SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR DISTRIBUTING FEED TO PRESELECTED RECIPIENTS THEREOF

A system for distributing a plurality of predetermined amounts of predetermined feeds including at least one feed component to preselected recipients thereof at a plurality of respective feed locations. The system includes a track assembly with a track and a feeder assembly movable along the track. The feeder assembly includes a mixer subassembly for preparing a preselected one or more of the feed components together to provide the predetermined amounts of the predetermined feeds, and a dispensing subassembly, configured to receive the predetermined feeds from the mixer subassembly and to provide the predetermined feeds to the preselected recipients thereof. The system also includes a feeder mounting assembly, for mounting the feeder assembly to the track, and a motion assembly for moving the feeder assembly along the track.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The present invention is a system and a method for distributing feed to preselected recipients thereof.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

In the prior art, the task of providing animals, especially young animals, with a suitable feed mixture is generally done manually. Typically, the feed is tailored to a particular animal, to address that animal's specific needs. For example, a very young calf would have nutritional requirements that differ from the nutritional requirements of a calf that is three weeks old. However, conventional devices intended to automate the process have a number of defects or deficiencies.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

For the foregoing reasons, there is a need for a system and a method for distributing feed to preselected recipients thereof that overcomes or mitigates one or more of the defects or deficiencies of the prior art.

In its broad aspect, the invention provides a system for distributing a number of predetermined amounts of predetermined feeds including one or more feed components to preselected recipients thereof at a number of respective feed locations. The system includes a track assembly with a track and a feeder assembly movable along the track. The feeder assembly includes a mixer subassembly for preparing a preselected one or more of the feed components together to provide the predetermined amounts of the predetermined feeds, and a dispensing subassembly, configured to receive the predetermined feeds from the mixer subassembly and to provide the predetermined feeds to the preselected recipients thereof. The system also includes a feeder mounting assembly, for mounting the feeder assembly to the track, and a motion assembly for moving the feeder assembly along the track.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

In the attached drawings, like reference numerals designate corresponding elements throughout. Reference is first made toFIGS.1A-5to describe an embodiment of a system in accordance with the invention indicated generally by the numeral20.

As will be described, the system20is for distributing a plurality of predetermined amounts of predetermined feeds including one or more feed components (not shown inFIGS.1A-4B) to preselected recipients22thereof, at a plurality of respective feeding locations24. In one embodiment, the system20preferably includes a track assembly26comprising a track28(FIG.1C) and a feeder assembly30(FIG.1A) movable along the track28.

The feeder assembly30preferably includes a mixer subassembly32(FIG.5A) for preparing a preselected one or more of the feed components together to provide the predetermined feeds. As will be described, the predetermined feed is prepared for a particular (preselected) recipient22or more than one preselected recipient22, and has a specific composition accordingly. It is also preferred that the feeder assembly30includes a dispensing subassembly34(FIG.5A), configured to receive the predetermined feeds from the mixer subassembly32, and to provide the predetermined feeds to the preselected recipients22thereof.

The system20preferably also includes one or more tanks for holding the respective feed components. As will be described, each of the tanks is configured to be in fluid communication with the mixer subassembly32(FIG.5A).

It is also preferred that the system20includes a feeder mounting assembly36, for mounting the feeder assembly30to the track28(FIG.1C). Preferably, the feeder assembly30is movable relative to the track28. In one embodiment, the system20preferably also includes a motion assembly38(FIG.1C), for moving the feeder assembly30along the track28between a home location40(FIG.1B) at which the one or more tanks receive the one or more of the feed components respectively, and the respective feeding locations24(FIG.1A). As will also be described, when the feeder assembly30is at a selected one of the feeding locations24, the feeder assembly30provides the predetermined feed to the preselected recipient11that is at the feeding location24.

Those skilled in the art would appreciate that the feeder assembly30may have any suitable structure. In the exemplary embodiments schematically illustrated inFIGS.1A-1C, the feeder assembly30is shown as including a feeder unit42and a liquid storage unit44. Preferably, the mixer subassembly32and the dispensing subassembly34are included in the feeder unit42. As will be described, in one embodiment, the feeder unit42and the tank unit44preferably are linked to each other by a linkage assembly46(FIG.1C), so that the feeder unit42and the tank unit44are moved together along the track28by the motion assembly38.

As can be seen inFIG.1C, in one embodiment, the feeder unit42and the liquid storage unit44preferably are mounted to the track28by respective mounting subassemblies45A,45B. The mounting subassembly45A preferably includes the motion assembly38, which includes a motor “M” and suitable gears (not shown) that engage the track28, to move the feeding assembly30relative to the track28. As can also be seen inFIG.1C, the feeder unit42and the liquid storage unit44preferably are respectively connected to the mounting subassemblies45A,45B by arms47A,47B.

Those skilled in the art would appreciate that the feeder assembly30, although illustrated inFIGS.1A-1Cas including two separate units (i.e., the feeder unit42and the liquid storage unit44), may alternatively be provided in a single physical structure (not shown), or in any suitable number of structures. In practice, the two separate units42,44are preferred because this arrangement of the elements of the feeder assembly30distributes the weight over a relatively long length “L” of the track28(FIG.1C). Advantageously, because the feeder assembly30includes the two separate units42,44, the track28may include fewer supports than would be required, for example, if the feeder assembly30were included in a unitary structure.

It is preferred that the system20also includes a controller48(FIG.5A) operatively connected with the feeder assembly30and the motion assembly38, for controlling the mixer subassembly32to provide the predetermined feeds at the respective feeding locations24therefor. The controller48preferably includes one or more processors (not shown), with suitable software. The controller48is configured to control the feeder assembly30to provide the predetermined feed to the respective preselected recipients thereof at the respective feeding locations24. It will be understood that the controller48may be in communication with remote devices via one or more networks.

The recipients of the feed may be, for example, animals (e.g., calves), and the feeding locations24may be conventional stalls or pens, which may be located in a facility inside a building (not shown), or in a facility located outside. InFIG.1A, the feeder assembly30is shown in a position locating the feeder unit42at a selected feeding location that is identified inFIG.1Aby reference character24A for clarity of illustration. It will be understood that, when the feeding assembly30is at the feeding location24A, the feeder unit42is positioned for distributing or deploying a predetermined amount of a predetermined feed to an animal22A that is positioned at the feeding location24A (FIG.1A). As will be described, in some circumstances, there may be more than one animal at a particular feeding location.

It will be understood that a number of other animals (not shown) are positioned at the other feeding locations24(FIGS.1A,1B).

From the foregoing, it can be seen that, as illustrated inFIG.1A, the system20is configured to provide a predetermined amount of a predetermined feed to the preselected animal22, at a preselected one of the feeding locations24. It will be understood that, in this example, both the composition of the predetermined feed (i.e., the proportions of the feed components therein) and the amount thereof are specifically tailored to address the nutritional requirements of the preselected animal22in the feeding locations24. Those skilled in the art would appreciate that the system20may utilize various devices to control the amount of the feed made available to a specific animal.

As will be described, the feeder assembly30preferably is moved from one feeding location24to the next in a feeding sequence that involves minimal movement of the feeder assembly30.

Once the feeder unit42is in position to feed the animal(s) at a feeding location24, the mixer subassembly32preferably prepares a batch of the predetermined feed for the preselected animal(s) at that feeding location24. The batch that is prepared preferably is weighed before it is made available to the preselected animal(s), to determine whether the batch is the predetermined amount of feed. The prepared batch of the predetermined feed preferably is weighed by the weighing device “W”, which is included in the mixer subassembly32(FIG.5A).

If the batch is the predetermined amount (i.e., in the correct amount), then the dispensing subassembly34is moved into position at the next feeding location in the feeding sequence by the controller, and the feed is made available to the preselected animal(s) at the feeding location24.

As will be described, the mixer subassembly32is in fluid communication with one or more nipple elements78. The nipple element78preferably is mounted to a swing arm80(FIGS.2A,3). When the predetermined amount is ready (i.e., the predetermined feed is weighed by a weighing device “W” and determined by the controller48to be the predetermined amount), the swing arm80is caused by the controller48to be moved into position, to feed the preselected recipient. The feed then flows to the preselected recipient when the preselected recipient sucks on the nipple element78.

The consumption of the feed by the animal(s) causes the amount of the feed at the weighing device “W” to decrease. When the feed in the weighing device “W” is less than preset amount (e.g., when the weight of the remaining feed is approximately zero), the feeder unit42ends the feeding session at that feeding location24, and prepares to feed at the next feeding location24in the feeding sequence.

Those skilled in the art would appreciate that the controller48preferably is also configured to cause the feeder unit42to move on to the next feeding location24in the feeding sequence in circumstances where, for whatever reason, the animal at a feeding location has not consumed the predetermined amount of the predetermined feed. For example, the animal may be ill or deceased. In order to address these circumstances, the controller48preferably also includes a timer, which is activated when the feeder unit first makes the predetermined amount of the predetermined feed available to the preselected animal(s) at the feeding location24. The controller48has a predetermined feed time period set for each of the preselected animals (or groups of animals) respectively at each feeding location24.

If the preselected animal(s) at a particular feeding location24has not consumed all the predetermined feed therefor within the predetermined time period, then the controller48terminates the current feeding session. In this situation, the feeder unit42is moved to the next feeding location24in the feeding sequence.

Those skilled in the art would appreciate that the failure of an animal to consume the predetermined amount of the predetermined feed in the predetermined time period may be due to different reasons. As will be described, a feeding sequence report may be generated at any time, for instance, during a feeding sequence (e.g., upon the operator's request), or after the feeding sequence has ended. The report provides specific information to the operator that may be used thereby to identify and to address any problems or irregularities in connection with the manner in which the animals are feeding. Preferably, the operator may determine parameters of interest, and a time period of interest for a report. For instance, if the operator determines that an animal did not consume the correct amount of feed at a certain time and date, the operator may then obtain a report showing that animal's feed consumption over a specified time period, e.g., over the previous week, to enable the operator to find out more about the animal's condition.

As noted above, the animal22A that is at the feeding location24A is provided with the predetermined feed that the animal22A requires. It will also be understood that other animals (not shown) at the other feeding locations24may have different nutritional requirements, and the predetermined feed distributed to those other animals22and the predetermined amounts thereof differ accordingly. The system20is configured to provide predetermined feeds having a variety of mixtures of the feed components in a range of predetermined amounts, tailored for the specific animal(s) located at each respective feeding location24.

Those skilled in the art would appreciate that, where there is more than one animal located at a particular feeding location24, all the animals at that feeding location receive the same predetermined feed. As a practical matter, therefore, where more than one animal is located at a particular feeding station, the animals located at the same feeding location24have the same (or substantially the same) nutritional requirements.

It will be understood that the controller48determines the composition and amount of the predetermined feed for a particular (preselected) animal22that is located at a particular feeding location24. This determination may be based on data input by an operator (not shown). Based on information about the preselected animal and its current location, the controller48provides instructions to the feeder assembly30for mixing the feed components to provide a specific quantity of the predetermined feed for the preselected animal at the selected location24. As will also be described, the controller48also causes the motion assembly38to position the feeder unit42at the selected feeding location24, for dispensing the quantity of the predetermined feed to the preselected animal22.

Those skilled in the art would also appreciate that, when one of the animals is moved, e.g., to a different feeding location24, or out of the facility in which the system20is located, the controller48is reconfigured accordingly. For instance, an animal may be moved due to its age.

As can be seen inFIG.5A, in one embodiment, the system20preferably includes a whole milk tank31A, a water tank31B, and a milk powder hopper or tank31C. The feed components may include whole milk, water, and milk powder, which are respectively receivable in the whole milk tank31A, the water tank31B, and the milk powder hopper31C. These three feed components are only examples. Those skilled in the art would appreciate that the feed components may include additional components, or they may instead include other components. In the following description, it is assumed for the purposes of the description that the feed components may include only whole milk, water, and whole milk powder.

For example, where the recipients22are calves, the predetermined feed may include only whole milk. Alternatively, the feed may include (i) whole milk, (ii) reconstituted milk that is formed by mixing the milk powder and the water together in predetermined proportions, as is known, or (iii) a mixture of whole milk and reconstituted milk.

It will be understood that the water is provided for two purposes. First, as noted above, the water may be mixed with milk powder, to form reconstituted milk that is included in the feed. Second, the water may be used to clean parts of the system20, as will be described.

In one embodiment, the whole milk tank31A and the water tank31B preferably are positioned in the liquid storage unit44. Also, the milk powder hopper31C preferably is positioned in the feeder unit42, as will be described.

As can be seen inFIG.1C, the feeder unit42and the liquid storage unit preferably are connected by the linkage assembly46. Preferably, the linkage assembly46includes a number of elongate link elements10that are connected to each other at their respective ends12for pivotal movement, by connectors14. The links at the ends of the assembly46are pivotably connected with the mounting subassemblies45A,45B for pivotal movement.

When the motion assembly38causes the feeder unit42to move along the track28in the direction indicated by arrow “D” inFIG.1C, the liquid storage unit44is pulled in the same direction, because the liquid storage unit44is connected to the feeder unit42by the linkage assembly46. Similarly, when the motion assembly38moves the feeder unit42in the direction indicated by arrow “E”, the liquid storage unit44is pushed by the linkage assembly46in the direction indicated by arrow “E”.

In one embodiment, the system20preferably includes a plurality of sensors50located to provide selected data to the controller48. For example, the controller48may determine, based on the sensors50in the tanks31A,31B, and the hopper31C (FIG.5A), when one or more of the tanks31A,31B, and the hopper31C is to be refilled.

As described above, the controller48also controls the positioning of the feeder assembly30. In order for the location of the feeder assembly30to be determinable by the controller48, means for locating the feeder unit42and the liquid storage unit44relative to the feeding locations24and the home location40preferably are included in the system20. Such means may be any suitable means.

For example, in one embodiment, a shaft encoder (not shown) may be mounted to a drive shaft of the motor “M”. Those skilled in the art would appreciate that, with the shaft encoder, the controller48is provided with information about the location of the feeder unit42relative to the track28, which is used by the controller48to position the feeder unit42at the respective feeding locations24in the feeding sequence.

It is preferred also that the motion assembly38is configured to move the feeder assembly30to the home location40after electrical power was unavailable to the feeder assembly30and is restored. If electrical power is not available, the feeder assembly30automatically ceases feeding. When electrical power is supplied again after the outage, the controller48causes the feeder assembly30to move to a stop at the home location40. This enables the shaft encoder to reset, when electrical power is restored, so that the controller48may properly control the movement of the feeder assembly30.

The controller48preferably is configured to activate the motion assembly38to move the feeder assembly30to the home location40when any one or more of the whole milk tank31A, the water tank32B and/or the milk powder hopper31C requires refilling. Similarly, the controller48preferably is configured to activate the motion assembly38for movement of the feeder assembly30from the home location40to locate the feeder unit42at a selected feeding location24after the whole milk tank31A, the water tank31B and/or the milk powder hopper31C have been respectively filled, at the home location40.

It will be understood that, after the feeding assembly30is replenished at the home location with the feed components, the controller48preferably causes the feeder unit42to move from one feeding location24to the next, in the predetermined feeding sequence. For example, the controller48may cause the feeder unit42to begin a feeding sequence at the feeding location identified inFIG.1Aby reference character24A. In this example, after providing the feed to the preselected animal(s) at the feeding location24A, the feeder unit42may provide the feed for other preselected animals, e.g., the animal(s) positioned at the feeding location24B (FIG.1A).

It will also be understood that the feeding sequence may continue uninterrupted, as long as the tanks31A-31C have sufficient quantities of the feed components therein. For instance, continuing the feeding sequence, after providing the feed to the preselected animal at the feeding location24B, the feeder unit42is moved to the feeding location24C. If the tanks31A-31C do not at that time need to be refilled, then after dispensing the feed to the preselected animal at the feeding location24C, the feed is dispensed to the preselected animal(s) at the feeding location24D.

It will be understood that the controller48preferably controls the motion assembly38to cause the feeder unit42to be moved through the building or facility (i.e., inside a building, or outside) in which the system20is installed in a feeding sequence, from one feeding location to the next, that minimizes the movement of the feeder unit42along the track28. (Because the feeder unit42and the liquid storage unit44are linked together, movement of the feeder unit42causes corresponding movement of the liquid storage unit44.) The feeding sequence continues until it is interrupted or concluded, as the case may be. Also, when the progression of the feeder unit42through the feeding sequence is interrupted (e.g., because one or more of the tanks31A-31C need to be refilled), the controller48is configured to cause the feeder unit42to recommence the feeding sequence at the point where the feeding sequence was interrupted.

The feeding sequence may be interrupted, for example, because one or more of the tanks31A,31B and/or the hopper31C is sufficiently depleted that the one or more tanks31A,31B and/or the hopper31C should be refilled, as noted above. When one or more of the tanks31A,31B and/or the hopper31C is required to be refilled, one or more of the sensors50provides an appropriate signal to the controller48, which then causes the motion assembly38to move the feeder assembly30to the home location40. Preferably, after the one or more tanks31A,31B and/or the hopper31C have been refilled with the feed components at the home location40, the controller48causes the feeder assembly30to return to the feeding location24that is next in the feeding sequence, to recommence the feeding sequence at the point where it had been interrupted.

As noted above, the controller48preferably generates a feeding sequence report (not shown) after a feeding sequence is completed, in which the measures of all relevant parameters are provided, for the animals at the respective feeding locations24. With the report, the operator can determine the status of the animals at all the feeding locations24respectively.

As also noted above, a report may be obtained at any time, regarding any parameters of interest. For instance, the operator may obtain a report while the feeding is underway. The report may provide up-to-the-minute information about any specific one or more animals.

Those skilled in the art would appreciate that the feed components may be directed into the tanks31A,31B, and the hopper31C using any suitable means. As will be described, exemplary funnels are schematically illustrated inFIG.1C.

For example, the milk powder hopper31C preferably is included in a milk powder tank subassembly54in the feeder unit42that includes a milk powder funnel56for directing the milk powder into the milk powder tank31C.

Preferably, the water tank31B is included in a water tank subassembly58that includes a water funnel60for guiding the water into the water tank31B. It is also preferred that the whole milk tank31A is included in a whole milk tank subassembly62that includes a whole milk funnel64for guiding the whole milk into the whole milk tank. As can be seen inFIG.1C, in one embodiment, the water tank subassembly58and the whole milk tank subassembly62preferably are mounted in the liquid storage unit44.

When the feeder assembly30is located at the home location40, the milk powder is directed into the milk powder hopper or tank31C via the funnel56(FIG.1C). Similarly, when the feeder assembly30is located at the home location40, the water is guided into the water tank31B by the funnel60, and the whole milk is guided into the whole milk tank31A by the whole milk funnel64.

As can be seen inFIGS.1A and1B, the whole milk, the water, and the milk powder preferably are provided from a whole milk reservoir2, a water source4, and a milk powder reservoir or container6respectively. The water source4may be any suitable source. Preferably, the whole milk is stored in a suitable tank, suitably refrigerated, and the milk powder is stored in another suitable container. It will be understood that, when the feeding assembly30is positioned at the home location40(as illustrated inFIG.1B), the feed components are directed from the respective reservoirs and/or sources2,4,6into the respective tanks31A,31B, and the hopper31C.

As noted above, the predetermined feed may be provided to young animals, e.g., calves. The whole milk may need to be heated before distribution to the animals. Those skilled in the art would appreciate that the whole milk preferably is provided in the predetermined feed within a preselected temperature range that is above room temperature, and would be aware of suitable temperatures. For example, for calves, the whole milk preferably is provided at between approximately 37° C. and approximately 45° C. Accordingly, the whole milk in the whole milk tank31A preferably is heated to a preselected temperature range.

It is also preferred that the water in the feed is heated to a predetermined temperature range.

The whole milk that is in the whole milk tank31A may be maintained within the preselected temperature range therefor by any suitable means. For example, in one embodiment, the water tank subassembly58preferably includes one or more heating elements66therein (FIG.4A), for heating the water in the water tank31B to a predetermined temperature range.

It will be understood that, for clarity of illustration, only one heating element66is schematically illustrated inFIG.4A. It is preferred that heating elements are generally uniformly distributed in the water tank31B.

The water in the water tank31B may be heated to between approximately 37° C. and approximately 45° C., consistent with the preferred temperature range for the whole milk. Preferably, the water tank31B and the whole milk tank31A are formed for heat transfer from the water in the water tank31B to the whole milk in the whole milk tank31A, to maintain the whole milk in the whole milk tank31A at the preselected temperature range therefor.

As noted above, the predetermined feed may include only whole milk. Those skilled in the art would appreciate that the predetermined feed may instead consist of reconstituted milk (made by mixing milk powder with water), or a mixture of the reconstituted milk and the whole milk. Preferably, in order to provide the feed components in the preselected amounts to create the predetermined feed, predetermined amounts of the feed components are directed into the mixer subassembly32. If the feed components are to be mixed together, then such feed components as are needed for the predetermined feed are mixed together in the mixer subassembly32, to provide the predetermined feed for the one or more preselected animals at a preselected feeding location24. However, as noted above, the predetermined feed may include only whole milk, and in that case, the whole milk is simply channeled through the mixer subassembly to the weighing device “W”, without mixing thereof.

As can be seen inFIG.2B, the feeder unit24preferably includes the mixer subassembly32, which preferably includes a mixing tank68and a mixing device70, e.g., a whisk or beater element, for mixing the feed components (not shown) that are positioned in the mixing tank68. The whisk or beater element70is rotatable by a motor (not shown) of the mixer subassembly32.

It will be understood that, where the predetermined feed includes only the whole milk, then the whole milk is not mixed with any other feed component. In these circumstances, the correct amount of whole milk (i.e., the predetermined amount) is directed through the mixer subassembly32directly to the weighing device “W”, at which the amount of whole milk is weighed. In these circumstances, the whole milk may bypass the mixing tank68. The whole milk that is weighed at the weighing device “W” is in fluid communication with the nipple element78. As described above, if the amount weighed is determined by the controller to be the predetermined amount, then the swing arm80is pivoted or swung to make the nipple element78available to the preselected recipient.

Preferably, each of the milk powder tank subassembly54, the water tank subassembly58, and the whole milk tank subassembly62includes a device respectively for controlling flow of the milk powder, the water, and the whole milk therefrom respectively to the mixer subassembly32. The devices for controlling (i) the flow of the whole milk from the whole milk tank31A, (ii) the flow of the water from the water tank31B, and (iii) the flow of the milk powder from the milk powder hopper31C are identified inFIG.5Aby reference characters72A,72B, and72C respectively. The devices72A-72C are controlled by the controller48, in order to provide the feed components (in the example given, the whole milk, the water, and the milk powder) to the mixer subassembly32in the proportions needed for the predetermined feed for the preselected recipient22.

Preferably, the whole milk that is released from the whole milk tank31A is pumped by a pump therefor (not shown) to the mixer subassembly32. As described above, if the predetermined feed includes only whole milk, then the whole milk is sent directly to the weighing device “W”. However, if the predetermined feed includes both whole milk and reconstituted milk, then the whole milk, the milk powder, and the water preferably are directed to the mixing tank68, in the appropriate proportions. Similarly, the water that is released from the water tank31B is pumped by a pump (not shown) to the mixing tank68. The whole milk pump and the water pump are controlled by the controller48. The device72C is also controlled by the controller48to allow a predetermined amount of the milk powder to be released from the hopper31C, as will be described.

The devices72A-72C may be any suitable devices, controlled by the controller48. For example, devices72A,72B may be any suitable valves. Similarly, the device72C may be any device suitable for controlling the flow of the milk powder from the milk powder hopper31C. In one embodiment, for example, the milk powder may be released by the device72C and allowed to fall into the mixing tank68under the influence of gravity.

In summary, the mixing device70is positioned in the mixing tank68for mixing selected ones of the feed components together in the predetermined ratios thereof, to provide the predetermined feed.

The system20preferably is powered by electrical energy. Those skilled in the art would appreciate that the electrical energy may be provided by any suitable connection or means for connection. Preferably, the system20includes one or more bus bars74, for providing electrical energy to the feeder assembly30and to the motion assembly38. The system20includes one or more electrical connector subassemblies76(e.g., a pantograph), for electrically connecting the bus bar74with the feeder assembly30and the motion assembly38(FIG.1C).

As can be seen inFIG.1C, in one embodiment, whole milk and water is pumped through a number of flexible tubes (not shown) inside a casing77that extends between the liquid storage unit44and the feeder unit42, at which the whole milk and the water is directed into the mixing tank68. It will be understood that electrical energy is provided to the feeder unit42from the bus bar74via the connector subassemblies76and via suitable conductors (not shown) that are also located inside the casing77.

An embodiment of the device72C is illustrated inFIG.5B. Preferably, a panel59is positioned beneath the hopper31C (not shown inFIG.5B), and the panel59has an opening61therein that is directly below the hopper31C. A lower end of the hopper31C is generally indicated by dashed lines inFIG.5B, identified by reference character63. It will be understood that the lower end of the hopper31C is open, and is directly above and vertically aligned with the opening61. The lower end opening (not shown) of the hopper31C preferably is approximately the same size as the opening61, or slightly smaller than the opening61.

As shown inFIG.5B, the milk powder “P” is allowed to fall into the opening61, as indicated by arrow “G”, under the influence of gravity. A chain subassembly65that includes plates67mounted to a chain69(FIG.5C) is partially positioned in the opening61. The plates67are spaced apart along the length of the chain69(FIG.5C). As can be seen inFIGS.5B and5C, the plates67define compartments71therebetween. When the powder “P” falls into the opening61, the powder “P” is located in a compartment71that is positioned below the opening61. As will be described, the chain subassembly65is moved by two sprockets.

It will be understood that another panel59A (FIG.5C) is positioned below the chain subassembly65, to provide a floor along which the plates67may push the powder “P” when the chain subassembly65is moved. The chain subassembly65is positioned horizontally (or substantially horizontally), located between the panel59and the lower panel or floor59A. It will be understood that the chain subassembly65travels through a channel (not shown) that is mounted to the lower panel59A.

For clarity of illustration, the specific compartment in which the powder “P” is shown inFIG.5Bis identified by reference character71A.

Preferably, the chain subassembly65is mounted to a sprocket73that is rotated by an axle75on which the sprocket73is mounted (FIG.5B). In the example illustrated inFIG.5B, the sprocket73is rotatable in the direction indicated by arrow “H”. It will be understood that the chain subassembly65is mounted to a second sprocket73A schematically illustrated inFIG.5C. The sprocket73is also schematically illustrated inFIG.5C, for clarity of illustration. The second sprocket73A is positioned so that the chain subassembly65engages the second sprocket73A, to cause the chain subassembly65to be moved laterally in the direction indicated by arrow “H1” between the panel59and the floor, as the sprockets rotate. It will be understood that the axle75is rotated by a suitable motor (not shown) included in the device72C, the motor being controlled by the controller48, so that the sprockets73,73A are rotated when the motor is energized due to an appropriate signal received by the motor from the controller48.

The chain subassembly65is illustrated inFIG.5C. As can be seen inFIG.5C, the compartment71A, and the powder “P” therein (not shown inFIG.5C) is moved in the direction indicated by arrow “H1” when the sprockets rotate. Preferably, the floor59A has an opening61A therein that is vertically aligned with the mixing tank68. InFIG.5C, the dashed line identified by reference character68A generally indicates the location of the mixing tank68, below the floor59A.

As can be seen inFIG.5C, when the motor connected with the axle75rotates the axle75, the plates67defining the compartment71A (and the powder “P” that is positioned in the compartment71A) are moved laterally to the opening61A, in the direction indicated by arrow “H1”. When a compartment71is moved over the opening61A, the powder “P” that is in that compartment falls into the mixing tank68under the influence of gravity.

From the foregoing, it can be seen that the controller48controls the device72C to cause a predetermined amount of the milk powder “P” to be moved into the mixing tank68. The amount of the powder “P” that may be moved in each compartment respectively is known, and so the controller48therefore may determine how long the motor needs to be energized in order for the predetermined amount of powder to be provided in the mixing tank68.

As can be seen inFIG.5C, the chain subassembly65is formed so that, when plates are moving past a sprocket, and are proximal to a sprocket, the plates are positioned at an obtuse angle to each other, i.e., they are partly spaced apart from each other, and the compartment defined thereby is relatively large. Advantageously, when the plates are midway between the sprockets, the plates are parallel (or substantially parallel) to each other, and the compartment defined thereby is smaller.

The net result is that the volume of a compartment varies, depending on where the plates are in relation to the sprockets. In the example illustrated inFIG.5B, for example, when the compartment71A is proximal to the sprocket73, it is relatively large, which means that it can accommodate the powder “P” falling into it, with minimal spillage outside the compartment71A.

When the plates are between the sprockets, e.g., approximately midway between the sprockets, the plates are then positioned parallel or substantially parallel to each other, and the volume of the compartment is less than it was when the same plates were located proximal to the sprockets. InFIG.5C, for example, a compartment identified by reference character71B is shown generally midway between the sprockets. The compartment71A is shown in the same location inFIG.5Cas it is inFIG.5B. It can be seen inFIG.5Cthat compartment71B is substantially smaller than compartment71A. Accordingly, as the chain subassembly65is driven by the sprockets, the shape and size of each of the respective compartments is varied between a larger configuration (i.e., when the compartment is at one of the sprockets) and a smaller configuration (i.e., when the compartment is midway between the sprockets).

As noted above, it is beneficial to have the compartment relatively larger when it is under the opening61, because the risk of spillage of the powder that is moving into the compartment from the hopper31C is decreased. However, it is also beneficial for the compartment to be relatively smaller when the compartment is located midway between the sprockets, because this consistently subjects the powder that is in the compartment to compression, when the powder therein is squeezed into a relatively smaller space. After such compression, the milk powder that is in the compartment is delivered to the mixing tank68via the opening61A.

Those skilled in the art would appreciate that the milk powder is subject to agglomeration, depending on the humidity in the ambient atmosphere. As a practical matter, therefore, in the absence of a device for ensuring that the required amount of milk powder is delivered to the mixing tank68for a preparing a particular batch of the predetermined feed, the amount of milk powder that is delivered would vary.

From the foregoing, it can be seen that the chain subassembly65provides a consistent mass of the milk powder from each compartment thereof. That is, the chain subassembly65provides an accurately measured amount of the milk powder to the mixing tank68. The consistency is achievable because each compartment, when in its smaller configuration, is the same size, and so the powder in each compartment that is in its smaller configuration is squeezed to the same extent by the plates, causing the milk powder in each compartment in the smaller configuration to be the same volume, and at approximately the same density. This is important, because (as noted above) the amount of milk powder that is moved into the mixing tank68is required to be the amount needed in order to provide the predetermined amount of the reconstituted milk in the predetermined feed. Accordingly, by controlling the activation of the motor that turns the sprocket73, the controller48accurately controls the amount of the milk powder that is delivered from the hopper31C to the mixing tank68.

As described above, the recipients may be young animals, e.g., calves. The feeder unit42preferably includes the dispensing subassembly34, for dispensing the predetermined feed to the recipient thereof. Those skilled in the art would appreciate that the dispensing unit34preferably is configured for dispensing the feed for the preselected animals that are at the feeding locations24.

For instance, in one embodiment, the dispensing subassembly34preferably includes the one or more nipple elements78in fluid communication with the mixer subassembly32. The nipple element78is configured to allow the predetermined feeds to flow therethrough, when the preselected recipient sucks on the nipple element78. Those skilled in the art would appreciate that, if the animal does not suck on the nipple element78, then the feed does not flow therethrough, and instead the feed remains on the weighing device “W”. Those skilled in the art would appreciate that the nipple element78is formed for use by the recipient animal, e.g., if the recipient is a relatively young calf, then the nipple element78is formed accordingly.

Preferably, the feeder unit42includes a body subassembly81in which the mixer subassembly32and the milk powder tank subassembly54are located (FIGS.2A-3). A tube may connect the weighing device “W” and the nipple element78.

As can be seen inFIGS.2A and3, the dispensing subassembly34preferably includes the swing arm80, on which the nipple element78is mounted. As will be described, the swing arm80permits the position of the nipple element78to be changed relative to a selected one of the feeding locations24.

As can be seen inFIGS.2A and3, the swing arm80preferably is pivotably mounted to a lower end83of the body subassembly81, for pivoting movement of the swing arm80relative to the body subassembly81, as indicated by arrows “A” and “B” inFIG.2A. It will be understood that the ability of the swing arm80to rotate at least 180º relative to the body subassembly81enables the feeder unit42to provide the predetermined feed to the feeding locations on opposite sides of the feeder unit. For example, as illustrated inFIG.1A, the swing arm80is shown positioned to provide the feed to the preselected recipient22A in the feeding location24A.

Once the preselected recipient in the feeding location24A has been fed, the swing arm80pivots approximately 180°, to feed the preselected recipient (not shown) in feeding location24B. InFIG.1A, for clarity of illustration, the swing arm located to feed the preselected recipient at the feeding location24B is outlined in dashed lines, and identified by reference character80′.

As can be seen inFIGS.2A and3, the dispensing subassembly34preferably includes a guard element82. The guard element82is to protect other elements of the dispensing subassembly34, as will be described. Preferably, the guard element82is pivotably mounted to the swing arm80.

The guard element82is pivotable, as indicated by arrow “C”, between raised and lowered positions. As illustrated inFIGS.2A and3, the guard element82is shown in the lowered position.

The dispensing subassembly34preferably also includes a compartment86for storage of a cleansing agent (FIG.3), and means88for spraying the nipple element78after each of the preselected recipients has respectively fed from the nipple element78(FIGS.2A,3). Those skilled in the art would be aware of suitable cleansing agents.

As can be seen inFIGS.2A and3, the nozzles88preferably are mounted to the stop element82, and positioned to spray the cleansing agent onto the nipple element78. After the recipient has fed, the stop element82returns to its lowered position. At that point, the controller activates a pump (not shown) to pump a predetermined amount of the cleansing agent through the nozzles88, onto the nipple element78. Preferably, the spraying is completed before the nipple element78is in position to feed the next preselected recipient22.

Those skilled in the art would appreciate that, on occasion, an animal may, when presented with the nipple element78, aggressively thrust forwardly at it. The guard element82is intended to provide some protection to the nozzles88, while allowing the animal to have access to the nipple element78.

Preferably, the guard element82is biased to its lowered position, by any suitable means (e.g., a spring). It will be understood that the preselected recipient22(e.g., a calf) that approaches the nipple element78who first engages the guard element82with its nose (not shown) and pushes further toward the feeder unit42would tend to push the guard element82upwardly. In this way, the force exerted by the animal against the dispensing subassembly34may be absorbed or redirected, to an extent, with minimal harm to the animal and minimal damage to the dispensing subassembly34.

In one embodiment, the dispensing subassembly34additionally includes a signal subassembly84for providing one or more signals to one of the preselected recipients to indicate availability of the nipple element78.

The signals may be, for example, recorded sounds made by a mother cow to encourage a calf to feed, and/or recorded sounds of a calf when feeding. The signals may be broadcast from a speaker “S” mounted in the body subassembly81(FIG.3). The generation of the signals is controlled by the controller48. The signals preferably are generated when sufficient quantities of the feed components are in the liquid storage unit44and in the feeder unit42, and the feeder unit42is in position for providing the predetermined feed to a preselected recipient22thereof at a feeding location24.

Preferably, the whole milk tank subassembly62also includes a cleaning device90that is mounted for spraying a cleaning agent (not shown) inside the milk tank31A (FIG.4B). Those skilled in the art would appreciate that the tank31A is required to be cleaned from time to time in accordance with applicable guidelines.

In one embodiment, the cleaning device90preferably includes a nozzle92(FIG.4B) formed to direct the cleaning agent in a spray over all the interior surfaces94of the whole milk tank31A. The cleaning agent may be pumped from a reservoir (not shown) located in the liquid storage unit44by a pump (not shown). The cleaning agent may be water, e.g., taken from the water tank31B. Those skilled in the art would appreciate that the interior surfaces94preferably are sprayed with the cleaning agent when the tank31A is empty of milk, on a regular schedule. The controller48may activate the cleaning device90at a suitable time, or the operator may manually activate the cleaning device.

Those skilled in the art would appreciate that the controller48may be located at any suitable location(s), and may be remotely located. However, in one embodiment, it is preferred that the controller48is located in the feeder unit42. Preferably, the feeder unit42includes a number of manually operated switches101that may be operated by the operator if preferred, for manual override of certain functions (FIG.2A). As can be seen inFIG.3, it is also preferred that a display screen103operably connected with the controller48is mounted to the feeder unit42, to facilitate the operator's control of the system20.

Preferably, an emergency stop button107is mounted on the feeder unit42in a convenient location, readily available if needed (FIG.3).

As noted above, there may be more than one of the preselected animals22at a particular feeding location24. This situation is illustrated inFIGS.6-9.

As can be seen inFIGS.6-9, in an alternative embodiment of the dispensing subassembly134of the invention, the dispensing subassembly134preferably includes a number of nipple elements178, e.g., one for each of the preselected recipients at a specific feeding location. Preferably, the dispensing subassembly134includes one or more feeder bars196on which are mounted a number of the nipple elements178in fluid communication with the mixer subassembly. As an example, the dispensing subassembly134that is illustrated includes two feeder bars, identified for clarity of illustration inFIG.6by reference characters196A,196B. Each of the feeder bars196A,196B includes four nipple elements178therein. Those skilled in the art would appreciate that the feeder bar have any suitable number of nipple elements mounted thereon.

The feeder bars196A,196B preferably are mounted to a swing arm180, which is included in an embodiment of a feeder unit142of the invention (FIG.7). Once the recipients at a feeding location24have been fed, the feeder bars196preferably are moved to the next feeding location, in a predetermined feeding sequence. Where the feeder unit is positioned at the next feeding location, the swing arm180preferably pivots toward a suitable position at the next feeding station. InFIG.8, for example, the swing arm is moving in the direction indicated by arrow “F”, to the next feeding station.

FIG.9is a schematic illustration of a single feeder bar. As can be seen inFIG.9, the predetermined feed (not shown) preferably is pumped to the nipple elements178respectively via tubes179.

It will be appreciated by those skilled in the art that the invention can take many forms, and that such forms are within the scope of the invention as claimed. The scope of the claims should not be limited by the preferred embodiments set forth in the examples, but should be given the broadest interpretation consistent with the description as a whole.