodiment of the present invention, the data processing unit actuates the control means of the electromechanical device to control the discharge of wet feed from the bag to the feed receptacle, and the actuation occurs when an animal corresponding to the type of animal is present within the field of view of the camera and the neural network recognizes the predetermined type of the animal.

[0079] According to one embodiment of the present invention, each actuation of the control means of the electromechanical device also results in a vertical downward movement at the vertical downward pitch of two rollers inside the casing, and the length by which the rollers descend at the vertical downward pitch is predetermined and corresponds to the discharge of a predetermined dose of wet feed.

[0080] According to yet another aspect of the present invention, this aspect is a device for discharging animal feed, the device comprising a casing including a feed receptacle and a wet feed discharge unit, the wet feed discharge unit being adapted to receive a removable bag of wet feed, adapted to be held and fixed within the housing, and provided with a neck for opening the bag, the neck being deformable at least between an open position and a closed position, provided at the lower part of the bag, and arranged facing the feed receptacle when the bag is received within the wet feed discharge unit, the wet feed discharge unit being - An electromechanical device for supplying wet feed from a bag to a feed receptacle, and - Control means for the electromechanical device capable of controlling the delivery of wet feed from the bag to the feed receptacle. The present invention relates to a device including these.

[0081] According to the present invention, the upper part of the wet feed discharge unit is provided with fastening elements for suspending the upper part of the bag, and these fastening elements are hooks having a base with a circular or substantially circular cross-section.

[0082] Preferably, the base of each of these hooks has a circular cross-section.

[0083] In practice, it is important that this cross-section has no angle so that no weak point occurs in the bag.

[0084] Advantageously, the diameter of the bag hole intended to receive the hook is slightly smaller than the diameter of the corresponding hook base such that the material of the bag deforms when the bag hole comes into contact with the hook base. This deformation generates a bead of material in a part of the bag surrounding the hole, which creates more friction and thus ensures better gripping and improved retention of the bag in place.

[0085] This design also allows the bag to be pulled tighter by a throttling and / or pressing assembly and block. Advantageously, it is observed that the force is more evenly distributed.

[0086] These hooks can be curved, for example.

[0087] According to the present invention, the terms "horizontal", "vertical" or "lateral", "lower", "upper", "top", "bottom", "side" are defined with respect to the orientation of the feed discharge device. In particular, in the present application, the term "vertical" refers to an orientation perpendicular to the horizontal line, while the term "horizontal" refers to an orientation parallel to the horizontal line.

Brief Description of the Drawings

[0088] The present invention will be described in more detail by way of non - limiting embodiments and with reference to the accompanying drawings.

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[0089] Figures 1 to 3, 5, and 7 show an assembly 1 including an apparatus 2 for discharging animal feed 2 and a bag of wet animal feed 4 installed within the apparatus 2. The apparatus 2 is typically designed to discharge feed for small pets such as cats or dogs.

[0090] The feed discharging device 2 includes a casing 6, inside which at least one feed receptacle 8A, 8B, a wet feed discharging unit 10, a dry feed discharging unit 12, a scale, a data processing unit, and wireless communication means are arranged (for clarity, the last three elements are not shown). Preferably, as shown in FIGS. 1 to 4, 7, 9, and 10, the feed receptacles 8A, 8B are arranged inside a drawer 14 movably mounted inside the casing 6, and the feed discharging device 2 further includes means for controlling the movable drawer 14 (not shown for clarity). Even more preferably, the feed discharging device 2 is connected to the data processing unit and further includes a camera 16 positioned on one side of the casing 6, typically on the front side 18 of the casing 6 (the front side 18 of the casing 6 defined as the side facing the animal when feeding is desired). Even more preferably, the feed discharging device 2 is connected to the data processing unit and further includes a light or acoustic indicator 19 for indicating the operation 2 of the device, positioned on one side of the casing 6, typically on the front side 18 of the casing 6. Even more preferably, the feed discharging device 2 is a speaker (not shown for clarity), connected to the data processing unit and positioned on one side of the casing 6, typically on the front side 18 of the casing 6. Even more preferably, the feed discharging device 2 is connected to the data processing unit and further includes an interface (not shown for clarity) for manually controlling the device 2, positioned on one side of the casing 6, typically on the upper side 20 of the casing 6. The feed discharging device 2 further includes a series of servo motors and sensors, which are not described in more detail herein. As shown in FIGS. 1 to 4 and 7 to 10, the casing 6 is preferably provided with a door 21 pivotally mounted to the casing 6 and providing access to the inside of the casing 6 when opened.

[0091] In a particular embodiment shown in FIGS. 2 and 4, the feed discharging device 2 comprises two feed receptacles 8A, 8B, namely a first receptacle 8A for receiving wet feed and a second receptacle 8B for receiving dry feed. The first feed receptacle 8A is arranged opposite the wet feed bag 4. The second feed receptacle 8B is arranged opposite the dry feed discharging unit 12 (the latter is a conventional dry feed discharging unit which, although not described in more detail below, particularly comprises a dry feed reservoir). The dry feed is, for example, (but not limited to) dry kibble. Each feed receptacle 8A, 8B is, for example, a removable and replaceable receptacle. The drawer 14 is movably mounted inside the casing 6 between an open position (shown in FIGS. 2 and 4) where the feed is accessible from the outside of the casing and a closed position (shown in FIGS. 1, 3, 7, 9, and 10) where the feed is inaccessible from the outside of the casing 6. The movable drawer 14 is, for example, clipped to an opening formed in the casing 6. Thus, the movable drawer 14 can be unclipped from the casing 6 in order to easily clean the entire drawer 14. Control means for the movable drawer 14 can control the opening and closing of the movable drawer 14. In the particular embodiment shown in FIGS. 2 and 4, the movable drawer 14 also includes another removable "clam catcher" type receptacle 22. Such a "clam catcher" type receptacle 22 collects residues of wet feed that can fall from the bag 4 when the movable drawer 14 is in its open position or when the movable drawer 14 is in its translational movement between its open and closed positions. A scale (not shown), which is an electronic device scale connected, for example, to a data processing unit, is arranged inside the movable drawer 14. Such a scale enables an accurate measurement of the weight of each dose of wet food discharged (by the difference in weight of the contents of the drawer 14 before and after the drawer is opened) as well as the weight of the wet food consumed by the animal.

[0092] The wet feed discharging unit 10 comprises an electromechanical device 24 for supplying wet feed from the bag 4 to the first feed receptacle 8A, and means (not shown in the figures, but for example connected to or comprising a data processing unit) for controlling the electromechanical device 24. The control means for the electromechanical device 24 can control the delivery of wet feed from the bag 4 to the first feed receptacle 8A. The wet feed is, for example, (but not limited to) pet food for animals. Preferably, the wet feed discharging unit 10 further comprises means 25 for fixing the upper part of the bag 4 inside the casing 6.

[0093] The bag 4 of wet animal feed is removably attached to the feed discharging device 2 and received within the wet feed discharging unit 10 of the device 2. More precisely, as can be seen from FIGS. 2, 3, 7, and 8, the bag 4 of wet feed is held and fixed inside the casing 6, in particular by means 25 for fixing the upper part of the bag 4. The bag 4 is provided with a neck 26 for opening the bag 4, provided at the lower part of the bag 4. The neck 26 is deformable between an open position (shown in FIG. 14) and a closed position (shown in FIGS. 2, 3, 5, 7, 8, and 13), and is arranged opposite the first feed receptacle 8A when the bag 4 is received within the wet feed discharging unit 10. The neck 26 is configured to be selectively opened and closed by pushing or pulling at least one edge 27A, 27B of the bag 4.

[0094] According to certain embodiments of the present invention shown in FIGS. 2, 3, and 5-8, the bag 4 for wet feed is formed by two walls (in particular, two substantially rectangular walls), joined together over a part 28A of their outer peripheral portion 28, defining a volume therebetween for receiving the wet feed. As shown in FIG. 6, the two walls are not connected at another part 28B of their outer peripheral portion 28, and this other part 28B is configured to form a neck 26 for opening the bag 4. Thus, the neck 26 comprises two lips, each lip forming a separate wall of the bag, the two lips being spaced apart in the open position of the neck 26 (seen in FIG. 14), and the two lips being in contact with each other and extending parallel to each other in the closed position of the neck 26 (seen in FIGS. 2, 3, 5, 7, 8, and 13). Preferably, as shown in FIG. 14, the neck 26 has an eye-shaped cross-section in its open position. In an alternative embodiment not shown, the neck 26 has a substantially circular or oval cross-section in its open position.

[0095] The wall of the bag 4 is made of, for example, a metallic material such as aluminum or an aluminum-based alloy, or a plastic material such as polypropylene. For example, the use of this polypropylene material ensures the recyclability of the bag 4. The wall of the bag 4 has one or more internal seams 30 on their inner side, connecting the walls to each other inside the bag 4. Preferably, as shown in FIG. 6, the wall of the bag 4 has two internal seams 30 on their inner surface, connecting the walls to each other inside the bag 4, and the two internal seams 30 are arranged to form a "V" shape when the bag 4 is placed flat and not filled with wet feed. The two internal seams 30 have a symmetrical configuration around the central longitudinal plane of the bag (such a plane is a vertical plane that extends at a right angle to the extended surface of the rectangle formed by the bag when the feed is empty), and each internal seam 30 extends in directions D1, D2 that form angles a1, a2 with the direction corresponding to the length of the rectangle formed by the bag (this direction is also the vertical direction) when the feed is empty. Preferably, as shown in FIG. 6, each of the angles a1, a2 is between 25 degrees and 35 degrees, preferably substantially equal to 30 degrees. The internal seams 30 are interconnected to form a funnel 32 inside the bag 4, in fluid communication with the opening neck 26 of the bag 4. Such a funnel shape makes it possible to efficiently and fluidly guide the wet feed downward through the bag 4, particularly towards the neck 26 having a smaller diameter. This ensures a controlled and stable flow of the wet feed from the neck 26 of the bag 4, regardless of the lowering height of the rollers 36A, 36B (see below) with respect to the bag 4.

[0096] As shown in FIG. 6, the wet feed bag 4 is provided with four orifices 34A, 34B, 34C, 34D to enable the bag to be fixed within the wet feed discharge unit 10 inside the casing 6. The four orifices 34A, 34B, 34C, 34D are positioned at the four corners of the rectangle formed by the bag 4 when the bag is lying flat and the feed is empty. Two first "top" orifices 34A, 34B are positioned at the upper corners of the rectangle formed by the bag 4. One of these orifices 34A has an oval shape and the length of this orifice 34A is oriented along the width of the rectangle formed by the bag 4. The other orifice 34B positioned at the upper corner of the rectangle formed by the bag 4 is substantially triangular in shape. Two further "bottom" orifices 34C, 34D, which are typically circular, are positioned at the lower corners of the rectangle formed by the bag 4. Preferably, as shown in FIG. 6, the top orifices 34A, 34B are each vertically aligned with the corresponding bottom orifices 34C, 34D and have a lateral variation of ±1 cm. The bottom orifices 34C, 34D are each spaced apart from the edge of the neck 26 by a distance, for example, between 2.5 cm and 5.5 cm, preferably substantially equal to 4 cm.

[0097] Preferably, as can be seen particularly from FIGS. 3, 5, and 6, the wet feed bag 4 is provided with a lid 35 at its lower part to protect the neck 26 which projects downwardly below the neck 26. The protective lid 35 seals the neck 26 before the bag 4 is used and thus prevents any loss of feed before the bag is placed within the device 2. FIGS. 7, 8, 13, and 14 show the bag 4 in use within the device 2 (for discharging wet feed) and the lid 35 has been previously removed by the user to enable the neck 26 to function. The lid 35 is advantageously scored to facilitate the user in tearing it off.

[0098] As an example, after the bag 4 is opened and the lid 35 is peeled off, the neck portion 26 has a length of 16 mm to 24 mm, preferably about 20 mm. In its closed position, for example, the neck portion 26 has a width of 16 mm to 24 mm, preferably substantially equal to 20 mm, and the width is measured in the thickness direction of the bag 4.

[0099] As a further indication, when the neck portion 26 has a substantially circular cross-section in its open position, the diameter of the neck portion 26 is, for example, 11 mm to 15 mm, preferably substantially equal to 13 mm.

[0100] The electromechanical device 24 includes means 36A, 36B for squeezing and / or pressing the bag 4, and means 38 for clamping at least one edge 27A, 27B of the bag 4. The electromechanical device 24 further includes at least one motor or servo motor 40, for example an electric servo motor 40, connected to the squeezing means 38 to enable its operation. Preferably, when the squeezing and / or pressing means 36A, 36B are rollers (see below), the electromechanical device 24 further includes two parts 42 for supporting the rollers 36A, 36B, and a further motor or servo motor (not shown) connected to the rollers 36A, 36B to enable their operation.

[0101] The clamping means 38 is mounted so as to be movable between a pressing position where one edge 27A of the bag 4 is pushed towards the neck portion 26 (the position shown in FIG. 14 corresponding to the open position of the neck portion 26), and a pulling position where the edge 27A of the bag 4 is pulled away from the neck portion 26 (the position corresponding to the closed position of the neck portion 26 shown in FIGS. 2, 3, 5, 7, 8, and 13). Accordingly, the clamping means 38 is configured to selectively open and close the neck portion 26 of the bag 4.

[0102] In a specific embodiment shown in FIGS. 1 to 14, the throttle means 38 is a means for squeezing two opposing bottom edges 27A, 27B of the bag 4, and consists of two clamps 38A, 38B. Each clamp 38A, 38B has two flaps, one of which is pivotally mounted (e.g., by a hinge) relative to the other. Each clamp 38A, 38B is configured to clamp one of the lower edges 27A, 27B of the bag 4. Thus, when the bag 4 is held by the clamps 38A, 38B, the two clamps 38A, 38B are arranged on both sides of the neck 26 of the bag 4. At least one of the two clamps 38A, 38B is connected to an electric servo motor 40 (in the example shown in the figure, the first clamp 38A is connected to the electric servo motor 40). Thus, the first clamp 38A is mounted so as to move horizontally between a push position where the edge 27A of the bag 4 is pushed towards the neck 26 and a pull position where the edge 27A of the bag 4 is pulled away from the neck 26, and the translational movement of the first clamp 38A exists in a plane substantially the same as the extension plane of the bag 4 when the feed is empty. As shown in FIGS. 3, 8, 10, and 11, to enable efficient positioning and holding of the bag 4 in the clamps 38A, 38B (the bottom orifices 34C, 34D are positioned at the lower edges 27B, 27A of the bag 4 held by the corresponding clamps 38A, 38B), each clamp 38A, 38B is provided with pins 44A, 44B designed to be inserted into one of the bottom orifices 34C, 34D of the bag 4, for example, on the inner surface of one of its wings. Preferably, each clamp 38A, 38B is provided with means 46 for locking the bag 4 in place in the clamps 38A, 38B, and such means 46 is, for example, a latch for locking the flap of the clamp.

[0103] In a specific example shown in FIGS. 1 to 14, the means 36A, 36B comprise two parallel electric rollers for squeezing and / or pressing the bag 4. Each roller 36A, 36B extends in a lateral direction (preferably perpendicular) with respect to the vertical direction. The bag 4 extends between the rollers 36A, 36B and is held by being squeezed between the rollers 36A, 36B. The neck portion 26 of the bag 4 extends below the rollers 36A, 36B and faces the first feed receptacle 8A. The two parallel rollers 36A, 36B extend in the same horizontal plane when in the position of squeezing the bag 4. The electrification of the two rollers 36A, 36B is achieved through the following arrangement shown, for example, in FIGS. 8 to 12, that is, the ends of each roller 36A, 36B are received within two supports 42, and each support 42 is mounted so as to be movable in a vertical translational movement on the vertical rail 48. The two supports 42 are connected to each other via a horizontal cross-piece 50 extending across the back of the rollers 36A, 36B, and each support 42 extends in front of the horizontal cross-piece 50. The horizontal cross-piece 50 has a central opening 52 through which the auger 54 can pass. The auger 54 is mechanically connected to the aforementioned servo motor shaft together with the rollers 36A, 36B. The opening 52 is sized to match the diameter of the auger 54 and is threaded such that its internal thread cooperates with the thread of the auger 54. In this way, when the servo motor is actuated, the auger 54 rotates, which in turn causes the assembly consisting of the horizontal cross-bar 50, the support parts 42, and the rollers 36A, 36B to translate vertically, and this vertical translational movement is performed along the vertical rail 48.

[0104] As shown in FIG. 12, each support portion 42 includes a first portion 56 for holding one of the two rollers 36A and a second portion 58 for holding the other roller 36B. Each support portion 42 extends in a substantially vertical plane. The first portion 56 of the support portion 42 is configured to form a pivotal connection of the roller 36A it holds. As shown in FIG. 12, the first portion 56 of the component 42 consists of, for example, a circular orifice into which one end of the first roller 36A is inserted. The second portion 58 of the component 42 is provided with an oval-shaped recess 60, which is in the first portion 60A of the recess 60 corresponding to the position where the rollers 36A and 36B approach each other or in the second portion 60B of the recess 60 corresponding to the position where the rollers 36A and 36B move away from each other, in response to the translational movement of the rollers 36A and 36B of the casing 6, and is configured to receive the second roller 36B. Thus, when a downward pressure is applied to the support portion 42, for example, via the action of a servomotor on the auger 54 (for pushing the wet feed below the bag 4), the second roller 36B rises from the second portion 60B of the recess 60 to the first portion 60A of this recess 60. Thus, this movement brings the second roller 36B closer to the first roller 36A. In the absence of pressure applied to the support portion 42, the second roller 36B returns to the second portion 60B of the recess 60, separating the rollers 36A and 36B from each other. The first portion 60A and the second portion 60B of the oval-shaped recess 60 are offset from each other vertically and horizontally. The length of the oval-shaped recess 60 can advantageously be oriented along an axis D3 inclined with respect to the vertical direction, in particular along an axis D3 forming an angle a3 equal to, for example, substantially 20 degrees, which is between 15 and 45 degrees with respect to this vertical direction. Each support portion 42 is made of, for example, a plastic material.

[0105] In the particular embodiment shown in the figure, each of the two rollers 36A, 36B is preferably rotatably mounted around the main axis of the extension of each of the two support portions 42. Each of the two rollers 36A, 36B is mounted, for example, to rotate freely around a rod, and the rod itself is inserted into each of the two support portions 42.

[0106] The means 36A, 36B for squeezing and / or pressing the bag 4 presses the bag 4 to gradually move the wet feed contained in the bag 4 downward to the bottom of the bag, thus applying pressure to the neck 26 of the bag 4 to ensure a good flow and a controlled speed of the wet feed when the neck 26 is in its open position. Advantageously, regardless of the position of the rollers 36A, 36B, in order to control the flow of the wet feed and the uniform discharge of the dosage, a linear regression method can be implemented in the data processing unit to control the movement (profile, speed, pressure, descent height, etc.) of the rollers 36A, 36B. Therefore, the wet feed discharge unit 10 is provided with at least one sensor (not shown, connected to the data processing unit) for measuring the vertical position of the rollers 36A, 36B. A slight upward and downward movement of the rollers 36A, 36B (over a very short length compared to the total descent range of the rollers 36A, 36B) can be executed by the control means after each delivery of a certain dosage of wet feed. This creates a slight play at the top of the bag 4 to facilitate the subsequent discharge of the wet feed. Means 38 for clamping at least one edge 27A, 27B of the bag 4 are used to control the opening and closing of the bag 4. The specific configuration of the wet feed bag 4 (and in particular its deformable neck 26), combined with the presence of the electromechanical devices 24 of the means 36A, 36B for squeezing and / or pressing the bag 4 and the means 38 for clamping at least one edge 27A, 27B of the bag 4, enables the feed discharge device 2 according to the invention to thereby administer an accurate amount of wet feed suitable for animals (in particular, to deliver an accurate individualized dosage of feed, typically a dosage of wet feed in the range of 10 g to 100 g).

[0107] Therefore, the means 38 for clamping at least one edge 27A, 27B of the bag 4 ensures a sealed (airtight) closure of the bag 4 when the device 2 is not being used by an animal (in particular, when no animal is recognized by the data processing unit - see below). The interior of the neck 26 (and thus of the bag 4) remains airtight except during the discharge period of the wet feed, due to the sealing of the neck 26. The opening surface of the neck 26 is minimal, is sealed almost all the time, has no residue (which would fall by gravity), and is completely enclosed inside the machine (not in contact with the pet or insect), so that the contents of the open bag 4 remain in an air-shielded and bacteria-shielded state throughout the discharge process. This ensures efficient bacteriological and antioxidant protection of the wet feed.

[0108] In the specific embodiment shown in the figure, the means 25 for fixing the upper part of the bag 4 inside the casing 6 consists of a joe fixed inside the casing 6. The joe 25 extends over substantially the entire width of the rectangle formed by the bag 4 and comprises two flaps, one of which is pivotally mounted (e.g. by a hinge) with respect to the other leaf. The joe 25 is configured to clamp (or grip) the upper part over substantially the entire width of the bag 4. The surface of the joe 25 that contacts the bag 4 is preferably covered by a rubber strip, and such a rubber strip (not seen in the figure) defines, for example, a serrated tangle (not shown) to facilitate squeezing the bag 4 by the joe 25.

[0109] As shown in FIGS. 3, 8, and 11, the joe 25 is provided with two pins 62A, 62B, for example, on the inner surface of one of its wings, which are inserted into two top orifices 34A, 34B of the bag 4, respectively, and are designed to enable efficient positioning and holding of the bag 4 in the joe 25. For example, the outer flap of the joe 25 is provided with two orifices corresponding to the shapes of the pins 62A, 62B (and the two top orifices 34A, 34B of the bag 4) to allow these pins 62A, 62B to pass through when the joe 25 is closed. Preferably, the joe 25 has means 66 for locking at least one (advantageously, two in the example shown in the figure) bag 4 in place in the joe 25, and such means 66 is, for example, a latch for locking the flap of the joe 25.

[0110] The data processing unit is connected to the control means of the electromechanical device 24 and to the control means of the movable drawer 14. Alternatively, the data processing unit constitutes such control means. The data processing unit is also connected to wireless communication means. The data processing unit comprises memory means for storing a neural network. The neural network has already been trained using training data comprising data from at least one database containing images of animals (typically, images of cats). In this way, the data processing unit can detect the presence of a predetermined type of animal (e.g., of the "cat" type) in front of the feed dispensing device 2 (in particular, by means of obesity detection via the camera 16), and thus can initiate a feed supply sequence. Preferably, the data processing unit is configured such that, each time the neural network recognizes an animal corresponding to a predetermined type of animal within the field of view of the camera 16, the data processing unit stores a photograph of the animal (taken by the camera 16) in its memory means. Storing such photographs makes it possible to inform the owner of the animal that the animal has been recognized by the device 2 and thus that the device 2 has triggered the dispensing of feed. In a second stage, anonymized photographs of the animals can be used to feed training data to the neural network.

[0111] The data processing unit is implemented, for example, in the form of a microcontroller or a printed circuit board (PCB) with integrated firmware. The firmware comprises, for example, an artificial intelligence module for storing the neural network.

[0112] The wireless communication means of device 2 can communicate with a (fixed or mobile) communication device and / or a remote server, and in particular, enable the configuration of the feed dosage, the manual operation of the feed discharge, the reporting of various parameters, and the monitoring of parameters. Therefore, the wireless communication means of device 2 is configured to transmit and / or receive data to and / or from a mobile communication device and / or a remote server through a wireless network. The communication device is, for example, (but not limited to) a smartphone, a tablet, or a computer, and a dedicated web application for enabling the remote control of device 2 and the use of various configuration, reporting, and parameter monitoring functions is installed on them.

[0113] The camera 16 is configured to capture an image in front of the casing 6. Preferably, the camera 16 is an infrared camera. The infrared camera 16 is configured to show a field of view substantially equal to 120 degrees, for example.

[0114] The method of operating the feed discharging device 2 according to the present invention, and particularly the method of discharging wet feed, which is carried out by the wet feed discharging unit 10 of the device 2, will be described below. First, the user of the device 2 installs the bag 4 of wet feed into the wet feed discharging unit 10 such that the neck 26 of the bag 4 extends opposite to the first feed receptacle 8A. To do so, the user opens the door 21 of the casing 6, opens the clamps 38A, 38B, and the jaw 25, inserts the bag 4 between the rollers 36A, 36B from the bottom to the top, and then adjusts the bag 4 so as to insert the pins 44A, 44B into the bottom orifices 34C, 34D and the pins 62A, 62B into the top orifices 34A, 34B. The user then closes the clamps 38A, 38B and the jaw 25, locks the latches 46, 66, and peels off the lid 35 from the bag 4. As shown in FIG. 13, the neck 26 of the bag 4 is in its sealed position, and the means 38 for gripping at least one edge 27A, 27B of the bag 4 is in a position where the edge 27A is pulled away from the neck 26. The user then closes the door 21. First, the drawer 14 is in its closed position (shown in FIGS. 1, 3, 7, 9, and 10).

[0115] The method for discharging wet feed includes subsequent steps including activating control means of the electromechanical device 24 to control the discharge of wet feed from the bag 4 to the first feed receptacle 8A. The activation of this control means is performed manually, for example, by the user (via the manual control interface of the device 2 or remotely via the user's mobile communication device), or automatically by the data processing unit after the neural network recognizes that an animal corresponding to a predetermined type of animal (e.g., a cat) is present within the field of view of the camera 16. In the latter case, the data processing unit stores a photo of the animal (taken by the camera 16) in its memory means.

[0116] The operation of the control means of the electromechanical device 24 moves the means 36A, 36B for wringing and / or pressing the bag 4 and the means 38 for clamping at least one edge 27A, 27B of the bag 4. In particular, at least one of the two clamps 38A, 38B (in this case, the first clamp 38A in the example shown in the figure) moves horizontally in translation between a pulling position (shown in FIG. 13) where the edge 27A of the bag 4 is pulled away from the neck 26 and a pressing position (shown in FIG. 14) where the edge 27A of the bag 4 is pushed towards the neck 26. This movement of the first clamp 38A deforms and moves the neck 26 from its closed position to its open position. Then, the two rollers 36A, 36B descend vertically inside the casing 6 at a vertical descent pitch. The length by which the rollers 36A, 36B descend at this vertical descent pitch is predetermined (for example, via the implementation of a linear regression method within a data processing unit) and corresponds to the discharge of a predetermined dose of wet feed into the first feed receptacle 8A. It should be noted, therefore, that the length by which the rollers 36A, 36B descend at this vertical descent pitch can vary depending on the vertical position of the rollers 36A, 36B within the casing 6.

[0117] When a predetermined dose of wet feed is discharged into the first feed container 8A (i.e., when the rollers 36A, 36B complete their vertical downward movement at their vertical movement pitch), at least one of the two clamps 38A, 38B (in this case, the first clamp 38A in the example shown in the figure) moves horizontally between a position where the edge 27A of the bag 4 is pushed towards the neck 26 (shown in FIG. 14) and a position where the edge 27A of the bag 4 is pulled away from the neck 26 (shown in FIG. 13). This movement of the first clamp 38A deforms and moves the neck 26 from its open position to its closed position. In addition, the data processing unit activates the control means of the movable drawer 14 and then controls the movement of the movable drawer 14 towards its open position (shown in FIGS. 2 and 4). Then, the animal can access the discharged dose of wet feed. When automatically recognizing the presence of an animal within the field of view of the camera 16, thus, each dose of wet feed is extracted from the bag 4 only when an animal corresponding to a predetermined type of animal (e.g., a cat) appears in front of the device 2. If the animal does not eat all of the discharged dose of wet feed, the movable drawer 14 closes and the discharged wet feed remains protected from oxidation and contamination.

[0118] In the context of the steps of the method detailed above, the discharge of dry feed through the device 2 has not been discussed, but such discharge will of course be effected subsequently by manually controlling the dry feed discharge unit 12 by the user and / or through the detection of the animal by the neural network to deliver a dose of dry feed.

[0119] FIGS. 15 and 16 show an assembly according to another embodiment of the invention, comprising a feed discharge device and a bag of wet feed, as seen from the rear.

[0120] Elements having the same reference numerals as the elements shown in FIGS. 1 to 4 represent the same objects and will not be described again below.

[0121] This discharging device 40 is different from the above-described device in that it has six fastening hooks 41 for suspending the bag, which are positioned above the wet feed discharging unit 10.

[0122] These fastening hooks 41 have a flare shape with an increasing cross-section towards the base of the hook in this case, and are designed to cooperate with corresponding orifices positioned at the upper end of the bag for suspending the bag.

[0123] The number of orifices depends on the rheology of the wet feed contained in the bag 4, the strength of the motor, and the material forming the bag 4.

[0124] The feed discharging device 2 further comprises guide rail portions 42 positioned opposite to each other at the upper part of the casing, and the guide rail portions 42 enable guiding the rollers 43 between the storage position or the retracted position and the operating position. The upper ends of these guide rail portions 42 for bringing the rollers 43 to their retracted positions are inclined, increasing the separation distance of these rollers 43 when the rollers 43 are in their retracted positions, and thus facilitating the positioning of the bag of the wet feed discharging unit 10.

[0125] Figs. 17 and 18 show different hook geometries for suspending the bag above the wet feed discharging unit 10.

[0126] Figs. 19 and 20 show partial enlarged views of the animal feed discharging device 2 according to a further embodiment.

[0127] In particular, these figures represent the lower part of the casing 6 of the feed discharging device 2 that houses the feed receptacles 8A, 8B mounted in the movable drawer 50.

[0128] This drawer 50 is movable between an extended position that is disposed at least partially outside the casing 6 to enable feeding of an animal, and a position for discharging a sample into each of the bowls 8A, 8B, in which the movable drawer 50 is received within the casing 6 such that, in particular, the bowl 8A is positioned under the neck 26 of the bag 4.

[0129] A scale, such as an electronic scale, is disposed within the movable drawer 50. Such a scale enables accurate measurement of each dose of wet feed discharged (by the difference in weight of the contents between before and after the drawer is opened), as well as the weight of wet feed consumed by the animal. By way of example, each feed receptacle 8A, 8B is a magnetized bowl, which is mounted on a corresponding load cell 51 for measuring the weight of the bowls 8A, 8B.

[0130] FIG. 21 shows a material recovery device 52, such as a clam collector, according to one particular embodiment of the present invention. As shown, this clam catcher 52 is disposed in an operating position within the lower portion of the casing 6, whereby, being positioned under the neck 26 of the bag 4, any material lost from the bag after the bag is sealed can be recovered.

[0131] In this operating position of the clam catcher 52, the movable drawer 50 is in the extended position, whereby the bowls 8A, 8B are outside the casing 6 and accessible to the animal for feeding.

[0132] To reach the feed discharge position (not shown), the clam catcher 52 and the movable drawer 50 supporting the bowls 8A, 8B are simultaneously moved, whereby the clam catcher 52 is moved from its operating position to a cleaning position incorporating a housing provided for cleaning, and then the bowl 8A is positioned under the neck 26 of the bag 4.

[0133] FIG. 22 shows a discharge unit 20 for dry feed, such as kibble, according to one particular embodiment.

[0134] This dry feed discharge unit 20 features an auger 60 for discharging this dry feed.

[0135] Advantageously, the groove of this auger 60 is 1.5 cm ± 0.3 cm.

[0136] Figures 23 and 24 are schematic partial representations of one block 70 of the electromechanical device of the wet feed discharge unit according to another specific embodiment of the present invention.

[0137] This block 70 includes a gripping element formed by gripping jaws 71, 72 disposed laterally with respect to the neck 4 from each of the opposing faces of the bag 4 for gripping a portion of the bag.

[0138] This gripping jaw includes two jaw portions 71, 72 which can be inclined relative to each other about a swivel axis 73 and each has a gripping surface.

[0139] These gripping surfaces include complementary shapes and mating shapes such as protrusions 74 and recesses 75 having complementary shapes and disposed opposite to each other, so that when the gripping jaws 71, 72 are closed around a portion of the bag, each shape is received within the corresponding mating shape, thus reinforcing the gripping of a portion of the bag gripped by the gripping element.

[0140] Figure 25 shows a bag 80 according to another embodiment of the present invention.

[0141] This bag 80 has the following parameters. - HU, the "effective height" of the bag, corresponding to the height of the receptacle, measured between the bottom of the top seam of the bag and the top of the neck after the tab is opened. - HL, the free height of the receptacle, measured between the bottom of the top seam of the bag and the starting point of the inner seam extending away from the lateral edge. - HE is the height of the funnel, measured between the starting point of the internal seam extending from the lateral edge of the bag and the bottom of the neck after opening. - LG is the width of the neck, measured flush with the closed bag. This is the width, not the diameter. - HG is the height of the neck, measured between the height at which the internal seam is parallel to the edge of the bag and the bottom of the neck after opening. - LBS is the width of the splicing strip.

[0142] The bag 80 for wet animal feed preferably has values within the following ranges. - LG is 1.5 to 5 cm. - HG is 0.5 to 3 cm. - The ratio of LG to HG is 1.5 to 10, preferably 2 to 4, and even more preferably equal to 2.5. - The ratio of HE to LG is greater than 1.5, and even more preferably greater than 2.

[0143] Such values regarding the structure of the bag for wet animal feed are found to ensure uniform discharge of the wet feed contained in the bag when the latter is implemented together with the feed discharging device of the present invention.

Claims

1. A device (2) for dispensing animal feed, comprising a casing (6) including a feed receptacle (8A) and a wet feed dispensing unit (10), wherein the wet feed dispensing unit (10) is adapted to receive a removable bag (4) of wet feed, and the wet feed dispensing unit (10) is configured to ensure the holding and securing of the bag (4), so that the latter then extends at least partially along the main shaft, and the bag is provided with a neck (26) having an opening for the bag (4), the neck (26) is deformable at least between an open position and a closed position, is provided at the bottom of the bag (4), and is positioned facing the feed receptacle (8A) when the bag (4) is received in the wet feed dispensing unit (10), and the wet feed dispensing unit (10) - An electromechanical device (24) for supplying wet feed from the bag (4) to the feed receptacle (8A), - Includes control means for the electromechanical device (24) that can control the delivery of wet feed from the bag (4) to the feed receptacle (8A), The aforementioned electromechanical device (24) - A block comprising at least one gripping element for holding a portion of the bag positioned laterally with respect to the neck, wherein the gripping element is mounted for translational motion along an axis that is lateral or substantially lateral with respect to the main axis, and a motor for driving the movement of the gripping element between a position for pulling away the portion of the bag thus held, corresponding to the neck open position, and a position for pulling away the portion of the bag thus held, corresponding to the neck closed position. - If the electromechanical device (24) comprises two blocks, the blocks are configured to hold a first portion and a second portion of the bag located laterally with respect to the neck portion, and are positioned on both sides thereof. - If the electromechanical device (24) includes a single block for gripping the first portion of the bag located laterally to the neck, it includes at least one retaining element for holding the second portion of the bag located laterally to the neck, and the first and second portions are positioned on both sides of the neck, and Apparatus (2), wherein the block, or the block and the retaining element, are configured to allow selective opening and closing of the neck, and tensioning the first and second portions of the bag to a pulled position closes the neck, thereby ensuring bacteriological and antioxidant protection of the wet feed.

2. The apparatus for dispensing animal feed according to claim 1 (2), wherein each gripping element is configured to grip a portion of the bag positioned between the neck and a corresponding lateral edge of the bag, and the neck is removable.

3. The apparatus for dispensing animal feed according to claim 1, characterized in that the holding element is a fixed gripping element or a lug.

4. The apparatus for dispensing animal feed (2) according to claim 1, wherein the neck of the bag has at least two stable opening geometries, and when each block holds a corresponding portion of the bag disposed laterally relative to the neck at a predetermined open position of the neck, each block is configured to selectively move from the closed position of the neck to each open position, each of which is reached by the translational motion of at least one block along the transverse axis.

5. The apparatus (2) for dispensing animal feed according to claim 4, characterized in that a first, so-called forced-open position among the open positions corresponding to the stable opening geometry of the neck corresponds to a position of the block or at least one of the blocks, and the block applies thrust to a corresponding portion of the bag disposed laterally in the neck.

6. The apparatus (2) for dispensing animal feed according to claim 4, wherein another of the open positions corresponding to the stable opening geometry of the neck is known as the normal open position of the bag and corresponds to a position of the block, or at least one of the blocks, and the corresponding portion of the bag, which is laterally disposed in the neck, is not tensioned by the block.

7. The apparatus for dispensing animal feed (2) according to claim 1, characterized in that each block is configured such that, when the bag is held within the casing, the lateral or substantially lateral axis of motion of its gripping element is positioned between the lower end and the upper end of the neck portion.

8. Apparatus for dispensing animal feed according to claim 1 (2), characterized in that each gripping element comprises one or more objects selected from the group consisting of pointed elements such as teeth, needles or pins, pressure bars with or without rubber, fastening pins or studs intended to cooperate with corresponding orifices located at the bottom of the bag, shapes and pairs of shapes, and combinations of these elements.

9. The apparatus for dispensing animal feed (2) according to claim 1, characterized in that each gripping element is formed by a gripping jaw for gripping a portion of the bag that is arranged laterally with respect to the neck portion by each of the surfaces of the bag.

10. The apparatus (2) for dispensing animal feed according to claim 1, wherein the electromechanical device (24) further comprises an assembly (36A, 36B) for squeezing and / or pressing the bag (4), the assembly (36A, 36B) for squeezing and / or pressing the bag moves along to define a main axis for squeezing and / or pressing at least a portion of the bag.

11. Apparatus for dispensing animal feed (2) according to claim 10, wherein the assembly (36A, 36B) for squeezing and / or pressing the bag (4) comprises two parallel electric rollers (36A, 36B), each of which is mounted inside the casing (6) to move in translation along the main axis, extends laterally with respect to the main axis, and is intended to extend between the rollers (36A, 36B) by being held by squeezing between the rollers (36A, 36B) when the bag (4) is received into the wet feed dispensing unit (10), and the neck portion (26) of the bag (4) extends below the rollers (36A, 36B).

12. The apparatus (2) for dispensing animal feed according to claim 11, comprising at least one pair of guide rail portions positioned opposite to each other on the upper part of the casing, wherein the guide rail portions enable the rollers (36A, 36B) to be guided between a retracted position and an operating position, the rollers (36A, 36B) to be engaged with the bag (4), and the upper ends of the rail portions are tilted to guide the rollers (36A, 36B) to their retracted positions, and when the rollers (36A, 36B) are in the retracted positions, to increase the distance separating these rollers (36A, 36B) and to facilitate positioning the bag within the wet feed dispensing unit (10).

13. The apparatus (2) for dispensing animal feed according to claim 12, characterized in that the retracted position is positioned above a fastening element for suspending the bag within the wet feed dispensing unit (10).

14. The electromechanical device (24) further comprises at least one roller (36A, 36B) support portion (42), preferably two roller (36A, 36B) support portions (42), the support portion (42) being connected to a motor or servo motor that enables its translational motion inside the casing (6), the support portion (42) having a first portion (56) for holding one of the two rollers (36A) configured to form a pivot connection of the roller (36A), and a second portion (58) for holding the other roller (36B), the second portion (58) of the support portion (42) being connected to the casing (6) The apparatus (2) for dispensing animal feed according to claim 11, wherein, as a function of the translational motion of the rollers (36A, 36B), an elongated elliptical recess (60) is provided, configured to receive the other roller (36B) in a first portion (60A) of the recess (60) corresponding to a position where the rollers (36A, 36B) are approaching each other, or in a second portion (60B) of the recess (60) corresponding to a position where the rollers (36A, 36B) are moving away from each other, and the first portion (60A) and the second portion (60B) of the elongated elliptical recess (60) are offset from each other perpendicularly and / or horizontally.

15. The apparatus (2) for dispensing animal feed according to claim 1, further comprising a data processing unit and a camera (16) connected to the data processing unit, wherein the data processing unit is connected to the control means of the electromechanical device (24), and the camera (16) is positioned in front of the casing (6) and configured to capture an image of the front of the casing (6).

16. The apparatus (2) for dispensing animal feed according to claim 15, characterized in that the data processing unit comprises memory means for storing a neural network, and the neural network is trained to learn using training data which includes data from at least one database including images of animals.

17. The apparatus for dispensing animal feed (2) according to claim 1, characterized in that the upper part of the wet feed dispensing unit is equipped with fastening elements for suspending a bag, selected from the group consisting of a rod, a straight suspension rod, a suspension rod having an elongated body with a curved shape, a hook, and a hook whose cross-section increases toward the base of the hook.

18. A bag (4) for wet animal feed, wherein the bag (4) is provided with a neck (26) for opening the bag (4), the neck (26) is deformable between an open position and a closed position, is provided on the lower part of the bag (4), and the bag (4) is adapted to be received in a wet feed dispensing unit (10) of an animal feed dispensing device (2) according to claim 1. - The neck portion (26) is a continuous lip which is separable from each other to define an opening in the bag through which a portion of the contents of the bag can pass, and which forms a sealing barrier when tension is applied to the continuous lip by applying a pulling force to at least one of the portions of the bag positioned laterally on the neck portion. - The neck portion (26) is configured to show different linear cross-sections for at least two distinct open positions, one of which is a so-called forced position and corresponds to a circular or substantially circular cross-section of the neck portion when a pressing force is applied to the neck portion (26), and - A bag (4) for wet animal feed, characterized in that, in order to ensure a uniform flow of the wet feed through the neck, the ratio of the width (LG) to the height (HG) of the neck when the neck allows the passage of the wet feed and when the neck is not under tension is 1.5 to 10, preferably 2 to 4, and more preferably equal to 2.

5.

19. The bag (4) for wet animal feed according to claim 18, further comprising the gripping elements (38, 38A, 38B) of the feed dispensing device (2), or means (26, 27A, 27B) configured to cooperate with the gripping elements and the holding elements to enable the dispensing of wet feed.

20. An assembly (1) comprising a device (2) for dispensing wet animal feed and a bag (4) of wet animal feed installed in the device (2), wherein the feed dispensing device (2) is as described in any one of claims 1 to 17, the bag (4) of wet animal feed is as described in claim 18 or 19, and the bag (4) of wet animal feed is received in the wet feed dispensing unit (10) of the device (2).

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