Insert for hoof shoe of a hoofed animal and hoof shoe having an insert of this type

Abstract

The present invention relates to an insert (15) for a hoof shoe (37) of a hoofed animal, preferably a horse, wherein the insert (15) is designed to be arranged inside a hoof shoe (37) in a flat and fixed manner, preferably in an interlocking manner, and to be held, preferably at the edge. The insert (15) is characterized in that the insert (15) has at least, preferably exactly one removal element (15c), preferably in the form of a pull-out tab (15c), which protrudes in sections beyond the contour of the rest of the insert (15) and is designed to be gripped by a person with at least one finger.

Description

[0001] Description

[0002] Insole for a hoof boot of a hoofed animal, as well as a hoof boot with such an insole

[0003] The invention relates to an insert for a hoof boot of a hoofed animal and to a hoof boot with such an insert.

[0004] For the gait and health analysis of a horse or other hoofed animal (e.g., camel), it is desirable to record the reaction forces generated when the animal strikes the ground not just at a single point, but with a certain resolution across the impact area of ​​the hoof. The measured values ​​should allow conclusions to be drawn about the animal's state of health, e.g., regarding lameness or overloading of the gait.

[0005] While there are numerous solutions for corresponding tasks in the fields of medical diagnostics, training status analysis, and rehabilitation in humans, the availability of suitable systems for hoofed animals is limited. There is one commercially available product from the company Tekscan, as well as systems with a similar purpose, but these are based on measuring accelerations rather than reaction forces.

[0006] From GB 2 482 192 B, it is known to attach force sensors to a horseshoe for such purposes and to store their signals locally and / or transmit them via a wireless transmitter to a remote receiving and evaluation station. According to DE 10 2011 016 344 A1, force sensors are integrated into an elastomer body for a corresponding purpose. The elastomer body, which is to be inserted into a hoof boot, is intended to enable the use of commercially available resistive force sensors with their limited force measuring range for reaction force analysis in horses with their relatively high ground pressure.

[0007] US Patent 2020 / 319044 A1 describes another system for the area-resolved measurement of reaction forces on the hooves of a hoofed animal, which transmits the sensor signals via a wireless transmitter to a remote evaluation unit. This hoof pressure measurement system is plate-shaped and designed to be inserted into a hoof boot. The system has a complex construction consisting of a base plate and a bottom plate, which are precisely aligned relative to each other. Between these plates are several force application cylinders and a number of resistive force sensors, as well as a microprocessor unit, a communication unit, and a battery to power the components. The function of the "force application cylinders" is not explained in the patent, nor is the method of attachment to the hoof described.

[0008] German patent DE 102021 211 795 A1 describes a reaction force measuring plate for recording the ground reaction force distribution across the ground contact area of ​​a hoofed animal's or a human's foot when it strikes the ground. The plate comprises a rigid support plate with a first surface facing the ground during use and a second surface facing the hoof or foot. It includes a plurality of planar force-measuring sensors fixed to the first surface of the support plate and several elastic force-transmitting studs, in particular a plurality corresponding to the plurality of force-measuring sensors, which are fixed to the free surfaces of the force-measuring sensors. This reaction force measuring plate 1 is placed inside a hoof boot, which is then attached to a horse's hoof.

[0009] A disadvantage of the known methods for measuring the force of a hoofed animal's or a human's foot when it strikes the ground, i.e., when in contact with the ground, is that only force distributions can be measured, but not total forces, since force bypasses occur in addition to the discrete sensor positions.

[0010] A disadvantage of using individual force transmission studs per force measuring sensor in the reaction force measuring plate of DE 10 2021 211 795 A1 is that even a slight misalignment between the force transmission stud and the force measuring sensor during operation changes the characteristic or calibration curve of the force measuring sensor (measured value vs. applied force). This can result in significant inaccuracies in the measured force.

[0011] Another disadvantage is that, for example, different hoof shapes and / or ground properties can lead to undefined force input and output. This can result in force bypasses, preventing the load from being directed to the discrete sensor positions as intended.

[0012] A further disadvantage is that when used on hoofed animals with iron shoes (e.g., horses), irregularities in the shoeing, such as protruding nails, can occur, which can significantly affect the force distribution on a rigid plate. This would not be the case under reference conditions without a measuring system on soft ground, as small irregularities in the ground would sink in and be compensated for. This could lead to an incorrect interpretation of the measurement results.

[0013] To protect reaction force measuring plates or similar sensors, which may be inserted into or permanently installed within a hoof boot, from dirt, liquid, and / or moisture from above, inserts can be used that create a dirt-, liquid-, and / or moisture-proof seal. This can improve the protection of the reaction force measuring plates or similar sensors and thus their lifespan.

[0014] These types of inserts are exposed to the underside of the hoof and therefore wear down over time due to the forces of friction exerted by the hoof. Dirt can also accumulate between the top or outer surface of the insert and the underside or bearing surface of the hoof, which can further rub against the top or outer surface of the insert and accelerate wear. Therefore, these inserts are consumable parts that must be replaced regularly. To do this, the used insert must be removed from inside the hoof boot.

[0015] Despite the liner's tight seal, dirt, liquid, and / or moisture can still penetrate underneath it over time and must be removed. Therefore, the liners must also be taken out of the hoof boot for cleaning.

[0016] This has typically proven difficult so far, as the inserts are usually fitted precisely into the hoof boot to ensure they are held securely in place. Consequently, it is currently difficult and time-consuming for a person to reach under the insert—that is, between the inside of the hoof boot and the underside of the insert—to remove it for cleaning or replacement due to damage or wear. Purely mechanical inserts of this type, meaning inserts without sensors or similar features, can also be used in hoof boots to influence the boot's mechanical properties when it strikes the ground. This can particularly affect the cushioning provided by the footing.These inserts with different properties can be interchanged to modify the mechanical properties of the hoof boot as desired. However, as previously described, these inserts can also be difficult to remove from inside the hoof boot.

[0017] One object of the present invention is to improve the possibilities for removing an insert from a hoof boot of a hoofed animal. In any case, this should be as simple, cost-effective, space-saving and / or weight-saving as possible. At the very least, an alternative to the known methods should be created.

[0018] The object of the invention is achieved by an insert for a hoof boot of a hoofed animal according to claim 1 and by a hoof boot with such an insert according to claim 10. Advantageous embodiments are described in the dependent claims.

[0019] The present invention therefore relates to an insert for a hoof boot of a hoofed animal, preferably a horse, wherein the insert is designed to be arranged flatly and firmly, preferably in a form-fitting manner, inside a hoof boot and to be held, preferably at the edge.

[0020] The insert has at least, preferably exactly, one removal element, preferably in the form of a pull tab, which projects section by section beyond the contour of the rest of the insert and is designed to be gripped by a person with at least one finger. Thus, a person can grip the removal element more easily and securely with at least one finger, for example, by means of the design of the removal element as a tab, hook, with a through-hole, and the like, and thus pull or lever the insert out of the inside of the hoof boot more easily and quickly than without a removal element.

[0021] According to one aspect of the invention, the removal element is formed integrally with at least one section of the remaining insert. An integral design is understood to mean a one-piece design. This can improve the connection between the removal element and the remaining insert. It can also simplify manufacturing.

[0022] According to a further aspect of the invention, the extraction element, preferably formed integrally with at least one section of the remaining insert, is made of an elastic material. This can improve the flexibility of the extraction element material, which can simplify its arrangement in the hoof boot.

[0023] According to a further aspect of the invention, the extraction element comprises at least, preferably exactly, one stiffening element, preferably in the form of a plastic plate, in which the elastic material of the extraction element is embedded. This can improve the stability of the extraction element.

[0024] According to a further aspect of the invention, a bending element, preferably a film hinge, is arranged between the removal element and the rest of the protective unit, so that the removal element can be bent relative to the rest of the insert. This allows the removal element to be bent, which can improve its accessibility during use. According to a further aspect of the invention, the removal element has at least a profile, preferably transverse ribs, at least partially, preferably on the side facing away from a bending element. This can make it easier for a person to grasp and pull the removal element with force.

[0025] According to a further aspect of the invention, the contour of the remaining insert has at least one sealing contour, preferably a flexible sealing lip, along a circumferential edge, which is designed to seal the interior of the hoof boot against water, moisture, and / or dirt. This can improve the sealing of the hoof boot during use.

[0026] According to a further aspect of the invention, the removal element is designed to be gripped by a person between at least one finger, preferably the index finger, and the thumb. This can make gripping easier for the person.

[0027] According to a further aspect of the invention, the remaining insert has at least a portion, preferably substantially, of at least one stiffening element, preferably in the form of a plastic plate, which is preferably embedded in the insert material. This can improve the stability and thus also the edge sealing or sealing effect of the insert. Embedding the stiffening element in the, preferably elastic, material of the insert, i.e., completely enclosing it therein, can improve and / or simplify the connection between the insert and the stiffening element.

[0028] In other words, according to the invention, an insert for a hoof boot, together with a removal element, preferably in the form of a pull tab, can be formed in one piece, and preferably as a single unit, which can completely cover the interior of the hoof boot, and in particular in a water-, moisture-, and dirt-proof manner. For this purpose, the pull tab can be formed integrally with the rest of the insert. This allows a measuring unit or measuring plate, which may be arranged inside the hoof boot, to be protected from above.

[0029] In order to hold the measuring unit securely and in a defined position within a hoof boot, the resulting edge of the insert can be dimensioned accordingly without protruding too far beyond the measuring unit, which would in turn lead to a reduced stiffness of the edge of the insert.

[0030] The edge of the insert can also be provided with a sealing contour to create a watertight, moisture-proof, and dirt-resistant seal for the area inside the hoof boot along the vertical axis below the measuring unit. This sealing contour can be formed by a sealing lip that projects horizontally outwards and is flexible perpendicular to the horizontal. This lip rests against the inside of the hoof boot's receiving chamber and can be partially bent over to seal the gap.

[0031] The pull tab can, in principle, i.e., when not in use, be designed to extend flat horizontally or along the longitudinal axis to the rear, allowing the separate insert to be transported and stored more compactly when not in use. However, to enable it to protrude from the interior of the hoof boot, and especially to project obliquely upwards and backwards, when in use, a bending element in the form of a film hinge can be incorporated between the pull tab and the rest of the insert, preferably as a material weakener, in addition to the elasticity of the insert's elastic material and the pull tab itself. To improve the stability of the pull tab, a stiffening element in the form of a plastic plate can be embedded in the material of the pull tab. The plastic plate can extend across the entire surface of the pull tab material, extending backwards from the film hinge of the insert.This allows a person to firmly grip the pull tab and thus pull the insert upwards out of the interior of the hoof boot with more force, or to lever it diagonally upwards.

[0032] To further improve the user's grip on the pull tab, the surface of the pull tab can be profiled on both sides at the edge, i.e., on the side facing away from the film hinge of the insert, with transverse ribs. This can make gripping easier, especially when the pull tab's surface is dirty, damp, or wet.

[0033] In any case, thanks to the pull-out tab of the insert, the measuring unit can be removed from the inside of the hoof boot by one person much more easily and quickly than previously known.

[0034] The present invention also relates to a hoof boot with a reaction force measuring plate, which is designed to detect the ground reaction force distribution over the ground contact area of ​​the hoof of the hoofed animal when it steps onto the ground, and with an insert as previously described, which is arranged flatly and firmly, preferably in a form-fitting manner, inside a hoof boot and is held, preferably at the edge.

[0035] This allows an insert according to the invention, as previously described, to be used to protect a measuring unit in the form of a reaction force measuring plate inside a hoof boot. According to one aspect of the invention, the reaction force measuring plate comprises: a, preferably rigid, support plate with a first surface facing the ground and a second surface facing the hoof on the opposite side; a plurality of planar force measuring sensors fixed in a position-fixed manner to the second surface of the support plate; several, in particular a plurality corresponding to the plurality of force measuring sensors, elastic force transmission studs fixed to the free surfaces of the force measuring sensors; and at least, preferably exactly, a rigid load distribution plate arranged parallel to the support plate and facing away from the support plate on the elastic force transmission studs and facing the hoof, or vice versa.The ground represents a substrate which can, in principle, be of any composition or made of any material.

[0036] This aspect of the invention includes the idea of ​​forming the desired measuring device with a carrier plate that is essentially both rigid and incompressible (but possibly elastically flexible), on one surface of which a plurality of force measuring sensors are attached, which is in operative contact with the underside of the hoof, and whose other surface faces the substrate or the ground in use.

[0037] Furthermore, the invention includes the idea of ​​assigning to each of the force measuring sensors a force transmission stud adapted to the effective surface of the sensor on its free surface, which are oriented towards the hoof, i.e. upwards.

[0038] In principle, a configuration is also possible in which force transmission studs with a larger base area are used, which are not assigned to a single force sensor, but to two or more force measuring sensors together, and which transfer the occurring ground reaction forces into them. In extreme cases, the measuring plate could even have only a single force transmission stud whose base area covers all force measuring sensors, provided that this force measuring stud, by its design and its mounting on the support plate, allows for differentiated force transmission to the various sensors.

[0039] For common practical applications, a number of 3-8 force sensors, and in particular 5-7 sensors, is currently sufficient. Preferably, at least five force sensors can be used. Preferably, at least seven force sensors can be used, and especially preferably exactly seven, which can be arranged along the perimeter. In any case, the force sensors can be arranged at equal intervals around the circumference. This can enable representative measurement of the force values ​​while keeping costs down.

[0040] Such a reaction force measuring plate has a simple design and is therefore inexpensive to manufacture, robust in practical use, and easy to handle. It also allows for sufficiently high-resolution measurement of reaction forces across the hoof surface with minimal force interference and therefore high accuracy. Furthermore, its flat and lightweight construction makes it not only easy to use but also easy to transport.

[0041] The reaction force measuring plate can have at least, preferably exactly, one rigid load distribution plate, which is arranged parallel to the support plate and facing away from the support plate, on the elastic force transmission studs, and facing the ground, or vice versa. Thus, the rigid load distribution plate spans several to all of the elastic force transmission studs and therefore also the respective force measuring sensors or the spaces between them. This allows force transmission to each force measuring sensor without force bypass, which can improve the quality of the force measurements. The load distribution plate can be a separate element or be formed by a stiffening element, preferably in the form of a plastic plate, of the insert. Preferably, the rigid load distribution plate can be made of a material with very high strength and stiffness with good maximum elongation.For this purpose, polyamide with an additional reinforcing layer can preferably be used. Particularly preferably, the rigid load distribution plate can be implemented as an organosheet made of polyamide with glass fiber reinforcement.

[0042] As explicitly stated and described above, the support plate can be positioned with its first surface facing the hoof and its second, opposite surface facing the ground. However, the arrangement can also be reversed, with the first surface facing the ground and the second, opposite surface facing the hoof. This can increase the possibilities for use and design.

[0043] In particular, the arrangement of the carrier plate with the first surface facing the hoof or foot during use is advantageous because then the force measuring sensors and elastic force transmission studs act against the hoof.

[0044] In any case, the measuring unit or measuring plate is designed in combination with a hoof boot as a support and protective element, so that the support plate with the force sensors does not have to be firmly connected to the hoof or iron and at the same time no relative movement occurs between the support plate with the force sensors and the support and protective element (hoof boot), which can mean less stress on a cable connection of the reaction force measuring plate.

[0045] According to a further aspect of the invention, the reaction force measuring plate further comprises at least one, preferably elastic,

[0046] A force transmission surface element is mounted, which is fixed in a positional manner parallel to the support plate and facing away from the first surface, and which is attached to the force measuring sensors. The elastic force transmission studs are fixed directly opposite one of the force measuring sensors on the free surface of the force transmission surface element. The force transmission surface element is also arranged between the support plate and the load distribution plate.

[0047] This aspect of the present invention is based on the understanding that, as described in DE 10 2021 211 795.3, the ground contact forces can be transmitted to the respective force sensors by means of force transmission studs, each of which is arranged directly opposite one of the force measuring sensors. In addition, by having a force transmission surface element accommodate the force transmission studs and thus position them relative to each other and to the force measuring sensors, any offset between the force transmission studs and the force measuring sensors during operation can be avoided or at least sufficiently reduced to prevent or at least sufficiently reduce any change or influence on the characteristics or calibration curve of the force sensors, thus ensuring sufficiently accurate force measurement.

[0048] The force transmission surface element can also be referred to as a pressure-guiding element. In any case, the force transmission surface element can be designed as a thin, planar plane, which can preferably be bonded to a carrier film by means of a material bond, in particular by vulcanization, as will be described in more detail below.

[0049] The force transmission surface element can also serve as a thin protective layer and, for this purpose, be dimensioned in size and shape such that it at least largely covers and thus protects the force measuring sensors or their sensor carrier film. According to a further aspect of the invention, the force transmission studs and / or the force transmission surface element are made of an elastic material. This can effect or enable elastic force transmission. The hardness of the elastic material of the force transmission studs and / or the force transmission surface element can, in particular, be between 30 and 85 Shore A.

[0050] According to a further aspect of the invention, the power transmission lugs are formed integrally with the power transmission surface element. Thus, the power transmission lugs and the power transmission surface element are formed as a single unit. This can be achieved with the same material or with different materials, the latter potentially increasing both the manufacturing effort and the design possibilities.

[0051] According to a further aspect of the invention, the force transmission lugs have a linear or trapezoidal contact surface with the ground and / or the respective force sensor. Preferably, a linear or elongated contact surface is present on the side facing away from the force sensor, and a larger, wider contact surface is present in the direction of the force sensor. This can be achieved, for example, by a trapezoidal shape, but also by a vertically straight design of the force transmission lugs. In any case, this can influence the force transmission.

[0052] According to a further aspect of the invention, the force transmission surface element is bonded to the force measuring sensors or a sensor carrier film facing away from the force transmission studs. This can represent a connection method that allows for a direct connection between the force measuring sensors and the force transmission surface element. If the force measuring sensors are arranged on a sensor carrier film, in particular printed on it, as will be described in more detail below, the force transmission surface element can also cover and protect the sensor carrier film.

[0053] According to a further aspect of the invention, the force transmission surface element is vulcanized to a carrier film facing away from the force transmission studs, and the carrier film is bonded to the force measuring sensors or a sensor carrier film. Thus, the carrier film creates a surface to improve the adhesive effect against the force measuring sensors or a sensor carrier film. The carrier film is preferably made of a material chemically similar to the sensor carrier film to enable or promote a material-bonded connection. In any case, the carrier film is preferably made of a thermoplastic or elastic material (e.g., TPE, NR, EPDM, PET) that can be material-bonded to the sensor carrier film, preferably by a vulcanization process or an injection molding process.The carrier film is particularly preferably made of thermoplastic polyethylene terephthalate (PET).

[0054] According to another aspect of the invention, in geometric configurations adapted for use in various ungulates or other vertebrates (including humans), the support plate has the shape of a closed horseshoe, ring, U, or polygon with a recess in the central area.

[0055] According to a further aspect of the invention, in a technologically advantageous embodiment, the force sensors, together with associated sensor signal lines and optionally power supply lines, are implemented on a continuous sensor carrier film that is fixed to the first surface of the carrier plate. According to a further aspect of the invention, the effective area of ​​the force sensors is in the range between 0.5 cm² and 10 cm², in particular between 2 cm² and 5 cm². It is understood that when using a relatively large number of sensors, and especially in configurations of the measuring plate intended for animals with a relatively small hoof or foot area, the effective area may be relatively small, whereas in configurations with a relatively small number of sensors and for animals with a large detection area, it may be closer to or even above the preferably mentioned upper limit.

[0056] According to another aspect of the invention, in the interest of technologically easy and cost-effective manufacturing of the sensors and configurability of different designs of the measuring plate, all force measuring sensors have essentially the same geometric shape and effective surface.

[0057] According to a further aspect of the invention, in a simple embodiment, the force measuring sensors or the aforementioned sensor carrier film are bonded to the carrier plate. The connection of the force transmission lugs to the force measuring sensors can also be easily achieved by bonding.

[0058] According to a further aspect of the invention, if high configuration flexibility is required for certain applications, the force sensors or the sensor carrier film and / or the force transmission studs on the force sensors can alternatively be detachably attached and, in particular, inserted into suitable guides or fixed together. It is understood that such solutions are structurally more complex and potentially more susceptible to failure, so they are likely to be more suitable for specific applications. According to a further aspect of the invention, in a currently preferred embodiment, the force sensors are resistive-dielectric sensors, which in particular comprise a first conductive layer, a dielectric layer on top of this first conductive layer, which is surrounded and delimited by a spacer that determines the shape of the force sensor, and a second conductive layer on top of the dielectric layer and the spacer.Besides the design mentioned here as a variant, such resistive force sensors can also have other known designs. In principle, in addition to resistive-dielectric sensors, piezoelectric, capacitive, or inductive sensors, or electroactive polymers, can also be used in the reaction force measuring plate.

[0059] According to a further aspect of the invention, material embodiments may include the following: the support plate may be made of organosheet, spring steel, or plastic; the force transmission studs may be made of elastomer; and the load distribution plate may be made of organosheet, spring steel, or plastic, preferably polyamide with a reinforcing layer, preferably glass fiber reinforcement. The hardness of the elastomer of the force transmission studs may specifically be between 30 and 85 ShA.

[0060] The present invention also relates to a reaction force measuring system with a hoof boot with a reaction force measuring plate and with an insert as described above and a wireless sensor signal transmitter unit attached thereto and connected to the force measuring sensors by means of a signal, in particular according to the Bluetooth standard, as well as a sensor signal receiving, evaluation and display device arranged remotely from the reaction force measuring plate, which includes a wireless sensor signal receiving unit communicating with the sensor signal transmitter unit to the reaction force measuring plate.

[0061] Optionally, a device for sensor signal preprocessing, for example to facilitate transmission via the transmitter unit, can also be provided on a carrier plate. If the force measuring sensors are implemented on a sensor carrier film with corresponding conductive traces, the transmitter unit can also be arranged on this sensor carrier film and connected to the sensors via these conductive traces.

[0062] In other words, according to the invention, an insole for a hoof boot can be provided with an extension projecting beyond the inner dimension of the hoof boot, wherein the extension is designed as a pull tab.

[0063] The pull tab can either be pre-shaped so that it is angled upwards from the sole surface, or it can be bent upwards when the shoe is inserted, thus conforming to the back wall of the hoof boot. If the pull tab is not pre-shaped, a film hinge is preferably provided at the end of the inner sole surface, allowing the tab to bend upwards in a defined manner.

[0064] Preferably, the pull tab is provided with ribs for better grip.

[0065] Preferably, the insole is made of an elastic material such as an elastomer, a thermoset or a thermoplastic, preferably TPE or TPU, or alternatively of a foam.

[0066] Optionally, the insole includes a stiffening plate as a rigidity support. This can be made, for example, of plastic such as PA or TPU, preferably of glass fiber reinforced plastic, and particularly preferably of fabric-reinforced plastic.

[0067] Preferably, the outer geometry of the stiffening plate corresponds at least largely to the inner geometry of the shoe sole. The pull tab, made of an elastic material, can be attached to the plate at least in the rear region and preferably directly injection-molded. The attachment can be improved, for example, by means of flow openings in the stiffening plate.

[0068] Preferably, the elastic element, which also forms the pull-out tab, covers the stiffening element at least in the area of ​​the bearing edge of the hooves and forms a protective layer here.

[0069] Preferably, the elastic element also covers the stiffening plate at the edges, so that the potentially sharp-edged sides of the stiffening plate are also protected.

[0070] Optionally, the elastic element also covers the stiffening plate from below if this is beneficial for the robustness of the stiffening plate.

[0071] Preferably, a sealing contour is formed on the outer surface of the insole, which rests against the side wall of the shoe and thus further reduces the penetration of dirt under the insole.

[0072] Preferably, a number and / or a logo is depicted in the sole. Preferably, this is recessed into the elastic material and formed with a smooth (polished in the tool) surface.

[0073] Such an insole can be used as a load distribution plate in a sensor sandwich.

[0074] In any case, it is advantageous according to the invention that the insole can be conveniently removed and inserted. This facilitates easy cleaning. Further advantages and benefits of the invention will become apparent from the description of exemplary embodiments with reference to the figures. Of these, Fig. 1 shows the partial assembly of a hoof boot with an integrated reaction force measuring unit as a reaction force measuring plate and with the insole according to the invention, viewed from above;

[0075] Fig. 2 is a perspective view of a section of Fig. 1 as an exploded view;

[0076] Fig. 3 shows a perspective view of a sectionally depicted hoof boot with a mounted reaction force measuring plate and with an insert according to the invention, from an oblique angle above;

[0077] Fig. 4 shows a sketch-like representation of how to insert the insert according to the invention into the hoof boot; and

[0078] Fig. 5 shows a schematic diagram of an embodiment of the reaction force measuring system according to the invention, in the form of a block diagram.

[0079] The above figures are described in Cartesian coordinates with a longitudinal direction X, a transverse direction Y perpendicular to the longitudinal direction X, and a vertical direction Z perpendicular to both the longitudinal direction X and the transverse direction Y. The longitudinal direction X can also be referred to as depth X, the transverse direction Y as width Y, and the vertical direction Z as height Z. The longitudinal direction X and the transverse direction Y together form the horizontal X, Y, which can also be referred to as the horizontal plane X, Y. The longitudinal direction X, the transverse direction Y, and the vertical direction Z together can also be referred to as spatial directions X, Y, Z, or as Cartesian spatial directions X, Y, Z.

[0080] Fig. 1 shows the partial construction of a hoof boot 37 with incorporated

[0081] Reaction force measuring unit 1 as reaction force measuring plate 1 and with insert 15 according to the invention along the vertical axis Z from above. Fig. 2 shows a perspective view of a section of Fig. 1 as an exploded view.

[0082] The reaction force measuring plate 1 has a closed, horseshoe-shaped rigid support plate 3, which has a first surface 3a pointing downwards along the vertical axis Z and a second surface 3b pointing upwards in the opposite direction along the vertical axis Z. Seven resistive force sensors 5, all with a rectangular base shape, are mounted on the second, upper surface 3b at approximately equal intervals. The free surface of each force sensor 5 points upwards along the vertical axis Z in the direction of the hoof H, or the horse's hoof H, and thus away from a surface (not shown). The force sensors 5 can also be referred to as force sensors 5 or force sensor elements 5.

[0083] The force sensors 5 are integrally implemented on a sensor carrier film 9, which also carries sensor signal lines as conductor tracks (not shown) for connecting each sensor. The sensor carrier film 9, together with the force sensors 5 mounted on it, can be manufactured using conventional printed circuit board technology, including printed electronics, which are known to those skilled in the art. The sensor carrier film 9 is applied with its back side to the second, upper surface 3b of the carrier 3. This is done by means of an adhesive or an adhesive layer, such as double-sided adhesive tape.

[0084] Furthermore, a force transmission surface element 11 is present, which, like the sensor carrier film 9, corresponds approximately to the area of ​​the rigid support plate 3. The force transmission surface element 11 can also be referred to as a pressure-guiding element 11. The elastic force transmission surface element 11 has a carrier film (not shown) facing the rigid support plate 3 or the sensor carrier film 9, which is bonded to the force transmission surface element 11 by vulcanization and also corresponds approximately to the area of ​​the rigid support plate 3.

[0085] Carrier plate 3 corresponds. The force transmission surface element 11 is also bonded to the sensor carrier film 9 by means of the carrier film, which is facilitated or achieved by the corresponding material combination. At the same time, the vulcanized connection between the carrier film and the force transmission surface element 11 allows an elastic material to be used for the force transmission surface element 11 and still bond it to the sensor carrier film 9 by means of the carrier film.

[0086] Several elastic force transmission studs 7, which can also be referred to as elastic pressure guide studs 7, are formed on the elastic force transmission surface element 11. These studs point towards the hoof and away from the force measuring sensors 5 and the sensor carrier film 9, respectively. Each force measuring sensor 5 is assigned exactly one force transmission stud 7, so that the force measuring sensor 5 and its force transmission stud 7 are identically formed and positioned relative to each other. This positioning is ensured by the fact that the force transmission studs 7 are formed integrally with the elastic force transmission surface element 11.

[0087] A rigid load distribution plate 13 is arranged along the vertical axis Z, facing away from the force transmission surface element 11 and parallel to it in the horizontal X, Y axes. This plate rests against the force transmission studs 7. Thus, force can be transmitted from the hoof via the rigid load distribution plate 13 to the force transmission studs 7, allowing the loads to act on the force measuring sensors 5 without force bypasses. The rigid load distribution plate 13 is made of polyamide organosheet reinforced with glass fibers.

[0088] The reaction force measuring plate 1 is fixedly arranged inside the hoof boot 37 and connected to its underside, see Figure 2. Along the vertical axis Z upwards, the reaction force measuring plate 1 is abutted by the load distribution plate 13, as previously described. To protect the reaction force measuring plate 1 from above, and in particular the lateral spaces between the edge (not labeled) of the load distribution plate 13 and the inside of the hoof boot wall 37a, cf. Figure 3, from the ingress of dirt, liquid, or moisture, an insert 15 according to the invention, which will be described in more detail below, is placed onto the load distribution plate 13 from above along the vertical axis Z and clamped firmly to the inside of the hoof boot wall 37a.The insert 15 seals the sensor carrier film 9, including the force-measuring sensors 5, and the force transmission surface element 11, including the force transmission studs 7, from the outside, thus protecting them from external influences. Alternatively, the load distribution plate 13 can also be a component of the insert 15.

[0089] The force sensors 5 are contacted and readable via the sensor signal lines in printed form, as described in more detail below. For this purpose, a connection element 16 in the form of a connector outlet 16 is provided, which terminates in a connector 16a. The connector outlet 16 and an internal part of the connector 16a are enclosed by a cable guard 16b and thus protected from external influences.

[0090] Fig. 3 shows a perspective view of a hoof boot 37, shown in section, with a reaction force measuring plate 1 and an insert 15 according to the invention, viewed from an oblique angle above. The hoof boot wall 37a is shown only in its lower region to allow a view into the interior (not labeled) of the hoof boot 37. Fig. 4 shows a sketch-like illustration of the insertion of the insert 15 according to the invention into the hoof boot 37, which is attached to a hoof H of a horse. In the example shown, the reaction force measuring plate 1 is formed as part of the hoof boot 37, which is then fixed to the hoof H. According to the invention, the insert 15 forms a removal element 15c in the form of a pull tab 15c. For this purpose, the pull tab 15c is formed integrally with the rest of the insert 15.

[0091] In order to hold the reaction force measuring plate 1 within a hoof boot 37, see Figs. 3 and 4, securely and in a defined position in the horizontal X, Y, the edge of the insert 15 is dimensioned accordingly without protruding too much beyond the rest of the insert 15 and in particular a stiffening element 17h embedded in the material of the insert 15 in the form of a plastic plate 15h, which in turn would lead to a reduced stiffness of the edge of the insert 15.

[0092] The edge of the insert 15 is further provided with a sealing contour 15g to seal the area inside the hoof boot 37 along the vertical axis Z below the reaction force measuring plate 1 as watertight, moisture-proof, and dirt-proof as possible from the environment. The sealing contour 15g can be formed by a sealing lip (not shown) projecting outwards in the horizontal X, Y and flexible perpendicular to the horizontal X, Y, which rests against the inside of the receiving space (not labeled) of the hoof boot 37 and can be partially bent over to seal the space below the insert 15.

[0093] In this case, the pull tab 15c is designed to extend flat away from the rest of the insert 15 in the horizontal plane X, Y or along the longitudinal axis X when not in use, so that the insert 15 as a whole can be transported and stored more compactly when not in use. However, in order to be able to protrude obliquely upwards and backwards from the interior of the hoof boot 37 when in use, in addition to the elasticity of the elastic material of the insert 15 and its pull tab 15c itself, a bending element 15d in the form of a film hinge 15d of the insert 15 is also present as a material weakening between the pull tab 15c and the rest of the insert 15.

[0094] To improve the stability of the pull tab 15c, a stiffening element 15f in the form of a plastic plate 15f is embedded in the material of the pull tab 15c. The plastic plate 15f extends across the entire surface of the material of the pull tab 15c, away from the film hinge 15d of the insert 15 and towards the rear. This allows a person to firmly grip the pull tab 15c and thus pull the insert 15 upwards or lever it diagonally upwards out of the interior of the hoof boot 37 with greater force.

[0095] To further improve the grip of the pull tab 15c for the user, the surface of the pull tab 15c is provided on both sides at the edge, i.e., facing away from the film hinge 15d of the insert 15, with a profile 15e in the form of transverse ribs 15e. This can facilitate gripping, especially when the surface of the pull tab 15c is dirty and / or damp or wet.

[0096] In any case, thanks to the pull tab 15c of the protective unit 15, the reaction force measuring plate 1 can be removed from the interior of the hoof boot 37 by one person much more easily and quickly than previously known.

[0097] Fig. 5 is a schematic diagram of a reaction force measuring system 17, which can be formed in particular with a reaction force measuring plate 1 according to one of Figs. 1 to 2. The representation has the form of a functional block diagram and is not intended to show the exact constructive realization of the system components.

[0098] The reaction force measurement system 17 comprises, in addition to the force sensors 5 with their sensor signal lines already shown in Figures 1 and 2, a sensor signal preprocessing unit 19, which is connected to the force sensors 5 via the sensor signal lines and serves to perform preprocessing and formatting of the sensor signals advantageous for external signal transmission. On the output side, the sensor signal preprocessing unit 19 is connected to a wireless sensor signal transmitter 21, which can operate according to the Bluetooth standard, or, depending on the application, according to another wireless communication standard. The aforementioned components are powered by a power source 23, which in the simplest case is a commercially available primary cell or a rechargeable battery.If a battery is used, it may be assigned a charging socket (not shown in the figure) for recharging while installed.

[0099] All the above-mentioned components are advantageously arranged on the reaction force measuring plate 1, and in particular protected within it, and are referred to here as hoof component 25. Specifically, all the functional units of the hoof component 25 can be implemented on the sensor carrier film 9.

[0100] The hoof component 25 is wirelessly connected via the sensor signal transmitter 21 to a sensor signal receiving, evaluation, and display device 27, which is located remotely from the animal (or human) being examined. The device 27 comprises a wireless sensor signal receiver 29, which is configured to communicate with the sensor signal transmitter 21 on the hoof component 25 and which feeds the received signals to a signal evaluation unit 31, where they are evaluated according to a program stored in a program memory 33.

[0101] Finally, a display unit 35 serves to present the evaluation results, for example to a rider or owner, as well as therapists or trainers. The components of the sensor signal reception, evaluation, and display device can be implemented, for example, in a notebook, tablet, or smartphone with a suitable evaluation app.

[0102] Reference symbol list (part of the description)

[0103] H hoof or horse hoof

[0104] X Longitudinal direction; Depth

[0105] Y transverse direction; width

[0106] Z vertical direction; height

[0107] X, Y Horizontal; horizontal plane

[0108] I Reaction force measuring unit; reaction force measuring plate

[0109] 3 Carrier plate

[0110] 3a first, lower surface

[0111] 3b second, upper surface

[0112] 5 sensors or force sensors

[0113] 7 elastic force transmission studs; elastic pressure guidance studs

[0114] 9 Sensor carrier film

[0115] II Force transmission surface element; pressure guiding element

[0116] 13 Load distribution plate

[0117] 15 inserts; protective element

[0118] 15c Removal element or pull-out tab of the insert15

[0119] 15d Bending element or film hinge of the insert 15

[0120] 15e Profiling or transverse ribs of the extraction element 15c

[0121] 15f Stiffening element or plastic plate of the extraction element 15c

[0122] 15g sealing contour or flexible sealing lips of the edge of the insert 15

[0123] 15h Stiffening element or plastic plate of the insert 15

[0124] 16 Connection element; plug outlet

[0125] 16a plug

[0126] 16b Cable protection

[0127] 17 Reaction force measuring system

[0128] 19 Sensor signal preprocessing unit Wireless sensor signal transmitter Power source Hoof component Sensor signal Sensor signal receiving, evaluation and display device Wireless sensor signal receiver Signal evaluation unit Program memory Display unit Hoof boot a Hoof boot wall

Claims

Patent claims 1. Insert (15) for a hoof boot (37) of a hoofed animal, preferably a horse, wherein the insert (15) is designed to be arranged flatly and firmly, preferably in a form-fitting manner, inside a hoof boot (37) and to be held, preferably at the edge, characterized in that the insert (15) has at least, preferably exactly, a removal element (15c), preferably as a pull tab (15c), which extends section by section beyond the contour of the rest of the insert (15) and is designed to be grasped by a person with at least one finger.

2. Insert (15) according to claim 1, wherein the removal element (15c) is formed integrally with at least one section of the remaining insert (15).

3. Insert (15) according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the removal element (15c) is preferably formed integrally with at least one section of the remaining insert (15) from an elastic material.

4. Insert (15) according to claim 3, wherein the removal element (15c) comprises at least, preferably exactly, a stiffening element (15f), preferably as a plastic plate (15f), preferably at least, preferably exactly, a stiffening element (15f), preferably as a plastic plate (15f), embedded in the elastic material of the removal element (15c).

5. Insert (15) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein a bending element (15d), preferably as a film hinge (15d), is arranged between the removal element (15c) and the remaining protective unit (15), so that the removal element (15c) can be bent relative to the remaining insert (15).

6. Insert (15) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the removal element (15c) has at least a profile (15e), preferably as transverse ribs (15e), at least sectionally, preferably facing away from a bending element (15d).

7. Insert (15) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the contour of the remaining insert (15) has at least one sealing contour (15g) along a circumferential edge, preferably as a flexible sealing lip (15g), which is designed to seal the interior of the hoof boot (37) in a water-, moisture- and / or dirt-tight manner.

8. Insert (15) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the removal element (15c) is designed to be grasped by a person between at least one finger, preferably the index finger, and the thumb.

9. Insert (15) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the remaining insert (15) has at least sectionally, preferably substantially, at least one stiffening element (15h), preferably in the form of a plastic plate (15h), which is preferably embedded in the material of the insert (15).

10. Hoof boot (37) with a reaction force measuring plate (1) which is designed to detect the ground reaction force distribution over the ground contact area of ​​the hoof of the hoofed animal when it steps onto the ground, and with an insert (15) according to one of the preceding claims, which is arranged in the interior of a hoof boot (37) in a flat and firm manner, preferably in a form-fitting manner and is held, preferably at the edge.

11. Hoof boot (37) according to claim 10, wherein the reaction force measuring plate (1) comprises: a, preferably rigid, support plate (3) with a first surface (3a) facing the ground and a second surface (3b) facing the hoof opposite, a plurality of planar force measuring sensors (5) fixed in position on the second surface (3b) of the support plate (3), several, in particular a plurality corresponding to the plurality of force measuring sensors (5), of elastic force transmission studs (7) fixed on the free surfaces of the force measuring sensors (5), and at least, preferably exactly, a rigid load distribution plate (13) arranged parallel to the support plate (3) and facing away from the support plate (3) on the elastic force transmission studs (7) and facing the hoof (H), or vice versa.

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