Pressure measuring unit for a piece of equipment for an animal

Abstract

The invention relates to a pressure measuring unit (10) for a piece of equipment (3) for an animal (2). The pressure measuring unit (10) is designed to be provided between the piece of equipment (3) for the animal (2) and the body of the animal (2) and preferably to be held there by the piece of equipment (3), and the pressure measuring unit (10) is additionally designed to sensorically detect a pressure between the piece of equipment (3) and the body of the animal (2). The pressure measuring unit comprises: - at least one pressure-sensitive sensor element (11) which is designed to sensorically detect a pressure between the piece of equipment (3) and the body of the animal (2), - a voltage supply (13) which is designed to provide an electrical voltage, - a control element (12) which is designed to be electrically supplied by the voltage supply (13) and to determine a sensorically detected pressure of the pressure-sensitive sensor element (11), and - a signaling unit (14) which is designed to output at least one optical and / or acoustic signal, the control element (12) being additionally designed to operate the signaling unit (14) on the basis of the sensorically detected pressure of the pressure-sensitive sensor element (11) such that the signaling unit (14) outputs a corresponding optical and / or acoustic signal.

Description

[0001] Description

[0002] Pressure measuring unit for an animal's equipment

[0003] The present invention relates to a pressure measuring unit for an animal's equipment.

[0004] In equestrian sports, a bridle or headstall is used to control and guide the horse. This consists of a headstall made of straps for the animal's head and reins. Bitless bridles can be used, or bridles with a bit attached to the headstall and inserted through the animal's mouth, such as a snaffle, curb bit, or Pelham.

[0005] Tightening the straps of the bridle can improve control over the horse in some cases. The noseband of the bridle, in particular, is often tightened very firmly to make the horse obedient.

[0006] However, it should be noted that this can pose a risk to the animal's welfare if the noseband of the headstall is pulled too tight and presses on the bridge of the horse's nose.

[0007] Therefore, in professional equestrian sports, attempts are made to check the strap pressure of the noseband of the headstall and thereby avoid nosebands of the headstall being pulled too tight, especially at competitions.

[0008] A common method used for this is the so-called "finger test," which is mandatory at least in larger competitions and tournaments. For this test, a judge must be able to place two fingers, one on top of the other, under the noseband of the bridle to ensure that the bridle is sufficiently loose and does not compromise the horse's well-being. This test is also known as the "two-finger rule."

[0009] The disadvantage of this method is that different people's fingers can vary in thickness and strength, which can lead to differing conclusions about whether two fingers can be inserted under the noseband of the headstall. Therefore, this type of finger test is highly dependent on the examiner's physique and the evaluation of the applied pressure is also very individual. This type of check is thus highly subjective.

[0010] Approaches to objectifying this check are known. For this purpose, a kind of "artificial finger" can be inserted under the noseband of the bridle as a reference point. This reference point, which is available in slightly different shapes from various manufacturers, is generally wedge-shaped and its thickness corresponds to the desired distance between the bridge of the horse's nose and the tightened noseband of the bridle.

[0011] Replacing the human finger with a reference body does eliminate the problems of reproducibility due to the anatomical peculiarities of the person testing. However, the force with which the reference body is pushed under the noseband remains highly dependent on the user. Furthermore, simply inserting the reference body without measuring the required force only allows for a very limited assessment of the strap tension, as both the noseband and the bridge of the horse's head are somewhat flexible. The disadvantage in this case is that the result is still imprecise and quite subjective. Alternatively, there are pressure gauges that can measure the pressure under the noseband. These are inserted between the bridge of the horse's head and the noseband of the bridle.

[0012] An objective measurement may be possible due to the sensory detection of pressure or force at this point. However, the comparatively high technical effort and associated costs are disadvantages.

[0013] In any case, it must be noted that horses competing in equestrian events are under considerable tension and nervousness immediately before their turn, i.e., right before entering the arena or competition grounds, when the noseband of the bridle can be checked using one of the methods described above. In this state, it is very uncomfortable for the horse to have any kind of device used within its field of vision, and especially to have pressure applied to the bridge of its nose. Therefore, all the previously described methods for checking the noseband of the bridle are only conditionally suitable for use in competitive equestrian events.

[0014] WO 2022 / 078801 A1 describes a noseband pad for attachment to the noseband on the side facing the animal, in particular a horse. The noseband pad comprises an elongated, flexible base body with a first end section, a second end section, and an intermediate central section, the central section resting on the nasal bone. The central section of the noseband pad has a sandwich construction with an internal grid structure of interlocking grid struts between the upper and lower surfaces to generate elastic flexibility. A pressure sensor is arranged in the central section, in particular a sensor whose electrical resistance changes under the influence of force, pressure, or deformation. The pressure sensor is electrically connected to a control unit for control, data transmission, and power supply, the control unit having a radio module for external data exchange, in particular a Bluetooth or WLAN module.The pressure sensor system features a circular, centrally located strain gauge sensor. The strain gauge sensor is positioned on the underside, towards the nasal bone.

[0015] In this way, the pressure in the central area of ​​the noseband pad according to WO 2022 / 078801 A1 can be measured using sensors, allowing conclusions to be drawn about the pressure in the area of ​​the noseband of the headstall. The strap tension or pressure in the area of ​​the noseband of the headstall can be checked by a person without having to touch the horse's nose. Furthermore, the sensory measurement can be continuous and therefore also during use.

[0016] However, a disadvantage of this system is the comparatively high technical effort required to control the sensor and a data transmission unit with a Bluetooth or Wi-Fi interface. This results in greater electronic complexity, making the system bulky, complex, and expensive. It can also increase the weight of the noseband on the headstall, which can be uncomfortable or even bothersome for the horse and, especially at competitions, distract the horse and thus impair its performance.

[0017] This can apply comparably to other parts of a horse's headstall or other equipment belonging to a horse, as well as to other, particularly similar, animals such as a camel or unicorn. This can generally apply to other equipment belonging to a horse or other similar or other animals. For example, a certain amount of pressure may be necessary on a dog's or cat's collar for the animal's welfare, because otherwise the animal's trachea could be compressed. An object of the present invention is to provide a sensory means of detecting the pressure or force between an animal's equipment and the animal's body, which is simpler, more cost-effective, more accurate, more compact, lighter, and / or more intuitive for the user than is currently known. In particular, the sensory detection should be continuous and / oror during the use of the equipment. This should be possible especially for a horse or a similar animal such as a camel or a unicorn, and specifically at the headstall or in the area of ​​the noseband of the headstall. This should be possible for animals in general, and especially for horses and the like, particularly during a tournament. In particular, this should be possible without a person having to touch the animal or the equipment, especially the horse's head. At the very least, an alternative to the known methods should be provided.

[0018] The object of the invention is achieved by a pressure measuring unit with the features according to claim 1, by a pressure measuring unit with the features according to claim 10, and by an equipment item with the features according to claim 23. Advantageous embodiments are described in the dependent claims.

[0019] The present invention thus relates to a pressure measuring unit for an animal's equipment, wherein the pressure measuring unit is configured to be arranged between the animal's equipment and the animal's body and is preferably held there by the equipment, and wherein the pressure measuring unit is further configured to sensorially detect a pressure between the equipment and the animal's body. The pressure measuring unit according to the invention is characterized in that the pressure measuring unit comprises:

[0020] • at least one pressure-sensitive sensor element designed to detect pressure between the equipment and the animal's body,

[0021] • a power supply designed to provide an electrical voltage,

[0022] • a control element which is designed to be electrically powered by the power supply and to receive a sensorially detected pressure from the pressure-sensitive sensor element, and

[0023] • a signaling unit configured to output at least one optical and / or acoustic signal, wherein the control element is further configured to operate the signaling unit depending on the sensorially detected pressure of the pressure-sensitive sensor element in such a way that the signaling unit outputs a corresponding optical and / or acoustic signal.

[0024] The sensory pressure measurement using the pressure-sensitive sensor element can be performed directly, for example, as a change in capacitance or similar, perpendicularly between the equipment and the animal's body, i.e., in the direction in which a person would manually check the pressure or play with their two fingers. However, the sensory pressure measurement using the pressure-sensitive sensor element can also be performed indirectly, i.e., via a physical quantity that must be converted into a perpendicularly acting force or pressure, such as using strain gauges tangentially along the planar or longitudinal extent of the equipment.

[0025] According to the invention, a pressure measuring unit can thus be used in every case to sensorily detect the pressure between the animal's equipment and the animal's body, and the pressure measuring unit itself can react directly to the detected pressure in order to provide feedback to an external party or a person regarding the applied pressure. In this way, the person can receive information about the applied pressure directly, i.e., visually and / or audibly perceptible, in order to assess it, in particular regarding the permissibility or unacceptability of the pressure level or intensity, without having to touch the equipment or the animal.

[0026] This can also be achieved more simply and compactly than with the noseband pad of WO 2022 / 078801 A1, since the electronics of the pressure measuring unit according to the invention can be implemented with comparatively few and simple electronic components. In particular, data transmission can be dispensed with, which significantly simplifies the implementation and can save both costs and energy.

[0027] The power supply can be implemented using a battery or accumulator, or also using a capacitor.

[0028] The pressure measuring unit can in any case be designed as part of the equipment, whether permanently integrated and temporarily connected to the equipment, or as a separate unit, for example as a “sensor patch” that can be stuck onto the animal’s body.

[0029] According to one aspect of the invention, the control element is further configured to operate the signal unit depending on at least one pressure limit value,

[0030] • so that the signaling unit emits the optical and / or acoustic signal or a first, preferably weaker, optical and / or acoustic signal when the pressure limit is exceeded, or • so that the signaling unit does not emit the optical and / or acoustic signal or emits a second, preferably stronger, optical and / or acoustic signal when the pressure limit is undershot, or vice versa.

[0031] In this case, feedback can be provided indicating whether the measured pressure is at least below or above the pressure limit. It can be defined whether a visual and / or audible signal is emitted, or omitted, when the pressure limit is undershot, met, or exceeded. Alternatively, a distinction can be made between two different signal outputs, so that a signal is always emitted, making the functionality of the pressure measuring unit, particularly regarding the power supply status, easily and directly apparent to the user.

[0032] By emitting a visual and / or audible signal when the pressure limit is exceeded, the device can avoid this signal being triggered for most of the time, which can be more comfortable and less disruptive for the animal. This can also reduce the electrical energy consumption of the pressure measuring unit, as energy is saved on operating the signaling unit. Therefore, the pressure measuring unit can operate for a longer period. Furthermore, it may be more intuitive for a person to understand that the visual and / or audible signal, acting as a warning, is only emitted when the pressure limit is exceeded, indicating an undesirably high pressure.

[0033] Accordingly, a distinction can be made between at least these two pressure ranges without requiring any human intervention, i.e., as was previously the case, for example, with the noseband of a horse's headstall, without having to reach under the noseband with one's fingers or slide a measuring device under the noseband. According to a further aspect of the invention, the control element is also designed to operate the signal unit based on at least two pressure limits, such that the signal unit outputs a specific optical and / or acoustic signal depending on which of the pressure limits is exceeded or fallen below.

[0034] Thus, the differentiation of the sensor-detected pressure between the animal's equipment and the animal's body can be more finely subdivided by specifying at least two different pressure limits, so that the detected pressure can now be divided into at least three different ranges.

[0035] If the pressure falls within one of these at least three ranges, preferably the lower of the two pressure limits, the optical and / or acoustic signal can be omitted, as is the case under normal conditions. If the detected pressure falls within one of the other two ranges, different optical and / or acoustic signals can be emitted to distinguish between these two ranges. This allows, preferably when the lower of the two pressure limits is exceeded, an optical and / or acoustic warning signal to be issued. The third range of detected pressure, preferably when the higher of the two pressure limits is exceeded, can then be more pronounced to indicate a significantly excessive pressure reading, which can be considered an alarm signal. This can enable at least two such gradations of the detected pressure and the corresponding response.

[0036] According to a further aspect of the invention, the control element is also designed to operate the signaling unit accordingly only when the pressure limit is exceeded or fallen below for a predetermined period. This aspect of the invention is based on the understanding that movement in the animal's mouth can lead to brief and temporary increases in pressure relative to the equipment, particularly in the animal's head region, which can cause a pressure limit or similar to be exceeded briefly without being impermissible. This would then lead to a direct reaction or output as described above.

[0037] Therefore, the detected pressure can be buffered in such a way that a pressure threshold must be exceeded for a predetermined period, longer than, for example, a typical chewing motion of the animal, in order to trigger a corresponding reaction or output. This prevents unnecessary and incorrect outputs, which could particularly disturb and frighten the animal.

[0038] According to a further aspect of the invention, the control element is further configured to operate the signal unit in such a way that the signal unit continuously outputs a specific optical and / or acoustic signal proportionally depending on the pressure detected by the pressure-sensitive sensor element.

[0039] In this case, the user can continuously and seamlessly receive visual and / or acoustic information about the pressure between the equipment and the animal's body and, based on this, assess whether the sensor-detected pressure is within acceptable or unacceptable limits. This is achieved without a predetermined pressure threshold, yet it can still assist the user in judging whether the applied pressure is acceptable or unacceptable. According to a further aspect of the invention, the optical signals differ in light color and / or the number of light sources used. This can increase the design possibilities for implementing the optical signal.

[0040] According to a further aspect of the invention, the acoustic signals differ in frequency, amplitude, and / or rhythm. This can increase the design possibilities for implementing the acoustic signals.

[0041] According to a further aspect of the invention, the pressure-sensitive sensor element is configured to change at least one physical property, preferably its electrical resistance, its electrical capacitance, and / or its electrical inductance, depending on the applied pressure. This can represent various possibilities for implementing the sensory detection of pressure or force.

[0042] According to a further aspect of the invention, the signal unit is spatially offset, preferably by means of an elongated section of the pressure measuring unit, from the pressure-sensitive sensor element, the control element, and / or the power supply. In other words, the signal unit is electrically connected to the other elements, but spatially spaced apart from them, with the other elements being spatially close to each other. This can be implemented, for example, by means of an elongated connecting section of the pressure measuring unit that connects the other elements to the signal unit.

[0043] In any case, this can increase the design possibilities of the pressure measuring unit. In particular, the signal unit can be offset from, or moved away from, the location where the pressure measurement takes place or must take place, in order to direct the signal generation there. This makes the generated optical and / or acoustic signal easier and clearer for the surroundings or for the person. It also means that the animal may be less disturbed by the generated optical and / or acoustic signal.

[0044] The present invention also relates to a pressure measuring unit for an animal's equipment, wherein the pressure measuring unit is configured to be arranged between the animal's equipment and the animal's body and is preferably held there by the equipment, wherein the pressure measuring unit is further configured to sensitize a pressure between the equipment and the animal's body.

[0045] In this case, the pressure measuring unit is characterized by the fact that the pressure measuring unit has:

[0046] • at least one pressure switch designed to detect pressure between the equipment and the animal's body,

[0047] • a power supply designed to provide an electrical voltage, and

[0048] • a signaling unit configured to output at least one optical and / or acoustic signal, wherein the pressure switch is further configured to electrically connect the power supply to the signaling unit depending on the detected pressure of the pressure-sensitive sensor element, so that the signaling unit outputs a corresponding optical and / or acoustic signal.

[0049] Thus, the present invention can be implemented in this way relatively simply and without the previously described control element by having the pressure switch, depending on the applied pressure, either electrically connect the power supply to the signal unit, thereby outputting the optical and / or acoustic signal, or electrically disconnect the power supply and the signal unit, thereby preventing the optical and / or acoustic signal from being output. This can also preferably be implemented such that the signal output only occurs when the pressure limit is exceeded, as described above. Alternatively, the degree of applied pressure, preferably proportionally, can determine the degree to which the power supply is electrically connected to the signal unit.

[0050] Thus, the basic approach of the present invention described above, namely to output information regarding the sensorially detected pressure between the animal's equipment and the animal's body in a way that is directly recognizable to a person, visually and / or acoustically, can be implemented with simplified electronics in such a way that the control element described above can be dispensed with.

[0051] For example, the pressure switch can have a property that changes proportionally to the pressure, preferably decreasing, which determines the degree to which the power supply from the pressure switch is electrically connected to the signal unit, i.e., the degree to which the power supply feeds or operates the signal unit. In other words, the contact resistance of the pressure switch can decrease with increasing pressure, and correspondingly, increasing power can be available at the signal unit.

[0052] In any case, the user can continuously and steplessly receive visual and / or audible information about the pressure between the equipment and the animal's body and, based on this, assess whether the sensor-detected pressure is within acceptable or unacceptable limits, as described in more detail below. This is achieved without a predetermined pressure limit, but can still assist the user in judging whether the applied pressure is acceptable or unacceptable. Alternatively, this can be implemented as a pressure switch with at least two stages, as described in more detail below, where a proportional relationship between the applied pressure and the intensity of the visual and / or audible output from the signaling unit directly influences the power supply via the corresponding electrical connection.

[0053] Alternatively, the signal unit can be designed to change its intensity in stages, in particular at least in two stages corresponding to the previously described pressure limit, so that the previously described properties and advantages of a signal output depending on a permissible or impermissible pressure can also be implemented in this way with simplified electronics. Accordingly, the signal unit can react to the pressure switch or to its electrically conductive connection to the power supply without requiring a separate control element.

[0054] On the downside, this leads to continuous operation of the pressure measuring unit, so the electrical charge of the power supply is continuously and therefore relatively quickly depleted. This may also result in continuous visual and / or audible output, which can disturb and irritate the person and especially the animal, even at low intensity. On the other hand, this allows the person to continuously verify the functionality of the pressure measuring unit.

[0055] According to one aspect of the invention, the pressure switch is further designed to operate depending on a pressure limit value.

[0056] • to connect the power supply electrically to the signal unit so that the signal unit outputs the optical and / or acoustic signal or a first, preferably weaker, optical and / or acoustic signal when the pressure limit is exceeded, or

[0057] • to electrically disconnect the power supply from the signaling unit so that the signaling unit does not output the optical and / or acoustic signal, or outputs a second, preferably stronger, optical and / or acoustic signal when the pressure limit is undershot, or vice versa, and / or the signaling unit is designed depending on a pressure limit.

[0058] • to output the optical and / or acoustic signal or a first, preferably weaker, optical and / or acoustic signal when the pressure limit is exceeded, or

[0059] • not to output the optical and / or acoustic signal, or to output a second, preferably stronger, optical and / or acoustic signal when the pressure limit is undershot, or vice versa.

[0060] In this way, at least a two-stage differentiation of the applied pressure can be achieved in this case as well, in order to distinguish between permissible and impermissible pressure. This can be accomplished by a corresponding electrical connection between the voltage source and the signaling unit on the part of the pressure switch. Alternatively, this can also be done on the part of the signaling unit depending on this electrical connection. Distinguishing between the presence and absence of a signal can be particularly easy for the user to understand. Alternatively, differentiating between the range below and above the pressure limit by means of two significantly different signals can make the functionality of the pressure measuring unit directly perceptible to the user, since a signal is always present as long as the pressure measuring unit is operating.According to a further aspect of the invention, the pressure switch is further configured to electrically connect the signal unit to the power supply in such a way that the signal unit outputs a specific optical and / or acoustic signal, depending on which of the pressure limits is undershot and / or exceeded, and / or wherein the signal unit is configured to output a specific optical and / or acoustic signal, depending on which of the pressure limits is undershot and / or exceeded.

[0061] Thus, the properties and advantages of using multiple pressure limits described above can also be implemented and utilized in this variant of the invention.

[0062] According to a further aspect of the invention, the pressure measuring unit is designed such that the signaling unit emits the optical and / or acoustic signal as long as the pressure limit is exceeded and the power supply is electrically connected to the signaling unit. This can simplify the implementation. This may be sufficient to alert a person that the pressure limit has been exceeded, at least briefly, which may lead to an inspection of the equipment.

[0063] According to a further aspect of the invention, the signal unit has an electrical buffer configured to be charged when the power supply is electrically connected to the signal unit. The pressure measuring unit is configured such that the signal unit, powered by its buffer, emits the optical and / or acoustic signal for a longer period than the pressure limit is exceeded and the power supply is electrically connected to the signal unit. This allows a person's attention to be retained more reliably, since the signal output lasts longer than the pressure limit is exceeded, although this requires a slightly higher level of technical effort. This effort, however, can be justified to ensure that the person does not miss an exceedance of the pressure limit.

[0064] According to one aspect of the invention, the control element is further configured to operate the signal unit accordingly only when the pressure switch information is received for longer than a predetermined period. This allows the corresponding properties and advantages of the pressure measuring unit previously described with regard to the pressure-sensitive sensor element to also be implemented and utilized in the case of a pressure switch.

[0065] According to a further aspect of the invention, the pressure switch is designed to change at least one physical property, preferably its electrical resistance, its electrical capacitance, and / or its electrical inductance, depending on the applied pressure. Thus, the corresponding advantages and properties of the previously described pressure-sensitive sensor element can also be implemented by the pressure switch.

[0066] According to a further aspect of the invention, the signal unit is spatially offset, preferably by means of an elongated section of the pressure measuring unit, from the pressure switch and / or the power supply. Thus, the corresponding advantages and properties of the previously described pressure measuring unit can also be implemented in this case.

[0067] According to a further aspect of the invention, the pressure measuring unit additionally comprises a control or amplification element configured to amplify and / or further modify a physical change in the properties of the pressure switch relative to the signaling unit. This can represent one way to amplify a change in the properties of the pressure switch.

[0068] According to a further aspect of the invention, the pressure switch is designed to electrically connect further elements to the signaling unit when activated. This can represent a further way to amplify a change in the properties of the pressure switch.

[0069] According to a further aspect of the invention, the signaling unit is arranged spatially outside the animal's field of vision and / or turned away from the animal's field of vision with regard to the generation of the optical signal. This avoids or at least reduces disturbances to the animal caused by the optical signal.

[0070] According to a further aspect of the invention, the signaling unit is designed with regard to the generation of the acoustic signal such that the generated acoustic signal lies outside the sensitive hearing range of the animal. This allows disturbances to the animal caused by the acoustic signal to be avoided or at least reduced.

[0071] According to a further aspect of the invention, the animal is a horse and / or the piece of equipment is a headstall of the animal, preferably a noseband of a headstall of the animal. This allows the invention to be used specifically with horses and / or headstalls, where the invention can be particularly useful, as described above.

[0072] The present invention also relates to an apparatus for use on an animal, comprising at least one pressure measuring unit as previously described. The pressure measuring unit according to the invention can be permanently attached to or integrated into the apparatus. Alternatively, the pressure measuring unit according to the invention can also be detachably arranged on the apparatus. In any case, an apparatus can be created to utilize the pressure measuring unit according to the invention and to exploit its properties and advantages.

[0073] In any case, the pressure measuring unit can have an on / off switch so that it can be selectively activated by the person as needed and then deactivated again, for example at the beginning of a tournament, in order not to disturb the animal during the tournament itself.

[0074] In other words, according to the invention, an element, preferably flat, is inserted under a strap, under a belt or under another piece of equipment of an animal, and in particular under the noseband of a horse, which has a pressure-sensitive switch which, in at least one stage, preferably as a pressure-sensitive element in several stages or continuously, changes its property, such as its resistance, its capacitance or its inductance, according to the applied pressure.

[0075] Preferably, the pressure-sensitive switch is implemented on printed electronics. Preferably, a resistive or capacitive pressure sensor is used, which is based on the change in electrical properties between two printed layers that approach or are deposited on top of each other.

[0076] In any case, by changing the property, a circuit can be closed directly or indirectly, which supplies at least one signal source with current or voltage, which as a result emits at least one signal such as a visible electromagnetic wave.

[0077] Optionally, the light color and / or the number of light sources can be changed in one or more stages in correlation with the belt tension or the pressure between the belt and the animal's body. The light can be generated, for example, by one or more LEDs.

[0078] Alternatively or in addition to a light source, an acoustic source can also be used, so that an acoustic signal is emitted, particularly when a certain pressure is exceeded. This can also be done in multiple stages, for example by varying the frequency, volume, or rhythm.

[0079] In the case of an optical signal source, the light source can preferably be attached to the insert element on the side facing away from the animal's eye. If necessary, the light source can be positioned away from the product using an extension and attached elsewhere on the body or on a piece of equipment. Advantageously, this can also be done outside the animal's field of vision to avoid disturbing it.

[0080] When using an acoustic signal source on horses, it is preferable to select a frequency range at the upper end of the human hearing range, as horses are generally less sensitive in this range than in the lower frequency range. The frequency range may need to be adjusted differently when used on other animals.

[0081] In any case, this can be implemented at least partially with an inexpensive and compact electronic circuit, since no control of the sensor is necessary, but only its passive properties are read out.

[0082] A simple electronic circuit can also be used for this purpose, as no data exchange is necessary; instead, the pressure or strap pressure can be determined directly on the device or within sight / audibility without a reading device or similar equipment. The present invention can be used, in particular, in competitive sports to monitor compliance with the requirements of the respective rulebook. This can be used especially to check the fit or pressure of equipment components of any kind on animals. Specifically, the invention can be implemented as a pad on a noseband for use in equestrian sports to objectively monitor strap tension during riding competitions.

[0083] Several embodiments and further advantages of the invention are explained below in connection with the following figures. Figure 1 shows a schematic representation of a horse's head with bridle and pressure measuring unit according to the invention;

[0084] Fig. 2 shows a block diagram of a pressure measuring unit according to the invention in a first embodiment;

[0085] Fig. 3 shows a block diagram of a pressure measuring unit according to the invention in a second embodiment; and

[0086] Fig. 4 shows a block diagram of a pressure measuring unit according to the invention in a third embodiment;

[0087] Fig. 1 shows a schematic representation of a horse's head 20 with bridle 3 and pressure measuring unit 10 according to the invention. Thus, an animal 2 or its animal head 20 is considered using the example of a horse 2 or its horse head 20.

[0088] As an example of an item of equipment 3, the bridle 3 is considered, which includes the reins 30 and the headstall 31. A noseband 32 of the headstall 31 runs transversely across the bridge of the nose 21 of the horse's head 20.

[0089] A pressure measuring unit 10 according to the invention is arranged between the noseband 32 of the head frame 31 and the bridge of the nose 21 of the horse's head 20 and is held there by the equipment 3. For this purpose, the pressure measuring unit 10 can be designed separately and fixedly attached to the noseband 32 of the head frame 31.

[0090] The pressure measuring unit 10 can be arranged in the head frame 31. Alternatively, it can also be designed as part of the noseband 32 of the head frame 31.

[0091] In any case, the pressure measuring unit 10 is further configured to sensorially detect a pressure between the noseband 32 of the head frame 31 and the bridge of the nose 21 of the horse's head 20. Depending on the embodiment of the present invention, this can be done differently as follows:

[0092] Fig. 2 shows a block diagram of a pressure measuring unit 10 according to the invention in a first embodiment.

[0093] The pressure measuring unit 10 has a pressure-sensitive sensor element 11, which is designed to detect pressure between the noseband 32 of the headpiece 31 of the bridle 3 and the bridge of the nose 21 of the horse's head 20 of the horse 2. For this purpose, the pressure-sensitive sensor element 11 of the pressure measuring unit 10 is designed to change at least one physical property, such as its electrical resistance, its electrical capacitance, and / or its electrical inductance, depending on the applied pressure. Based on this physical property(ies), the applied current pressure or a corresponding force can then be determined.

[0094] The pressure measuring unit 10 also has a power supply 13, which is designed to provide an electrical voltage. This can be in the form of a battery, an accumulator, or a capacitor.

[0095] The pressure measuring unit 10 further comprises a control element 12, which is configured to be electrically powered by the power supply 13 and to determine the pressure detected by the pressure-sensitive sensor element 11. The control element 12 can be designed or constructed as simple electronics. Thus, the control element 12 can be electrically powered by the power supply 13 to perform its operation. The control element 12 operates the pressure-sensitive sensor element 11, which includes querying or detecting the previously described physical property(ies) of the pressure-sensitive sensor element 11, so that this information about the previously described physical property(ies) is continuously available to the control element 12 in order to determine the currently applied pressure.

[0096] The pressure measuring unit 10 further comprises a signal unit 14, which is configured to output at least one optical and / or acoustic signal. This optical and / or acoustic output from the signal unit 14 is operated or initiated by the control element 12 depending on the pressure detected by the sensor and is then also powered by the power supply 13.

[0097] The control element 12 is further configured to operate the signal unit 14 depending on at least one pressure limit value, such that the signal unit 14 either outputs the optical and / or acoustic signal when the pressure limit value is exceeded, or that the signal unit 14 does not output the optical and / or acoustic signal when the pressure limit value is undershot or maintained.

[0098] According to the invention, the pressure between the noseband 32 of the headgear 31 and the bridge of the nose 21 of the horse's head 20 can thus be continuously detected by means of the pressure measuring unit 10 according to the first embodiment by means of the previously described physical property or properties of the pressure-sensitive sensor element 11, determined as a pressure value by the control element 12, compared with the at least one pressure limit value, and in reaction to the result of the comparison, the signal unit 14 is not operated if the detected pressure is below the pressure limit value, or is operated if the detected pressure is above the pressure limit value, i.e., the pressure limit value is exceeded.

[0099] In the event that the measured pressure is below the pressure limit, the pressure measuring unit 10 according to the invention will not react, i.e., it will not output an optical and / or acoustic signal, so that the person, such as the rider, a competition judge, and the like, can recognize from the absence of a reaction from the pressure measuring unit 10 according to the invention that the specified pressure limit is maintained between the noseband 32 of the headgear 31 and the bridge of the nose 21 of the horse's head 20.

[0100] If this is not the case, i.e., if the specified pressure limit value between the noseband 32 of the head frame 31 and the bridge of the nose 21 of the horse's head 20 is not maintained or is exceeded, this triggers a reaction of the pressure measuring unit 10 according to the invention in the form of the output of an optical and / or acoustic signal, which can be perceived by the person and from which it can be recognized that the pressure between the noseband 32 of the head frame 31 and the bridge of the nose 21 of the horse's head 20 is impermissibly high.

[0101] If necessary, two or more different pressure limits can be used here to indicate, in several escalation stages, for example as a warning and, if the pressure increases further, as an alarm, an exceedance of the lower pressure limit, up to which the pressure between the noseband 32 of the headgear 31 and the bridge of the nose 21 of the horse's head 20 can be considered permissible. For this purpose, the control element 12 can be configured to operate the signal unit 14 based on at least two pressure limits, such that the signal unit 14 outputs a specific, different visual and / or audible signal depending on which of the pressure limits is exceeded or fallen below.

[0102] To differentiate between the various exceeded and complied-with limit values, the visual signals can differ in light color and / or the number of operating light sources. Additionally or alternatively, the acoustic signals can differ in frequency, amplitude, and / or rhythm.

[0103] The control element 12 can also be configured to operate the signal unit 14 only if the pressure limit is exceeded for a predetermined period. This prevents false alarms caused by short-term and permissible pressure increases, such as those resulting from the chewing motion of horse 2, since an impermissibly high pressure must be present for longer than the predetermined period to trigger a response.

[0104] Fig. 3 shows a block diagram of a pressure measuring unit 10 according to a second embodiment of the invention.

[0105] In this case, the pressure measuring unit 10 includes a pressure switch 11, which is designed to sensorially detect pressure between the noseband 32 of the headgear 31 and the bridge of the nose 21 of the horse's head 20. A power supply 13, as previously described, is also provided, which is designed to supply an electrical voltage. Likewise, a signal unit 14 is also provided, which is designed to output at least one optical and / or acoustic signal.

[0106] The pressure switch 11 is further designed to operate depending on a

[0107] Pressure limit value, the voltage supply 13 electrically conductive with the

[0108] to connect signal unit 14 so that signal unit 14 outputs the optical and / or acoustic signal when the pressure limit is exceeded, or to electrically disconnect the power supply 13 from signal unit 14 so that signal unit 14 does not output the optical and / or acoustic signal when the pressure limit is undershot.

[0109] Thus, the function described above can be implemented relatively easily by using the pressure switch 11 as a simple control element that can only distinguish between falling below and exceeding a single pressure limit. This may, however, be sufficient to implement the present invention, although the first embodiment of the present invention according to Figure 2 may offer more or more convenient evaluation and signal output options.

[0110] The output of the optical and / or acoustic signal can be comparatively short or only occur at the exact moment when the pressure limit is exceeded, by the signal unit 14 outputting the optical and / or acoustic signal for as long as the pressure limit is exceeded and the power supply 13 is electrically connected to the signal unit 14.

[0111] Alternatively, this can be achieved for a longer period, or so to speak, with a delayed effect, by having the signal unit 14 have an electrical buffer which is configured to be charged when the power supply 13 is electrically connected to the signal unit 14, wherein the pressure measuring unit 10 is configured such that the signal unit 14 outputs the optical and / or acoustic signal, powered by its buffer, for a longer period than the pressure limit has been exceeded and the power supply 13 is electrically connected to the signal unit 14. Fig. 4 shows a block diagram of a pressure measuring unit 10 according to a third embodiment of the invention.

[0112] In this case, which is based on the second embodiment, the signal unit 14 is spatially offset from the pressure switch 11 and from the

[0113] The power supply 13 is arranged, which is implemented by means of an elongated section of the pressure measuring unit 10. This allows the signal generation and output to take place spatially remote from the sensor's detection point, enabling the signal unit 14 to be positioned away from the horse 2's field of vision, thus minimizing or avoiding disturbance to the horse 2.

[0114] In any case, the signal unit 14 can be positioned spatially outside the field of vision of horse 2 and / or turned away from the field of vision of horse 2 with regard to the generation of the optical signal, in order to generally disturb horse 2 less. Additionally or alternatively, the signal unit 14 can be designed with regard to the generation of the acoustic signal such that the generated acoustic signal lies outside the sensitive hearing range of horse 2, which can also help to avoid or reduce the disturbance to horse 2.

[0115] Reference symbol list (part of the description)

[0116] 10 Pressure measuring unit 11 Pressure-sensitive sensor element; pressure switch

[0117] 12 Control element

[0118] 13 Power supply

[0119] 14 Signal unit; Output unit 2 Animal; Horse

[0120] 20 Animal head; horse head

[0121] 21 Bridge of the nose

[0122] 3 Equipment item; Bridle 30 Reins

[0123] 31 Head frame

[0124] 32 Nosebands

Claims

Patent claims 1. Pressure measuring unit (10) for an equipment item (3) of an animal (2), wherein the pressure measuring unit (10) is configured to be arranged between the equipment item (3) of the animal (2) and the body of the animal (2) and preferably to be held there by the equipment item (3), wherein the pressure measuring unit (10) is further configured to sensingly detect a pressure between the equipment item (3) and the body of the animal (2), characterized in that the pressure measuring unit (10) has: • at least one pressure-sensitive sensor element (11) which is designed to detect pressure between the equipment (3) and the body of the animal (2), • a power supply (13) designed to provide an electrical voltage, • a control element (12) which is configured to be electrically powered by the power supply (13) and to determine a sensorially detected pressure of the pressure-sensitive sensor element (11), and • a signal unit (14) which is configured to output at least one optical and / or acoustic signal, wherein the control element (12) is further configured to operate the signal unit (14) depending on the sensorially detected pressure of the pressure-sensitive sensor element (11) such that the signal unit (14) outputs a corresponding optical and / or acoustic signal.

2. Pressure measuring unit (10) according to claim 1 , wherein the control element (12) is further configured to operate the signal unit (14) depending on at least one pressure limit value, • so that the signaling unit (14) outputs the optical and / or acoustic signal or a first, preferably weaker, optical and / or acoustic signal when the pressure limit is exceeded, or • so that the signaling unit (14) does not output the optical and / or acoustic signal or outputs a second, preferably stronger, optical and / or acoustic signal when the pressure limit is undershot, or vice versa.

3. Pressure measuring unit (10) according to claim 2, wherein the control element (12) is further configured to operate the signal unit (14) depending on at least two pressure limits, such that the signal unit (14) outputs a specific optical and / or acoustic signal depending on which of the pressure limits is undershot and / or exceeded.

4. Pressure measuring unit (10) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the control element (12) is further configured to operate the signal unit (14) only if the pressure limit is exceeded or fallen below for a predetermined period of time.

5. Pressure measuring unit (10) according to claim 1, wherein the control element (12) is further configured to operate the signal unit (14) such that the signal unit (14) continuously outputs a specific optical and / or acoustic signal proportionally depending on the pressure detected by the pressure-sensitive sensor element (11).

6. Pressure measuring unit (10) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the optical signals differ in the light color and / or in the number of operated light sources.

7. Pressure measuring unit (10) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the acoustic signals differ in frequency, amplitude and / or rhythm.

8. Pressure measuring unit (10) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the pressure-sensitive sensor element (11) is configured to change at least one physical property, preferably its electrical resistance, its electrical capacitance and / or its electrical inductance, depending on the applied pressure.

9. Pressure measuring unit (10) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the signal unit (14) is spatially offset, preferably by means of an elongated section of the pressure measuring unit (10), from the pressure-sensitive sensor element (11), from the control element (12) and / or from the power supply (13).

10. Pressure measuring unit (10) for an equipment item (3) of an animal (2), wherein the pressure measuring unit (10) is configured to be arranged between the equipment item (3) of the animal (2) and the body of the animal (2) and preferably to be held there by the equipment item (3), wherein the pressure measuring unit (10) is further configured to sensingly detect a pressure between the equipment item (3) and the body of the animal (2), characterized in that the pressure measuring unit (10) comprises: • at least one pressure switch (11) which is designed to detect pressure between the piece of equipment (3) and the body of the animal (2), • a power supply (13) designed to provide an electrical voltage, and • a signal unit (14) which is configured to output at least one optical and / or acoustic signal, wherein the pressure switch (11) is further configured to electrically connect the power supply (13) to the signal unit (14) depending on the detected pressure of the pressure-sensitive sensor element (11), so that the signal unit (14) outputs a corresponding optical and / or acoustic signal.

11. Pressure measuring unit (10) according to claim 10, wherein the pressure switch (11) is further configured as a function of a pressure limit value • to connect the power supply (13) electrically to the signaling unit (14) so ​​that the signaling unit (14) outputs the optical and / or acoustic signal or a first, preferably weaker, optical and / or acoustic signal when the pressure limit is exceeded, or • to electrically disconnect the power supply (13) from the signaling unit (14) so ​​that the signaling unit (14) does not output the optical and / or acoustic signal or outputs a second, preferably stronger, optical and / or acoustic signal when the pressure limit is undershot, or vice versa, and / or the signaling unit (14) is designed depending on a pressure limit. • to emit the optical and / or acoustic signal or a first, preferably weaker, optical and / or acoustic signal when the pressure limit is exceeded, or • not to output the optical and / or acoustic signal, or to output a second, preferably stronger, optical and / or acoustic signal when the pressure limit is undershot, or vice versa.

12. Pressure measuring unit (10) according to claim 10 or 11, wherein the pressure switch (11) is further configured to electrically connect the signal unit (14) to the power supply (13) depending on at least two pressure limits, such that the signal unit (14) outputs a specific optical and / or acoustic signal depending on which of the pressure limits is undershot and / or exceeded, and / or wherein the signal unit (14) is configured to output a specific optical and / or acoustic signal depending on at least two pressure limits, depending on which of the pressure limits is undershot and / or exceeded.

13. Pressure measuring unit (10) according to one of claims 10 to 12, which is configured such that the signal unit (14) outputs the optical and / or acoustic signal as long as the pressure limit is exceeded and the power supply (13) is electrically connected to the signal unit (14).

14. Pressure measuring unit (10) according to one of claims 10 to 12, wherein the signal unit (14) has an electrical buffer which is configured to be charged when the power supply (13) is electrically connected to the signal unit (14), wherein the pressure measuring unit (10) is configured such that the signal unit (14) outputs the optical and / or acoustic signal, powered by its buffer, for longer than the pressure limit is exceeded and the The power supply (13) is electrically connected to the signal unit (14).

15. Pressure measuring unit (10) according to one of claims 11 to 14, wherein the signal unit (14) is further configured to output the signal only when the pressure limit, preferably the pressure limits, are undershot or exceeded for a predetermined period of time, preferably undershot and / or exceeded.

16. Pressure measuring unit (10) according to one of claims 10 to 15, wherein the pressure switch (11) is configured to change at least one physical property, preferably its electrical resistance, its electrical capacitance and / or its electrical inductance, depending on the applied pressure.

17. Pressure measuring unit (10) according to one of claims 10 to 16, wherein the signal unit (14) is spatially offset, preferably by means of an elongated section of the pressure measuring unit (10), from the pressure switch (11) and / or from the power supply (13).

18. Pressure measuring unit (10) according to one of claims 10 to 17, wherein the pressure measuring unit (10) additionally has a control or amplification element which is configured to amplify and / or further modify a physical property change of the pressure switch (11) relative to the signal unit (14).

19. Pressure measuring unit (10) according to one of claims 10 to 18, wherein the pressure switch (11) is configured to electrically connect further elements to the signal unit (14) by activating it.

20. Pressure measuring unit (10) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the signal unit (14) is arranged spatially outside the field of vision of the animal (2) and / or facing away from the field of vision of the animal (2) with respect to the generation of the optical signal.

21. Pressure measuring unit (10) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the signal unit (14) is configured with respect to the generation of the acoustic signal such that the generated acoustic signal lies outside the sensitive hearing range of the animal (2).

22. Pressure measuring unit (10) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the animal (2) is a horse (2) and / or wherein the equipment (3) is a headstall (31) of the animal (2), preferably a noseband (32) of a headstall (31) of the animal (2).

23. Equipment (3) for use on an animal (2) comprising at least one pressure measuring unit (10) according to one of the preceding claims.

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