U.S. patent application number 16/658712 was filed with the patent office on 2021-02-25 for separation device foe emission reduction in stables and animal stable.
This patent application is currently assigned to BIG DUTCHMAN INTERNATIONAL GMBH. The applicant listed for this patent is BIG DUTCHMAN INTERNATIONAL GMBH. Invention is credited to Alexander Ernst.
Application Number | 20210051915 16/658712 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 1000005381727 |
Filed Date | 2021-02-25 |
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United States Patent
Application |
20210051915 |
Kind Code |
A9 |
Ernst; Alexander |
February 25, 2021 |
SEPARATION DEVICE FOE EMISSION REDUCTION IN STABLES AND ANIMAL
STABLE
Abstract
A separating device for forming a standing area for livestock,
in particular pigs, and for reducing emissions in pens, in
particular in pig pens, comprises a base frame, a drainage element
with a plurality of drainage channels which each comprise an
outflow end, and shoulders, between which the plurality of drainage
channels extends orthogonally to a drainage direction, a
liquid-permeable endless belt with an upper run and a lower run,
wherein the drainage element is arranged on the base frame such
that a drainage direction of the plurality of drainage channels is
directed in the direction of the outflow end.
Inventors: |
Ernst; Alexander; (Diepholz,
DE) |
|
Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
BIG DUTCHMAN INTERNATIONAL GMBH |
Vechta |
|
DE |
|
|
Assignee: |
BIG DUTCHMAN INTERNATIONAL
GMBH
Vechta
DE
|
Prior
Publication: |
|
Document Identifier |
Publication Date |
|
US 20200120893 A1 |
April 23, 2020 |
|
|
Family ID: |
1000005381727 |
Appl. No.: |
16/658712 |
Filed: |
October 21, 2019 |
Current U.S.
Class: |
1/1 |
Current CPC
Class: |
A01K 1/0128 20130101;
A01K 1/02 20130101; A01K 1/0135 20130101; A01K 2227/108
20130101 |
International
Class: |
A01K 1/01 20060101
A01K001/01; A01K 1/02 20060101 A01K001/02 |
Foreign Application Data
Date |
Code |
Application Number |
Oct 22, 2018 |
LU |
100969 |
Claims
1.-15. (canceled)
16. A separating device for forming a standing area for livestock
and for reducing emissions in pens, the separating device
comprising: a base frame; a drainage element having a plurality of
drainage channels each comprising an outflow end and a plurality of
shoulders between which the plurality of drainage channels extends
orthogonally to a drainage direction; and a liquid-permeable
endless belt with an upper run and a lower run; wherein the
drainage element is arranged on the base frame such that a drainage
direction of the plurality of drainage channels is directed in the
direction of the outflow end, and the outflow end is positioned
such that a liquid flowing out of the outflow end reaches a
transverse drainage channel, and wherein the drainage element is
arranged between the upper run and the lower run, and the upper run
rests on at least a one of the plurality of shoulders.
17. The separating device pursuant to claim 16 further comprising a
transverse drainage member, wherein the transverse drainage member
acts as a first support for the drainage element.
18. The separating device pursuant to claim 17, wherein the base
frame has a transverse support member, and wherein the transverse
support member acts as a second support for the drainage
element.
19. The separating device pursuant to claim 18, wherein the base
frame further comprises a first longitudinal member and a second
longitudinal member, and the transverse drainage member and the
transverse support member are each arranged on the first
longitudinal member and on the second longitudinal member.
20. The separating device pursuant to claim 16, wherein the
liquid-permeable endless belt comprises a module belt with a
multiplicity of modules arranged on one another, has a degree of
opening of 2%-10%, and has a gap size of 0.2 mm to 1.0 mm in a
substantially rectilinear portion of the liquid-permeable endless
belt.
21. The separating device pursuant to claim 17, wherein the
transverse drainage channel is arranged on the drainage element,
and the liquid located in the plurality of drainage channels flows
into the transverse drainage channel.
22. The separating device pursuant to claim 17, wherein the
transverse drainage channel is arranged on and is formed integrally
with the transverse drainage member.
23. The separating device pursuant to claim 16, wherein the
transverse drainage channel is arranged in an inclined manner.
24. The separating device pursuant to claim 16, wherein a
substantially flat portion of the upper run of the liquid-permeable
endless belt delimits the standing area for livestock and the
drainage element extends substantially completely under the
standing area for livestock.
25. The separating device pursuant to claim 16, wherein the base
frame extends from a first end to a second end and a first
deflecting unit is arranged at the first end and a second
deflecting unit is arranged at the second end, and wherein the
liquid-permeable endless belt loops around the first deflecting
unit and the second deflecting unit.
26. The separating device pursuant to claim 16, wherein each of the
plurality of drainage channels have a channel cross section
orthogonally with respect to the drainage direction and the channel
cross section has a U-shaped profile; the plurality of drainage
channels have a bead in the drainage direction; and the U-shaped
profile has a radius of smaller than 400 mm.
27. The separating device pursuant to claim 16, wherein each of the
plurality of drainage channels have a channel cross section
orthogonally with respect to the drainage direction and the channel
cross section has a V-shaped profile; the plurality of drainage
channels have a bead in the drainage direction; and the V-shaped
profile has an inner opening angle of smaller than 180 arc
degrees.
28. The separating device pursuant to claim 16, further comprising:
a one of the plurality of shoulders between a first drainage
channel of the plurality of drainage channels and a second drainage
channel of the plurality of drainage channels is formed by a first
edge portion of the first drainage channel and a second edge
portion of the second drainage channel, and the first edge portion
is arranged above the second edge portion, and wherein the first
edge portion or the second edge portion is buckled or bent along a
longitudinal direction.
29. The separating device pursuant to claim 16, wherein a first
outer drainage channel of the plurality of drainage channels faces
the first longitudinal member with a first outer edge portion, and
a second outer drainage channel of the plurality of drainage
channels faces the second longitudinal member with a second outer
edge portion; and the first outer edge portion or the second outer
edge portion is disposed to rest on the first longitudinal member
or the second longitudinal member, wherein the first outer edge
portion or the second outer edge portion is buckled or bent
over.
30. The separating device pursuant to claim 16, further comprising:
a control device to control a drive of the liquid-permeable endless
belt; and at least one sensor, selected from the group consisting
of: a pressure sensor, a weight sensor, a moisture sensor, a pH
sensor, a conductivity sensor, a flow rate sensor, a presence
sensor comprising a light barrier, a motion detector or a camera,
an ultrasonic sensor, a transponder-based sensor, an ammonia
content sensor, an air humidity sensor, and a temperature sensor;
wherein the control device controls the drive as a function of one
or more sensor signals from one or more of the sensors.
31. The separating device pursuant to claim 16, further comprising
at least one cleaning nozzle disposed to convey a liquid onto the
lower run of the liquid-permeable endless belt, wherein the
cleaning nozzle is arranged on the drainage element; and at least
one cleaning nozzle disposed to convey a liquid onto a lower side
of the upper run of the liquid-permeable endless belt.
32. An animal pen comprising: at least one animal holding bay; a
separating device comprising: a base frame; a drainage element
having a plurality of drainage channels each comprising an outflow
end and a plurality of shoulders between which the plurality of
drainage channels extends orthogonally to a drainage direction; and
a liquid-permeable endless belt with an upper run and a lower run;
wherein the drainage element is arranged on the base frame such
that a drainage direction of the plurality of drainage channels is
directed in the direction of the outflow end, and the outflow end
is positioned such that a liquid flowing out of the outflow end
reaches a transverse drainage channel, and wherein the drainage
element is arranged between the upper run and the lower run, and
the upper run rests on at least a one of the plurality of
shoulders; wherein the separating device is arranged such that a
conveying direction of the upper run is directed in the direction
of one or more of an inspection aisle, a disposal aisle, or a
boundary element and the separating device extends over the entire
width of the animal holding bay.
33. The animal pen pursuant to claim 32, wherein animal pen further
comprises the inspection aisle and the disposal aisle, and the
separating device is arranged such that a conveying direction of
the upper run of the liquid-permeable endless belt is directed in
the direction of the inspection aisle and the disposal aisle, and a
conveying plane of the upper run of the liquid-permeable endless
belt is arranged substantially in the same plane as the inspection
aisle; and wherein the disposal aisle is arranged in the vertical
direction under the inspection aisle, and the disposal aisle and
the liquid-permeable endless belt are arranged in such a manner
that dung conveyed on the liquid-permeable endless belt is conveyed
into the disposal aisle.
34. The animal pen pursuant claim 32, further comprising: the
inspection aisle; a first animal holding bay with a first
separating device and a second animal holding bay with a second
separating device, wherein the first separating device is arranged
adjacent to the second separating device; a third animal holding
bay with a third separating device and a fourth animal holding bay
with a fourth separating device, wherein the third separating
device is arranged adjacent to the fourth separating device;
wherein the first separating device and the second separating
device abut a first side of the inspection aisle and the third
separating device and the fourth separating device abut a second
side of the inspection aisle opposite the first side; or wherein
the first separating device and the second separating device abut a
first inspection aisle and the third separating device and the
fourth separating device abut a second inspection aisle, wherein a
side of the first and third animal holding bay facing away from the
separating devices is arranged on each other or a side of the
second and fourth animal holding bay facing away from the
separating devices.
35. A method for separating dung and urine in an animal pen
comprising a separating device having a base frame, a drainage
element having a plurality of drainage channels each comprising an
outflow end and a plurality of shoulders between which the
plurality of drainage channels extends orthogonally to a drainage
direction, and a liquid-permeable endless belt with an upper run
and a lower run, wherein the drainage element is arranged on the
base frame such that a drainage direction of the plurality of
drainage channels is directed in the direction of the outflow end,
and the outflow end is positioned such that a liquid flowing out of
the outflow end reaches a transverse drainage channel, wherein the
drainage element is arranged between the upper run and the lower
run, and the upper run rests on at least a one of the plurality of
shoulders, the method comprises the steps of: providing a movable,
liquid-permeable floor defined by the liquid-permeable endless
belt; supporting the floor on the plurality of drainage channels;
trapping the liquid in the plurality of drainage channels;
conducting the liquid away in a longitudinal direction of the
drainage channels and subsequently in the transverse direction; and
collecting dung from the movable floor.
Description
CROSS-REFERENCE TO FOREIGN PRIORITY APPLICATION
[0001] The present application claims the benefit under 35 U.S.C.
.sctn..sctn. 119(b), 119(e), 120, and/or 365(c) to Luxembourg
Application No. LU 100969 filed Oct. 22, 2018.
FIELD OF THE INVENTION
[0002] The invention relates to a separating device for forming a
standing area for livestock, in particular pigs, and for reducing
emissions in pens, in particular in pig pens, to an animal pen, in
particular pig pen, and to a method for separating dung and urine
in an animal pen.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0003] Animals, in particular pigs, are regularly held on what are
referred to as slatted floors. A slatted floor has a multiplicity
of slats, and therefore liquid and solid excrement of the animals
held on the slatted floor are disposed of through the slats. The
disposal takes place through the slats and by subsequent conducting
away of the liquid and solid excrement in a region below the
slatted floor. This results in a mixture of solid and liquid
excrement, which is also called slurry, arising below the slatted
floor.
[0004] Slurry regularly leads to problems with smell, disposal,
and/or animal welfare. The problems result, in particular, from
ammonia pollution of the pen. Ammonia arises from urea of animal
excrement by means of hydrolysis, wherein nitrogen excessively
absorbed by the livestock is for the most part excreted in the form
of urea in the urine and is converted by the enzyme urease into
ammonia. The enzyme urease is excreted with the dung. A
considerable emission of ammonia regularly arises in pig pens. It
is endeavored to reduce the ammonia emission from animal pens
because of animal welfare aspects, because of regulations, and also
because of the protection of local residents. Air washing systems
which use acid baths to free the air of dust and ammonia are known.
However, this results in the ammonia pollution within the pen
remaining as high as it would be even without air washing since
only the air blown out of the pen is washed. Air washing,
therefore, merely addresses the environment of the pen, but
essentially does not address the climate within the pen. Ammonia is
a pungent, colorless, and poisonous gas which irritates the mucous
membranes of humans and animals and causes tears. Furthermore,
ammonia when breathed in can cause dry coughs and nausea.
[0005] For animal welfare aspects, the animals inside the pens are
increasingly provided with manipulable material which can be
composed, for example, of natural materials, such as hay, straw,
lucerne, sawdust, or pellets of the abovementioned or of further
materials. By the animals being occupied with the available
materials on, for example, a slatted floor, dung, urine, and the
manipulable material become mixed, which results overall in forming
slurry and, in consequence, leads to an increased solids portion in
the slurry. Such slurry can lead to the slurry system no longer
being able to carry out its function, at least in the designated
manner, or in failing. The slurry is then no longer stirrable
and/or pumpable and/or can no longer be deposited. Current
husbandry systems which function with a slurry system have limits
on the use of manipulable material which is used by the
animals.
[0006] DE 10 2016 000 308 A1, DE 10 2016 013 326 A1 and WO
2017/121864 A1 disclose a pen with a defecation region, the floor
of which is a conveyor belt. The conveyor belt has a certain
inclination such that the liquid excrement can drain off counter to
a conveying direction of the dung.
[0007] WO 2007/016758 A1 discloses a system with which the liquid
and solid excrement can be separated in an animal pen. An inclined
conveyor belt is arranged under a slatted floor, said conveyor belt
conveying the liquid excrement in one direction and the solid
excrement in an opposite direction.
[0008] European patent application which has not yet been published
at the filing date of the current application and has the
application number EP18185476.1 discloses a straw bedded pen in
which a straw mat is arranged which is produced by automatic
strewing of straw.
[0009] Furthermore, EP 1 377 158 B1 discloses a device with a
horizontally movable floor for keeping animals, wherein loading
with a weight generates energy and said energy is used for
advancing the floor. WO 2013/048333 and EP 1 678 059 B9 disclose
solutions for the step-by-step driving of a pen floor designed as a
conveyor belt. WO 02/43472 A1 discloses a pen floor which is
designed as a conveyor belt, wherein the conveyor belt has a sensor
arrangement at one end, by means of which the conveyor belt can be
stopped. U.S. Pat. Nos. 1,090,131, 1,159,129 and 3,274,973 each
disclose conveyor belts which are permeable to urine and have a
dung scraper, in which dung and urine are separated.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0010] The existing systems and methods for reducing ammonia
pollution in animal pens afford various advantages, but further
improvements are desirable. It is, therefore, an object of the
present invention to provide a separating device for forming a
standing area for livestock, in particular pigs, and for reducing
emissions in pens, in particular in pig pens, an animal pen, in
particular pig pen, and a method for separating dung and urine in
an animal pen, which reduce or eliminate one or more of the
disadvantages mentioned. In particular, it is an object of the
invention to provide a solution which reduces ammonia pollution
within an animal pen, in particular a pig pen. Furthermore, it is
an object of the invention to provide a solution which is more
reliable and/or more robust. Furthermore, it is an object of the
invention to provide a solution which improves the
maintainability.
[0011] This object is achieved by a separating device for forming a
standing area for livestock, in particular pigs, and for reducing
emissions in pens, in particular in pig pens, comprising a base
frame, a drainage element with two or more drainage channels which
each comprise an outflow end, and shoulders, between which in each
case one of the two or more drainage channels extends orthogonally
to a drainage direction, a liquid-permeable endless belt with an
upper run and a lower run, wherein the drainage element is arranged
on the base frame in such a manner that a drainage direction of the
two or more drainage channels is directed in the direction of the
outflow end, and the outflow end is positioned in such a manner
that a liquid flowing out of the latter reaches a transverse
drainage channel, wherein the drainage element is arranged between
the upper run and the lower run, and wherein the upper run rests on
at least one shoulder.
[0012] The base frame preferably forms an at least partially closed
border, in particular a closed border. Furthermore, it is preferred
for the base frame to be designed as a carrying structure. The base
frame can have suitable fastening elements in order to fasten the
drainage element. For example, the base frame can have a support
element, preferably can have two or more support elements on which
the drainage element is arranged.
[0013] The transverse drainage channel preferably comprises means
for conducting a liquid, in particular a liquid column.
Furthermore, said transverse drainage channel can have a,
preferably inner, pipe. The transverse drainage channel is
preferably designed in the shape of a channel, wherein this means,
in particular, that it is designed as half of a pipe or a half
pipe. Furthermore, the transverse drainage channel can have a U-
and/or V-shaped profile. Furthermore, it is preferred for the
transverse drainage channel to be formed by an arcuate and/or drawn
metal sheet. The transverse drainage channel is preferably composed
of metal, in particular steel, in particular of non-rusting steel,
preferably stainless steel, or comprises said metal or steel.
Furthermore, preferably, the transverse drainage channel is
composed of plastic, in particular fiber composite plastic, or
comprises the latter.
[0014] The drainage element has the two or more drainage channels.
A drainage channel should be understood as meaning, in particular,
an element through which a liquid can flow. The drainage channel is
preferably a narrow and/or elongate element. The drainage channels
are open upward, in particular, in the vertical direction, at least
in sections, preferably completely. The drainage channel preferably
extends from a blocking end to an outflow end in a channel
longitudinal direction. The channel longitudinal direction is
preferably oriented substantially parallel to the drainage
direction. The blocking end is preferably designed in such a manner
that a liquid located in the drainage channel cannot drain when the
drainage channel is oriented horizontally. The outflow end is
preferably designed in such a manner that a liquid located in the
drainage channel can emerge out of the drainage channel when the
drainage channel is oriented horizontally and/or when the drainage
channel is inclined toward the outflow end, which means, in
particular, that the liquid can drain and/or flow off. In a first
preferred variant, the two or more drainage channels are not
fluidically coupled to one another. In a further preferred variant,
at least two of the two or more drainage channels are in fluidic
contact. For example, a fluid can pass from a first drainage
channel toward a second drainage channel of the two or more
drainage channels.
[0015] The drainage channel has a channel cross section
orthogonally with respect to the channel longitudinal direction
and/or the drainage direction. The channel cross section can be
semicircular, and/or rectangular, and/or semielliptical, and/or
triangular. As will also be explained in more detail below, the
channel cross section can also be U-shaped or V-shaped. The channel
longitudinal direction and the drainage direction are preferably
oriented parallel to each other.
[0016] The two or more drainage channels can be composed of metal,
in particular of steel, in particular of a non-rusting steel,
preferably stainless steel, or can comprise said metal or steel. In
particular, it is preferred for the drainage channels to be
produced from a semi-finished steel sheet product, in particular a
semi-finished stainless steel sheet product. Furthermore, the two
or more drainage channels can be composed of plastic or can
comprise the latter. Fiber composite plastics are particularly
preferably used. The drainage channels are preferably designed in
such a manner that they can each be connected to one another, and,
therefore, scalability can be achieved and the width of the
drainage element can be adapted to a changed width of the
separating device without substantial structural adaptations.
[0017] The drainage channels furthermore extend between shoulders.
The extent between the shoulders is oriented orthogonally with
respect to the drainage direction. In each case one drainage
channel preferably extends between two shoulders. Two drainage
channels arranged adjacent to each other preferably have a common
shoulder therebetween.
[0018] The extent of a drainage channel between the shoulders is
preferably oriented orthogonally with respect to the channel
longitudinal direction. Furthermore, it is preferred for the extent
of a drainage channel between the shoulders to be oriented
orthogonally with respect to a channel depth. The channel depth
represents, in particular, the direction of the filling height of
one of the two or more drainage channels. The shoulders can be
formed by the drainage channels. Additionally or alternatively, the
shoulders can be formed by an additional shoulder element. The
shoulder element is preferably arranged on, furthermore preferably
fastened to, at least one drainage channel. As will also be
explained in more detail below, the shoulder can be formed by
adjacent drainage channels, for example, by an edge region of a
drainage channel being tilted and/or bent and/or by the two
adjacent drainage channels being welded to each other.
[0019] A filling level sensor is preferably arranged in at least
one of the two or more drainage channels. The filling level sensor
can detect, for example, clogging and/or potential clogging in the
drainage channel itself or the drainage channels themselves or in a
downstream outflow system.
[0020] The endless belt has the upper run and the lower run. For
example, the upper run can be designed as a load run and the lower
run as a return run, or vice versa. By means of suitable elements
on the separating device, the endless belt can be designed to form
a traction mechanism drive, for example, by deflecting units
explained below.
[0021] The endless belt is designed to be liquid-permeable, wherein
the endless belt is designed, in particular, to be permeable to
urine. Liquid-permeable means, in particular, that a liquid located
on the endless belt can pass through the endless belt. This can be
achieved, for example, by a liquid-permeable material, for example,
a fibrous material. Furthermore, the endless belt can have through
openings. Furthermore, the liquid permeability can be realized by
means of a multi-link endless belt, with spacings being provided
between the links of the endless belt formed in such a manner. The
spacings can be realized, for example, by a gap size between the
links. A design of the endless belt as an endless belt which is not
flexurally slack is particularly preferred. The endless belt is
preferably designed in such a manner that it is substantially
impermeable to dung of animals, in particular of pigs.
[0022] The drainage element is arranged on the base frame in such a
manner that a drainage direction of the two or more drainage
channels is directed in the direction of the outflow end. The
drainage direction is, in particular, the direction in which a
liquid located in one of the drainage channels flows. The two or
more drainage channels are preferably inclined in such a manner
that a liquid located therein flows in the direction of the
respective outflow end. The previously defined drainage direction
can be realized, for example, by an inclined arrangement of the two
or more drainage channels on the drainage element. Alternatively or
additionally, the drainage element can be arranged in an inclined
manner on the base frame, wherein this is preferably made possible
by supports arranged in a vertically offset manner and/or by cross
members, explained below, on the base frame.
[0023] The base frame can also have supports and/or cross members
at a vertically identical height, wherein the elements of the
drainage element that rest on the supports and/or cross members
have a vertically different spacing from the two or more drainage
channels. The shoulders of the drainage element preferably extend
in the horizontal direction, and, therefore, a substantially
horizontally oriented upper run rests substantially completely on
the shoulders. Horizontally oriented shoulders and inclined
drainage channels preferably result in the filling height of the
drainage channels increasing toward the outflow end.
[0024] Furthermore, it is preferred for the upper run to rest on
two or more shoulders. Furthermore, the upper run can rest on three
shoulders, and/or on four shoulders, and/or on five shoulders,
and/or on six shoulders, and/or on seven shoulders, and/or on eight
shoulders, and/or on nine shoulders, and/or on ten shoulders. In a
further preferred design of the separating device, it is provided
that the upper run rests on more than 10%, and/or on more than 20%,
and/or on more than 25%, and/or on more than 50%, and/or on more
than 75%, and/or on more than 90%, of the shoulders surrounded by
the drainage element.
[0025] By means of the arrangement of the drainage element on the
base frame, the outflow end is positioned in such a manner that a
liquid flowing out of the outflow end reaches the transverse
drainage channel and/or flows into the transverse drainage channel.
This can be achieved, for example, by the outflow end being
positioned in the vertical direction above the transverse drainage
channel. In particular, the outflow end can be arranged in the
vertical direction above a lower end of the transverse drainage
channel in the vertical direction. Furthermore, the liquid can flow
and/or can be brought from the outflow end toward the transverse
drainage channel by means of suitable conducting elements.
[0026] The arrangement of the drainage element between the upper
run and the lower run of the endless belt results, in particular,
in that a liquid flowing through the upper run reaches the drainage
element. Furthermore, the positioning of the drainage element
between the upper run and the lower run creates the possibility of
the upper run resting on at least one shoulder. The upper run
serves, in particular, as a standing area for animals. As a result,
the upper run is loaded by not insubstantial weights. By means of
the support of the upper run on at least one shoulder, preferably
on two or more shoulders, the endless belt is relieved of load. The
weight of one, two, or more animals on the separating device is at
least partially carried by at least one shoulder and, therefore, by
the drainage element.
[0027] As a result, the demands on the endless belt are changed
since the weights, to be absorbed by the endless belt, of animals
on the separating device are distributed more homogeneously on
supports located under the upper run of the endless belt, here the
shoulders of the drainage channels. The endless belt can be formed,
for example, with different hardness, which improves the running of
the endless belt on the means for guiding the endless belt.
Furthermore, the endless belt can be formed with a smaller
thickness, and, therefore, the directional stability is improved.
This results, in particular, in a lower energy consumption for
operating the endless belt, and, therefore, the demands on a drive
unit to be connected are reduced. Furthermore, the energy
consumption can be reduced.
[0028] Furthermore, the selection of suitable endless belts is
expanded since the demands on hardness and strength are reduced.
Consequently, materials can be used for the endless belt that
especially improve the animal welfare. For example, softer
materials can be used which are particularly advantageous for the
hooves of the animals.
[0029] The separating device furthermore has the advantage that it
can be placed on a plane and does not make any demands in respect
of an inclined underlying surface. As a result, the structural
measures are low or are not increased in comparison to a
conventional pen.
[0030] The separating device described here is based inter alia on
the finding that the endless belt is a wearing part, but failure of
the endless belt has to be substantially completely avoided since,
in the event of failure, animals located thereon could be injured.
As a result, the endless belt is conventionally formed robustly
and/or corresponding maintenance cycles are provided in such a
manner that failure is ruled out.
[0031] The separating device described previously reduces the
loading of the endless belt by means of shoulders acting as
supports along the surface of extent of the upper run, as a result
of which the endless belt can, for example, be less oversized and
the maintenance cycles can be longer. Furthermore, the loading is
more homogeneously distributed by the support on the shoulders,
and, therefore, the separating device described herein is reliable
and robust.
[0032] Furthermore, the maintainability is improved since the
drainage element can be mounted in and dismounted from the base
frame with comparatively little outlay. Furthermore, the structure
is simplified since, in addition to the channels, no further
supports or the like are required for the endless belt. The
separating device described is thus less susceptible to
repairs.
[0033] Furthermore, the animal welfare with the previously
described separating device can be improved to the effect that a
pen equipped with such a separating device has a greater receiving
capacity for manipulable material, such as, for example, hay,
straw, lucerne, and/or sawdust. This is, in particular, because the
manipulable material on the separating device can be disposed of
with the dung. Accordingly, a slurry system is not overloaded
because of an excessive portion of solids in the slurry, which
leads to more manipulable material being able to be introduced.
[0034] A preferred development of the separating device makes
provision that the latter comprises a transverse drainage member,
wherein the transverse drainage member preferably acts as a first
support for the drainage element. Furthermore, it is preferred that
the base frame has a transverse support member, wherein the
transverse support member preferably acts as a second support for
the drainage element. Furthermore, the base frame can comprise a
first longitudinal member and/or a second longitudinal member,
wherein the transverse drainage member and/or the transverse
support member is or are arranged on the first longitudinal member
and/or the second longitudinal member.
[0035] The transverse drainage member is preferably designed in
such a manner that it at least partially carries or can carry the
weight of the drainage element. Furthermore, the transverse
drainage member is preferably designed in such a manner that it can
carry the weight of the drainage element and also the weight of
one, two, or more animals, in particular pigs. The transverse
drainage member can be dimensioned, for example, in such a manner
that it can carry a weight of greater than 100 kg, greater than 150
kg, greater than 200 kg, greater than 250 kg, greater than 300 kg,
greater than 500 kg and/or greater than 1000 kg.
[0036] The transverse support member is preferably spaced apart
from the transverse drainage member along the drainage direction.
The transverse support member is preferably arranged in the
vertical direction at the same height as the transverse drainage
member. Furthermore, it is preferred that the drainage element has
a first supporting element and/or a second supporting element. The
supporting elements preferably connect the drainage channels to one
another. The supporting elements are preferably designed as bars
and/or as hollow profiles with an elongate design. The supporting
elements preferably extend in their main direction of extent
parallel to the transverse drainage member and/or transverse
support member. In a preferred variant embodiment, the supporting
elements are designed in such a manner that they can be arranged on
the transverse drainage member and/or on the transverse support
member, and preferably can be held by said members.
[0037] The longitudinal members preferably extend with their main
direction of extent substantially parallel to the drainage
direction. The transverse drainage member and/or the transverse
support member preferably extends or extend orthogonally with
respect to the longitudinal member or the longitudinal members.
Furthermore, preferably, the transverse drainage member and/or the
transverse support member are or is arranged between the first
longitudinal member and the second longitudinal member.
[0038] The first longitudinal member and/or the second longitudinal
member preferably have or has a drainage opening which is designed,
in particular, as a through opening. The transverse drainage
channel preferably leads into the drainage opening, and, therefore,
a liquid trapped by the transverse drainage channel can escape from
the separating device through the drainage opening. For example, a
disposal of the liquid can be provided at the drainage opening. The
draining opening can have, for example, a diameter of 30 mm to 50
mm.
[0039] In a preferred variant embodiment of the separating device,
it is provided that the endless belt is designed as a module belt
with a multiplicity of modules arranged on one another, and wherein
the endless belt has a degree of opening of 2% to 10%, in
particular 2% to 8%, preferably 2% to 6%, particularly preferably
of 2% to 6%, in particular 3% to 5%. Furthermore, preferably, the
module belt has a gap size of 0.2 mm to 1.0 mm, in particular 0.2
mm to 0.8 mm, preferably 0.2 mm to 0.6 mm, furthermore, preferably
0.2 mm to 0.5 mm, in particular 0.3 mm to 0.4 mm, preferably 0.34
mm to 0.36 mm, in a substantially rectilinear portion of the
endless belt.
[0040] The degree of opening is defined, in particular, as the
ratio of open areas and closed areas of the endless belt. An open
area is, for example, a gap or a passage opening, i.e., a region
through which a liquid can pass through the endless belt. At the
reversal points of the endless belt and in regions of the endless
belt abutting the reversal points, the endless belt is generally in
a non-rectilinear state since it is curved. As a rule, the gap
sizes change in said regions. An endless belt designed as a module
belt has the advantage of a specifically definable degree of
opening. Furthermore, a module belt is distinguished by high
strength and durability. Furthermore, the module belt can be
formed, in particular, in a slip-proof manner, as a suitable
underlying surface for animals using simple means.
[0041] The modules arranged on one another preferably have a module
longitudinal direction, a module width, and a module thickness. The
module longitudinal direction and the module width extend, in
particular, between the reversal points of the endless belt,
preferably in a planar plane of the module belt. The module
longitudinal direction is preferably oriented orthogonally with
respect to the advancing direction of the endless belt. The module
width is preferably oriented parallel to the advancing direction of
the endless belt.
[0042] In a particularly advantageous refinement, a module has a
module thickness of less than or equal 20 mm, preferably less than
or equal to 15 mm, furthermore preferably less than or equal to 14
mm, furthermore preferably less than or equal to 13 mm,
particularly preferably less than or equal to 12 mm, and
particularly preferably less than or equal to 11 mm, and preferably
less than or equal to 10 mm. The modules are preferably hingedly
connectable on their longitudinal sides, which run parallel to the
module longitudinal direction, to further modules in each case.
Adjacently arranged modules preferably have a hinge connection. A
hinge axis of the hinge connection is preferably arranged centrally
with respect to the module thickness. The hinge connection is
preferably designed in the manner of a tooth and/or comprises hinge
teeth. The modules are connected to one another, in particular, in
such a manner that the hinge teeth of a first module grip into a
tooth base of a second module. The teeth have a through opening
and/or recesses preferably parallel to the module longitudinal
direction. The teeth and/or the through openings and/or recesses
are preferably arranged and designed in such a manner that the
through openings of two adjacent modules have a common passage
axis. A rod, for example, can be arranged in said through openings
with a common passage axis such that the adjacent modules are
connected to one another.
[0043] The material of the endless belt is preferably
flame-retardant and/or antistatic. The endless belt is preferably
composed of plastic or comprises the latter. In particular, it is
preferred that the plastic is selected from the group consisting of
polyethylene, polypropylene, polyoxymethylene, polyamides,
polyphthalamides, polybutylene terephthalate and polyurethanes. In
an advantageous development, the plastic used contains fibers.
[0044] Protective elements are preferably arranged in regions
abutting the reversal points of the endless belt. The protective
elements prevent an animal from stepping onto the region of the
reversal points, which have only a low load-bearing capacity if any
at all. The protective elements can be designed, for example, as a
module belt support and/or as a plate. Furthermore, the protective
elements can have brushes in order to compensate for
unevennesses.
[0045] According to a further preferred variant embodiment of the
separating device, it is provided that the transverse drainage
channel is arranged on the drainage element, wherein a liquid
located in the two or more drainage channels flows into the
transverse drainage channel. Furthermore, the transverse drainage
channel can be arranged on the transverse drainage member and/or
the transverse drainage channel can be formed integrally with the
transverse drainage member. Furthermore, it is preferred that the
transverse drainage channel is arranged in an inclined manner. The
transverse drainage member preferably has a channel-shaped
depression which forms the transverse drainage channel.
[0046] A further preferred development of the separating device is
distinguished in that the substantially flat portion of the upper
run is designed as a standing area for livestock, in particular
pigs, and the drainage element extends completely under the
standing area. Such a design permits the substantially complete
trapping of liquid deposited on the upper run.
[0047] The endless belt is preferably driven by a geared motor, in
particular, an electric geared motor. The advancing speed of the
endless belt can be between 1 m/min and 10 m/min, preferably
between 1 m/min and 5 m/min, particularly preferably between 1.5
m/min and 2.5 m/min.
[0048] In a preferred variant embodiment of the separating device,
it is provided that the base frame extends from a first end to a
second end and a first deflecting unit is arranged at the first end
and a second deflecting unit is arranged at the second end, and the
endless belt loops around the first deflecting unit and the second
deflecting unit. The reversal points of the endless belt are
therefore preferably positioned on the deflecting units. The first
deflecting unit and/or the second deflecting unit preferably has or
have a drive shaft. The drive shaft can be, for example, in the
form of a square tube having a rectangular and/or square cross
section.
[0049] The drive shaft can comprise a pinion for a gearwheel drive
and/or a drive pulley for a belt drive. The drive shaft is
preferably telescopic. The first deflecting unit and/or the second
deflecting unit can comprise coupling elements which are arranged
and designed to couple a driven deflecting unit to a third
deflecting unit of an adjacent separating device. The coupling can
comprise, for example, a chain coupling in order, in particular, to
compensate for play. This affords the advantage that only a single
separating device within a pen has to be driven and the further
separating device are driven by means of the driven separating
device.
[0050] Furthermore preferably, the first and/or second deflecting
unit comprise or comprises a drive. The drive can be designed, for
example, as a geared motor or can comprise the latter. The drive
can be provided integrally, for example, in the form of a roller
motor or tubular motor or connect externally on one end of the
drive shaft. The advancing direction carried out by the endless
belt is preferably parallel to the drainage direction. Furthermore,
it is particularly preferred that the advancing direction and the
drainage direction are directed in the same direction. One of the
deflecting units can, in particular, be driven, with the other
being arranged passively with respect to the deflection.
[0051] In a further particularly preferred variant embodiment of
the separating device, it is provided that the two or more drainage
channels each have a channel cross section orthogonally with
respect to the drainage direction and the channel cross section has
a U-shaped profile and/or a V-shaped profile. The two or more
drainage channels preferably each have two limbs which extend away
from a channel base. The limb ends facing away from the channel
base preferably extend away from the channel base in the vertical
direction.
[0052] Furthermore, it is preferred that the U-shaped profile has a
radius of smaller than 400 mm, and/or smaller than 300 mm, and/or
smaller than 250 mm, and/or smaller than 200 mm, and/or smaller
than 194 mm, and/or smaller than 190 mm, and/or smaller than 175
mm, and/or smaller than 150 mm, and/or smaller than 100 mm, and/or
smaller than 75 mm, and/or smaller than 50 mm, and/or smaller than
25 mm, and/or smaller than 15 mm, and/or smaller than 10 mm, and/or
smaller than 5 mm.
[0053] Furthermore, the V-shaped profile can have an inner opening
angle of smaller than 180 arc degrees, and/or smaller than 170 arc
degrees, and/or smaller than 162 arc degrees, and/or smaller than
150 arc degrees, and/or smaller than 140 arc degrees, and/or
smaller than 130 arc degrees, and/or smaller than 120 arc degrees,
and/or smaller than 100 arc degrees, and/or smaller than 90 arc
degrees, and/or smaller than 45 arc degrees.
[0054] Furthermore, it is preferred that the two or more drainage
channels have a bead in the drainage direction, wherein a base of
the bead furthermore preferably has a radius and/or a tilted
profile. In particular, profiles in which a liquid collects with as
small a surface as possible or the liquid is bunched are preferred.
With such a profile, the flow speed can be positively influenced.
Furthermore, the odor pollution is lower. Furthermore, a reduced
evaporation surface results.
[0055] According to a further preferred variant embodiment of the
separating device, it is provided that a shoulder between a first
drainage channel of the two or more drainage channels and a second
drainage channel of the two or more drainage channels is formed by
a first edge portion of the first drainage channel and a second
edge portion of the second drainage channel. In particular, the
first edge portion can be arranged above the second edge portion,
wherein the first edge portion and/or the second edge portion is or
are buckled and/or bent along a longitudinal direction, in
particular, the channel longitudinal direction. The first edge
portion and/or the second edge portion is or are preferably formed
in the channel longitudinal direction. The first edge portion is
preferably connected to the second edge portion. This connection
can take place in an integrally bonded or force-fitting manner. In
particular, the edge portions can be welded to one another.
[0056] A further preferred development of the separating device is
distinguished in that a first outer drainage channel of the two or
more drainage channels faces the first longitudinal member with a
first outer edge portion, and a second outer drainage channel of
the two or more drainage channels faces the second longitudinal
member with the second outer edge portion, and the first outer edge
portion and/or the second outer edge portion is or are arranged and
designed to rest on the first longitudinal member and/or the second
longitudinal member, wherein the first outer edge portion and/or
the second outer edge portion is or are preferably buckled and/or
bent over. The edge portions arranged on the longitudinal member
support the drainage element on the base frame, and, therefore, the
stability is increased. There is the option of placing the drainage
element into the base frame, with active fastening possibly not
being required.
[0057] In a further particularly preferred development of the
separating device, it is provided that the latter comprises a dung
scraper. The dung scraper preferably acts on the endless belt at
one of the reversal points of the endless belt and/or on regions
abutting one of the reversal points. In particular, it is preferred
that the dung scraper is designed in such a manner that the latter
leaves residual dung on the endless belt. This can be realized, for
example, by means of application of spring force. The residual dung
on the endless belt enables animals, in particular pigs, to
perceive the separating device as a preferred region for defecation
and enables the rest of the pen or of the movement regions to
preferably be kept free from dung.
[0058] In a preferred variant embodiment of the separating device,
it is provided that the latter comprises a control device which is
arranged and designed to control a drive of the endless belt.
Furthermore, preferably, the separating device comprises at least
one sensor, selected from the group consisting of pressure sensor,
weight sensor, moisture sensor, pH sensor, conductivity sensor,
flow rate sensor, presence sensor, in particular light barrier,
motion detector and camera, ultrasonic sensor, transponder-based
sensor, ammonia content sensor, air humidity sensor, and
temperature sensor, and wherein the control device is arranged and
designed to control the drive as a function of one or more sensor
signals of one or more of the sensors. The transponder-based sensor
can be designed, for example, as an RFID chip and/or as an ear tag.
Furthermore, it is preferred that the control device controls the
drive depending on the time of day, and/or in a sensor-controlled
manner, and/or as a function of the presence of animals.
[0059] According to a further preferred variant embodiment of the
separating device, it is provided that the separating device
comprises at least one cleaning nozzle which is arranged and
designed to convey a liquid onto the lower run, wherein the
cleaning nozzle is preferably arranged on the drainage element.
[0060] Furthermore, the base frame can have one, two, or more
supporting feet. In particular, it is preferred that the supporting
feet are arranged in such a manner that the position of the base
frame is adjustable in relation to a horizontal. For this purpose,
the supporting feet have a fixed element arranged fixedly on the
base frame and an adjustment element arranged movably on the fixed
element. The adjustment element can be, for example, telescopic
such that said adjustment element can be moved out of the fixed
element. The adjustment element is fastened to the fixed element,
for example, via a latching system. Furthermore, a ball and socket
joint can be arranged on the supporting foot or the supporting feet
in order to permit an adjustment of the base frame in the vertical
direction above a pen floor.
[0061] The separating device preferably comprises receptacles for
the arrangement of transport means. For example, the transport
device can have threaded openings into which transport lugs can be
screwed.
[0062] According to a further aspect, the object mentioned at the
beginning is achieved by an animal pen, in particular a pig pen,
comprising at least one animal holding bay, a separating device
according to one of the previously described variant embodiments
arranged in the animal holding bay, and wherein the separating
device is arranged in such a manner that a conveying direction of
the upper run is directed in the direction of an inspection aisle,
and/or of a disposal aisle, and/or of a boundary element. The
separating device preferably extends over the entire width of the
animal holding bay.
[0063] The animal holding bay preferably extends in the
longitudinal direction from a first bay end to a second bay end.
The separating device is preferably arranged in a region abutting
the second bay end. Furthermore, preferably, the first bay end is
spaced apart from the separating device by 5 meters to 7 meters,
preferably 6 meters to 6.8 meters. Orthogonally with respect to the
longitudinal direction, the animal holding bay preferably extends
in the width direction by 2 meters to 3 meters, in particular 2.4
meters to 2.5 meters. The advancing direction of the endless belt
of the separating device is preferably oriented parallel to the
longitudinal direction. It has furthermore turned out to be
advantageous for the separating device to extend substantially over
the entire width direction.
[0064] In a preferred variant embodiment of the animal pen, it is
provided that the latter comprises a disposal aisle, wherein a
conveying plane of the upper run is arranged substantially in the
same plane as the inspection aisle. Furthermore, it is preferred
that the disposal aisle is arranged in the vertical direction under
the inspection aisle, and the disposal aisle and the endless belt
are arranged in such a manner that dung conveyed on the endless
belt is conveyed into the disposal aisle.
[0065] According to a further preferred variant embodiment of the
animal pen, it is provided that the latter comprises a first animal
holding bay with a first separating device and a second animal
holding bay with a second separating device, wherein the first
separating device is arranged adjacent to the second separating
device. Furthermore, the animal pen can have a third animal holding
bay with a third separating device and a fourth animal holding bay
with a fourth separating device, wherein the third separating
device is arranged adjacent to the fourth separating device, and
the first separating device and the second separating device abut a
first side of the inspection aisle and the third separating device
and the fourth separating device abut a second side of the
inspection aisle opposite the first side.
[0066] Furthermore, the first separating device and the second
separating device can abut the inspection aisle and the third
separating device and the fourth separating device can abut a
second inspection aisle, wherein the sides of the first and third
animal holding bay facing away from the separating devices are
preferably arranged on one another and/or the sides of the second
and fourth animal holding bay facing away from the separating
devices are arranged on one another.
[0067] In a preferred variant embodiment of the animal pen, it is
furthermore provided that a drive drives the endless belt of the
first separating device and the endless belt of the second
separating device is coupled to the endless belt of the first
separating device in such a manner that the endless belt of the
second separating device is driven by the endless belt of the first
separating device. The first separating device and/or the second
separating device preferably comprises or comprise coupling
elements for the previously mentioned coupling. Furthermore
preferably, the animal pen comprises eight or sixteen, preferably
more than eight or more than sixteen, separating devices, the
endless belts of which are driven by a single drive. In particular,
it is preferred that an individual drive drives the endless belts
of two or more separating devices. The animal pen preferably
comprises a multiplicity of animal holding bays and/or separating
devices.
[0068] A further preferred development of the animal pen is
distinguished in that the latter comprises a conveying means, which
is arranged in the disposal aisle, for conveying dung. Said
conveying means can be designed, for example, as a conveyor worm,
conveyor belt, and/or as a dung pusher. Furthermore, a drinking
trough can be arranged in such a manner that the drinking trough
can be reached from the separating device by an animal and/or the
drinking trough is arranged in a portion of the animal holding bay
abutting the separating device and/or the drinking trough is fitted
in the portion of the separating device.
[0069] A boundary element, for example, a boundary wall and/or a
boundary gate, is preferably provided between the animal holding
bay and the inspection aisle. A disposal opening can be arranged
between the separating device and the inspection aisle in such a
manner that dung conveyed on the endless belt passes into the
disposal aisle. The disposal opening preferably has a clear height
of less than 2 cm, of less than 3 cm, of less than 5 cm, of less
than 10 cm, or greater than 10 cm in the vertical direction.
Furthermore, it is preferred that the clear height of the disposal
opening is adjustable, wherein this is advantageous, in particular,
when keeping adolescent animals. Furthermore, it is preferred that
the clear height of the disposal opening is reduced by a protective
guard for piglets such that a piglet is prevented from entering the
disposal aisle.
[0070] The animal pen preferably comprises a liquid conducting-away
system. The latter is preferably designed as a pipeline system.
Furthermore, the animal pen can comprise intermediate liquid stores
which temporarily store the liquid collected by the separating
device and can be emptied by means of a tank and/or pump. The
pipelines preferably have a gradient of 1%. Furthermore, the
pipeline system can be connected to a pump, as a result of which
the gradient may not be required.
[0071] Furthermore, it is preferred that the animal pen has at
least one pen sensor selected from the group consisting of pressure
sensor, weight sensor, moisture sensor, pH sensor, conductivity
sensor, flow rate sensor, presence sensor, in particular light
barrier, motion detector and camera, ultrasonic sensor,
transponder-based sensor, ammonia content sensor, air humidity
sensor, and temperature sensor. The at least one pen sensor can be
coupled to the control device of the drive of the separating
device. Furthermore, a communication interface can be arranged on
the separating device in order to communicate with the pen
sensor.
[0072] According to a further aspect, the object mentioned at the
beginning is achieved by a method for producing a separating device
for separating dung and urine in an animal pen, comprising
providing a base frame with a transverse drainage member, arranging
a drainage element with a drainage channel which has an outflow
end, and two shoulders between which the drainage channel extends
orthogonally with respect to a drainage direction, arranging a
liquid-permeable endless belt with an upper run and a lower run on
the base frame such that the drainage element is arranged between
the upper run and the lower run, fastening the drainage element to
the base frame such that the outflow end is arranged on the
transverse drainage member, wherein the drainage channels have an
inclination in the direction of the outflow direction, and the
lower side of the upper run facing away from a standing area for
the animals rests at least in sections on at least one shoulder of
the drainage element.
[0073] According to a further aspect, the object mentioned at the
beginning is achieved by a method for separating dung and urine in
an animal pen, comprising providing a movable and liquid-permeable
floor, supporting the floor on drainage channels, trapping liquid
in the drainage channels, conducting away the liquid in the
longitudinal direction of the drainage channels and subsequently in
the transverse direction. The method preferably comprises the step
of collecting dung on the movable floor, wherein the dung is
preferably conveyed.
[0074] According to a further aspect, the object mentioned at the
beginning is achieved by a method for separating dung and urine in
an animal pen, comprising providing a separating device according
to at least one of the previously mentioned variant embodiments,
activating a drive of the endless belt, wherein the endless belt is
driven as a function of predefined cycles and/or times of the day
and/or night, and/or sensor signals which in particular represent
pressure values, and/or weight values, and/or moisture values,
and/or pH values, and/or conductivity values, and/or flow rate
values, and/or ammonia content values, and/or temperature values,
and/or activating the drive and/or the dung scraper in such a
manner that residual dung remains on the endless belt.
[0075] The method and the possible developments thereof have
features and method steps which make them suitable, in particular,
to be used for a separating device described here and the
developments thereof. For further advantages, variant embodiments
and embodiment details of said further aspects and of the possible
developments thereof, reference is also made to the previous
description of the corresponding features and developments of the
separating device.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0076] Preferred exemplary embodiments will be explained by way of
example with reference to the attached figures, in which:
[0077] FIG. 1 is a schematic three-dimensional view of an exemplary
embodiment of a separating device;
[0078] FIG. 2 is a schematic exploded drawing of the separating
device from FIG. 1;
[0079] FIG. 3 is a schematic two-dimensional side view of the
separating device from FIG. 1;
[0080] FIG. 4 is a schematic two-dimensional end view of the
separating device from FIG. 1;
[0081] FIG. 5 is a schematic three-dimensional view of an exemplary
embodiment of a drainage element;
[0082] FIG. 6 is a schematic two-dimensional side view of the
drainage element from FIG. 5;
[0083] FIG. 7 is a schematic two-dimensional end view of the
drainage element from FIG. 5;
[0084] FIG. 8 is a schematic two-dimensional detailed views of
drainage channels of the drainage element shown in FIG. 5;
[0085] FIG. 9 is a schematic three-dimensional view of an animal
pen with a plurality of separating devices shown in FIG. 1; and
[0086] FIG. 10 is a schematic sequence diagram of an exemplary
embodiment of the method for separating dung and urine in an animal
pen.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE EMBODIMENTS
[0087] Identical or substantially functionally identical or similar
elements are denoted by same reference signs in the figures.
[0088] FIG. 1 shows a schematic three-dimensional view of an
exemplary embodiment of a separating device. The separating device
10 extends from a first end 12 toward a second end 14. The
separating device 10 comprises a base frame 100 into which a
drainage element 200 is inserted. The base frame 100 is formed by a
first longitudinal member 110, a second longitudinal member 120, a
transverse drainage member 130, shown in FIG. 2, and a transverse
support member 132. The transverse drainage member 130 and the
transverse support member 132 are arranged substantially parallel.
The longitudinal members 110, 120 are likewise arranged
substantially parallel to each other. The longitudinal members 110,
120 and the transverse members 130, 132 are arranged at a right
angle to one another.
[0089] The drainage element 200 is inserted into the base frame 100
formed by the first longitudinal member 110, the second
longitudinal member 120, the transverse drainage member 130, and
the transverse support member 132. The drainage element 200
comprises a multiplicity of drainage channels 210, wherein the
multiplicity of drainage channels are connected to one another by a
first supporting member 220 and a second supporting member 222. The
structure of the drainage channel 210 will be explained here by way
of example as a representative of the plurality of drainage
channels. The drainage channel 210 is surrounded by a first
shoulder 232 and a second shoulder 233. Each of the drainage
channels extends from a first side of the drainage element, which
side faces the first end 12 of the separating device 10, toward a
second side, which side faces the second end 14 of the separating
device 10. The drainage channels 210 are designed in such a manner
that a liquid can flow into them. The drainage element 200 and the
drainage channels 210 are designed in such a manner that, when the
drainage element 200 is correctly arranged on the base frame 100, a
drainage direction 212 is defined. When the drainage element 200 is
correctly arranged, the drainage channels 210 have an inclination
with respect to the horizontal. As a result, a liquid flows in the
direction of the drainage direction 212, indicated by an arrow,
toward an outflow end 214.
[0090] Passage openings 124, 125, 126, 127 are arranged in a region
abutting against the respective ends of the longitudinal members
110, 120. The passage openings 124-127 are designed in such a
manner that a first deflecting unit 310 and a second deflecting
unit 320 can be arranged thereon or therein. It is particularly
preferred for the transverse drainage member 130 and the transverse
support member 132 to be arranged on the inner side of the
deflecting units 310, 320. The deflecting units 310, 320 are
arranged and designed in such a manner that they can guide an
endless belt 300. The endless belt 300, which is illustrated broken
open in FIG. 1, is liquid-permeable. The endless belt 300 surrounds
the upper side and the lower side and also the end sides of the
separating device 10.
[0091] It is apparent, in particular in FIG. 3, how the drainage
element 200 is arranged on the base frame 100. The transverse
drainage member 130 and the transverse support member 132 have an
upwardly open profile. The supporting members 220, 222 of the
drainage element 200 have a profile corresponding to the upwardly
open profile of the transverse drainage member 130 and transverse
support member 132. As a result, the supporting members 220, 222
can be inserted into the upwardly open profiles of the transverse
drainage member 130 and of the transverse support member 132.
[0092] The transverse support member 132 forms a fixed bearing in
the direction from the first end 12 to the second end 14. The
transverse drainage member 130 forms a movable bearing in the
previously mentioned direction. In addition to the support for the
first supporting member 220, the transverse drainage member 130 has
a lower transverse drainage channel 131. Alternatively, the
transverse drainage channel 131 can also be arranged as a separate
element on the transverse drainage member 130. Furthermore, the
transverse drainage channel 131 can also be arranged as a separate
element on the drainage element 200 and/or on the base frame
100.
[0093] It is, in particular, apparent in FIG. 3 that a liquid
located on the drainage element 200 flows in the drainage direction
212 because of the inclination of the drainage element 200. By
means of the arrangement of the drainage element 200, the drainage
direction 212 resulting from the inclination and also the
arrangement of the transverse drainage channel 131, it becomes
apparent that the liquid flows from the drainage element 200 into
the transverse drainage channel 131. The transverse drainage
channel 131 is connected to a drainage opening 122 in the first
longitudinal member. As a result, a liquid flowing through the
endless belt 300 can be received in the drainage element 200 by
means of the drainage channels 210. The liquid flows in the
drainage direction 212 into the transverse drainage channel 131
because of the inclination which arises. The transverse drainage
channel 131 likewise preferably has an inclination in the direction
of the drainage opening 122. A liquid can thus flow from the
endless belt 300 to a liquid collecting station arranged outside
the separating device.
[0094] Furthermore, a dung scraper 400 is arranged at the first end
12 of the separating device 10. The dung scraper 400 is intended to
scrape dung located on the endless belt 300 from the latter during
movement of said endless belt. By means of the scraping, the dung
is intended to be arranged in a defined position under the
separating device 10. It is preferred, in particular, for the dung
scraper 400 to be configured or controlled in such a manner that
the dung is not completely removed from the endless belt 300, but
rather some of the dung remains thereon. In particular, it is
preferred for this to be realized by means of an activation method.
By the dung remaining on the endless belt 300, the separating
device 10 is identified and noted by animals, in particular pigs,
as a defection region in the pen. Consequently, the animals, in
particular pigs, attempt to defecate on the separating device 10
and keep the rest of the pen substantially clean.
[0095] FIG. 4 shows a schematic two-dimensional end view of the
separating device 10 from FIG. 1. It can be seen, in particular,
that the first deflecting unit 310 has a plurality of deflecting
pulleys 314. The deflecting pulleys 314 are designed in such a
manner that they can set the endless belt 300 into movement. The
deflecting pulleys 314 have a type of gearwheel structure with
which they can form a form-fitting and/or force-fitting connection
with the endless belt 300. Furthermore, the separating device 10
comprises a drive 330. The drive 330 is coupled to the first
deflecting unit 310 and drives the latter in a rotational manner.
The drive 330 is coupled to a control device 340 which is arranged
and designed to control the drive 330. For example, the control
device 340 controls the drive 330 on a cycle basis. Consequently,
the drive 330 can be activated, for example, at predefined time
intervals and can set the endless belt 300 into movement.
Furthermore, the control device 340 can also control the drive 330
in accordance with a day scheme, with rest times of the animals
preferably being taken into consideration. Furthermore, the control
device 340 can be designed to control the drive 330 on a sensor
basis. For this purpose, the separating device preferably comprises
at least one sensor 342.
[0096] FIGS. 5-7 show detailed views of the drainage element 200.
FIGS. 5 and 7, in particular, show the design of the drainage
element with a multiplicity of drainage channels, wherein a
drainage channel with the reference sign 210 is provided as a
representative of all of the other drainage channels, wherein the
drainage channel 210 extends between two shoulders 232, 233. The
shoulders 232-240 and the edge shoulders 231, 241 therefore form
the lateral boundaries of the drainage channels.
[0097] The drainage element 200 extends from a blocking side 204
toward a drainage side 202. The drainage channels 210 are blocked
by a rear wall on the blocking side 204. This means that a liquid
in the drainage channel cannot drain on the blocking side 204 at
least up to a defined filling height. The outflow ends 214 are
arranged on the drainage side 202. The drainage side 202 is
distinguished in respect of the drainage channels 210, in
particular, in that a liquid in the drainage channels 210 can drain
on the drainage side 202 in a manner substantially free from
interference.
[0098] It becomes apparent from FIG. 6 how the drainage direction
212 of the drainage element 200 is realized. The first supporting
member 220 has a smaller extent in the vertical direction than the
second supporting member 222. Since the transverse drainage member
130 and the transverse support member 132 are arranged at the same
height in the vertical direction on the longitudinal members 110,
120, an inclination of the drainage element 200 relative to the
base frame 100 arises by means of the supporting members 220, 222
of different length. The base frame 100 is positioned substantially
horizontally by means of feet, not shown, such that, as a result
thereof, the drainage element 200 has an inclination.
[0099] FIG. 8 shows schematic two-dimensional detailed views of
drainage channels 210 of the drainage element 200 shown in FIG. 5.
The exemplary design of a drainage channel will be explained by way
of example with reference to the drainage channel 210. The drainage
channel 210 has a channel base 250. The channel base 250 is the
deepest point of the drainage channel 210 in the vertical
direction. From the channel base 250, a first channel floor wing
252 and a second channel floor wing 254 extend away from the
channel base 250. The channel floor wings 252, 254 have a slope. As
a result, a liquid flowing into the drainage channel always flows
in the direction of the channel base 250. A channel side wall 256,
258 is arranged in each case at the outer ends of the channel floor
wings 252, 254. A channel floor wing 252, 254 together with a
channel side wall 256, 258 forms a leg of the drainage channel
210.
[0100] It is particularly advantageous if the drainage channel 210
is produced from a metal, as a result of which the drainage channel
210 can be readily formed. For example, the first shoulder 232 is
formed by the sheet metal of the drainage channel 210 and the sheet
metal of the second drainage channel 211. At the highest point of
the first shoulder 232, the side walls 256 and 264 butt against
each other. The side wall 256 has a greater extent than the side
wall 264. The greater extent at this point, which goes beyond that
of the customary extent, is referred to as an edge portion 262. The
edge portion 262 is buckled away from the side wall 256 at the kink
260. As a result, the sheet metal of the drainage channel 210 in
the form of the channel side wall 256 and the edge portion 262 lies
above the channel side wall 264 of the adjacent second drainage
channel 211. A liquid-tight connection of the drainage channel 210
and of the second drainage channel 211 is thereby formed.
[0101] The design of the first edge shoulder 231 and of the second
edge shoulder 241 is likewise shown in FIG. 8. The edge shoulders
231, 241 are formed by edge portions. Said edge portions are bent
from the rest of the material of the drainage channels 210 in such
a manner that they form a horizontal support. The drainage element
200 can be arranged by means of said horizontal support in addition
to the supporting members 220, 222 on the base frame 100, in
particular, on the longitudinal members 110, 120.
[0102] FIG. 9 shows a schematic three-dimensional view of an animal
pen with a plurality of separating devices 520 shown in FIG. 1. The
animal pen 500 comprises an inspection aisle 502 arranged centrally
in the longitudinal direction. A disposal aisle 504 is arranged
parallel and in the vertical direction under the inspection aisle
502. A plurality of animal holding bays 510 are arranged on both
sides along the inspection aisle 502. The animal holding bays 510
each extend from the inspection aisle 502 toward an outer wall 506,
508 of the animal pen 500. A separating device 520 is in each case
arranged in the animal holding bays 510. The separating device 520
butts against the inspection aisle 502. Furthermore, the separating
device 520 extends over the entire side of the animal holding bay
510, which side extends parallel to the inspection aisle 502. The
animal holding bay 510 is delimited from the inspection aisle 502
by a boundary wall 512. A disposal gap 514 is located between the
boundary wall 512 and the separating device 520. As a result, dung
located on the endless belt of the separating device 520 can be
disposed of through the disposal gap 514 by being conveyed in the
direction of the inspection aisle 502. The dung is conveyed, in
particular, through the disposal gap 514 into the disposal aisle
504. Suitable devices can be arranged within the disposal aisle 504
in order to dispose of the dung from here.
[0103] FIG. 10 shows a schematic sequence diagram of an exemplary
embodiment of the method for separating dung and urine in an animal
pen. In a first step 600, a movable and liquid-permeable floor is
provided. Such a floor can be designed, for example, as an endless
belt and preferably as a module belt. The liquid discharged by
animals on the floor, in particular urine, is trapped in drainage
channels in step 601. The liquid passes through the floor and is
trapped in the drainage channels below the floor. The floor is
supported on the drainage channels 210.
[0104] In step 602, the liquid is conducted away in the
longitudinal direction of the drainage channels 210. Furthermore,
in step 603, the liquid, after being conducted away in the
longitudinal direction, is conducted away in the transverse
direction. The liquid can flow, for example, at an outflow end of
the drainage channels 210, into a transverse channel which is
arranged orthogonally with respect to the drainage channels.
Furthermore, the method can comprise the step of collecting dung on
the movable floor.
[0105] The separating device has the advantage that an autonomous
separating device is provided for animal pens, which separates the
liquid and solid excrement from animals, in particular pigs.
Furthermore, the present separating device affords the advantage
that an endless belt can be used which is particularly appropriate
for the animal welfare and furthermore has optimum permeability to
liquid excrement. This is achieved, in particular, by the fact that
the endless belt 300 itself does not have to carry the weight of an
animal. This, in turn, results from the fact that the endless belt
rests on the shoulders of the drainage element 200. The shoulders
form an internal support for the endless belt.
* * * * *