Walkway and walkway system for an aviary

The present embodiments provide an aviary, a walkway for an aviary, and a walkway system for an aviary. The walkway includes a ramp and at least one support disposed below the ramp.

TECHNICAL FIELD OF THE DISCLOSED EMBODIMENTS

The embodiments herein generally relate to aviaries and, more particularly, to an aviary walkway.

BACKGROUND OF THE DISCLOSED EMBODIMENTS

When birds are not continuously confined to a caged area and are permitted space to move freely inside an aviary, then the aviary may be considered “cage free.” Cage-free aviaries may include one or more cage towers with multiple levels or floors of cages to maximize the number of birds being housed therein. Egg production is consequently maximized with multiple levels of cages housing birds. However, such multi-level cage towers require means for birds to access the cage tower from an aisle in order to be able to utilize the open space available to the birds.

Birds placed in a cage free environment for the first time may not understand immediately how to move from one level to another or from one cage tower to another across an aisle. Walkways and ramps in the aisle or other open space adjacent the cage tower facilitate use of the space by and training for birds that may not be familiar with hopping or flying between perches as a means to access various levels of the cage tower. Similarly, conventional internal stairwells facilitate use of all levels of a tower by the birds housed therein. Such conventional walkways, ramps, and stairwells may be made from cage wire bent into the shape of a ramp for use by the birds or from slatted wooden timbers or boards. Further, air moving in the cage tower may not be sufficiently turbulent or properly directed to sufficiently dry manure deposited in the cage tower.

Although initially desirable for such training purposes, a walkway may interfere with cage tower operations, including but not limited to, initial stocking of a house with birds and de-stocking birds upon the completion of a laying cycle, and egg, bird, or debris removal. Further, a walkway positioned in or near the aisle may reduce the amount of space available in the aisle. There exists a need in the art for an aviary walkway to allow birds to access a cage tower. There also exists a need in the art for an aviary walkway positioned in the path of moving air to cause turbulence to airflow in the aviary to enhance the manure drying capabilities of the moving air. There also exists a need for an aviary ramp that can be removed to thereby facilitate stocking and de-stocking of the aviary, cleaning, maintenance, and other operations in the aviary and increase the amount of space available in the open space next to the aviary cage or cage tower.

There exists a need in the art for a solid ramp for an aviary. There exists a need in the art for a ramp for an aviary that is easier to clean than prior designs. A need exists in the art for an aviary ramp that can increase the amount of available floor space for birds to occupy in the aviary. A need also exists in the art for a ramp having a surface configuration capable of permitting a bird to grip the surface for stability. A need exists in the art for a ramp having a surface that can cause pressure differences across a bird's foot in contact with the surface to enable the surface to be relatively self-cleaning as the bird negotiates the ramp.

SUMMARY OF THE DISCLOSED EMBODIMENTS

In one embodiment, a walkway for an aviary is provided in which the walkway includes a ramp having a ramp positioning member extending below the ramp. The walkway also includes at least one support disposed below the ramp, and the at least one support is configured to fix the ramp from horizontal movement.

The ramp positioning member may be configured to couple with the at least one support. The ramp positioning member may allow upward movement of the ramp when the ramp positioning member is coupled with the at least one support. The ramp positioning member may be a lip extending from a bottom side of the ramp. The at least one support may include a support positioning member, wherein the support positioning member is a slot configured to receive the lip. The ramp positioning member may be disposed on a cage side of the ramp. The at least one support may include a second ramp positioning member disposed on an aisle side of the ramp. The at least one support may comprise a plurality of supports each disposed below the ramp. Each of the plurality of supports may include a support positioning member. The ramp may be solid. The ramp may have an upper surface. The upper surface may be configured with ridges and valleys. The ramp may be configured to create air turbulence. The ramp may be metal.

In another embodiment, a walkway system for an aviary is provided. A ramp is configured for positioning alongside one or more aviary cages. At least one support is configured to support the ramp and configured to be retractable from an extended position to a retracted position. The ramp is fixed against horizontal movement when the at least one support is in the extended position and supporting the ramp.

The ramp may be free to move upward when the at least one support is in the extended position and supporting the ramp. The at least one support may include an elongated portion supporting a bottom side of the ramp when the at least one support is in the extended position. The extended position may be defined by the elongated portion extending in a substantially horizontal direction. The retracted position may be defined by the elongated portion extending downward.

In another embodiment, an aviary is provided. The aviary includes at least one cage tower, an aisle adjacent the at least one cage tower, and a ramp disposed in the aisle and adjacent the at least one cage tower and configured to facilitate bird access to the at least one cage tower. The aviary further includes at least one retractable bracket coupled to the at least one cage tower and configured to support the ramp when the at least one bracket is in an extended position.

The ramp may be solid. The ramps may have an upper surface. The upper surface may be configured with ridges and valleys. The ramps may be configured to create air turbulence. The at least one retractable bracket may be configured to fix the ramp from horizontal movement when the at least one retractable bracket is supporting the ramp and in the extended position. The at least one cage tower may include a plurality of levels. The at least one retractable bracket may comprise a plurality of retractable brackets. Each of the plurality of retractable brackets may be disposed at each of the plurality of levels. The ramp may comprise a first positioning member and the at least one retractable bracket may comprise a second positioning member. The first positioning member and the second positioning member may cooperate to fix the ramp from horizontal movement. The first positioning member and the second positioning member may allow upward movement of the ramp when fixing the ramp from horizontal movement. The first positioning member may be a lip extending downward from the ramp. The second positioning member may be a slot configured to receive the lip. The first positioning member may be proximate the at least one cage tower. The at least one retractable bracket may include a third positioning member that is distal the at least one cage tower.

The aviary may further include at least one ramp hanger. The at least one ramp hanger may be defined by at least one hook disposed at an upper end of the ramp. The aviary may further include a hanger support configured to couple to the at least one ramp hanger. The at least one ramp hanger may include at least one slot configured to fit over the hanger support. The hanger support may be retractable.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

The present embodiments provide aviaries having open space that may include a floor or platform serving as a pecking area where hens can move freely, peck the floor with their beaks, and scratch the floor with their feet. By permitting space for the hens to move freely, the aviary cages of the present embodiments satisfy the requirements for the birds contained thereby to be considered “cage free” birds. In other words, the hens are not continuously confined to a caged area. The present embodiments allow the removal of freshly laid eggs, which eggs may be sold under the label “cage free.” The present embodiments also prevent eggs from becoming contaminated due to slow retrieval thereof from the scratching areas or cage floors (during which time the eggs could be infiltrated by bacteria, pecked or eaten by other birds, or otherwise damaged).

Some embodiments include at least one belt extending through the cage tower below the nesting area to remove a deposit from at least part of the cage tower. A deposit may include, but is not limited to, one or more items such as manure, an egg, litter, feathers, feed, or a dead bird. In one embodiment, the belt extends through the cage tower along the length of the cage tower. In one embodiment, the belt extends approximately 400 feet along the length of the cage tower. In one embodiment, the belt carries manure from the cage tower to a collection area (not shown) positioned outside of the cage tower. By removing deposits, particularly manure, from at least part of the cage tower, ammonia levels within the aviary are significantly reduced. Additionally, the need for an individual to enter the cage and clean the cage by hand is greatly reduced. Accordingly, the present embodiments permit one person to care for 150,000 to 200,000 birds, compared with the 3-5 people per 150,000 to 200,000 birds required when known cages and aviaries are used. The present embodiments also eliminate the requirement for extreme body positions, including squatting for extended periods of time and crawling and lying on the floor while loading and unloading the cage and while gathering eggs from the cage. The present embodiments further reduce potential respiratory hazards and infection hazards to the workers. If a hen lays an egg outside of the nesting area, the egg will be collected by the belt and carried to an egg collection area (not shown) positioned outside of the cage tower.

In the aviaries of one or more embodiments of the present disclosure, walkways and/or ramps are positioned in the aisle or other open space adjacent the cage tower to assist the birds while they learn how to move from one level to another around the cage tower or from one cage tower to another across an aisle or open space. The walkways allow the birds to walk between various levels. This movement of the birds up and down in the system facilitates training of the birds so that they become familiar with hopping or flying between perches as a means to access various levels of the cage tower.

Although initially desirable for such training purposes, walkways may interfere with cage tower cleaning and maintenance operations, egg removal, debris removal, and bird placement or removal. Further, a walkway positioned in or near the aisle may reduce the amount of space available in the aisle. At the beginning of a cycle, at the end of a cycle, and before or after a cleaning or maintenance operation, it is useful to remove a ramp and retract any ramp supports in order to clear a path for heavy bird moving carts or other carts, equipment, or personnel to bring birds into the system at the start of the cycle and remove the hens at the end of the cycle. Fixed walkways, ramps, and external stairwells would impede the movement of and access by heavy bird moving carts or other carts, equipment, or personnel adjacent a cage tower.

Therefore, a walkway system of one or more embodiments of the present disclosure includes one or more ramps to allow birds to access a cage tower. The ramp(s) are easily removed once the birds are comfortable with hopping and/or flying between perches or at any time when so desired. Removal of the ramps facilitates cleaning and other operations in the aviary and increases the amount of space available in the open space next to the aviary cage or cage tower. Increased open space facilitates natural bird behaviors and bird health.

An embodiment of the present disclosure is solid to make the ramp easier to clean than other materials such as wire mesh or wood. Such prior art materials suffer from uneven and/or porous surfaces that can harbor dirt and bacteria. One or more of the presently disclosed embodiments includes a solid ramp that can be cleaned easily. Such a ramp could be fabricated from steel or plastic or other materials known to the skilled artisan to be cleaned easily. One or more embodiments of the present disclosure include solid aviary ramps that can increase the amount of available floor space for birds to occupy in the aviary. This permits the aviary to house more birds than an aviary without such a walkway system and facilitates natural bird behaviors and bird health.

A walkway system of one or more embodiments of the present disclosure includes one or more ramps having a surface configuration capable of permitting a bird to grip the surface for stability. Such a surface assists in training birds to use a multi-level aviary because it provides a stable, safe surface for birds to use for traveling, roosting, and other daily activities. A walkway system of one or more embodiments of the present disclosure includes one or more ramps having a surface that can cause pressure differences across a bird's feet in contact with the surface to enable the surface to be relatively self-cleaning as the bird negotiates the ramp. The pressure differences help move deposits on the surface to a belt, a scratching platform, or the floor through the motions of the birds in the aviary.

Additionally, walkways and/or ramps of embodiments of the present disclosure positioned in the aisle or other open space adjacent the cage tower are solid and are positioned in the path of moving air, where they cause turbulence to airflow in the aviary. Such turbulence, especially with relatively low airflow rates, enhances the manure drying capabilities of the moving air. Further, the angled configuration of the walkways and/or ramps directs at least a portion of the moving air in a downward and/or outward direction into nesting areas and the bottom of each level, thereby enhancing manure drying in those areas.

It should be noted that the various elements of each of the embodiments described below may be combined in any manner to form new embodiments of an aviary.

FIG. 1illustrates an aviary3010having a floor3014, which aviary3010is enclosed by exterior walls3016and a roof3040. The exterior walls3016define an interior surface3030. The exterior walls3016enclose at least one cage tower3018where hens may be caged. Each at least one cage tower3018includes an outside surface3031enclosing an inside area3032. In an embodiment having multiple cage towers, an aisle3020extends between each cage tower3018to provide an inspection area and space in which the birds housed in the aviary3010may move. In an embodiment, an aisle3020is positioned between a cage tower3018and the respective exterior wall3016. In an embodiment having multiple cage towers, at least one scratching platform3011may extend between each at least one cage tower3018. In an embodiment, a scratching platform3011may extend between the interior surface3030of each exterior wall3016and the adjacent cage tower3018. In an embodiment, at least one scratching platform3011extends from at least one cage tower3018.

In the illustrated embodiment ofFIG. 1, a scratching platform3011extends between the grates3039of the cage towers3018. In an embodiment having more than two cage towers3018, a scratching platform3011may extend between any adjacent cage towers3018. In an embodiment having a single cage tower3018, a scratching platform3011may extend from the cage tower3018. Additionally, a scratching platform3011may extend between a cage tower3018and an adjacent exterior wall3016. In one embodiment, the scratching platform3011is planar with the grates3039between which the scratching platform3011extends. Alternatively, the scratching platform3011may be sloped toward the grates3039, as illustrated inFIG. 1. The scratching platform3011extends into the open space3020of the aviary3010.

The scratching platform3011provides yet another pecking area for the hens to utilize while they are not nesting. In particular, the scratching platform3011provides a scratching area for the hens to scratch and peck within the aviary3010. When the birds scratch, they may scratch deposits on the scratching platform3011through the grates3039and onto the belt3036. Accordingly, since it is common for birds to defecate in their scratching area, the scratching platform3011becomes self-cleaning as the hens scratch. The scratching platform3011is configured so that the deposits are scratched back to the grates3039. Such configuration greatly reduces the amount of ammonia captured within the aviary3010while also reducing the requirement for frequent cleaning of the aviary3010. Any eggs laid on the scratching platform3011may be directed back toward the grates3039by the scratching of the hens. These eggs are then collected in the egg conveyors3028and removed from the aviary3010to a collection area (not shown).

In an embodiment, the scratching platform3011is configured so that a worker can walk across the scratching platform3011between the cage towers3018A and3018B. In an embodiment, a scratching platform3011is configured so that a worker can walk between cage tower3018A and the respective exterior wall3016. In an embodiment, the scratching platform3011is configured so that a worker can walk across the scratching platform3011between the cage towers3018C and3018B. In an embodiment, a scratching platform3011is configured so that a worker can walk between cage tower3018C and the respective exterior wall3016.

In the illustrated embodiments, the scratching platforms3011form similarly configured levels3017in the aviary3010, wherein each level3017may be accessed by a worker. A hen may walk, peck, scratch, socialize, sleep, and lay eggs, as the bird desires, in the inside area3013. These same hen activities can be carried out on the at least one scratching platform3011. The aviary cage3021may house a specific group of birds or it may be open to birds from other aviary cages3021. In an embodiment, the cage tower3018may be configured to allow the birds to move freely up and down the cage tower3018. In an embodiment, the cage tower3018may be configured to keep birds in the aviary3010segregated by vertical level3017. In an embodiment, the cage tower3018may be configured to keep birds segregated horizontally within a level3017of the cage tower3018.

FIGS. 2 and 3illustrate at least one aviary cage3021. Each at least one cage tower3018includes at least one aviary cage3021. Each at least one aviary cage3021includes a first side3025and a second side3023enclosing an inside area3013. At least one bump rail3015extends from each of the first side3025and the second side3023and into the respective aisle3020to allow equipment to be maneuvered through the aisle3020without damaging the at least one cage tower3018or the at least one aviary cage3021. The bump rail3015may be used by the birds as a perch.

Each aviary cage3021includes at least one nesting area3027. The nesting area3027provides space where a hen may sit to lay eggs. As the hens lay their eggs, the eggs are collected in egg conveyors3028that extend along the sides3025and3023of the aviary cage3021. The egg conveyors3028carry the eggs from the nesting area3027to a collection area (not shown).

At least one belt3036extends through the cage tower3018to remove a deposit from at least part of the cage tower3018. In an embodiment, a plurality of belts3036extends through the cage tower3018to remove deposits from at least part of the tower3018. The plurality of belts3036are positioned at various vertical locations within each cage tower3018. At least one belt3036of the plurality of belts3036is positioned below the nesting area3027of each aviary cage3021. Additional belts3036of the plurality of belts3036extend through the nesting area3027of each aviary cage3021. In one embodiment, at least one belt3036extends through the cage tower3018substantially the length of the cage tower3018. In one embodiment, the belt3036extends approximately 400 feet along the length of the cage tower3018. In one embodiment, the belt3036carries manure from the cage tower3018to a collection area (not shown) positioned outside of the cage tower3018.

In one embodiment, a grate3039is positioned over the belt3036. A portion of the grate3039is illustrated inFIG. 4. As illustrated inFIGS. 2-4, the grate3039includes openings3082therethrough that allow deposits, but not eggs, to pass through the grate3039to the belt3036. The grate3039has a first end3041and a second end3043. The first end3041extends to the first side3025of the aviary cage3021. The second end3043extends to the second side3023of the aviary cage3021. In an embodiment (not shown), the grate3039is flat. In an embodiment, the grate3039is shaped so that it is sloped toward each end3041and3043. Each end3041,3043of the grate3039is positioned adjacent an egg conveyor3028. The egg conveyors3028are adapted to carry eggs from the aviary cage3021to a collection area (not shown). In one embodiment, a grate3039is positioned over each belt3036.

In an embodiment, a first portion3045of the grate3039is angled downward toward an egg conveyor3028positioned adjacent the first end3041of the grate3039. In this embodiment, a second portion3047of the grate3039is angled downward toward an egg conveyor3028positioned adjacent the second end3043of the grate3039. In one embodiment, the first portion3045and second portion3047of the grate3039each extend from a centerline3049of the grate3039. In one embodiment, the first portion3045and the second portion3047are angled from the centerline3049at approximately a 7° to 8° angle. Eggs laid on the second portion3047of grate3039roll to the respective egg conveyor3028adjacent the second end3043of the grate3039, which is in the direction of arrow A (shown inFIG. 4). The egg conveyor3028carries the eggs to the collection area. Eggs laid on the first portion3045of the grate3039roll to the respective egg conveyor3028adjacent the first end3041of the grate3039. In an embodiment in which the grate3039is flat, the hens scratch the eggs to an egg conveyor3028.

In the illustrated embodiment, a scratching platform3011extends between adjacent cage towers3018. In an embodiment, a scratching platform3011extends between the cage tower3018and the respective exterior wall3016. In some embodiments, the scratching platform is solid. The scratching platform3011is oriented with respect to at least one belt3036. In one embodiment, the scratching platform3011is oriented with respect to a belt3036that extends below the nesting area3027of an aviary cage3021. In one embodiment, the scratching platform3011is sloped to allow deposits to move back toward the belt3036. In one embodiment, the scratching platform3011is crowned so that each side of the scratching platform3011slopes toward a belt3036. In particular, in the crowned scratching platform embodiment, the scratching platform3011is sloped toward the grate3039. In one embodiment (not shown), the scratching platform3011is flat. In an embodiment, the ends3041and3043of the grate3039are positioned below the scratching platform3011so that the egg conveyors3028extend below the scratching platform3011.

The scratching platform3011provides a pecking area for the hens to utilize while they are not nesting. In particular, the scratching platform3011provides a scratching and socializing area for birds within the aviary3010. When the birds scratch the scratching platform3011, they scratch much of the deposits made on the scratching platform3011onto the respective belt3036. Accordingly, since it is common for birds to defecate in a scratching area, the scratching platform3011becomes relatively self-cleaning as the hens scratch.

Particularly, by way of example, deposits may be scratched from the scratching platform3011in the direction of arrow B (shown inFIG. 4) toward the grate3039. Deposits may be scratched toward a grate3039from either direction on the scratching platform3011. The deposits small enough to pass through the openings3082(shown inFIG. 2) in the grate3039then pass through those openings3082and onto the belt3036, from which they are removed from the aviary3010. Such configuration greatly reduces the amount of ammonia captured within the aviary3010and also reduces the required frequency for cleaning of the aviary3010. Those of skill in the art will appreciate that, whileFIG. 4illustrates the movement of a deposit toward the second end3043of the grate3039, a mirror image of the movement of a deposit toward the first end3041of the grate3039may occur when a deposit is made on the first portion3045of the grate3039or on the scratching platform3011and scratched back toward the first end3041of the grate3039.

Any eggs laid on the scratching platform3011are directed toward an egg conveyor3028by the scratching of the hens. By way of example and not of limitation, eggs laid on the scratching platform3011illustrated inFIG. 4may be scratched in the direction of arrow B toward the grate3039. Eggs may be scratched toward a grate3039from either direction on the scratching platform3011. Upon reaching the grate3039, the eggs roll or are scratched toward the respective egg conveyor3028, such as, for example, in the direction of arrow A along the grate3039, under the scratching platform3011, and into the egg conveyor3028. In an embodiment (not shown), eggs laid on a flat scratching platform3011are rolled by the scratching of the hens toward the grate3039and, upon reaching the grate3039, are scratched by the hens into the egg conveyor3028.

In the illustrated embodiment, a first cage tower3018A includes a first aviary cage3021A, and a second cage tower3018B includes a second aviary cage3021B, which second aviary cage3021B is similar to the first aviary cage3021A. A third cage tower3018C includes a third aviary cage3021C, which third aviary cage3021C is similar to the first aviary cage3021A and the second aviary cage3021B. In an embodiment, multiple first aviary cages3021A are stacked on top of one another. In an embodiment, each first aviary cage3021A has a first outside surface3022A enclosing an inside area3013A. In an embodiment, multiple second aviary cages3021B are stacked on top of one another. In an embodiment, each second aviary cage3021B includes a second outside surface3022B enclosing an inside area3013B. In an embodiment, multiple third aviary cages3021C are stacked on top of one another. In an embodiment, each third aviary cage3021C includes a third outside surface3022C enclosing an inside area3013C. The second aviary cage3021B is positioned adjacent the first aviary cage3021A and an aisle3020is formed therebetween. The second aviary cage3021B is also positioned adjacent the third aviary cage3021C and an aisle3020is formed therebetween. The second aviary cage3021B is positioned at a height3019B from the scratching platform3011. The first aviary cage3021A is positioned at a height3019A from the scratching platform3011. Height3019B is greater than height3019A.

Referring to an embodiment, a first perch3029A extends from the first outside surface3031A of the first cage tower3018A and is positioned above a first egg conveyor3028A that extends from the first outside surface3031A along the sides3025and3023of the aviary cage3021A. The first egg conveyor3028A extends substantially the length of the first cage tower3018A. When the hens lay their eggs, the eggs may be collected in the first egg conveyor3028A. The first egg conveyor3028A carries the eggs from the aviary cage3021A to a collection area (not shown). The first perch3029A extends into the aisle3020at a first vertical distance3070from the scratching platform3011. A second perch3029B extends from the second outside surface3031B of the second cage tower3018B and is positioned above a second egg conveyor3028B that extends from the second outside surface3031B along the sides3025and3023of the aviary cage3021B. The second egg conveyor3028B extends substantially the length of the second cage tower3018B. The second egg conveyor3028B carries the eggs from the aviary cage3021B to a collection area (not shown). The second perch3029B extends into the aisle3020at a second vertical distance3072from the scratching platform3011. The first vertical distance3070is not equal to the second vertical distance3072. In an embodiment, the first vertical distance3070and the second vertical distance3072define a third vertical distance3074. The third vertical distance3074is configured to permit a bird to hop from the first perch3029A to the second perch3029B or vice versa. In an embodiment, at least one perch3029extends from interior surface3030.

In an embodiment, the first cage tower3018A may include multiple first perches3029A, corresponding to the number of first egg conveyors3028A, and the second cage tower3018B may include multiple second perches3029B, corresponding to the number of second egg conveyors3028B, wherein the first perches3029A and the second perches3029B are staggered in relation to each other along the first and second outside surfaces3031A,3031B of the cage towers3018A,3018B. In one embodiment, the first perches3029A and the second perches3029B are staggered vertically on the first and second outside surfaces3031A,3031B of the cage towers3018A,3018B. In one embodiment, the first perches3029A and the second perches3029B are staggered horizontally along the first and second outside surfaces3031A,3031B of the cage towers3018A,3018B. In one embodiment, the first perches3029A and the second perches3029B are staggered vertically and horizontally on the first and second outside surfaces3031A,3031B of the cage towers3018A,3018B. In an embodiment, the first perches3029A and the perches3029on inside surface3030are staggered vertically along the outside surface3031A and the inside surface3030. In an embodiment, the third perches3029C and the perches3029on inside surface3030are staggered vertically along the outside surface3031C and the inside surface3030.

In the illustrated embodiments, the scratching platforms3011form three levels3017in the aviary3010, wherein each level3017may be accessed by a worker. A hen may walk, peck, scratch, socialize, sleep, and lay eggs, as the bird desires in the inside areas3013,3032. These same daily activities can be carried out on the at least one scratching platform3011. The at least one aviary cage3021may house a specific group of birds or it may be open to birds from other aviary cages3021. In an embodiment, the cage tower3018may be configured to allow the birds to move freely up and down the cage tower3018. In an embodiment, the cage tower3018may be configured to keep birds in the aviary segregated by vertical level3017. When the hens lay their eggs, the eggs may be collected in egg conveyors3028that extend along the sides of the aviary cage3021. The egg conveyors3028carry the eggs from the aviary cage3021to a collection area.

When a first perch3029A and a second perch3029B are included in an embodiment, the first vertical distance3070and the second vertical distance3072define a third vertical distance3074, which third vertical distance3074is configured to facilitate the behavior of birds to hop from one surface to another and thereby create a ladder effect between the outside surfaces3022A,3022B of the aviary cages3021A,3021B and, concomitantly, outside surfaces3031A,3031B of the cage towers3018A,3018B. In an embodiment, perches3029extending from an inside surface3030or an outside surface3031are configured relative to each other to facilitate the behavior of birds to hop from one surface to another and thereby create a ladder effect between the outside surface3022of an aviary cage3021and the inside surface3030of the aviary, and, concomitantly, the outside surface3031of a cage tower3018and the inside surface3030of the aviary.

In one embodiment, the grate3039is flat. In one embodiment, a first portion3045of the grate3039is angled downward toward the egg conveyor3028on side3025of aviary cage3021, and a second portion3047of the grate3039is angled downward toward the egg conveyor3028on side3023of aviary cage3021. In one embodiment, the belt3036is positioned to capture and transport debris that falls through the grate3039. In one embodiment, a scratching platform3011is extended from the aviary cage3021adjacent to the grate3039. In one embodiment, the scratching platform3011is sloped toward the grate3039to facilitate movement of a deposit on the scratching platform3011to the grate3039. In one embodiment, the scratching platform3011is a solid floor. In one embodiment, a belt3037is extended above the aviary cage3021. The belt3037is positioned to capture and transport deposits that fall onto it. Birds are allowed to move freely and walk on the belt3037.

In an embodiment (not shown), the cage tower3018includes the belts3036without the grates3039. In such an embodiment, the belts3036,3037carry deposits from the cage tower3018, as described previously. In particular, deposits may be scratched onto the belts3036from the scratching platform3011. In one embodiment, eggs are laid directly on the belts3036,3037and the birds walk on the moving belts3036,3037.

In one embodiment, a first aviary cage3021A and a second aviary cage3021B are provided and are positioned adjacent each other. In such an embodiment, the method includes extending an aisle3020between the first aviary cage3021A and the second aviary cage3021B. A first perch3029A is extended from the first aviary cage3021A and into the aisle3020at a first vertical distance3070from a scratching platform3011. A second perch3029B is extended from the second aviary cage3021B and into the aisle3020at a second vertical distance3072from the scratching platform3011. The first and second vertical distances3070,3072from the scratching platform3011are not equal.

In one embodiment, the aviary3010includes a plurality of first perches3029A and a plurality of second perches3029B. The method in this embodiment includes horizontally offsetting the plurality of first perches3029A from one another and horizontally offsetting the plurality of second perches3029B from one another. In one embodiment, the aviary3010includes a plurality of first perches3029A and a plurality of second perches3029B, and the method includes vertically offsetting the plurality of first perches3029A from one another and vertically offsetting the plurality of second perches3029B from one another. In one embodiment, the first vertical distance3070and the second vertical distance3072define a third vertical distance3074. The third vertical distance3074enables an animal to hop between the first perch3029A and the second perch3029B or vice versa. In such an embodiment, the perches3029A,3029B are offset as a result of the aviary cages3021A,3021B being positioned at different heights. Accordingly, by offsetting the heights3019A,3019B of the similar aviary cages3021A,3021B the perches3029A,3029B become offset.

It will be understood by one of ordinary skill in the art of aviary design that the offset cage and perch design may be replicated for as many cage tower combinations as are desired in an aviary3010. In each case of an adjacent set of cage towers3018, the perches3029of each cage tower3018or inside surface3030should be offset from the perches3029of the adjacent cage tower3018by the third vertical distance3027to enable a bird to hop from perch3029to perch3029through an open space in the aviary3012in a ladder-like manner. It will also be understood by one of ordinary skill that manufacturing, assembly, and installation time may be saved when building aviary3010when aviary cage units3021are similar to each other. Similar aviary cage units3021permit the construction of cage towers3018with perches3029that are offset in height from perches3029on cage towers3018that are separated by an aisle3020by installing the aviary cage unit3021in one cage tower3018at a height different from the height of installation for an aviary cage unit3021in an adjacent cage tower3018.

FIGS. 5 and 6illustrate an aviary7010configured to house hens. It should be noted that the aviary walkway and ventilation system described inFIGS. 5 and 6may be utilized with any of the embodiments described inFIGS. 1-4and the foregoing description. The aviary7010may include a floor7014, walls7016, and a roof7012. At least one cage tower7018where hens may be caged is disposed within the aviary7010. A bottom space7082of the aviary7010includes space above the floor7014and below a lowermost level7204, as shown inFIG. 5. A top space7080of the aviary7010includes space adjacent to the roof7012. The aviary7010may be constructed with any number of cage towers7018, including a single cage tower7018.

The cage towers7018of the embodiment shown inFIGS. 5 and 6are disposed on the floor7014of the aviary7010. Scratching platforms7038of the illustrated embodiment extend between the cage towers7018and from a cage tower to one or more walls7016to form a plurality of levels7204. Each level7204includes one or more nesting areas7022. AlthoughFIGS. 5 and 6show two levels7204in the aviary7010, any number of levels7204may be used, including a single level.

In an embodiment, the one or more scratching platforms7038may provide stability to each of the cage towers7018by joining the cage towers7018together. In an embodiment, the one or more scratching platforms7038may join the cage tower7018that is adjacent one or more of the walls7016to the one or more respective walls7016to provide stability to the cage tower7018.

The illustrated embodiment includes three cage towers7018in the aviary7010. An open space7020extends between adjacent cage towers7018to provide an inspection area and facilitate airflow. In an embodiment having more than two cage towers7018, an open space7020may extend between each adjacent cage tower7018. In an embodiment having a single cage tower7018, an open space7020is present on at least one side of the cage tower7018. An open space7020may be positioned between the cage tower7018and one or more respective walls7016. The open space7020may include a scratching platform7038serving as a pecking area where hens can move freely, peck the scratching platform with their beaks, and scratch the scratching platform with their feet.

In the illustrated embodiment shown inFIGS. 5 and 6, the two levels7204include the spaces7020above the scratching platforms7038adjacent each cage tower7018. Walkways7210are disposed in the spaces7020to facilitate travel by a hen between the nesting area7022and the scratching platform7038. In an embodiment, at least one walkway7210is provided on each side of each cage tower7018. However, any number of walkways7210may be provided in one or more spaces7020of the aviary7010and still come within the scope of the present disclosure.

As shown inFIG. 6, walkways7210extend from the scratching platforms7038to the nesting areas7022. It will be understood by one of ordinary skill in the art that the walkways7210have a width and are set at an angle to allow birds to comfortably traverse the walkways7210to access the nesting areas7022.

In an embodiment shown inFIG. 6, moving air7214circulates around the walkways7210as it travels toward the first end7216. The walkways7210are positioned in the path of the moving air7214and cause turbulence to the airflow7226. Such turbulence, especially with relatively low airflow rates, enhances the manure drying capabilities of the moving air7214. Further, the walkways7210are angled such that the upper surface7211of each walkway7210may be used by the birds for walking, roosting, nesting, and scratching. Some of the air moving in the direction7226hits the walkways7210. The upper surface7211of each walkway7210faces at least partially in the direction7226. This configuration directs at least a portion of the moving air7214moving in the direction7226in a downward and/or outward direction7240into the nesting areas7022and bottom of each level7204, thereby further enhancing manure drying in those areas.

Referring now toFIG. 7, embodiments of the present disclosure include a walkway10for an aviary12and a walkway system for the aviary12. It should be noted that the walkway10for the aviary12and the walkway system described inFIGS. 7-15may be utilized with any of the embodiments described inFIGS. 1-6and the foregoing description. The aviary12may include a floor60, walls62, and a roof64. At least one cage tower16where hens may be caged is disposed within the aviary12. The aviary12may be constructed with any number of cage towers16, including a single cage tower16. One or more embodiments of the aviary12and walkway10include one or more brackets or supports30coupled to the cage tower16. The cage tower16further includes one or more vertically-aligned or stacked levels40in an embodiment. Each level40is an aviary cage in one or more particular embodiments. In an embodiment, each bracket30is disposed at each level40. The cage tower16includes one or more hanger brackets68to support the walkway10, as explained in more detail below.

As illustrated inFIGS. 8 and 9, the aviary12of an embodiment includes a cage tower16, an aisle18adjacent the cage tower16, and the walkway10. The bracket30is coupled to a bracket support72. The walkway10includes a ramp20disposed in the aisle18adjacent the cage tower16to facilitate bird access to the cage tower16. In an embodiment, one or more walkways10are disposed in an open space (not shown) between the tower16and an inside wall surface of the aviary12. In addition to the embodiments illustrated inFIGS. 8 and 9, an embodiment of the aviary12includes a walkway10that extends to any single level40, including a lower level40, rather than extending to the highest level40. In an embodiment, the aviary12includes a walkway10that extends to every level40to serve the entire tower16. In additional embodiments, the aviary12includes any number of multiple walkways10distributed down the length of the tower16such that each walkway10extends and/or serves different levels40of the tower16. In further embodiments not shown, the aviary12includes two or more cage towers16with one or more walkways10at each cage tower16. Each walkway10includes a ramp20disposed in one or more aisles18adjacent the two or more cage towers16.

Referring now toFIGS. 10-12, in one embodiment, each ramp20includes one or more hangers52configured as hooks positioned at an upper end54of the ramp20. The hanger52couples to a hanger bracket68. The hanger52supports the ramp20vertically and, in additional embodiments, supports the ramp20horizontally and vertically. The hanger52supports an upper end of the ramp20while one or more brackets30support the ramp20at a lower end and/or central portion of the ramp20in an embodiment. In embodiments where the hanger52and/or the bracket(s)30support the ramp20vertically, and particularly in embodiments where the hanger52and/or the bracket(s)30fixes the ramp20from horizontal movement, the ramp20is prevented from moving and/or falling and damaging birds, eggs, the tower16, or any other object in the aviary12.

In an embodiment, the brackets30support the ramp20at the upper end, the central portion, and/or the lower end of the ramp20. In additional embodiments, the hanger52includes structure other than hooks to support the ramp20. In one non-limiting example, the upper end of the ramp20includes a slot or other receiving structure (not shown) to allow positioning onto the hanger bracket68. In another non-limiting example, one or more brackets30are coupled to the cage tower16to support the upper end of the ramp20. One of ordinary skill in the art will recognize the many structures and methods of coupling the various portions of the ramp20to the to the cage tower16, and such structures and methods form part of one or more embodiments of the present disclosure.

In the illustrated embodiment, the hanger bracket68extends from the cage tower16. The hanger bracket68extends from the roof64, in an embodiment (not shown). The hanger bracket68may extend into an aisle18or open space between the tower16and a wall of the aviary12, in an embodiment. The hanger bracket68may extend between two cage towers16, in an embodiment (not shown). The hanger52of the embodiment illustrated inFIGS. 11 and 12is coupled to the ramp20with one or more fasteners70, but it may be coupled to the ramp20via other means or formed integrally with the ramp20.

As illustrated inFIGS. 11 and 12, the ramp20includes an upper portion22extending from a cage side24of the ramp20to an aisle side26of the ramp20. The ramp20includes a first positioning member34. The first positioning member34is located at the cage side24in an embodiment. The first positioning member34is a lip42extending from a bottom side44of the ramp20in an embodiment. The ramp20includes a channel66located at the aisle side26in an embodiment. The upper portion22in an embodiment includes one or more grooves28. The grooves28aid a bird traversing the ramp20to access the cage tower16by providing traction.

The ramp20is corrugated to form the one or more grooves28in one embodiment. In an embodiment, the upper portion22is non-perforated and devoid of any holes or openings. In that embodiment, the ramp20avoids the risk that a bird might catch a toe or a claw in the ramp20. In an embodiment, the ramp20is corrugated to permit a bird foot to grip the ramp. In that corrugated embodiment, the corrugated surface causes pressure differences across a bird's foot in contact with the surface to enable the surface to be relatively self-cleaning as the bird negotiates the ramp. A corrugated ramp20causes pressure differences in the pads of a bird's foot to improve a self-cleaning function of the ramp20. Similar to the embodiment illustrated inFIG. 6, because the upper portion22of the ramp20illustrated inFIGS. 11 and 12is non-perforated and devoid of any holes or openings, air flowing through the aviary12impinges on the upper portion22and moves more effectively in a downward and/or outward direction into the cage tower16, thereby further enhancing manure drying in the cage tower16.

The ramp20is formed from sheet metal in an embodiment. Those of ordinary skill in the art will recognize that any material suitable for bird traffic may be used to form the ramp20, including but not limited to, metal, resilient materials, wood, plastic, et cetera. In an embodiment, the ramp20is formed from a material capable of being sanitized, such as by steam or chemical cleaning.

An embodiment of the ramp20is illustrated inFIG. 13. The upper portion22of the ramp20in the embodiment ofFIG. 13includes one or more grooves or ridges80and one or more troughs or valleys82. The grooves80and troughs82aid the traverse of a bird on the ramp20by providing traction. Further, the grooves80and troughs82cause pressure differences in the pads of a bird's feet to improve a self-cleaning function of the ramp20. Similar to the embodiment illustrated inFIGS. 11 and 12, because the upper portion22of the ramp20illustrated inFIG. 13is non-perforated and devoid of any holes or openings, air flowing through the aviary12impinges on the upper portion22and moves more effectively in a downward and/or outward direction into the cage tower16, thereby further enhancing manure drying in the cage tower16. The ramp20is formed from sheet metal in an embodiment. Those of ordinary skill in the art will recognize that any material suitable for bird traffic may be used to form the ramp20, including but not limited to, metal, resilient materials, wood, plastic, et cetera. In the embodiment ofFIG. 13, the ramp20may be formed from a material capable of being sanitized, such as by steam or chemical cleaning.

Referring now toFIG. 14, one or more embodiments of the aviary12and walkway10further include one or more retractable brackets30or supports coupled to the cage tower16. Each bracket30supports the ramp20in one embodiment when the bracket30is in an extended position32. The walkway10of an embodiment includes the ramp20having a first positioning member34, which first positioning member34extends below the ramp20, and one or more brackets30disposed below the ramp20. Each bracket30includes a second positioning member36configured to couple with the first positioning member34to fix the ramp20from horizontal movement. In an additional embodiment, the first positioning member34includes a slot and the second positioning member36includes a lip configured to engage with the slot. In additional embodiments, the first positioning member34and the second positioning member36are positioned adjacent the aisle side26rather than the cage side24or at a central portion of the one or more bracket(s)30. In further embodiments, the first positioning member34and/or the second positioning member36comprise lips, protrusions, and/or slots extending horizontally to fix the ramp20from horizontal movement. One of ordinary skill in the art will recognize additional structures to fix the ramp20from horizontal movement, and such structures form part of one or more embodiments of the present disclosure. In one embodiment, one or more of the brackets30includes a third positioning member48that horizontally supports or fixes the ramp20, as explained in further detail below.

Referring again toFIGS. 8 and 9with continuing reference toFIG. 14, the cage tower16includes multiple vertically-aligned or stacked levels40in an embodiment. In additional embodiments, the levels40described herein refer to aviary cages. In additional embodiments, a plurality of aviary cages may be stacked to form one or more levels40. In an embodiment, each of the brackets30is disposed at each of the levels40. In an embodiment, each of the levels40includes a bracket30.

As illustrated in the embodiments ofFIGS. 15A, 15B, 16A, and 16B, the one or more brackets30are configured to support the ramp20and are retractable from the extended position32to a retracted position38. The ramp20is fixed against horizontal movement when the at least one bracket30is in the extended position32supporting the ramp20and the first positioning member34is coupled to the second positioning member36. In an embodiment, the ramp20is fixed against horizontal movement when another fixing means (not shown) is used.

In one embodiment, the ramp20is free to move upward when the at least one bracket30is in the extended position32and supporting the ramp20. The first positioning member34and the second positioning member36allow upward movement of the ramp20when the first positioning member34is coupled with the second positioning member36. In one embodiment, the first positioning member34is disposed on the cage side24of the ramp20, while each of the brackets30includes a third positioning member48disposed on the aisle side26of the ramp20. In the illustrated embodiment, the third positioning member48extends upward along the aisle side26of the ramp20to prevent movement of the ramp20in a horizontal direction. In additional embodiments, the third positioning member48includes a slot, lip, protrusion, or other structure known by a person having ordinary skill in the art to prevent movement of the ramp20in a horizontal direction. In additional embodiments, the third positioning member48is disposed on the cage side24of the bracket30or at a central portion of the bracket30.

As illustrated inFIGS. 15A and 15B, the one or more brackets30each include an elongated portion50configured to support the bottom side44of the ramp20when the at least one bracket30is in the extended position32and supporting the ramp20. The extended position32is defined by the elongated portion50extending in a substantially horizontal direction. The retracted position38is defined by the elongated portion50extending downward, as illustrated in the embodiment illustrated inFIGS. 16A and 16B.

As illustrated in the embodiments ofFIGS. 15A, 15B, 16A, and 16B, the bracket30is coupled to a bracket support72connecting the bracket30to the cage tower16. In an embodiment, the bracket support72is fixed to the cage tower16, and the bracket30pivots at an outer end74of the bracket support72. In an embodiment, the bracket30is coupled to the bracket support72by one or more bracket fasteners78. One of ordinary skill in the art will recognize the various types of fasteners and fastening methods and structures capable of coupling the bracket30to the bracket support72, and such fasteners and fastening methods and structures form part of one or more embodiments of the present disclosure. In an embodiment, when the bracket30is in the extended position32, the bracket30rotates into and locks into position in a bracket support slot76. In an embodiment, when the bracket30is in the extended position32, the bracket support slot76is positioned below the second positioning member36.

As illustrated inFIG. 14, the first positioning member34and the second positioning member36allow upward movement and prevent downward movement of the ramp20when the first positioning member34is coupled with the second positioning member36. In an embodiment, the third positioning member48disposed on the aisle side26of the ramp20also allows upward movement of the ramp20when the ramp20is positioned on the bracket30. In an embodiment, the at least one hanger52positioned at an upper end54of the ramp20allows upward movement of the ramp20when the ramp20is positioned on the bracket30. As illustrated in the embodiment ofFIGS. 10 and 14, the hanger52and each bracket30work together by each providing vertical support to a specific portion, such as an upper end, lower end, or central portion, of the ramp20while preventing that portion from sliding or otherwise moving horizontally. In additional embodiments, the hanger52and/or one or more brackets30provides only vertical or horizontal support. In such embodiments, supplementary horizontal or vertical support would be provided by another hanger52or bracket(s)30. In such an arrangement, the ramp20may be easily removed from the brackets30and hanger bracket68by being lifted in a diagonal direction to disengage the at least one hanger52and then lifted upward until the ramp20is disengaged from the brackets30and hanger bracket68. The retractable nature of the bracket30allows the bracket30to be moved away from the aisle18, such as by pivoting the bracket30downward into the retracted position38, as illustrated inFIGS. 16A and 16B.

In additional embodiments, the bracket30rotates or pivots upward toward the bracket support72, rotates or pivots from a central portion of the bracket support72or other location of the bracket support72, folds to the left toward the cage tower16, folds to the right toward the cage tower16, or is removable such that the bracket30is removed from the bracket support72. In additional embodiments, the bracket30slides away from the aisle18into the retracted position38via one or more rails, telescopically, or by any other method known to a person having ordinary skill in the art. In additional embodiments, the bracket30swings horizontally away from the aisle18into the retracted position38via a hinge or by any other method known to a person having ordinary skill in the art. One of ordinary skill in the art will recognize the various structures and methods to provide a moveable, retractable, and/or removable bracket30, and such methods and structures form part of one or more embodiments of the present disclosure. When the ramp20is removed and the bracket30is in the retracted position38, the aisle18space or any open space between the cage tower16and wall of the aviary12is increased, and the cage tower16may be accessed more easily by workers for bird, egg, and debris removal, or other cleaning or maintenance operations.

In accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure, a method of training birds in the aviary12is provided. The method includes providing the aviary12having one or more aviary cages, providing a solid ramp20, providing one or more brackets30or supports configured to support the ramp20, fixing the one or more brackets30or supports to the one or more aviary cages, coupling the ramp20to the one or more brackets30, and removing the ramp20from the one or more brackets30after a time period has lapsed.

In one embodiment, the time period is equal to a time period sufficient to allow the birds to acclimate to the one or more aviary cages. In another embodiment, the time period is equal to a time period sufficient for the birds to develop leg and wing muscles to facilitate hopping and flying in the aviary12. The time period in one embodiment is one cycle, or a period of time when the cage tower16is occupied with laying hens.

The method further includes extending the bracket30to support the ramp20with the bracket30during the time period. Extending the bracket30includes any embodiment discussed above with regard toFIGS. 15 and 16. The method further includes retracting the bracket30after the time period has lapsed. Retracting the bracket30includes any embodiment discussed above with regard toFIGS. 15 and 16.

The ramp20is removed and the bracket30is retracted to conduct one or more operations in the cage tower16in particular embodiments. In one embodiment, at the beginning of a cycle, at the end of a cycle, and before or after a cleaning or maintenance operation, the ramp20is removed and the bracket30is retracted to clear a path for heavy bird moving carts or other carts, equipment, or personnel to bring birds into the system at the start of the cycle and remove the hens at the end of the cycle. If the ramp20is fixed to the cage tower16or the bracket30is not capable of being retracted, the ramp20and/or bracket30would impede the movement of and access by heavy bird moving carts or other carts, equipment, or personnel in the aviary12.

In the aviaries12and methods of one or more embodiments of the present disclosure, the walkways10and/or ramps20assist the birds while they learn how to move from one level40to another or from one cage tower16to another across an aisle18or open space. The walkways10allow the birds to become familiar with hopping or flying between perches as a method to access various levels40of the cage tower16. Further, because the ramp20is positioned in the path of moving air in the aviary12, it causes turbulence and alters the direction of the airflow to enhance the manure drying capabilities of the moving air.

Because a walkway10may interfere with cage tower cleaning and maintenance operations, egg removal, debris removal, and bird placement or removal, the retractable or removable nature of the ramp20and or bracket30allows the aisle18to be opened by easily removing the ramp20on demand and/or at the end of a time period, such as the duration of a cycle. The ramp20itself is configured to be easily cleaned. The ramp20is also configured to be easily moved and removed and adds usable floor space to the system to allow for an increased number of birds in the aviary12. Removal of the ramp20then allows cleaning and other operations in the aviary12, increases the amount of space available in the open space next to the aviary cage or cage tower16, and encourages birds to engage in various natural means of locomotion.

In contrast, merely placing a stairwell or stairs in the cage tower16takes up valuable living space on a permanent basis. Further, a stairwell requires extra effort to accomplish cleaning and maintenance of the cage tower16by reducing access to the cage tower16and adding additional surfaces for cleaning. A stairwell does not facilitate training of the birds to hop and fly, as so enabled by the walkways10and/or ramps20described herein, because a stairwell does not promote the behavior of hopping and flying in birds. A stairwell configured from wire mesh may also cause damage to the birds' feet and toes and is difficult to clean.

While the embodiments have been illustrated and described in detail in the drawings and foregoing description, the same is to be considered as illustrative and not restrictive in character, it being understood that only certain embodiments have been shown and described and that all changes and modifications that come within the spirit of the embodiments are desired to be protected.