Feeding device and method therefor

Abstract

The present invention relates to a feeding device (10), in particular a feeding device (10) for reducing the speed at which an animal feeds, comprising a main part (101) with at least one base unit (120) and a wall unit (110) which protrudes from the base unit (120) in order to form a feed receptacle which is open opposite to the base unit or to form an interior (20), wherein at least one further wall unit (130) is provided, which at least partially divides the feed receptacle or the interior (20) such that at least two divided receptacle portions (25) are formed, wherein the at least one wall unit (130) is adjustable such that the receptacle portions (25) can be varied. The invention also relates to a method therefor.

Description

[0001] Feeding device and method therefor

[0002] Description

[0003] The invention relates to a feeding device, in particular a feeding device for reducing the eating speed of an animal during a feeding process, according to claim 1.

[0004] The invention further relates to a method for feeding an animal, in particular by means of a feeding device according to claim 10.

[0005] Animal feeding devices such as feeding bowls and the like are well known. These have one or more feeding receptacles from which the animal can consume food. Animals tend to engage in gulping behavior, consuming food quickly and in small doses.

[0006] Anti-gulping bowls are well known, for example, for dogs. These bowls have an insert with nubs on the bottom and elastic "wings" protruding from the center of the insert to divide the bowl's interior. The wings can be moved by the dog while eating. Furthermore, the wings cannot be changed in their orientation / position when the insert is attached. This at least prevents a memory effect.

[0007] Furthermore, it is generally known that an anti-gulping bowl consists of various elastically bendable silicone nubs arranged on the bottom of the bowl's interior, protruding from the bottom toward the opening of the bowl. These form gaps into which the food can be placed. When eating, the animal must bend the nubs to reach the food lying deeper. Once attached, the nubs cannot be adjusted in their orientation and / or position to create a different pattern. Thus, at least a memory effect is not counteracted here either.

[0008] Dog toys are also common in which a food bowl is divided into an outer food storage section and an inner food intake section. The division is made by a wall with a food passage through which food can flow from the food storage section into the food intake section. The wall has a lid section that covers the food storage section and thus makes the food storage section inaccessible for eating. The lid is provided with scent openings and ribs so that a dog can smell the food and also use the ribs to turn the lid and thus the wall so that food from the food storage section flows into the interior and the dog can eat the food from the food intake section. Here the food intake section is not divided into several sections.There are also no different patterns that can be set to counteract a memory effect.

[0009] For example, DE 20 2018 000 182 U1 discloses a device for metered feed delivery for pets, comprising a feed ramp surrounded by a storage container, wherein the size and shape of the feed outlet opening are adjusted by a height-adjustable and / or rotatable dosing device. The feed intake, i.e., the section through which the animal ingests food, has a fixed section. Here, there is no reduction in the feed intake speed per se, but merely an intake of less food at the same speed.

[0010] EP 2 145 534 A2 discloses a feeding bowl for animals, comprising a base plate, a circumferential outer wall extending upwards from the peripheral edge of the base plate, a circumferential intermediate wall extending upwards from the base plate at a distance from the outer wall, and a circumferential inner wall extending upwards from the base plate at a distance from the intermediate wall, such that three separate, upwardly open chambers are formed by the base plate, the outer wall, the intermediate wall, and the inner wall. The device has several sections which, at least initially, reduce the rate at which food is consumed. After a while, a learning effect in the form of a memory effect occurs in the animal, so that the animal recognizes the shape of the chambers and falls back into old eating patterns.

[0011] It is an object of the present invention to provide a feeding device and a method therefor, with which a simple feed intake by the animal takes place at a reduced feed intake speed, wherein a memory effect is reduced or prevented.

[0012] These and other objects are achieved starting from a feeding device according to claim 1 and by a method according to claim 10. Advantageous developments of the invention are specified in the dependent claims or the following description.

[0013] The invention includes the technical teaching that in a feeding device, in particular a feeding device for reducing the eating speed of an animal, comprising a base body with at least one base unit and a wall unit protruding from the base unit to form a feed receptacle or an interior space that is open opposite the base unit, wherein at least one further wall unit is provided which at least partially divides the feed receptacle or the interior space so that at least two divided receiving sections are formed, it is provided that at least one wall unit is adjustable so that the receiving sections and in particular the receiving patterns are designed to be variable.

[0014] The invention also includes in particular the technical teaching that in a feeding device, in particular a feeding device for reducing the feed intake speed or also eating speed of an animal during an eating process, comprising a base body with at least one base unit and at least one wall unit protruding from the base unit to form a feed receptacle which is open opposite the base unit or an interior space accessible for the eating process, wherein interior space and feed receptacle are also used synonymously here unless otherwise indicated, wherein at least one further, in particular adjustable wall unit is provided which also projects in the direction away from the base unit to the side open for the eating process and the feed receptacle orthe interior is at least partially divided so that at least two divided receiving sections accessible for the eating process are designed to form a receiving pattern, wherein the at least one wall unit is designed to be at least partially dimensionally stable so that at least the dimensionally stable part cannot be deformed by an animal during the eating process, wherein at least one adjusting mechanism is provided, wherein the at least one, in particular further or adjustable wall unit is coupled or can be coupled to the adjusting mechanism so that the at least one wall unit is adjustable at least in its orientation and / or position when the adjusting mechanism is actuated in the coupled state and is non-adjustable when not actuated, so that the receiving sections and in particular the receiving patterns are designed to be variable.

[0015] The feeding device is designed to reduce the eating speed of an animal during the eating process. During the eating process, the animal protrudes with its snout, beak, etc. from the open side of the feeding device, more precisely its interior or feed receptacle, towards the base unit. The base unit can have one or more base plates. At least one wall unit protrudes from the base unit to define the interior. Preferably, one wall unit is provided. However, double- or multi-walled designs with a corresponding number of wall units can also be provided. In order to reduce the eating speed of the animal during the eating process, the feed receptacle or the interior is divided into smaller receptacle sections by additional wall units. The receptacle sections form a receptacle pattern in a plan view.During the eating process, the feed is distributed across the multiple receiving sections. This alone reduces the eating speed during one eating process. The division into multiple receiving sections is achieved by the additional wall units. These are at least partially, in particular completely, dimensionally stable. This means that the wall units cannot be deformed, or at least not significantly, by the animal during a eating process. In alternative embodiments, at least partial shape instability can be provided, for example by elastic wall units. Preferably, however, the wall units are at least partially, preferably made of a dimensionally stable material or are dimensionally stable.In order to prevent the animal from remembering the feeding pattern, which would result in a memory effect setting in after prolonged use and an increase in eating speed, at least one adjustment mechanism is provided to change the feeding pattern. The respective adjustment mechanism is coupled or can be coupled to one or more of the other wall units. When the adjustment mechanism is actuated, the wall units can be adjusted in the coupled state at least in terms of their orientation and / or position, in particular also relative to one another. For example, the wall units can be moved, rotated, tilted, inclined, folded or the like using the adjustment mechanism. Due to the dimensionally stable design of the wall units, adjustment does not mean bending (or misbends) of the wall units from their initial position.The adjustment mechanism is designed such that, when not activated, the wall units, in particular the receiving pattern, cannot be adjusted, especially not by an animal during the feeding process. Appropriate holding devices, locking mechanisms, and the like can be provided here. In one embodiment, the wall units, in particular the adjustable wall units, are detachably connected to the device. This allows for easy replacement of damaged wall units. Furthermore, by exchanging the detachably connected wall units, different patterns for subdividing the interior space can be realized.

[0016] The feeding device is preferably dimensionally stable and made of a stable material such as plastic, metal, metal alloys and the like. The non-adjustable wall unit, which defines the interior, is preferably made of a dimensionally stable plastic. Preferably, the base unit, at least the uppermost base unit or base plate and wall units are made of the same material, preferably plastic. Other materials can be provided, for example metals, metal alloys, ceramics and the like. Designs with different materials are conceivable. In particular, at least one wall unit, preferably all wall units, are made of ABS plastic and / or as an injection-molded part. A wall unit, in particular the wall unit that is non-adjustable relative to a base of the base unit, also called the first wall unit, projects from the base unit, in particular the base.The first wall unit can protrude from the base unit, in particular the base, over its entire circumference or only over part of its circumference. The first wall unit can protrude at any distance from an edge of the base unit. Preferably, the first wall unit protrudes directly from an edge of the base unit and thus forms the edge at the transition point between the base unit and the first wall unit. The shape of the base unit can be arbitrarily designed. In a preferred embodiment, the base unit has a circular shape in a plan view. Other shapes in plan view such as an oval shape, a rectangular shape, a polygonal shape, a jagged shape and the like are possible. In the event that the first wall unit protrudes from the base unit, more precisely the base, over its entire circumference, the feeding device is pot-shaped. The base unit and the first wall unit form the base body of the feeding device.The first wall unit can protrude from the base unit at any angle, preferably at a steep, obtuse, or acute angle. For example, the base unit or the base and the first wall unit enclose an angle of approximately 65° to approximately 130°, although other angles can also be provided depending on the embodiment. In an embodiment in which the base and wall unit are not designed as a single piece, the angle can be varied, for example by providing a joint that connects the base and the wall unit. The first wall unit and the base unit, in particular the base, can be designed as a single piece or can be formed separately from one another. In one embodiment, the first wall unit is designed as an outer wall that is movable, in particular rotatable, relative to or connected to the base unit, in particular to an adjustment mechanism of the base unit.The rotatable outer wall can be connected to an adjustment mechanism, for example via a rotary axis or other bearings. For example, the adjustment mechanism can be actuated via the outer wall so that, for example, further wall units, the adjustable or second wall units, can be adjusted via the outer wall. In one embodiment, the base unit has a base and an adjustment mechanism. Additionally or alternatively, the base unit can have multiple bases. The multiple bases can be arranged one above the other or one below the other and moved or converted to an upper base as required. Upper in the sense of this application in connection with the base means one arranged closest to the open side or the non-adjustable wall unit. In one embodiment, the uppermost base is formed integrally with the first wall unit.For conversion purposes, the floor formed integrally with the first wall unit can have folding floor sections. Using a corresponding adjustment mechanism, floor sections of the floors located beneath the floor formed integrally with the first wall unit can be moved into the plane of the folding floor sections so that they form part of the uppermost floor. The floors located beneath the uppermost floor can have corresponding folding floor sections via which floor sections located beneath them can be moved into an upper plane. In one embodiment, the first wall unit is not adjustable relative to the floor and / or the floors. In particular, the first wall unit is formed in a rotationally fixed manner and / or in one piece at least with the uppermost floor.The non-adjustability of the first wall unit is thus to be understood as meaning that the first wall unit cannot be adjusted, in particular rotated and / or shifted, relative to the (topmost) base. The base or bases are connected to the adjustment mechanism. For example, the respective base can be plugged, screwed, or otherwise attached to the adjustment mechanism. Other bearings such as pivot bearings or pivot axes are also possible.

[0017] In one embodiment, the base unit comprises the base and the adjustment mechanism. The adjustment mechanism comprises at least one abutment unit, preferably one abutment unit for each adjustable wall unit, in particular for each further wall unit. The base body with the base unit, in particular the base, and the first wall unit define an interior space which is at least partially surrounded by the first wall unit, or completely surrounded by the first wall unit when the first wall unit is fully enclosed. This interior space serves as a feed receptacle. The interior space is limited at the bottom by the base unit, more precisely the uppermost base, and is open in the opposite direction to the base unit or the base, so that an animal can take in feed through the open area of ​​the base body. In particular, the base body in such an embodiment is pot-shaped with a closed, in particular watertight base unit ora watertight base, and a closed first wall unit - partially or completely. The uppermost base is preferably formed in one piece with the first wall unit, so that the first wall unit is not adjustable relative to the uppermost base. In other embodiments, the base unit and / or the first wall unit is / are at least partially permeable or provided with through-openings. The base body is preferably designed such that it is designed to accommodate both solid feed and liquid feed, in particular water. Appropriate seals are provided in a design designed to accommodate water.

[0018] The first wall unit protrudes from the floor unit, in particular the uppermost floor, and forms a further edge opposite the edge shared with the floor unit or the uppermost floor, which defines the animal's access to the interior. The distance of the further edge from the floor unit or the floor is preferably constant, but can, as an alternative, be at least partially spaced differently - abruptly or continuously - from the floor unit. For example, a wavy or jagged further edge can be realized. The first wall unit can be detachably or permanently connected to the floor unit. The floor unit preferably comprises a floor, but in other embodiments can have several floors or floor sections arranged one above or below the other. Different floor sections can thus be used via openings in the uppermost floor unit.In a preferred embodiment, the first wall unit is formed in one piece with the uppermost floor or, in the case of a multi-part design, is firmly connected to it.

[0019] To subdivide the interior, which serves as food receptacle, at least one further, in particular second or adjustable wall unit is provided. The further, in particular adjustable wall unit is in particular rotatable about an axis and / or displaceable along the base unit. In addition, the wall unit, in particular the adjustable wall unit or the adjustable wall units, can be coupled to the adjustment mechanism, for example via a plug-in mechanism or other detachable connections. To secure the wall unit to the adjustment mechanism, securing means can be provided to prevent accidental release. The securing means can be notches, projections, fits, pins, magnets and the like. The further wall unit can have different shapes. In addition, the second wall unit can be at least partially spaced from the base unit orthe uppermost floor and / or the first wall unit in the interior space. The second wall unit or the second wall units divide or divide the laterally open - in the case of a partially circumferential first wall unit - or closed - in the case of a fully circumferential first wall unit - interior space into receiving sections or receiving patterns. Preferably, the interior space is laterally closed and the at least one further wall unit is arranged in the interior space. The at least one further wall unit can be connected or connectable to the floor unit and / or the first wall unit. The further wall unit preferably projects from the floor unit, in particular the first or uppermost floor. The at least one second or further wall unit has an edge remote from the floor unit.The remote edge may be uniformly spaced from the ground unit or may be at least partially spaced apart from the ground unit.

[0020] In order to prevent a memory effect of the animal taking in food from the feeding device, at least one of the wall sections, in particular the at least one further wall section, is adjustable, in particular adjustable when connected. Detaching and refastening or coupling is not necessary. As a result, at least one of the receiving sections into which the interior or feed receptacle is divided can be varied. The variation can be done automatically and / or manually. Both the shape and the position of the at least one wall section can be varied. Adjustable in the sense of the present invention means adjustable and / or movable, in particular displaceable and / or rotatable, relative to the uppermost floor, in particular when connected.Other adjustment options are provided, for example folding, folding, bending or the like, although bending, in particular reversible bending, is not to be understood as meaning this.

[0021] In one embodiment, it is additionally or alternatively provided that at least one of the further wall units is / are arranged displaceably and / or rotatably relative to and / or on the base unit in the connected state, so that the receiving sections can be varied by displacing and / or rotating the at least one wall unit. The at least one wall unit can be moved, for example rotated, tilted, pivoted, or shifted, relative to the base unit, in particular the uppermost base and / or another adjustable and / or non-adjustable wall unit. Several bases or base sections with different patterns of adjustable wall units can be provided. For example, the wall sections can be provided in a square arrangement, a round arrangement, a triangular arrangement, or a polygonal arrangement—each viewed from above.These can be brought to an upper level using a corresponding mechanism, so that different receiving sections can be adjusted at different levels. The wall units, with their respective bearing unit, are preferably plugged onto an abutment of the adjustment mechanism. By swapping the wall units, different patterns can also be realized with just one base. In one embodiment, the first wall unit connected to the uppermost base is movable, in particular rotatable and / or displaceable, relative to the adjustment mechanism. The relative movement moves the respective abutment unit accordingly, which in turn drives the respective bearing unit coupled to it, whereby the further wall unit or the further wall units are further driven and moved.

[0022] Furthermore, in one embodiment it is additionally or alternatively provided that at least one wall unit is designed as a first wall which is non-adjustable, in particular non-displaceable and / or rotatable, relative to at least one part of the base unit and which is in particular firmly connected to at least one part of the base unit, in particular the base of the base unit, in particular in one piece and / or in a rotationally fixed manner. The first wall unit is preferably a particularly radially outer wall unit which, in a preferred embodiment, completely surrounds the base unit, in particular the base. In particular, this non-adjustable wall unit is in particular formed in one piece with the base unit, in particular the base.In order to use floor sections located below the top floor to form receiving sections, corresponding hatches or other mechanisms are provided with which floor sections located below—i.e., away from the open side—the top level can be moved to the top floor section to form the receiving sections. Preferably, the floor unit has one floor, the top floor. In other embodiments, additional floors or floor sections can be provided below the top floor.

[0023] It is also provided that, alternatively or additionally, the at least one adjustable wall unit has a bearing unit and at least one wall section projecting therefrom. If there are multiple wall units, one bearing unit is provided for each wall unit. In addition to the further adjustable wall units, further non-adjustable wall units can be provided. The bearing unit can comprise a pivot bearing, a sliding bearing, a tilting bearing and / or the like. Likewise, in one embodiment, the base unit, in particular the base, can comprise a bearing unit such as a pivot bearing, a sliding bearing, a tilting bearing or the like. In a preferred embodiment, the bearing unit comprises a pivot bearing or a bearing receptacle via which the at least one adjustable wall unit is rotatably mounted.In another embodiment, the wall section is connected via the bearing unit to an abutment, for example via an axle, shaft, or pin. The abutment and bearing unit can be connected to one another in a rotationally fixed manner, so that movement can be transferred from the abutment to the bearing unit or vice versa. The wall section can thus be placed with the bearing unit, in particular the receptacle on a pin or the like of the abutment. In one embodiment, the wall section or the wall sections are formed integrally with the bearing unit. The bearing unit forms a type of center from which the wall section or wall sections protrude laterally, for example in the manner of a hub. At least one wall section is formed protruding from the bearing unit, in particular protruding laterally. Preferably, a plurality of wall sections are provided. The wall sections can have the same shape or different shapes.Preferably, the shapes are designed differently so that a memory effect can be more effectively prevented. The wall sections protrude from the bearing unit similar to the blades of an impeller. The bearing unit forms a base for the protruding wall sections. Preferably, the bearing unit is connected in a rotationally fixed manner to a corresponding abutment of the adjustment mechanism. Alternatively or additionally, one embodiment provides that the base unit has the at least one base and the at least one adjustment mechanism via which the adjustable wall units can be adjusted. In order to vary the wall unit, in particular to move the wall sections, the base unit comprises the adjustment mechanism in addition to one or more bases or base sections. The adjustment mechanism can be a mechanical, an electromechanical, an electrical, a magnetic adjustment mechanism and / or a combination of the aforementioned mechanisms.The adjustment mechanism is preferably a mechanical adjustment mechanism. In a preferred embodiment, the adjustment mechanism comprises one or more gear rings with corresponding gears that mesh with one or more gear rings. Additionally or alternatively, the adjustment mechanism can have lifting elements that move floor sections and / or floors into another plane. The adjustment mechanism preferably has a base plate on which the gear rings are arranged. The gear rings are connected to the base plate in a rotationally fixed manner and / or as a single piece. The abutment units are (co-)formed by the gears, each of which meshes with one of the gear rings.Pins, axles and / or shafts protrude from the abutment units / gears through at least the top floor into the interior. The abutments each have a gear and a pin / axle / shaft protruding from the gear. At their end protruding into the interior, the pins, axles and shafts are connected to the respective bearing unit of the corresponding wall unit. When the respective gear rotates, the movement is transferred via the pin, the axle or shaft to the rotationally fixedly connected bearing unit, which causes the respective further wall unit including the wall sections protruding from the bearing unit to rotate, similar to a propeller. In this way, the receiving sections divided by the wall sections can be varied. The pins / axles / shafts can have attachments, for example plug-in attachments for a plug-in connection with the bearing units.Other attachments, for example for a rotationally fixed connection, can also be provided. Furthermore, in one embodiment, it is alternatively or additionally provided that the adjustment mechanism has at least one abutment unit that interacts with the respective bearing unit of the adjustable wall unit, so that the adjustable wall unit can be adjusted via the adjustment mechanism. The coupling of the at least one adjustable wall unit takes place via the interaction of the bearing unit and the abutment unit, wherein an attachment or adapter, for example a plug-in attachment, is provided between the bearing unit and the abutment unit. For example, the abutment unit is designed as a pin protruding from the adjustment mechanism. This pin penetrates the uppermost base and thus projects into the interior, the interior space or the feed receptacle.The adjustable wall unit and bearing unit are mounted on this pin, directly or via an adapter / attachment, such as a plug-in adapter. If the abutment unit is moved, for example by meshing the gear of the abutment unit with a gear ring of the adjustment mechanism, the respective wall unit and / or the respective wall section moves with it. The movement can be a combination of rotation and displacement. The adjustment mechanism is preferably designed in the manner of a planetary or epicyclic gear train. The adjustment mechanism has at least one outer gear ring and one inner gear ring. These are attached to the base plate. The gear rings are designed to be rotatable about a center. The abutment unit(s) each have a gear which meshes with one of the gear rings.The abutment unit also has a pin, axle, and shaft projecting from the respective gear, which penetrates the uppermost floor into the interior. If the adjustment mechanism is then activated, for example, by rotating the first wall unit, the additional adjustable wall units and / or the wall sections arranged thereon also rotate accordingly through their interaction. Different rotations of several wall units can be achieved, for example, by using different designs of the gears and / or gear rims.

[0024] In a preferred embodiment, the adjustment mechanism has an outer gear ring and an inner gear ring. The outer gear ring has internal teeth pointing towards the inner gear ring. The inner gear ring has external teeth pointing towards the outer gear ring. Furthermore, the adjustment mechanism has gears that mesh with the inner gear ring and gears that mesh with the outer gear ring. The gears are part of the abutment unit and each have a shaft, axle or pin that projects into the interior and penetrates the respective base or base section. The two gear rings are preferably coupled to one another, for example via a rotationally fixed arrangement on the base or base section, preferably via an arrangement on the base plate. By rotating the base section, the gears are rotated and the wall sections form corresponding receiving sections that change with rotation.The gears can be arranged in various configurations in a plan view. For example, the gears meshing with the inner gear ring can be arranged in a triangular formation, a square formation, a polygonal formation, or the like. The same applies to the gears meshing with the outer gear ring. These can also be arranged in the same or similar formations—each viewed from above—so that a memory effect is reduced or prevented. The arrangements or formations can be combined using different base sections, for example, on different levels. Furthermore, the gears can be rearranged by arranging them in different receptacles, allowing any adjustment or formation to be realized.

[0025] For further adjustment of the receiving sections, wall sections protruding from the non-adjustable wall section, in particular the non-adjustable wall section relative to the uppermost floor, are arranged. Non-adjustable means non-adjustable relative to the uppermost floor or floor unit connected to the wall section, but not to the adjustment mechanism or its floor plate. The adjustment mechanism can be actuated by rotating the first wall section relative to the floor plate and / or the gear rings, which can be connected to the floor plate in a rotationally fixed manner. In addition, the rotation of the outer wall section causes the wall sections arranged thereon to move and thus change the receiving spaces, particularly in interaction with the wall sections of the other wall units.The adjustment mechanism can also be moved by rotating an extension of the base unit and / or the adjustment unit that projects into the interior. This allows the adjustment mechanism to rotate in various ways. Further possibilities include the provision of an actuator or the like. The adjustment mechanism is firmly coupled to the topmost base. In one embodiment, the gear rings are integrally coupled to the base plate. The gears, which mesh with the gear rings, move relative to the gear rings. The gears move relative to the gear rings, thereby changing the receiving spaces.

[0026] For moving and / or shifting the abutment unit, corresponding, in particular sealed, slots can be provided in the respective base. Alternatively and / or additionally, the base sections containing the abutments are movably arranged in and / or on the respective uppermost base. For example, the base section through which the abutments protrude into the interior runs as a type of inner ring along the base. The abutments are preferably arranged relatively stationary to the uppermost base. The respective pin, shaft, or axle preferably penetrates the uppermost base, whereby the position of the pin, shaft, or axle cannot be changed relative to the base in the plane of the base during operation. Several openings for several abutments can be provided in the uppermost base. Not all of the openings are occupied by abutments in all embodiments, thus offering options for repositioning the abutment units.In one embodiment, more openings are provided than abutment units and / or bearing units. Furthermore, in one embodiment, not all bearing units are connected to an abutment. Individual bearing units can also be firmly connected to the top floor via corresponding pins.

[0027] Furthermore, in one embodiment, it is alternatively or additionally provided that the abutment unit and / or the bearing unit penetrate the bottom of the base unit and protrude into the feed receptacle or the interior. To vary the wall units and / or the wall sections, it is provided that the abutment unit and / or the bearing unit penetrate the bottom of the base unit in order to interact with the adjustment mechanism underneath. To prevent contamination of the adjustment mechanism by feed in the feed receptacle, the base is sealed accordingly. The seal is designed in particular in such a way that no feed crumbs and / or water reach the adjustment mechanism. Through openings, grooves, slots and the like can be provided for the penetration.

[0028] In a further embodiment, it is alternatively or additionally provided that a plurality of adjustable wall units and / or wall sections are provided so that the feed receptacle or the interior can be divided into a plurality of variable receptacle sections and / or receptacle patterns, in particular for the feeding process, without decoupling the wall units. The adjustable wall units are coupled to the abutment via their bearing unit so that they can be varied via the adjustment mechanism. Each adjustable wall unit is coupled to the adjustment mechanism so that all adjustable, second wall units can be adjusted by adjusting one adjustment mechanism. The coupling can be implemented in different ways so that the wall units and / or the wall sections can be adjusted in different ways, for example via different abutment-position unit combinations.Adjustable in the sense of the present invention means adjustable, in particular displaceable and / or rotatable relative to the uppermost base unit. While the first wall unit is designed to be non-adjustable, i.e., non-adjustable, in particular non-rotatable and / or displaceable relative to the uppermost base, the adjustable, second wall units are thus designed to be adjustable, in particular displaceable and / or rotatable relative to the uppermost base.

[0029] Alternatively or additionally, one embodiment also provides that the plurality of wall units and / or wall sections are at least partially differently designed, so that the receiving sections have different shapes during adjustment. The wall sections of different adjustable wall units can be designed such that they contact or overlap one another in some positions. In this way, receiving sections delimited laterally by the wall sections can be formed. In other embodiments, the wall sections do not overlap and / or contact one another, so that no collisions can occur between the wall sections during adjustment. A combination of overlapping / contacting and non-contacting / overlapping wall sections is possible. By coupling them together via a single adjustment mechanism, a collision can be ruled out.

[0030] To prevent unwanted interference with the operation of the feeding device, particularly during the eating process, due to adjustment of the wall units, particularly by the animal, one embodiment provides a holding mechanism as an alternative or in addition to the dimensionally stable design of the additional wall units. The holding mechanism can be designed as any desired holding mechanism, for example as an actuator, a brake, a locking mechanism, and the like, and prevents unwanted adjustment of the interior. In a preferred embodiment, the holding mechanism is designed as a locking mechanism. The locking mechanism is in particular coupled to the adjustment mechanism and / or integrated therein and comprises a locking unit and a plurality of grooves or notches into which the locking unit can lock.The locking unit is preferably designed as a spring-loaded locking unit that is preloaded in the direction of the notches for interaction. The notches are preferably provided on an underside of the base and are open towards the locking unit. The notches are arranged laterally at predetermined intervals from one another, thus enabling multiple locking positions. The notches can be provided over the entire circumference or part of the circumference. When the locking unit engages in the notches, adjustment of the interior, in particular of the other wall units, is blocked. To release the locking, the locking unit can be moved out of the notches against the spring force.

[0031] The invention also includes the technical teaching that in a method for feeding an animal, in particular by means of a feeding device described here, the steps are comprised: providing a feed in at least two receiving sections of a feed receptacle, which are accessible in particular for a feeding process, wherein at time intervals, in particular after or before feeding the animal via the feeding device, the receiving sections are changed, in particular via an adjustment mechanism, in particular wherein the receiving sections and / or receiving patterns accessible for the feeding process are not changed during the eating process, so that a memory effect in the animal is at least reduced or changed via the formation of the receiving sections.The feed intake is divided into at least two intake sections accessible for the feeding process by coupling the additional wall sections to the base unit, or more precisely to the adjustment mechanism. This is achieved by coupling the appropriately designed wall units. The wall sections of the wall units divide the feed intake into an intake pattern. To avoid a memory effect, at least one of the wall units is varied via the adjustment mechanism when coupled. This can be time-controlled or simply done manually. The variation occurs when the wall units are coupled by actuating the adjustment mechanism. The adjustment mechanism allows all wall units coupled to the adjustment mechanism to be adjusted together.By varying the designs of the wall units, the wall sections, and / or the couplings with the adjustment mechanism, the variation of the feed sections is different, thus preventing a memory effect. The coupled wall units are locked in place when the adjustment mechanism is not activated, especially during the feeding process, so they cannot be adjusted. The dimensionally stable design of the wall units also prevents bending.

[0032] A method for producing a feeding device provides for a base unit with a wall unit, wherein at least one further adjustable wall unit is provided, which is coupled to an adjustment mechanism for adjusting the adjustable wall unit. Preferably, several adjustable wall units are provided.

[0033] In one embodiment, mounting marks are provided. These support the correct positioning of the wall units, particularly with regard to orientation and / or position, when coupling the additional wall units to the base unit or the adjustment mechanism. In particular, the mounting marks interact with the wall sections so that they are correctly aligned with one another. Preferably, at least one mounting mark, preferably exactly one mounting mark, is provided for each additional wall section. The mounting mark can be provided as an optical, haptic, or other type of mounting mark. In particular, the mounting mark is designed as an elevation and / or depression. When coupling the wall unit to the adjustment mechanism, the wall unit is moved until the position corresponds to the position specified by the mounting mark.If the mounting mark is designed as a raised area, the correct position can be perceived, for example, haptically through resistance and / or visually through a click. The mounting marks are designed in such a way that they do not interfere with use. The mounting marks are only intended for coupling the other wall units. In one embodiment, the mounting marks are formed integrally with the base unit. In other designs, the mounting marks are formed separately and coupled to the base unit. The mounting marks can have any shape. The mounting marks are preferably cuboid-shaped. When designed as a raised area and / or recess, the height or depth, i.e. the dimension towards the base to the open side, is preferably in the range of less than or equal to 5 mm, preferably less than or equal to 2 mm and most preferably in the range of less than or equal to 1 mm.

[0034] The material for the first wall is preferably a dimensionally stable plastic. The material for the base unit is preferably a dimensionally stable plastic. The plastic is preferably ABS plastic or the like. Other materials are conceivable.

[0035] In a further embodiment, it is alternatively or additionally provided that the feeding device is designed to be height-adjustable. For this purpose, a corresponding device, for example a lifting device and / or a holding device, can be provided separately and connectable to the feeding device or an integrated device. In one embodiment, the feeding device has the integrated lifting or holding device, for example in the form of telescopic support or lifting means. In another embodiment, a separate device is provided to which the feeding device can be connected, in particular detachably connected. Such a device for connection to the feeding device can be a feeding station. The feeding station has, for example, a receiving opening into which the feeding device can be received. In one embodiment, the feeding station is not adjustable.In a preferred embodiment, the feeding device is designed to be height-adjustable. The height-adjustable feeding device has a support in which the receiving opening or receiving unit for receiving the feeding device is provided. A stand unit protrudes transversely, in particular approximately at a right angle, from the support. The stand unit can be designed in one piece or in multiple pieces. The support unit stands on a floor via the stand unit. In one embodiment, the stand unit is designed to be telescopic and / or height-adjustable. For example, the stand unit can be extended to create different distances from a floor. In addition to the receiving opening, the support unit can alternatively or additionally have other fastening means for connecting to the feeding device, for example magnets, pins and the like, so that a positive and / or non-positive connection can be realized.

[0036] In yet another alternative or additional embodiment, at least one cover is provided for the feeding device. The cover is designed such that it at least partially, preferably closes the interior space provided for the feed intake. In one embodiment, the cover is detachably connected to the rest of the feeding device. In other embodiments, the cover is movably connected to the rest of the feeding device, for example pivotably, rotatably, displaceably or the like. In one embodiment, it is provided that at least one section of the cover, preferably several sections, in particular all sections, are designed to be movable relative to a base body of the cover. This allows access to the interior space or the subdivided interior space in sections.In one embodiment, the movable sections are at least partially coupled to one another; in other embodiments, the sections are not coupled to one another and can be moved independently of one another. Access to the interior can be additionally controlled with these sections. In addition to feeding, the feeding device can also be used for other purposes, such as as a toy.

[0037] Further measures improving the invention are specified in the subclaims or emerge from the description of exemplary embodiments of the invention. All features and / or advantages arising from the claims of the description, including design details, spatial arrangement, and method steps, can thus be essential to the invention both individually and in a wide variety of combinations. The invention is explained in more detail below with reference to exemplary embodiments illustrated in the drawings. The same reference numerals are used for identical or similar components or features. Features or components of different embodiments can be combined to obtain further embodiments.All features and / or advantages arising from the claims, the description or the drawings, including design details, spatial arrangement and method steps, can be essential to the invention both individually and in various combinations.

[0038] They show:

[0039] Fig. 1 is a schematic representation of the couplings of the bearing units with the abutments of an adjustment mechanism of a feed device,

[0040] Fig. 2 is a schematic perspective view of an embodiment of a feeding device according to Fig. 1,

[0041] Fig. 3 is a schematic representation of the embodiment according to Fig. 2 in a different perspective,

[0042] Fig. 4 is a schematic representation of an embodiment of a chuck device with a holding mechanism in perspective view,

[0043] Fig. 5 shows schematically in another perspective an embodiment of a chuck device with a locking mechanism and without adjustable wall units,

[0044] Fig. 6 shows schematically in another perspective view the embodiment according to Fig. 5 with adjustable wall units,

[0045] Fig. 7 schematically shows another perspective view of the embodiment according to Figs. 5 and 6 in the locked state and

[0046] Fig. 8 shows a schematic, further perspective view of the embodiment according to Fig. 7 in a different locking position. Figs. 1 to 8 show, in different views and levels of detail, embodiments of a feeding device 10. The feeding device 10 is designed to reduce the eating speed of an animal. For this purpose, the feeding device 10 comprises a base body 101. This has a base unit 120. Wall units 110, 130 protrude from the base unit 120. In the illustrated embodiment, seven wall units 110, 130 protrude from the base unit 120. The protruding wall units 110, 130, together with the base unit 120, form a feed receptacle or an interior space 20. This interior space 20 is divided into smaller receptacle sections 25 by the plurality of wall units 110, 130. The division alone slows down the feeding speed of an animal.However, after some time, a memory effect sets in in the animal. To prevent or reduce this, the receiving sections 25 can be varied. The varying of the receiving sections 25 is achieved via adjustable second wall units 130. In the illustrated embodiment, the adjustable wall units 130 are arranged in the interior 20. The interior 20 is defined by the base unit 120 and the first wall unit 110, which projects completely from the base unit 120. The wall unit 110 thus forms a side wall of the feeding device 10. The base unit 120 has an uppermost base 121, from the edge of which the wall unit 110 projects. The base 121 and the wall unit 110 are formed as a single piece in the illustrated embodiment. In addition to the base 121, the base unit 120 has an adjustment mechanism 140. Base 121 and adjustment mechanism 140 are movable relative to each other, in particular rotatable relative to each other.By rotating the wall unit 110, which is designed as an outer wall, and the base 121 connected thereto, the adjustment mechanism 140 can be actuated, so that further wall units 130 can be adjusted, in particular rotated, via this rotation. Six adjustable or second or adjustable wall units 130 are provided in the interior space 20. These, like the non-adjustable wall unit 110, protrude from the base unit 120 or the uppermost base 121. In contrast to the wall unit 110, which is non-adjustable relative to the base 121, the adjustable wall units 130 are designed to be variable, in particular movable relative to the base 121. For this purpose, the adjustable wall units 130 each have a bearing unit 132 and wall sections 134 projecting laterally therefrom.The bearing unit 132 forms the central part, similar to a hub, from which four wall sections 134 protrude in the illustrated embodiment, although a different number can be provided. The adjustable wall units 130 are thus designed in the manner of an impeller. For joint adjustment of the wall units 130, they are coupled with their respective bearing unit 132 to an abutment 142 of the adjustment mechanism 140. The respective abutment 142 comprises a pin (not visible here) that projects through the base 121 into a receiving space (not visible here) of the bearing unit 132 of the wall units 110. Via this bearing-abutment combination, optionally with an attachment or adapter for a plug-in connection (see Fig. 5-8), the respective wall unit 130 is rotationally fixedly coupled to the adjustment mechanism 140.The adjustment mechanism 10 in the illustrated embodiment comprises, in addition to the abutment 142, an inner and an outer gear ring 144, 145. The abutments 142 each comprise a gear 143, from which the pin for coupling to the bearing unit 132 protrudes, optionally with an attachment. The respective gear 143 of an abutment 142 meshes with the inner or outer gear ring 144, 145 of the adjustment mechanism 140. The adjustment mechanism 140 is thus designed similarly to a planetary gear system. The abutments 142 are arranged fixedly on the base 121 in the plane of the base 121. The abutment 142 penetrates the base 121 and projects with the pin into the interior 20. On the other side, the gear 143 of the abutment 142 projects to the gear rings 144, 145 of the adjusting mechanism 140. The gear rings 144, 145 are rotatably mounted around a center 146 of the adjusting mechanism 140.The gear rings 144, 145 are mounted in such a way that they can rotate together around the center 146 via an adjusting ring or adjusting plate, also generally referred to as a base plate 148. The adjusting plate 148 is laterally flush with the base 121. The adjusting plate 148 can rotate relative to the base 121. This rotation also rotates the gear rings 144, 145. The rotation of the gear rings 144, 145 causes the gears 143 of the abutment units 142, which mesh with the gear rings 144, 145, to rotate. The rotation of the abutment unit 142 then causes the adjustable wall units 130, which are non-rotatably coupled via the bearing units 132, to rotate. The rotation of the wall units 130 changes the receiving sections 25, and a memory effect can at least be reduced. Fig.4 shows a schematic representation of an embodiment of the chuck device 10 with a holding mechanism 160 in perspective. In the illustrated embodiment, the holding mechanism is designed as a locking mechanism 161. This has a locking unit 162, which interacts with a plurality of notches 163. The locking unit 162 is resiliently preloaded in the direction of the notches 163 so that it can engage in the corresponding notch 163. The notches 163 are formed on the base body 101, more precisely on its bottom 121, each with an opening toward the locking unit 162. The chuck device can be locked in different positions through the interaction of the locking unit 162 and the respective notch 163. The locking is released by actuating the locking unit 162. For this purpose, the locking unit 162 is moved against the spring preload so that the locking unit 162 is moved out of the respective notch 163.In addition to the holding mechanism 160, the chuck device 10 has rubber feet 170 to increase stability. These are peg-shaped and are arranged in corresponding openings 171 on the base unit 120. The peg-like rubber feet 170 have a shoulder so that they can be inserted into the openings with a predefined depth.

[0047] Fig. 5 schematically shows, in another perspective, an embodiment of a chuck device 10 with a holding mechanism 160 or locking mechanism 161, here without adjustable wall units 130. The notches 163 for the locking mechanism 161 are arranged on the underside of the base 121. The abutment units 142 are designed as plug-in bearing units for a plug-in connection with the variable wall units 130. For this purpose, the abutment unit 142 has an attachment 147, here in the form of a plug-in attachment. The variable wall units 130 can thus be easily plugged onto the abutments 142 and are firmly seated there. The abutments 142, or more precisely the respective attachments 147, have a slot 149 for securely receiving the wall units 130.When engaging the bearing unit 132 of the wall units 130, the abutment 142, more precisely the attachment 147, can be easily compressed in a resilient manner and, when the wall unit 130 is attached, presses against its bearing unit 132, thus forming a secure hold.

[0048] Fig. 6 schematically shows, in another perspective view, the embodiment according to Fig. 5 with adjustable wall units 130. The wall units 130 are mounted with their bearing unit 132 on the abutment 142, more precisely on its respective attachment 147. The abutment 142 or the respective attachment 147 is slightly compressed by selecting the appropriate fit and presses against the bearing unit 132.

[0049] Fig. 7 schematically shows another perspective view of the embodiment according to Figs. 5 and 6 in the engaged state. In the illustrated embodiment, the notches 163 are provided partially circumferentially.

[0050] Fig. 8 schematically shows a further perspective view of the embodiment according to Fig. 7 in a different locking position. With each different locking position, the variable wall units 130 are also in a different position.

[0051] The zero points for assembly are not shown in the figures for reasons of better clarity.

[0052] It is understood that the above-mentioned features of the invention can be used not only in the combination specified in each case, but also in other combinations or in isolation, without departing from the scope of the invention.

[0053] List of reference symbols

[0054] 10 Feeding device

[0055] 20 Feed intake / interior

[0056] 25 Recording section

[0057] 101 basic bodies

[0058] 110 wall unit (not variable)

[0059] 120 ground unit

[0060] 121 floor

[0061] 130 wall unit (variable)

[0062] 132 storage unit

[0063] 134 wall section

[0064] 140 adjustment mechanism

[0065] 142 abutments

[0066] 143 gear

[0067] 144 Sprocket (inner)

[0068] 145 Gear ring (outer)

[0069] 146 Center

[0070] 147 Essay

[0071] 148 Adjustment plate, base plate

[0072] 149 slot

[0073] 160 holding mechanism

[0074] 161 locking mechanism

[0075] 162 locking unit

[0076] 163 notches

[0077] 170 rubber feet

[0078] 171 openings

Claims

Claims 1. Feeding device (10), in particular a Feeding device (10) for reducing the eating speed of an animal, comprising a base body (101) with at least one base unit (120) and a wall unit (110) protruding from the base unit (120) for forming a feed receptacle or an interior space (20) that is open opposite the base unit (120), wherein at least one further wall unit (130) is provided, which at least partially subdivides the feed receptacle or the interior space (20), so that at least two subdivided receiving sections (25) are formed, characterized in that at least one wall unit (130) is adjustable, so that the receiving sections (25) and in particular the receiving patterns are designed to be variable.

2. Feeding device (10) according to claim 1, characterized in that at least one of the wall units (110, 130) is / are arranged displaceably and / or rotatably relative to and / or on at least a part of the base unit (120), so that by displacing and / or rotating the at least one wall unit (110, 130) the receiving sections (25) can be varied.

3. Feeding device (10) according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that a wall unit (110) is designed as a non-adjustable, in particular non-displaceable and / or rotatable wall relative to at least one part of the base unit (120), which wall is in particular firmly connected, in particular in one piece, to at least one part of the base unit (120), in particular a base (121) of the base unit (120).

4. Feeding device (10) according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that the at least one adjustable wall unit (130) has a bearing unit (132) and at least one wall section (134) projecting therefrom.

5. Feeding device (10) according to one of the preceding claims 1 to 4, characterized in that the base unit (120) has the base (121) and the at least one adjusting mechanism (140) via which the adjustable wall units (130) can be adjusted.

6. Feeding device (10) according to one of the preceding claims 1 to 5, characterized in that the adjusting mechanism (140) has at least one abutment unit (142) cooperating with the respective bearing unit (132) of the adjustable wall unit (130), so that the adjustable wall unit (130) can be adjusted via the adjusting mechanism (140).

7. Feeding device (10) according to one of the preceding claims 1 to 6, characterized in that the abutment unit (142) and / or the bearing unit (132) penetrate the base (121) of the base unit (120) and protrude into the feed receptacle or the interior space (10).

8. Feeding device (10) according to one of the preceding claims 1 to 7, characterized in that a plurality of adjustable wall units (130) and / or wall sections (134) are provided, so that the feed receptacle or the interior space (20) can be divided into a plurality of variable receptacle sections (25) and in particular receptacle patterns.

9. Feeding device (10) according to one of the preceding claims 1 to 8, characterized in that the plurality of wall units (130) and / or wall sections (134) are at least partially differently designed, so that the receiving sections (25) have different shapes when adjusted.

10. A method for feeding an animal, in particular by means of a feeding device (10) according to one of the preceding claims 1 to 9, comprising the steps: Providing a feed in at least two receiving sections (25) of a feed receptacle or an interior space (20), characterized in that at time intervals, in particular after or before feeding the animal via the feeding device (10), the receiving sections (25) are changed, so that a memory effect in the animal is at least reduced or changed via the formation of the receiving sections (25).

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