IMPROVED APPLICATOR FOR ANIMAL DEVICES

Abstract

The invention relates to an animal identification and / or monitoring device applicator (1) comprising two jaws (13, 14) intended to receive an animal ear to be tagged comprising a female and a male component (31, 32), said male component comprising a tip and said female component comprising a through-hole (321) for receiving the tip. The applicator comprises mechanism for securing an element to one of said jaws, said securing mechanism comprising elastic return means (42, 52) and a mobile retaining part (41, 51) for holding the female before assembly, said second jaw having an internal space (141) in which the securing mechanism is mounted, and said retaining part being movably between: • - a securing position in which the retaining part secures the female component on said second jaw, and • - a release position in which the retaining part is pressed so as to release the female component from said second jaw.

Description

[0001] DESCRIPTION

[0002] TITLE: ANIMAL DEVICE APPLICATOR

[0003] Field of the disclosure

[0004] The field of the disclosure is that of the tagging of animals by means of an animalidentification and / or monitoring device or tag intended to be affixed to an animal.

[0005] More precisely, the present disclosure relates to an applicator for applying one-piece and / or two-piece identification and / or monitoring tags to animal ears.

[0006] Prior art

[0007] One method used to improve the tracking of livestock, monitor livestock (for example monitoring temperature), and / or to guarantee the origin of animals is to tag the animals by affixing an animal identification and / or monitoring device, for example into an animal's ear.

[0008] These tags are usually attached to the animal's ear using an applicator. Conventionally, these tags comprise a male component and a female component to be placed on either side of an ear and to cooperate together to hold the identification and / or monitoring tag secured to the ear. In general, before mounting such a tag on the animal's ear, the male component of the tag is positioned at the level of a first jaw of the applicator while the female component is positioned at the level of a second jaw of the applicator. Once the female and male components are positioned, the applicator brings these components closer together while piercing and trapping the animal's ear between these two components.

[0009] However, the tag applicators currently available for this task do not always meet operator needs, especially regarding the process of releasing the tag after assembly to the animal's ear.

[0010] In particular, once the tag is attached to the animal's ear, it may be difficult to remove the tag and ear from the applicator. This may cause damage to the tag or discomfort to the animal, and in some cases injuries due to sudden movements of the animal. To the present time, some applicators are able to maintain temporarily the female component on the applicator before assembly with the male component of the tag.

[0011] Patent application WO 01 / 72117A1 describes an ear tag applicator intended for use in the simultaneous tagging and the collection of a biological sample from an animal. Before assembly with the animal's ear, the sample portion (female portion) of the tag is inserted and housed between the upper jaw of the applicator and a pair of projecting tongues of a pivotal retaining plate attached to the upper jaw.

[0012] Patent application NZ 582984A concerns an animal tag applicator having a pin which has the ability to pivot in order to facilitate loading of the male component. Furthermore, the tag applicator has a spring-loaded plate which can be pivoted upwardly, by depression of its end section, to enable the female component to be positioned underneath the plate, so that it is held before assembly and ready to receive the male component during the tagging operation.

[0013] Such applicators require the operator to pivot the retaining plate and to insert the female component under the retaining plate of the applicator with the consequential time and effort that this involves. Additional time and effort are significant hindrance to the effectiveness of the application of animal tags because often a very large number of animals will need to be tagged, especially if the farm is large.

[0014] Therefore, there is a need to improve the efficiency, safety and practicality of animal tag applicators.

[0015] In particular, there is a need to develop an improved applicator for applying one-part tags and two-part tags to an animal, which makes it possible in the latter case to stabilize the two parts of the tag before affixing the parts on the animal and to easily release the applicator from the tagged animal.

[0016] Summary

[0017] The technique of an exemplary aspect of the present disclosure allows solving at least some of the drawbacks raised by the prior art.

[0018] For this purpose, an exemplary aspect of the disclosure provides an animal identification and / or monitoring device applicator comprising two jaws defining a mouth to receive an animal ear to be tagged, a handle for moving said jaws together, said identification and / or monitoring device comprising a female component and a male component intended to be placed on either side of an animal's ear and to be moved together to engage with one another and secure said identification and / or monitoring device to said ear, said female and male components being each intended to be supported by one of said jaws, said male component comprising a tip and said female component comprising a through-hole for receiving the tip of the male component so as to assemble the male component to the female component of the identification and / or monitoring device, the applicator comprises a securing mechanism comprising elastic return means and a mobile retaining part for holding the female component of the tag on said second jaw before assembly of the male and female components together, said second jaw having an internal space in which the securing / holding mechanism is mounted, and said retaining part being movably mounted along an axis of translation between: a device holding / securing position, in which the retaining part is raised from the internal space under the action of the elastic return means in order to hold / secure the female component of the tag on said second jaw, and a device release position in which the retaining part is pressed inside the internal space and compresses the elastic return means, under the action of the tip of the male component when the tip is inserted in the through-hole of the female component so as to release the female component from said second jaw.

[0019] In the present description, in order to differentiate the two jaws of the applicator, "upper jaw" refers to the jaw intended to hold the male component of the identification and / or monitoring device or tag, while "lower jaw" refers to the jaw intended to hold the female component of the identification and / or monitoring device.

[0020] The identification and / or monitoring device may bear visual and / or electronic identification information relating to an animal, and / or may be a contain sensors to monitor the health, temperature, activity, and / or location of the animal for instance.

[0021] The invention relates to the manner for holding secured to the jaws of the applicator the elements that compose such an identification and / or monitoring device.

[0022] The securing mechanism make it possible to retain the female component of the tag on one jaw of the applicator and restrict movements of the female component when the latter is not yet assembled with the male component of the identification and / or monitoring device and the ear of the animal. This has many advantages. It prevents the female component from disengaging from the applicator before assembly, makes it possible to stabilize the two components of the tag before affixing the components on the animal, and enables easy release of the applicator from the tagged animal. The automatic and easy release of the female component from the applicator after the tag is applied is directly dependent on its assembly with the male component of the identification and / or monitoring device. Indeed, the female component can only be released once the tip of the male component locks into the female component and pushes the mobile retaining part of the securing mechanism into the cavity of the lower jaw away from the female component.

[0023] This improves the ergonomics of applicator, which lowers the workload of the individual operating the tag applicator. Indeed, this enables the operator to comfortably hold the applicator (in one hand) by its handle throughout the tagging of an animal and in particular during the positioning of the male and female components on the jaws of the applicator.

[0024] Furthermore, the implementation of the securing part in one of the jaws of the applicator does not cause discomfort or injuries to the animal because, in certain embodiments of the invention discussed herein, the securing mechanism is internal to the applicator and thus does not come into contact with the animal.

[0025] According to a particular aspect of the disclosure, the retaining part has the shape of a pin and in that the elastic return means are positioned under the retaining part.

[0026] According to a particular aspect of the disclosure, the retaining part is in the shape of a shaft, such as an elongated cylindrical rod, having a first extremity configured to cooperate with the female component and in that the elastic return means are positioned around the elongated cylindrical rod.

[0027] According to a particular aspect of the disclosure, the internal space of the second jaw is a through-hole and the second extremity of the elongated cylindrical rod part is outside the through-hole in the device release position, so that it is possible to manually press the second extremity to maintain the elongated cylindrical rod part in the device securing position.

[0028] This embodiment makes it possible to manually control the translation of the mobile retaining part during the placement of the female component of the tag, and to maintain manually the retaining part in its holding / securing position. According to a particular aspect of the disclosure, the applicator further comprises a supporting mechanism mounted on the second jaw and configured to come into contact with the female component of the identification and / or monitoring device when positioned on the second jaw.

[0029] The support mechanism makes it possible to further improve the securing of the female component on the lower jaw of the applicator.

[0030] According to a particular aspect of the disclosure, the supporting mechanism comprising a clamp or a clip for holding tightly the female component of the identification and / or monitoring device on the applicator when positioned on the second jaw.

[0031] Thus, the stability of the female component on the lower jaw of the applicator is improved by the action of the clamp or clip.

[0032] According to a particular aspect of the disclosure, the supporting mechanism comprises magnetic means configured to cooperate with a metallic element or a magnetic element located inside the identification and / or monitoring device, and / or to activate the identification and / or monitoring device.

[0033] For example, the interaction of magnetic elements, positioned respectively in the identification and / or monitoring device and in the lower jaw, increases the securing of the female component on the applicator and even improve its alignment.

[0034] According to a particular aspect of the disclosure, wherein said handle comprises two arms, each prolonged by a jaw, said applicator comprising an opening spring positioned between the two arms of the handle and an overstroke stopper placed inside the opening spring of the applicator to limit the stroke of the applicator when its arms are closed.

[0035] A stopper may be positioned inside the opening spring of the applicator to block the stroke of the applicator and thus to avoid hurting the animal (by pinching the ear) by going too far during tagging. Moreover, the stopper permits to avoid noise and to prevent coil from jamming.

[0036] According to a particular aspect of the disclosure, the retaining part fits into the through- hole of the female component.

[0037] According to a particular aspect of the disclosure, the retaining part fits into a housing of the female component extending around the through-hole of the female component.

[0038] According to a particular aspect of the disclosure, the male component is supported by a mobile pusher movably mounted on the first jaw and configured when the jaws of the applicator are brought together to push the male component towards the female component so as to assemble the components with the ear of the animal, and configured when the jaws of the applicator are moved away from each other to retract so as to release the female component from said second jaw when the male component and the female component are assembled and then to remove the pusher from the male component.

[0039] This pusher is a piston which carries the male component before assembly with the female component on an animal's ear. The pusher first pushes the male component through the ear of the animal and inside the female component when the jaws of the applicator are brought together. Then, when the jaws of the applicator are moved away from each other, the pusher retracts so that the male component pulls out the female component from the securing mechanism of the corresponding jaw and then releases the male component (attached to the female component on the animal's ear) from the upper jaw.

[0040] According to a particular aspect of the disclosure, the mobile male component pusher comprises an internal rod intended to hold the male component and a peripherical tube forming a cavity, the internal rod being movably mounted in the cavity between: a deployed position when the jaws of the applicator are brought together, in which the internal rod protrudes from the cavity in order to push the male component closer to the female component, and a retracted position when the jaws of the applicator are moved away from each other, in which the internal rod is retracted entirely inside the cavity so that the male component is removed from the internal rod by coming into contact with the tube.

[0041] According to a particular aspect of the disclosure, the first jaw comprises a pin to maintain the male component, the pin being movable in rotation between: a lowered position, in which the pin is positioned in the space separating the jaws so that the male component is facing the female component, and a raised position, in which the pin is positioned outside said space and substantially aligned with the upper jaw.

[0042] According to a particular aspect of the disclosure, the mobile retaining part is made of an elastic material or is enclosed in an elastic material. List of figures

[0043] One or more aspects of the present disclosure and advantages of the disclosure will appear upon reading the following description of particular embodiments, given by way of simple illustrative and non-limiting example, and the appended drawings, among which:

[0044] Figure 1 illustrates an animal identification and / or monitoring device applicator according to a first embodiment of the invention, on which is positioned the male and female components of an identification and / or monitoring device to be assembled;

[0045] Figure 2 illustrates the animal identification and / or monitoring device applicator according to the embodiment of Figure 1, in a position where the female component the identification and / or monitoring device is retained on the lower jaw of the applicator by a retaining part which is shown in a holding position;

[0046] Figure 3 illustrates the animal identification and / or monitoring device applicator according to the embodiment of Figures 1 and 2, in a position where the female component the identification and / or monitoring device is released from the lower jaw of the applicator, the retaining part being in a release position;

[0047] Figures 4A to 4E illustrate the movement of the different parts of the applicator during the tagging of an animal's ear;

[0048] Figure 5 illustrates an animal identification and / or monitoring device applicator according to a second embodiment of the invention, on which is positioned the male and female components of an identification and / or monitoring device to be assembled;

[0049] Figure 6A is a detailed view of Figure 5 showing the retaining part in a holding position;

[0050] Figure 6B is a detailed view of Figure 5 showing the retaining part in a release position;

[0051] Figure 7 is a perspective view of the animal identification and / or monitoring device applicator having a female component supporting mechanism; Figure 8A illustrates an animal identification and / or monitoring device applicator having a female component supporting mechanism on one side of the applicator and a clamp on the other side of the applicator;

[0052] Figure 8B illustrates an animal identification and / or monitoring device applicator having a female component supporting mechanism on one side of the applicator which is provided with a clamp;

[0053] Figure 8C illustrates an animal identification and / or monitoring device applicator having a female component supporting mechanism on one side of the applicator which is provided with a clip;

[0054] Figure 9 illustrates an animal identification and / or monitoring device applicator having a female component supporting mechanism on one side of the applicator which is provided with magnetic means;

[0055] Figures 10A to 10F schematically illustrate the different stages of operation of a male component pusher implemented on an animal identification and / or monitoring device applicator;

[0056] Figure 11 illustrates schematically a female component and a centering assembly intended to be implemented on an animal identification and / or monitoring device applicator;

[0057] Figure 12 schematically illustrates the lowered and raised positions of a movable pin implemented on an animal identification and / or monitoring device applicator according to the invention.

[0058] Detailed description of illustrative embodiments of the disclosure

[0059] In relation to figures 1 to 4E, a first embodiment of an applicator according to the invention for affixing a two-piece identification and / or monitoring device or tag on the ear of an animal is presented.

[0060] It is to be noted that the applicator could also work with a one-piece tag comprising a male part having a head body and a female part having a head receiving hole that are connected by a hinge, the tag forming a loop when affixed on an animal's ear.

[0061] An identification and / or monitoring tag comprises a male part or component, formed by a rod extending from a support and terminating in a head or tip that is pointed and a female part or component comprising a through-hole for receiving the head of the male part and a mechanism, (such as an internal shoulder) for locking the tip of the male part. As shown in figure 1, the applicator 1 comprises a handle 111, 121 comprising two arms 11, 12 each prolonged by a jaw 13, 14.

[0062] The two arms 11, 12 are interconnected by a joint 10 making a pivot connection, so that when the arms 11 and 12 are brought together and rotated around the joint 10, the first or upper jaw 13 and the second or lower jaw 14 are simultaneously brought together.

[0063] On its end, the upper jaw 13 has a removable pin 132. This pin 132 has an upper portion 1321 allowing it to be attached to the upper jaw 13, and a lower end 1322 intended to fit into a male component 31 of the animal ear tag 3. In order to guarantee its fixing, the upper jaw 13 comprises a housing 131 intended to accommodate this pin 132 in a removable manner. The housing 131 is pointing towards the lower jaw 14 and receives the upper portion 1321 of the pin 132. The upper portion 1321 is retained in the housing 131 by a nut 1311 that fits into the rebate of the upper jaw 13. Alternatively, the pin 132 may be held in the housing 131 by any other fixing means known to the skilled person.

[0064] The pin 132 is configured to be introduced inside a male component 31 of the animal ear tag 3 formed by a rod extending from a support and terminating in a head or tip that is pointed. The pin 132 is inserted into a housing with a complementary shape formed inside the male component.

[0065] On its lower jaw 14, the applicator 1 comprises a holding mechanism or securing mechanism comprising elastic return means and a mobile retaining part. The holding mechanism is configured to hold or secure the female component 32 of an animal ear tag 3 on the lower jaw 14 of the applicator 1 before affixing the ear tag 3 on an animal's ear. More precisely, the female component 32 is intended to be maintained on the inner surface of the lower jaw 14 by the mobile retaining part. In the present description, the inner surface of a jaw is the surface of the jaw oriented towards the opposite jaw.

[0066] The holding mechanism or securing mechanism has dimensions enabling it to be fitted inside the lower jaw 14 of the applicator 1. More precisely, its elastic return means and its mobile retaining part are housed in an internal space or cavity 141 of the lower jaw 14 which has dimensions adapted to receive them. The internal space or cavity 141 of the lower jaw 14 has the shape of an open circular hole leading to the inner surface of the lower jaw 14. The dimensions of the cavity 141 allow the retaining part to move in translation along an axis (L) between a device securing position and a device release position. This axis (L) is substantially perpendicular to the inner surface of the lower jaw 14 of the applicator 1. An abutment 142 is positioned at the opening of the cavity 141 in order to limit the translation of the mobile retaining part towards its securing position.

[0067] Figures 5 and 6 show partially a second embodiment of an applicator according to the invention for placing an identification and / or monitoring device on the ear of an animal. Although some features are not visible on these figures, the applicator has the same structure as described above, in particular two arms 11, 12, a joint 10, an upper jaw 13 and a lower jaw 14 as described above.

[0068] However, the holding mechanism or securing mechanism of the first and second embodiments differ in their structure.

[0069] In some embodiments, in particular in the first embodiment described in relation to figures 1 to 4E, the internal space or cavity 141 may be open at both ends and leads on the inner and outer surfaces of the lower jaw 14.

[0070] In some embodiments, in particular in the second embodiment described in relation to figures 5 and 6, the internal space or cavity 141 may be open at one end only on the inner surface of the lower jaw 14.

[0071] The male and female components, once positioned on the respective jaws of the applicator, are intended to be placed on either side of an animal's ear and to be moved together to engage with one another and secure the tag to the animal's ear.

[0072] In both embodiments described in relation to the figures, the elastic return means positioned in the cavity 141 tends to push the mobile retaining part at least partially outside from the cavity 141, in the device holding or securing position in which it secures the female component 32 placed on the inner surface of the lower jaw 14. The elastic return means can be, for example, a compression spring.

[0073] The mobile retaining part is translationally mobile towards its release position. Specifically, the mobile retaining part is pressed inside the cavity 141 and compresses the elastic return means, under the action of the tip of the male component 31 (in which the pin 132 of the upper jaw 13 of the applicator 1 is located) when the tip of the male component 31 is inserted in the through-hole 321 of the female component 32. Once in the release position, the female component 32 which is locked with the male component and attached to the animal's ear is releasable from the lower jaw 14 and the applicator 1 can be removed from the tagged ear.

[0074] When using the applicator 1 to affix or apply a tag 3 on an animal's ear, the operator first fits the hollow male component 31 on the pin 132 on the upper jaw 13. The operator also positions the female component 32 on the lower jaw 14 by inserting the mobile retaining part - which is by default in the device securing position - into the through-hole 321 of the female component 32. Then the operator grips the arms 11 and 12 of the handles 111, 121 so as to place the ear E of the animal between the male and female components, and then brings the two jaws 13 and 14 together. During this movement, the pointed head of the male component 31 mounted on the support pin 132 pierces the ear E of the animal and fits into the through-hole 321 of the female component 32, and then the male component 31 comes into contact and presses against the bearing surface of the mobile retaining part which is also located in the through-hole 321. As a consequence, the mobile retaining part moves in translation at least partly inside the cavity 141, the male component being locked in the female component.

[0075] As a result, the mobile retaining part is in the so-called device release position in which it no longer retains the female component 32 on the lower jaw 14 of the applicator 1. In order to release the applicator 1 from the tagged animal, the operator may release the handles 111, 121 so that the upper jaw 13 and lower jaw 14 move apart from the assembled tag 3. As a result, the pin 132 on the upper jaw 13 comes out of the hollow male component 31 whose pointed head maintains the mobile retaining part is in the so- called release position. The affixed ear E can be withdrawn from the space between the jaws 13, 14 of the applicator 1. Once the tag 3 affixed to the ear is removed from the applicator, the mobile retaining part returns to the so-called securing or holding position under the action of the elastic return means.

[0076] It is to be noted that the mobile retaining part may be housed entirely inside the cavity 141 in the release position, or only partly so that it is not fully expelled from the female component when pressed by the male component. This allows some residual friction to remain between the retaining part and the through-hole of the female component and helps the pin from the upper jaw to release from the male component upon opening of the handles. Advantageously, the through-hole 321 of the female component 32 of the tag 3 can have a first shoulder 3211 to receive the upper extremity of the mobile retaining part when in the securing position, and a second shoulder 3212 for retaining the arrow shaped end of the male component 31 to detach it from the lower jaw 14. The locking of the arrow end 3100 of the male component 31 inside the female component 32 allows detachment of the assembled tag 3 from the applicator 1 when the lower jaw 14 and upper jaw 13 move apart.

[0077] Therefore, when the male component 31 is locked in the through-hole 321 of the female component 32 and these components 31, 32 surround the ear E of the animal, the tag 3 is held irreversibly on the ear E. When the operator then releases the handles 111, 121 to reopen the jaws 13, 14 of the applicator 1, the applicator is released it from the ear E of the animal.

[0078] In the first embodiment shown in figures 1 to 4E, the holding mechanism 5 has an elastic element 52 (such as a compression spring) which is positioned around a mobile retaining part 51 in the form of a shaft, which is an elongated cylindrical rod in this example. Alternatively, the mobile retaining part 51 may have any other suitable shape.

[0079] The upper extremity of the mobile retaining part 51 is designed to fit into the through- hole 321 of the female component 32 and has a complementary shape to the through- hole 321 so as to hold firmly the female component 32 on the lower jaw 14 in its securing position. As represented in figure 1, the upper extremity of the mobile retaining part 51 is oriented in the direction of the inner surface of the lower jaw 14.

[0080] In this particular embodiment, the applicator comprises a lower jaw 14 whose cavity is a through-hole 141 leading to the inner surface of the lower jaw at one end and the outer surface at the other end.

[0081] In the tag or device securing position, the upper extremity of the mobile retaining part 51 protrudes from the inner surface of the lower jaw 14, while its lower extremity is positioned inside the through-hole 141.

[0082] In the tag or device release position, the lower extremity of the mobile retaining part 51 protrudes from the outer surface of the lower jaw 14, while its upper extremity is positioned inside the through-hole 141. This configuration advantageously offers the operator the possibility of pressing or pushing manually the lower end of the mobile retaining part 51 so as to block its movement downwards when positioning the female component 32 on the lower jaw 14, so that the mobile retaining part 51 remains in the device securing position. In other words, this is so that the retracting shaft can protrude through the bottom of the jaw. This can help the user to load the tag onto the retracting shaft by stopping the shaft from retracting into the cavity when pressure is applied by the tag that is being friction fitted to the retracting shaft.

[0083] In order to limit its translation past the device securing position, the mobile retaining part 51 has a shoulder 511 on its upper portion (figure 3), or in other words on its part positioned near the inner surface of the lower jaw 14. This shoulder 511 is intended to come to a stop against an abutment 142 of the lower jaw 14 (figure 3) when the mobile retaining part 51 is in the securing position.

[0084] As represented in the figure 4A, in its device securing or holding position, the retaining part 51 is held against the abutment 142 by the elastic element 52. In this position, the elastic element 52 is in its relaxed configuration. In this way, the upper extremity of the mobile retaining part 51 protrudes from the through-hole 141 and retains the female component 32 of the animal ear tag 3 on the lower jaw 14.

[0085] The retaining part 51 retains the female component 32 by, for example; a friction fit between the retaining part 51 and the female component 32; a magnetic connection between the retaining part 51 and the female component 32; or any other releasable connection between the retaining part 51 and the female component 32 known to those skilled in the art.

[0086] In one example, the upper extremity of the mobile retaining part 51 is lodged in the through-hole 321 of the female component 32, and is in contact with a shoulder 3210 and the mobile retaining part 51 is thus tightened inside the female component 32.

[0087] In order to assemble the tag 3 to the ear E of an animal, the operator places the ear E between the two jaws 13, 14 of the applicator bearing the male component 31 and the female component 32 to be assembled, as represented in the figure 4B. Ideally, the ear E of the animal should be lying against the female component 32. Then, the operator must grasp the handles of the applicator (not represented in figures 4A-4E), so as to bring its lower jaw 14 and upper jaw 13 together. Bringing the lower jaw 14 and upper jaw 13 together brings the male component 31 and female component 32 of the ear tag closer together. Initially, this movement causes the ear E of the animal to be pierced by the tip of the male component 31 mounted on the pin 132 of the upper jaw 13, as shown in the figure 4C (the male component is not represented in figures 2, 3, 4D, 4E and 5). Secondly, when the upper extremity of the mobile retaining part 51 is pressed by the pin 132 of the male component 31 (or otherwise experiences the pressure created by the male component 31 moving towards the female component 32 and piercing the ear E) the elastic element 52 is compressed and the mobile retaining part 51 slides in translation, along the axis L, into the through-hole 141 of the lower jaw. The mobile retaining part is then moved towards its release position in which the lower extremity of the retaining part 51 protrudes from the lower end of the through-hole 141 and the upper extremity of the mobile retaining part 51 is no longer lodged in the through-hole 321 of the female component 32, thus freeing the tag.

[0088] Thus, the operator can release the arms 11, 12 of the applicator 1 so that its upper jaw 13 and lower jaw 14 move away from each other. As a result, the male component 31 is released from the pin 132 and is assembled to the female component 32, which is no longer retained by the applicator, and attached to the animal's ear E.

[0089] As represented in the figure 4D, the tip of the male component 31 which passes through the ear E and is locked in the female component 32, still maintains the retaining part 51 in its release position.

[0090] The mobile retaining part 51 being no longer in contact with the through-hole 321 of the female component 32, the female component 32 of the animal ear tag 3 is automatically released.

[0091] The tag 3 is attached to the animal's ear E and the operator can move the applicator 1 away from the animal.

[0092] The male component 31, attached on one side of the animal's ear E, also contributes to the detachment of the female component 32 from the lower jaw 14.

[0093] Then, the mobile retaining part 51, pushed by the elastic force of the surrounding elastic element 52 (which comes back to its relaxed position), returns to its initial securing position, as shown in Figure 4E. Thus, the applicator is then ready to receive another set of male and female components of an animal ear tag to be assembled / attached.

[0094] In a particular embodiment, a rubber O ring (for example a recessed rubber O ring) may be placed around the outside of the mobile retaining part 51 in the form of a shaft. The rubber O ring may assist with the releasable connection (for example, the friction fit or other connections described herein) between the retaining part and the female component. In particular, it is designed with respect to tolerance variations in the inner dimension of the through-hole 321 of the female component 32 and / or tolerance changes in the retaining part 51.

[0095] The rubber ring could also be replaced by similar elastic material, and could have a split ring or roll pin like composition.

[0096] In another particular embodiment, the mobile retaining part 51 in the form of a shaft is made of an elastic material that can be deformed when the female component 32 of the tag is releasably connected to the shaft for a better, which may also assist with tolerance variations on the tag or applicator components.

[0097] An applicator according to a second embodiment of the invention is shown in figure 5, and its mode of operation is shown schematically in figures 6A and 6B.

[0098] The applicator differs from the first embodiment in that the holding mechanism 4 has an elastic element 42, a spring in this example, which is positioned below a mobile retaining part 41 in the form of a pin having a cylindrical upper portion prolonged by a larger cylindrical lower portion (or base) defining a shoulder 411, the shoulder 411 being in contact with the elastic element 42.

[0099] The through-hole 321 of the female component 32 has a first portion of a first diameter, prolonged by an intermediate second portion having a second diameter which is larger than the first diameter so as to define a shoulder 3212. The second portion is prolonged by a third portion having a third diameter which is larger than the second diameter so as to define another shoulder 3211.

[0100] As represented in Figures 6A, the upper extremity of the retaining part 41 is designed to fit into the third portion of the through-hole 321 of the female component 32 in its device securing or holding position under the action of the elastic element 42 and has a complementary shape to this through-hole 321 so as to hold or retain the female component 32 on the lower jaw 14 before tagging the animal's ear.

[0101] The releasable connection between the upper extremity of the retaining part 41 and the through-hole 321 of the female component 32 can be of various types.

[0102] The retaining part retains the female component 32 by, for example; a friction fit between the retaining part and the female component 32; a magnetic connection between the retaining part and the female component 32; or any other releasable connection between the retaining part and the female component 32 known to those skilled in the art.

[0103] In a particular embodiment, a rubber O ring, for example in a form on a shaft, may be placed around the outside of the mobile retaining part 41 so as to assist the releasable connection between the retaining part 41 and the female component 32. In particular, it is designed with respect to tolerance variations in the inner dimension of the through- hole 321 of the female component 32 and / or tolerance changes in the retaining part 41. The rubber ring could also be replaced by similar elastic material, and could have a split ring or roll pin like composition.

[0104] In another particular embodiment, the mobile retaining part 41 in the form of a shaft is made of an elastic material that can be deformed when the female component 32 of the tag is releasably connected to the shaft for a better, which may also assist with tolerance variations on the tag or applicator components.

[0105] In the device securing or holding position, the shoulder 411 of the mobile retaining part

[0106] 41 is held against an abutment 142 of the cavity 141 by the force of the elastic element

[0107] 42 so as to limit the translation of the retaining part 41.

[0108] The tip of the male component 32 may have a different shape which must be complementary to the through-hole of the female component.

[0109] As represented in Figures 6B, the tip of the male component 31 has entered the through- hole 321 of the female component 32 and then presses the upper surface of the mobile retaining part 41. As a consequence, the elastic element 42 is compressed and the retaining part 41 moves into the cavity 141. When the mobile retaining part 41 is no longer in contact with the shoulder 3211 of the female component 32, the latter is automatically released from the lower jaw 14. Thus, in the same way as in the previous embodiment, to assemble the identification and / or monitoring device or tag to the ear of an animal, the operator places the ear E between the two jaws 13, 14 of the applicator 1 carrying the male component 31 and the female component 32 to be assembled and against the female component 32.

[0110] Next, the operator grasps the handles 111, 121 of the applicator 1 in such a way as to bring their jaws 13,14 together, thus bringing the male and female components of the tag 3 together. Initially, this movement causes the ear E of the animal to be pierced by the tip of the male component 31 mounted on the pin 132 of the upper jaw 13.

[0111] Then, secondly, the tip of the male component 31 enters the female component 32 and locks inside the through-hole 321 so that they are assembled around the ear E of the animal 1. More specifically, when the mobile retaining part 41 is pushed by the tip of the male component 31, the elastic element 42 is compressed and the mobile retaining part 41 slides in translation along an axis L and enters into the cavity 141 of the lower jaw 14. When the mobile retaining part 41 is no longer housed in the through-hole 321 of the female component 32, the female component 32 of the animal's ear tag 3 is automatically released and is now attached to the male component 31 and the ear E of the animal. The detachment of the female component 32 is also facilitated by the male component 31 which raises the female component 32, since its tip is locked by the shoulder 3212.

[0112] Finally, the operator can release the arms 11, 12 of the applicator 1 and move the applicator away from the tagged ear E of the animal. At this moment, the retaining part

[0113] 41 returns to its initial securing position, pushed by the elastic force of the elastic element

[0114] 42 positioned below it.

[0115] The applicator is then ready to receive a new set of male and female components of an animal ear tag.

[0116] In an alternative design for any (and all of) the embodiments of the applicator described previously, as the embodiment detailed in the figures 1 to 4E and the embodiment detailed in the figures 5 to 6B, when the male tip pushes down on the movable pin or shaft of the retaining part 41,51 to disengage the tag, it does not completely move the retaining part out of the through-hole 321 of the female component 32. Thus, in this alternative embodiment, the tag 3 will not be completely released and instead it is at least partially retained in the applicator 1. Retaining the tag in the applicator in this way will assist in the removal of the male pin 132 from the male component 31 of the tag when the user opens the handle after the application stroke is complete. For example, by still retaining the tag 3 at least partially, the tag will remain in place as the male pin 132 is removed. For additional context, when applying an animal ear tag, a certain amount of force is sometimes needed to remove the male pin 132 from the tag 3 after it has been applied. By retaining the tag 3 in the applicator 1 when the male pin 132 is removed, applying the force needed to remove the male pin 132 is easier.

[0117] As another alternative design that can be used with any of the embodiment described in the figures 1 to 6B, the applicator 1 (via the retaining part 41,51) would not release the female component 32 at all until the tag 3 is applied and the user pulls the applicator 1 away from the ear. In this case, the tag 3 would remain attached to the lower jaw 14 allowing the male pin 132 to withdraw completely and the tag 3 would disconnect from the lower jaw 14 when the user pulls the applicator away from the ear.

[0118] Other aspects

[0119] Figure 7 illustrates an applicator 1, which may be an applicator according to the first and second embodiments, and the design alternatives described above regarding partial and complete retention of the tag. A female component 32 is positioned on the lower jaw 14 of the applicator 1 which comprises a support mechanism 6 configured to increase the stability of the female component 32 when positioned on the lower jaw 14. This support mechanism 6 is part of the lower jaw or is a single or multiple part element mounted on the lower jaw.

[0120] In this example, the support mechanism 6 is fixed on the lower surface of the lower jaw 14. This support mechanism 6 comprises a curved portion 61 on which a portion of the outer surface of the female component 32 is positioned and a fixing portion 62 which extends the curved portion 61, and fits a part of the outer surface of the lower jaw 14. Such a support mechanism may also be implemented on other types of applicators, and not only the applicators according to the first and second embodiments.

[0121] Figures 8A to 8C illustrate an applicator 1, which may be an applicator according to the first and second embodiments (and the design alternatives described above). A male component 31 and a female component 32 are positioned on the upper jaw 13 and the lower jaw 14, respectively, of the applicator 1. The applicator 1 is provided with a support mechanism 6 as described in relation to figure 7 and a device (for example a clamp, a clip, a tie, or another connection mechanism known to those skilled in the art) for holding tightly the female component 32 when positioned on the lower jaw 14.

[0122] As one example, a spring clamp 81 is positioned on one side of the lower jaw 14, as shown in figure 8A. In this case, the spring clamp 81 comprises a first part 811 fixed to the lower jaw 14 and prolonged by a second part 812 located between the two jaws 13, 14 and configured to come into contact with the upper surface of the female component 32 so as to hold the female component 32 against the lower jaw 14. A spring is mounted between the side surface of the lower jaw 14 and the first part 811 of the clamp 81. An operator may press the first part 811 to raise the second part 812 so as to position the female component 32 on the lower jaw 14. Once the female component 32 is positioned on the lower jaw 14, the operator releases the first part 811 so that the second part 812 comes into contact with the upper surface of the female component 32 and presses the female component 32 against the lower jaw 14.

[0123] As another example, illustrated in figure 8B, a clamp 82 is positioned on one side of the supporting mechanism 6. The clamp comprising a fixing part 821 enabling it to be fixed to the supporting mechanism 6, prolonged by a mobile arm 822 which may be raised by the operator so as to position the female component 32 on the lower jaw 14; and lowered so as to come into contact with the upper surface of the female component 32 and press the female component 32 against the lower jaw 14.

[0124] In another example, illustrated in figure 8C, the support mechanism 6 comprises two spaced apart clips 83 between which the female component 32 is positioned and maintained before assembly with the male component 31 and the ear of the animal. These clips 83 are flexible enough to allow the operator to separate them manually so as to insert the female component 32 between them. When the female component 32 of the ear tag 3 is correctly positioned against the lower jaw 14 and between the two clips 83, the operator releases the clips 83. Alternatively, the clips may be moveable and elastic such that the used can insert the female component 32 between the clips 83 by and the clips 83 will then elastically retract onto the female component and hold it in place. In either design, he female component 32 is then held by the clips 83 against the inner surface of the lower jaw 14 of the applicator 1. It is to be noted that such clamps or clips may also be implemented on other types of applicators, and not only the applicators according to the first and second embodiments.

[0125] Figure 9 illustrates an applicator 1, which may be an applicator according to the first and second embodiments (and the alternative designs described above). A male component 31 and a female component 32 are positioned on the upper jaw 13 and the lower jaw 14 respectively of the applicator 1 which is provided with a support mechanism 6 as described in relation to figure 7. The support mechanism 6 comprises a magnetic element 9 configured to hold the female component 32 in position on the lower jaw 14 by cooperating with a metallic element located inside of the female component 32, such as a metallic part of a battery, a separate magnet added to the tag, or a metallic part of the tag itself.

[0126] Alternatively, the magnetic element 9 may be inserted into the lower jaw 14 of the applicator 1.

[0127] Alternatively, or in addition, such a magnetic element 9 can be used to activate an internal power source in the female component 32 of the identification and / or monitoring device. The magnetic element 9 may be configured to trigger a magnetic or series of magnetic sensors or switches internally in the tag to activate the tag.

[0128] It is possible to provide delayed activation of the power source in the identification and / or monitoring device, after a few seconds for instance after having placed the female component 32 on the lower jaw 14, close to the magnetic element 9.

[0129] This ensures that the correct applicator is used to apply an ear tag to an animal. In other words, these features avoid using the wrong applicator, and preventing the ear tag from activating when positioned on the wrong applicator.

[0130] This also saves battery power in the ear tag 3.

[0131] Such magnetic means may also be implemented on other types of applicators, with different kind of identification and / or monitoring devices, and not only the applicators according to the first and second embodiments.

[0132] The applicator according to the first and second embodiments comprises an opening spring 7 which is firmly fixed between the two arms 11, 12 of the applicator 1. According to a particular embodiment, a part called overstroke stopper 71 shown in Figure 1, is added within this opening spring 7 so as to limit the stroke of the arms 11, 12 when the handles 111, 121 are closed by the operator. Depending on the dimensions of the overstroke stopper 71, the angular displacement of the arms 11, 12 of the applicator 1 may be adjusted.

[0133] Such an overstroke stopper may also be implemented on other types of applicators, and not only the applicators according to the first and second embodiments.

[0134] In the first and second embodiments described above, the pin 132 of the upper jaw 13 is a fixed element. In other embodiments, the pin may be mounted on a movable device known as a "male component pusher". Such a male component pusher can be implemented in any type of applicator intended to assemble a male component to a female component of an animal ear tag, including the first and second embodiments described previously.

[0135] In the example shown in figures 10A to 10F, the male component pusher 133 has a longitudinal and cylindrical shape, and is movably mounted inside the end of the upper jaw 13 of the applicator 1. More precisely, in order to guarantee its attachment to the applicator, the upper jaw 13 comprises a housing (not shown) designed to receive this male component pusher 133.

[0136] Such a male component pusher 133 comprises an internal rod 1331 which is movable within a peripheral tube 1332 having a hollow and cylindrical shape. This tube 1332 is designed for translational movement in the housing (not shown) of the upper jaw 13 of the applicator 1.

[0137] This peripherical tube 1332 has a complementary shape to the housing of the upper jaw 13 so as to be held by the latter at one end, while its other end is positioned facing the lower jaw 14.

[0138] The tube 1332 has an inner cavity 1334 for receiving the movable internal rod 1331. This cavity 1334 (particularly visible in the figure 10F) of the male component pusher 133 has the shape of an open circular hole opening onto the inner surface of the upper jaw 13.

[0139] The movable internal rod 1331 has a diameter smallerthan the diameter of the tube 1332, and the outer surface of the movable internal rod 1331 conforms to the inner contour of the tube 1332. In this manner, the movable internal rod 1331 is housed in the tube 1332 and is configured to slide in translation within the cavity 1334.

[0140] The end surface of the movable internal rod 1331, facing the lower jaw 14, is attached to a pin 1330 designed to receive the male component 31 of an animal ear tag 3.

[0141] This pin 1330 has a base portion 13301 for attachment to the end surface of the movable internal rod 1331, prolonged by a stem 13302 for engagement with a male component 31 of tag 3. In particular, the stem 13302 of the pin 1330 is configured to be inserted inside a male component 31 of the animal ear tag 3, the male component being formed by a rod extending from a support and terminating in a head or tip that is generally pointed.

[0142] The base portion 13301 of the pin 1330 also has a diameter identical or smaller than the diameter of the movable internal rod 1331, so as to enable the pin 1330 to be introduced into the cavity 1334.

[0143] In an intermediate position, the movable internal rod 1331 is entirely positioned in the cavity 1334, but the pin 1330 is not, so that the pin 1330 can be assembled to a male component 31.

[0144] In a "retracted" position, the movable internal rod 1331 is further positioned towards the bottom of the cavity 1334 so that the pin 1330 is also accommodated in the cavity 1334. In the present description, the "bottom" of the cavity 1334 refers to the extremity facing away from its opening.

[0145] In a "deployed" position, the lower portion of the movable internal rod 1331 protrudes from the cavity 1334, while its upper portion is positioned inside the cavity 1334. In this position, the pin 1330 is not housed in the cavity 1334.

[0146] Similarly, the tube 1332 is movable in translation between a "retracted" position, in which it is positioned away from lower jaw 14 in a housing of the upper jaw 13, and a "deployed" position, in which it moves partially outside the housing of the upper jaw 13 towards the lower jaw 14 with the movable internal rod 1331 and the pin 1330.

[0147] Figures 10A to 10F show the various operating steps of a such a male component pusher. As shown in figure 10A, in an intermediate position, the movable internal rod 1331 is fully housed in the cavity 1334, and its lower surface is aligned with the lower surface of peripherical tube 1332. At this stage, the pin 1330 is positioned outside the cavity 1334 so that a male component 31 of an identification and / or monitoring device can be fitted on the pin 1330.

[0148] Thus, before assembly, the male component 31 is mounted on the stem 13302 of the pin 1330, while the female component 32 of the animal ear tag 3 is mounted on the inner surface of the lower jaw 14 of the applicator 1.

[0149] In the embodiment shown, the female component 32 is retained by a holding element 140 of the lower jaw 14. In particular, the holding element 140 is positioned against a shoulder 3211 formed in the internal through-hole 321 of the female component 32, and holds the female component 32 on the lower jaw 14.

[0150] According to another example, this female component 32 can be retained on the lower jaw 14 by a mobile retaining part as described in the first and second embodiments previously explained.

[0151] To assemble the tag to an animal's ear, the operator places the ear (not shown) of an animal between the two jaws 13, 14 of the applicator 1 bearing the male and female components to be assembled.

[0152] Next, the operator grasps the handles 111, 121 of applicator 1 (not shown), so as to bring its lower jaw 14 and upper jaw 13 closer together. This movement causes the peripherical tube 1332 to move in translation within the housing of the upper jaw 13 towards the lower jaw 14 of the applicator, as represented in the figure 10B. Then, in order to bring the male component 31 even closer to the female component 32, the movable internal rod 1331 is moved in translation within the cavity 1334 towards the lower jaw 14 and the female component 32.

[0153] In a first step, this movement causes the tip of the male component 31, mounted on the stem 13302 of the pin 1330, to pierce the animal's ear (not shown).

[0154] Then, in a second step, the tip of the male component 31 enters the female component 32 and locks inside the through-hole 321 by way of a shoulder 3212 so that they are assembled around the animal's ear. The movable internal rod 1331 and the peripherical tube 1332 are then positioned in their deployed position respectively (figure 10C). At this point, the male and female components are assembled on the animal's ear.

[0155] Then, the operator can release the arms 11, 12 of the applicator 1 so that its upper and lower jaws 13, 14 move away from each other. At this stage, as shown in Figure 10D, the movable internal rod 1331 (and / or the peripherical tube 1332) of the male component pusher 133 is moved in translation towards the bottom of the cavity 1334 and upper jaw 13. In other words, the movable internal rod 1331 is retracted into the cavity 1334 so as to pull and extract the female component 32 from the retaining part of the lower jaw 14 under the action of the arrow end 3100 of the male component 31.

[0156] As a result, the female and male components 32, 31 are disengaged from the lower jaw 14 of the applicator 1, as represented in the figure 10D.

[0157] Thereafter, the movable internal rod 1331 is retracted towards the upper jaw 13 until the male component 31 is pressed against the edge surface of the peripherical tube 1332 and reaches a stop point (figure 10E).

[0158] Thereafter, the movable internal rod 1331 continues to retract into the cavity 1334, until the peripherical tube 1332 disassembles the pin 1330 out of the male component 31 as shown in figure 10F. The pin 1330 is then housed in the cavity 1334 and the male component 31 attached to the animal's ear and female component is released.

[0159] The movable internal rod 1331 and the peripherical tube 1332 are at this stage in their retracted positions.

[0160] The tag which is attached to the animal's ear is released from the upper jaw 13. The operator can then move the applicator away from the animal's ear. In this way, the applicator is ready to receive a new set of male and female components of an animal ear tag to be assembled.

[0161] Figure 11 illustrates schematically a retaining part which may be implemented on an applicator according to the first and second embodiments (and the design alternatives descried herein) having a centering assembly

[0162] This centering assembly 322 comprises an external centering part 3221 and an internal centering part 3222. The internal centering part 3222 is housed in the external centering part 3221. These centering parts extend from the end 3220 of the retaining part (not represented) in a direction substantially perpendicular to the inner surface of the lower jaw 14.

[0163] The internal centering part 3222 is designed to fit into the through-hole 321 of the female component 32 of the ear tag 3 in order to stabilize and correctly position the female component 32 on the lower jaw 14 of the applicator 1. The external centering part 3221 is designed to fit into a shoulder 3211 extending on the external surface of the female component 32 around the opening of the through-hole 321.

[0164] More precisely, when the female component 32 is assembled to the lower jaw 14, the external centering part 3221 is positioned inside the shoulder 3211, while the internal centering part 3222 is positioned against the shoulder 3212 of the through-hole 321.

[0165] Thus, the female component 32 is correctly positioned on the inner surface of the lower jaw 14 and has restricted lateral movement.

[0166] It is to be noted that centering assembly 322 may only comprise at least one external centering part 3221 designed to fit into a shoulder 3211 extending on the external surface of the female component 32 around the opening of the through-hole 321.

[0167] Figure 12 illustrates an applicator 1, which may be an applicator according to the first and second embodiments.

[0168] This applicator comprises a pin 132 movably mounted on the end of its upper jaw 13. More precisely, the upper portion of the pin 132 is held by an arm 1323 attached to the upper jaw 13 by a fastening element 1324. More precisely, this arm 1323 is mounted at the end of the upper jaw 13.

[0169] This arm 1323 enables the pin 132 to be rotated between a lowered in which it is facing the lower jaw 14, and a raised position in which the pin 132 is substantially aligned with the upper jaw 13.

[0170] To move from its lowered position to its raised position, the pin 132 is rotated in a direction X, as shown in figure 12. Conversely, to move from the raised to the lowered position, the pin 132 is rotated in a direction opposite to direction X. The switch from one position to another can be achieved by the operator, for example by pulling the pin 132 in direction X, or by pushing the pin 132 in the opposite direction to direction X.

[0171] When the pin 132 is in the raised position, it enables the operator to easily fit a male component 31 of an ear tag 3 to be assembled on the pin 132 and it does not require the operator to insert the male component 31 into the restricted space available between the two jaws 13, 14. Thus, it facilitates assembly of the male component 31 onto the pin 132. The applicator described above is also suitable for applying one-piece identification and / or monitoring tags to animal ears.

Claims

1. An applicator (1) of a device for identifying and / or monitoring an animal, comprising two jaws (13, 14) defining a slit for receiving the ear (E) of an animal to be marked, a handle for jointly moving the jaws (13, 14), wherein the device for identification and / or monitoring comprises a receiving component (32) and a receiving component (31) intended for placement on each side of the animal's ear and for joint movement for interaction with each other and fastening the device for identification and / or monitoring on the ear, wherein each of the receiving and receiving components (31, 32) is configured to be supported by one of the jaws, wherein the receiving component (31) comprises a tip, and the said receiving component (32) comprises a through hole (321) for receiving the tip of the receiving component (31) for connecting the receiving component (31) with the receiving component (32) of the device for identification and / or monitoring, characterized in that the applicator comprises a fastening mechanism comprising a means (42, 52) for elastic return and a movable locking part (41, 51) for holding the receiving component (32) of the tag on the second jaw (14) until the receiving and receiving components are connected together, wherein the second jaw (14) has an internal space (141) in which the fastening mechanism is installed, and the locking part is installed with the possibility of movement along the translation axis (L) between: - a position of securing the device in which the locking part (41, 51) is raised from the internal space (141) under the action of the elastic return means (42, 52) for securing the receiving component (32) of the tag on the second jaw (14), and - a release position of the device in which the locking part (41, 51) is pressed into the inner space (141) to compress the elastic return means (42, 52) under the action of the tip of the received component (31) with the tip inserted into the through hole (321) of the receiving component (32) with the release of the receiving component from the second jaw (14).

2. The applicator according to claim 1, characterized in that the locking part (41) has the form of a pin, and the elastic return means (42) is located under the locking part (41).

3. The applicator according to claim 1, characterized in that the locking part (51) has the form of a shaft having a first end having a configuration for joint action with the receiving component (32), and wherein the elastic return means (52) is located around the elongated cylindrical rod.

4. The applicator according to claim 3, characterized in that the internal space (141) of the second jaw (14) is a through hole, and the second end of the part of the elongated cylindrical rod is located outside the through hole (141) in the device release position to ensure the possibility of manually pressing on the second end while holding the part of the elongated cylindrical rod in the device securing position.

5. An applicator according to any one of paragraphs 1-4, characterized in that it further comprises a supporting mechanism (6) mounted on the second sponge (14) and configured to come into contact with the receiving component (32) of the device for identification and / or monitoring when the applicator is positioned on the second sponge (14).

6. The applicator according to claim 5, characterized in that the supporting mechanism (6) comprises a clamp (81, 82) or a bracket (83) for firmly holding the receiving component (32) of the device for identification and / or monitoring on the applicator when the applicator is positioned on the second sponge (14).

7. An applicator according to any one of paragraphs 5, 6, characterized in that the supporting mechanism (6) contains a magnetic means (9) configured to act in conjunction with a metal element or a magnetic element located inside the device for identification and / or monitoring, and / or to activate the device for identification and / or monitoring.

8. An applicator according to any one of paragraphs 1-7, characterized in that the handle comprises two arms (11, 12), each of which is continued by a sponge (13, 14), and the applicator comprises a release spring (7) located between the two arms (11, 12) of the handle, and an excess travel limiter (71) located inside the release spring (7) of the applicator (1) for limiting the travel of the applicator when its arms (11, 12) are closed.

9. An applicator according to any one of paragraphs 1-8, characterized in that the locking part (41, 51) corresponds to the through hole (321) of the receiving component (32).

10. An applicator according to any one of paragraphs 1-8, characterized in that the locking part (41, 51) corresponds to the body of the receiving component (32), passing around the through hole (321) of the receiving component (32).

11. The applicator according to any one of claims 1-10, characterized in that the receiving component (31) is supported by means of a movable pusher (133) movably mounted on the first jaw (13) and has a configuration for pushing the receiving component (31) towards the receiving component (32), when the jaws (13, 14) of the applicator (1) are in the brought together state, for connecting the components (31, 32) on the ear (E) of the animal, and has a configuration for returning, when the jaws (13, 14) of the applicator are at a distance from each other, for releasing the receiving component (32) from the second jaw (14), when the receiving component (31) and the receiving component (32) are in the assembled state, and then for removing the pusher (133) from the receiving component (31).

12. The applicator according to claim 11, characterized in that the movable pusher of the received component (133) contains an internal rod (1331) designed to hold the received component (31), and a peripheral tube (1332) forming a cavity, wherein the internal rod (1331) is movably installed in the cavity between: - the working position, when the jaws (13, 14) of the applicator (1) are in the closed state, in which the inner rod (1331) protrudes from the cavity to push the received component (31) closer to the receiving component (32), and - a return position, when the jaws (13, 14) of the applicator (1) are at a distance from each other, in which the inner rod (1331) is returned completely into the cavity with the removal of the received component (31) from the inner rod (1331) by coming into contact with the tube (1332).

13. An applicator according to any one of paragraphs 1-12, characterized in that the first sponge (13) contains a pin (132) for holding the component (31) to be received, wherein the pin (132) is movable with rotation between: - a lowered position in which the pin (132) is located in the space separating the jaws (13, 14) and the received component (31) faces the receiving component (32), and - a raised position in which the pin (132) is located outside the said space and is substantially aligned with the upper jaw (13).

14. An applicator according to any one of paragraphs 1-13, characterized in that the movable locking part (41, 51) is made of an elastic material or is enclosed in an elastic material.