• 专利附录
  • 专利说明
  • 权利要求
  • 类似技术
  • 同族专利
  • 引用文献
  • 法律状态
  • 优先权
    • 专利摘要:
    The invention relates to a system for the thermal comfort of animals in a breeding enclosure. This system comprises (a) at least one comfort mattress (2) which comprises at least one elastomeric layer (3) comprising a plurality of sealed cavities (4) intended to contain a heat-transfer fluid, (b) a heat-transfer fluidic circuit (5), for containing said heat transfer fluid, (c) a watering fluid circuit (6), and (d) heat exchanger means (7) which are located between said heat transfer fluid circuit (5) and said watering fluid circuit ( 6), to ensure heat exchange between said heat transfer fluid and the drinking water.
    公开号:FR3056880A1
    申请号:FR1659521
    申请日:2016-10-03
    公开日:2018-04-06
    发明作者:Jean-Vincent Bioret
    申请人:Bioret Agri Logette Confort SARL；
    IPC主号:
    专利说明:

    (57) The invention relates to a system for the thermal comfort of animals in a breeding enclosure.
    This system comprises (a) at least one comfort mattress (2) which comprises at least one elastomer layer (3) comprising several sealed cavities (4) intended to contain a heat transfer fluid, (b) a heat transfer fluid circuit (5), intended to contain said coolant, (c) a fluidic watering circuit (6), and (d) heat exchanger means (7) which are located between said coolant fluidic circuit (5) and said fluidic watering circuit ( 6), to ensure heat exchanges between said heat transfer fluid and the water for watering.
    Technical field to which the invention relates
    The present invention relates to a system for the thermal comfort of animals, for example for dairy cattle and beef cattle.
    It relates in particular to a thermal comfort system comprising comfort mattresses for the arrangement of cubicles in a breeding enclosure.
    Technological background
    The comfort of the animals constitutes a determining parameter in the yield of a breeding.
    This comfort influences in particular the health, the way of eating, the food intake, the fertility and the longevity of the animals.
    This animal comfort notably includes a "thermal" component.
    Indeed, in case of strong heat or intense cold, animals are likely to undergo a harmful phenomenon called "thermal stress".
    Such heat stress generally results in behavioral defensive manifestations, a drop in zootechnical performance, a deterioration in reproductive parameters and an increase in pathologies.
    To prevent this phenomenon, it is important to regulate the ambient temperature in the breeding enclosure, depending on the surrounding thermal conditions.
    Again to prevent the phenomenon of thermal stress, it can also be effective to regulate the temperature of the drinking water.
    Indeed, an unsuitable temperature of the drinking water is likely to lead to a phenomenon of under-watering with as consequences dehydration, risks of fall in food consumption, a decrease in production and an intolerance to heat. .
    In particular, it is necessary to avoid drinking water that is too cold, which may cause digestive problems, in addition to underconsumption.
    In this context, there is a need for a system for breeding enclosure which is adapted to favor the thermal comfort of the animals in particular when they rest within their cubicles or when they drink.
    Object of the invention
    In this context, the applicant has developed a system for the thermal comfort of animals in a breeding enclosure, for example for dairy cattle or for beef cattle, comprising:
    (a) at least one comfort mattress which comprises at least one elastomeric layer and which has two opposite faces:
    - an upper face, capable of undergoing elastic deformation and comprising at least one reception area on which an animal is intended to rest, and
    - A lower face, intended to rest on a receiving surface, which at least one elastomeric layer comprises several sealed cavities intended to contain a heat transfer fluid, which sealed cavities are underlying at least a part of said at least one zone reception and each comprise at least two through orifices, (b) a heat transfer fluid circuit, intended to contain said heat transfer fluid, which heat transfer fluid circuit is connected to the through holes of said sealed cavities and comprises means for generating a circulation of said heat transfer fluid within each of said sealed cavities, between their respective through holes, (c) a fluidic watering circuit, distinct from said heat-carrying fluidic circuit, intended to contain water for watering and to supply at least one drinking trough, and ( d) heat exchanger means which are located between said heat transfer fluid circuit and said fluid circuit. drinking water, to ensure heat exchanges between said heat transfer fluid and said drinking water.
    Heat exchanges will occur within the heat exchanger means between, on the one hand, the heat transfer fluid coming from the heat transfer fluid circuit and, on the other hand, the water for watering coming from the fluidic watering circuit.
    Such a system thus has the advantage of allowing control, on the one hand, of the temperature of the comfort mattress with which the animal is directly in contact and, on the other hand, of the temperature of the drinking water. .
    These temperatures are then adjusted according to the surrounding thermal conditions.
    Indeed, in general, the drinking water has a nominal temperature between 10 ° C and 15 ° C, throughout the year
    In summer, the drinking water flowing through the heat exchanger reduces the temperature of the heat transfer fluid.
    The comfort mattresses are thus cooled on the surface by the cooled heat transfer fluid, so as to cool the animal in presence and thus limit the increase in the body temperature of the latter.
    Also, still in summer, the animals drink an increased amount of water for drinking. The increase in watering leads to an increase in the circulation of water for watering in the heat exchanger means, with the result of optimizing the cooling of the heat-transfer fluid, which is particularly advantageous during peaks of thermal stress. animals (the warmer it is, the more the animals drink, the more the water for watering circulates in the heat exchanger means, the more the coolant is cooled, the more the mattress is cooled).
    At the same time, the drinking water leaving the heat exchanger means is heated, which favors its consumption by farm animals.
    Alternatively or additionally, in the event of cold, the comfort mattress can be heated so as to warm the animal present.
    The heat transfer fluid then heats the drinking water within the heat exchanger means. Again, the temperature of the drinking water will be more suitable for animals.
    The technical solution according to the invention thus has the advantage of improving the temperature of the two aforementioned fluids, then effectively meeting the physiological needs of livestock, this with reduced cost and with minimal energy consumption .
    According to a particular embodiment, the heat exchanger means comprise a hollow body defining a chamber containing two separate internal fluid circuits:
    a first internal fluidic circuit, comprising a tube implanted in said chamber and provided with two orifices opening out of said hollow body for its connection to a first fluidic circuit chosen from the heat-carrying fluidic circuit or the watering fluidic circuit, and
    a second internal fluid circuit, formed by said chamber which is provided with two conduits each provided with an orifice opening out of said hollow body for connection to a second fluid circuit chosen from the heat-carrying fluid circuit or the watering fluid circuit, and an orifice opening into said chamber to allow fluid circulation in said chamber between said conduits.
    In this case, preferably, the first internal fluid circuit of the heat exchanger means is connected to the heat transfer fluid circuit, and the second internal fluid circuit of the heat exchanger means is connected to the watering fluid circuit.
    Other non-limiting and advantageous characteristics of the system according to the invention, taken individually or in any technically possible combination, are the following:
    - the sealed cavities of said at least one comfort mattress extend parallel, or at least approximately parallel, with respect to each other, and in that said sealed cavities each have an elongated rectilinear shape; preferably, said at least one elastomeric layer has two longitudinal edges, and said sealed cavities extend parallel, or at least approximately parallel, to said longitudinal edges.
    - Said at least one elastomer layer comprises at least one sealed chamber, intended to contain a damping fluid and formed between said sealed cavities and said upper face of said mattress, which at least one elastomer layer comprises at least one opening opening for access to said at least one sealed chamber;
    - The heat transfer fluid circuit further comprises means for regulating the temperature of said heat transfer fluid, and said heat exchanger means are located between said at least one comfort mattress and said temperature regulation means; preferably, the thermal regulation means are chosen from means capable of heating and / or cooling said heat transfer fluid;
    - Said at least one elastomer layer is made in one piece, which elastomer layer directly defines said sealed cavities and, where appropriate, said at least one sealed chamber.
    The present invention also relates to the breeding enclosure equipped with a system for thermal comfort according to the invention.
    Preferably, the breeding enclosure includes cubicles and at least one watering tank. Said at least one comfort mattress covers the floor of at least one of said cubicles; said at least one comfort mattress has a plurality of sealed cavities which extend within at least one of said cubicles; and the fluidic watering circuit is connected to said at least one watering tank.
    The invention also relates to a method for improving the thermal comfort of animals in a breeding enclosure according to the invention.
    This method comprises an operation for regulating the temperature of the upper face of said at least one comfort mattress by:
    a circulation of the heat transfer fluid in said sealed cavities of said at least one comfort mattress, and
    - optionally regulating the temperature of said heat transfer fluid.
    This method also comprises an operation for regulating the temperature of the drinking water and / or the heat transfer fluid, by circulating said drink water and said heat transfer fluid within the heat exchanger means.
    Detailed description of an exemplary embodiment
    The invention will be further illustrated, without being in any way limited, by the following description of particular embodiments in relation to the appended figures in which:
    FIG. 1 is a schematic representation of the thermal comfort system according to the invention, equipping an enclosure for the breeding of animals,
    - Figure 2 is a schematic perspective view of a series of cubicles which is equipped with a comfort mattress consisting of a comfort layer made of an elastomeric material;
    - Figure 3 is a partial and enlarged view of Figure 2, showing one of the transverse edges of the elastomeric layer whose sealed cavities are connected in particular to the heat transfer fluid circuit;
    - Figure 4 is still a perspective view of one of the transverse edges of the elastomer layer, practically seen on edge, with the heat transfer fluid circuit which is hidden;
    - Figure 5 corresponds to Figure 2, top view;
    - Figure 6 is a schematic view, from the side, of the different parts intended to be assembled to form the elastomer layer of the comfort mattress according to Figures 2 to 5;
    FIG. 7 is a schematic perspective view of a comfort mattress constituting the comfort system according to the invention, in which said comfort mattress is constituted here by the elastomer layer which comprises tight chambers juxtaposed longitudinally and sus- adjacent to watertight cavities;
    - Figure 8 is a partial and enlarged view of Figure 7, showing one of the transverse edges of the elastomer layer;
    - Figure 9 is a sectional view of the elastomeric layer according to Figures 7 and 8, along a section plane parallel to its transverse edges;
    FIG. 10 is a schematic view, from the side, of the various parts intended to be assembled to form the elastomer layer of the comfort mattress according to FIGS. 7 to 9.
    As shown diagrammatically in FIG. 1, the comfort system 1 according to the invention is intended to equip a breeding enclosure E in which sleeping stalls are provided.
    Breeding enclosure and flock
    The breeding enclosure E advantageously consists of a stable for breeding cattle, in particular dairy cattle or beef cattle.
    The sleeping stalls here consist of cubicles L formed on at least one line.
    The cubicles L constitute a compromise between a comfortable bed for the cattle, the respect of the raised / lying movement, a comfortable standing station and a minimum of stains in the cubicle.
    Each cubicle L, in a conventional manner, is delimited by:
    - two lateral partitions L1, for example tubular structures,
    - a rear cubicle threshold L2. stretching along an access corridor,
    a front limit L3, advantageously comprising a high bar at the withers and a lower stopper (or advance limiter), forming the bottom of the cubicle L, and
    - an L4 floor, for example, a concrete slab.
    The breeding enclosure E also has at least one drinking trough A, for feeding animals with drinking water.
    Comfort system
    To ensure the thermal comfort of the animals, the system 1 according to the invention comprises the following elements:
    - at least one comfort mattress 2, covering the floor L4 of each of the cubicles L and comprising at least one elastomer layer 3 comprising several sealed cavities 4 intended to contain a heat transfer fluid (not shown),
    a heat transfer fluid circuit 5, intended to contain the heat transfer fluid and to supply the sealed cavities 4 of said at least one comfort mattress 2,
    a fluidic watering circuit 6, intended to contain water for watering and to supply watering device A, and
    - Heat exchanger means 7 which are located between the heat transfer fluid circuit 5 and the watering fluid circuit 6, to ensure heat exchange between the heat transfer fluid and the water for watering.
    Heat transfer fluid circuit
    The heat transfer fluid circuit 5 comprises a set of conduits or pipes, intended to contain the heat transfer fluid.
    The heat transfer fluid is advantageously chosen from liquids, for example water or a water / glycol mixture.
    The heat transfer fluid circuit 5 here consists of a closed circuit comprising two parts separated by the heat exchanger means 7 (FIGS. 1 and 2):
    - an upstream part 5a, extending from a comfort mattress 2 to the heat exchanger means 7, and
    - a downstream part 5b, extending from the heat exchanger means 7 to the comfort mattress 2.
    The heat transfer fluid circuit 5 includes means for generating the circulation of this heat transfer fluid, here in a loop, also called “circulation means” (FIGS. 2 and 3 show an implementation for a first embodiment; identical connections are made for the implementation of other embodiments).
    In particular, the heat transfer fluid circuit 5 ensures a distribution and a parallel circulation of the heat transfer fluid, along the sealed cavities 4.
    As shown in FIG. 2, the heat transfer fluid circuit 5 comprises for this:
    - Upstream fluid connection means 51, for a fluid supply, which are connected in parallel to the through orifices of the sealed cavities 4 situated at the level of a first transverse edge of the elastomer layer 3, and
    - Downstream fluid connection means 52, for collecting the outlet fluid, which are connected in parallel to the through orifices of the sealed cavities 4 located at a second transverse edge of the elastomer layer 3.
    The upstream 51 / downstream 52 fluid connection means each comprise for example a clarinet type device 53, in order to ensure the parallel circulation of the heat transfer fluid within each of the sealed cavities 4.
    The connection of a clarinet 53 with the adjoining through orifices is advantageously carried out by mechanical sealing means.
    These upstream 51 / downstream 52 fluid connection means can be fluidly connected, for recirculation or recycling of this heat transfer fluid.
    The heat transfer fluid circuit 5 further comprises a pump 54, to cause the flow of the heat transfer fluid.
    The upstream fluid connection means 51 are advantageously further equipped with pressure regulating means 55 and / or flow regulating means 56.
    Thus, the pressure within the sealed cavities 4 is advantageously adjusted between 0.3 and 3 bar, preferably between 1 and 1.5 bar.
    The upstream fluid connection means 51 are more advantageously equipped with means 56 for regulating the flow rate within each of the sealed cavities 4.
    The pump 54, the pressure regulating means 55 and / or the flow regulating means 56, are advantageously located on the downstream part 5b of the heat transfer fluid circuit 5 (located between the heat exchanger means 7 and the comfort mattress 2).
    In addition to the heat exchanger means 7 described below, the heat transfer fluid circuit 5 can also be equipped with means 57 for regulating the temperature of the heat transfer fluid (also called “control means 57”), advantageously at the level of the fluid connection means. upstream 51.
    The temperature regulation means 57 are advantageously located on the downstream part 5b of the heat transfer fluid circuit 5, between the heat exchanger means 7 and the comfort mattress 2.
    These regulation means 57 are chosen from means capable of heating and / or cooling the heat transfer fluid.
    For example, these regulating means 57 consist of a heat pump, reversible with temperature measurement.
    The regulation means 57 advantageously comprise:
    means for measuring the temperature of this heat transfer fluid, for example a temperature probe, and
    - possibly means for displaying the measured temperature.
    These regulation means 57 are optional, in particular in the case where the heat transfer fluid initially exhibits the desired temperature (for example a source of fresh water for cooling the comfort mattress 2).
    Fluidic watering circuit
    The fluidic watering circuit 6 comprises a set of conduits or pipes intended to contain the water for watering.
    The fluidic watering circuit 6 is an open circuit, comprising two terminal ends (FIG. 1):
    an inlet 61, upstream, connected to a source of water for watering, for example a water network, a borehole, etc., and
    - an outlet 62, downstream, intended to supply at least one drinker A.
    This fluidic watering circuit 6 is divided into two parts:
    - an upstream part 6a, extending from the inlet 61 to the heat exchanger means 7, and
    - a downstream part 6b, extending from the heat exchanger means 7 to at least one drinker A.
    The circulation of the drinking water in this fluidic drinking circuit 6 can be ensured by the pressure generated by the source of the drinking water, or even by a circulation pump.
    The drinking water initially has a temperature advantageously between 10 ° C and 15Ό.
    The drinking water released in said at least one drinking trough A has a temperature advantageously between 17 ° C and 23 ° C.
    Medium heat exchangers
    The heat exchanger means 7 are located between the heat transfer fluid circuit 5 and the watering fluid circuit 6, distinct from one another, to ensure heat exchanges between the heat transfer fluid and the water for watering.
    The heat exchanger means 7 can be chosen from the usual heat exchangers 7 (tubular, plate exchangers, etc.) which comprise two fluid circuits in which are intended to route the two fluids to obtain a heat exchange between the latter.
    In this case, the heat exchanger means 7 comprise a hollow body 71 defining a chamber 72 containing two internal fluid circuits 73, 74 in which are intended to route one of the two fluids.
    The hollow body 71, and its chamber 72, for example have a generally cylindrical shape.
    The chamber 72 has in particular a longitudinal axis 72 ’, vertical, and two opposite ends: an upper end 721 and a lower end 722.
    A first internal fluid circuit 73 is in the form of a tube, for example having a spiral shape, which is located in the chamber 72.
    This tubing is made of a thermal conductive material, to allow heat exchanges between the fluid present in said tubing and the fluid filling the chamber 72.
    This first internal fluid circuit 73 is provided with two opposite and superimposed orifices 731,732 which open out of the hollow body 71: an upper orifice 731 and a lower orifice 732.
    This first internal fluid circuit 73 is here connected to the heat transfer fluid circuit 5.
    Preferably, this heat transfer fluid circuit 5 is connected to the first internal fluid circuit 73 so that:
    - the upstream part 5a is connected with the upper orifice 731, and
    - the downstream part 5b is connected with the lower orifice 732.
    In other words, the heat transfer fluid circuit 5 is connected to the first internal fluid circuit 73 so that the heat transfer fluid enters through the upper orifice 731 and exits through the lower orifice 732.
    A second internal fluid circuit 74 is formed by the chamber 72 which is provided with two conduits: an upper conduit 741 and a lower conduit 742.
    These conduits 741, 742 are each arranged at one of the two ends 721, 722 of the chamber 72.
    For example, the first duct 741, upper, is formed at the upper end 721 of the chamber 72; and the second, lower conduit 742 is formed at the lower end 722 of the chamber 72.
    Each of these two conduits 741,742 have two orifices:
    a first orifice 7411, 7421, external, opening out of the hollow body 71 for connection to the fluidic watering circuit 6, and
    - A second orifice 7412, 7422, inside, opening into the chamber 72 to allow fluid circulation in this chamber 72 between the conduits 741,742.
    In this case, the second internal fluid circuit 74 is here connected to the fluidic watering circuit 6. The watering water is thus intended to fill the chamber 72, and to drown the first internal fluidic circuit 73.
    Preferably, the watering fluid circuit 6 is connected to the second internal fluid circuit 74 so that the upstream part 6a is connected with the lower conduit 742 and the downstream part 6b is connected with the upper conduit 741.
    In other words, the fluidic watering circuit 6 is connected to the second internal fluidic circuit 74 so that the watering fluid (cold) enters through the lower conduit 742 and exits through the upper conduit 741 (heated).
    Control means
    The comfort system 1 also advantageously comprises control means 12 for controlling the operation of the heat transfer fluid circuit 5 (FIG. 2).
    These control means 12 are chosen for example from:
    - manual control means,
    - programmer-type control means (for operation according to predefined cycles), and
    - automatic control means, advantageously in particular a computer program executed by a computer.
    These control means 12 are then advantageously also connected with means 13 for measuring the temperature within the breeding enclosure E.
    Comfort mattress
    The comfort system 1 here comprises a continuous comfort mattress 2 which covers the floor L4 of the aligned cubicles L. This comfort mattress 2 thus comprises several reception areas 21 which are juxtaposed over the length of said comfort mattress 2 (Figures 5 and 7).
    Alternatively, not shown, each cubicle L can contain its own comfort mattress 2 which then defines a unique reception area 21.
    The comfort mattress 2 has a generally rectangular shape which is delimited by two pairs of edges, namely:
    - two longitudinal edges, namely a rear longitudinal edge 22 intended to extend along the rear threshold L2 of the cubicles L fitted, and a front longitudinal edge 23 intended to extend along the front limit L3 of the line of cubicles L, and
    - Two transverse edges 24, intended to be located at the level of the lateral partitions U. of the two cubicles L at the end of the line.
    The comfort mattress 2 still has two opposite faces:
    - an upper face 25, capable of undergoing elastic deformation and forming the reception areas 21 on which the animals are intended to bear, and
    - A lower face 26, intended to rest on the floor L4 of cubicles L.
    Each of the reception areas 21 of the comfort mattress 2 is intended to accommodate an animal here.
    Each reception area 21 thus corresponds to the floor area L4 of a cubicle L, and is delimited laterally by two lateral partitions L1.
    Each of the reception areas 21 then has a generally rectangular shape which is delimited by different borders (FIGS. 5 and 7):
    -two side borders 211, each located directly above a side partition L1 of cubicle L,
    a rear edge 212, adjoining the rear threshold L2 of the cubicle L (forming part of the rear longitudinal edge 22 of the comfort mattress 2), and
    - A front edge 213, adjacent to the front limit L3 of the cubicle L (forming part of the front longitudinal edge 23 of the comfort mattress 2).
    Elastomer layer of the comfort mattress
    According to the invention, the elastomer layer 3 can form either part of the comfort mattress 2 (Figures 2 to 6), or fully the comfort mattress 2 (Figures 7 to 10).
    In all cases, this elastomer layer 3 also has a generally rectangular shape which is delimited by two pairs of edges:
    two longitudinal edges, one rear 32 and the other front 33, provided respectively at the rear longitudinal edges 22 and front 23 of the comfort mattress 2, and
    two transverse edges 34 formed respectively at the level of the transverse edges 24 of the comfort mattress 2.
    The elastomer layer 3 also has two opposite faces:
    an upper face 35, intended to form the upper face 25 of the comfort mattress 2, and
    a lower face 36, possibly forming the lower face 26 of the comfort mattress 2.
    This elastomer layer 3 is produced in at least one material capable of undergoing elastic deformation, also called "elastic material", chosen from:
    - elastomeric materials, for example natural rubber, “synthetic natural” rubber (or synthetic polyisoprene), polybutadiene or styrene-butadiene, or
    - plastic materials or thermoplastic elastomers (TPE), namely for example PVB (polyvinyl butyral), ABS (acrylonitrile butadiene styrene) / SBR (styrene-butadiene), PP (polypropylene) / EPDM (ethylenepropylene-diene monomer), TPU (polyurethane TPE).
    This elastomer layer 3 is advantageously made in one piece, either mono-material (in a single material), or multi-material (with at least two superimposed sublayers produced in different materials).
    The elastomer layer 3 may also contain reinforcing sublayers described hereinafter in relation to FIGS. 6 and 10, chosen from textile fibers, metal fibers or any other product providing stability and / or resistance to l 'elongation.
    These reinforcing sublayers consist, for example, of a textile reinforcement serving as reinforcement, advantageously made of a material chosen from nylon, cotton, polyester, polyamide or any other reinforcing textile.
    The elastomer layer 3 comprises, in its thickness and within its constituent material, the sealed cavities 4. The elastomer layer 3, and in particular its constituent material, thus directly defines the sealed cavities 4.
    The sealed cavities 4 are juxtaposed and are each underlying a part of the reception areas 21 of the comfort mattress 2. In other words, the reception areas 21 of the comfort mattress 2 are overlying watertight cavities 4 present.
    For this, the sealed cavities 4 each consist of a tubular structure having an elongated rectilinear shape, defining a longitudinal axis 4 ’.
    There are six of these sealed cavities 4 here. Generally, the number of sealed cavities 4 is advantageously between 5 and 10.
    The sealed cavities 4 are distributed in a plane P extending parallel to the surfaces 25, 26 of the comfort mattress 2.
    These sealed cavities 4 (in particular their respective longitudinal axes
    4 ’) thus extend parallel, or at least approximately parallel, with respect to the surfaces 25, 26 of the comfort mattress 2.
    The sealed cavities 4 also each extend over the entire length of the elastomer layer 3, between its transverse edges 34 (and advantageously over the entire length of the comfort mattress 2); and the sealed cavities 4 are distributed over the width of the elastomer layer 3, between its longitudinal edges 32, 33 (and advantageously over the width of the comfort mattress 2).
    These sealed cavities 4 (in particular their respective longitudinal axes 4 ’) thus extend parallel, or at least approximately parallel, with respect to each other and with respect to the longitudinal edges 32, 33 of the elastomer layer 3.
    Each sealed cavity 4 thus comprises a succession of sections extending between the lateral edges 211 of each reception area 21, perpendicular to the latter.
    These sealed cavities 4 are here separated, with respect to each other, by an intermediate intermediate strip 38.
    Furthermore, each sealed cavity 4 is delimited by two facing surfaces, an upper surface 41 and a lower surface 42, which meet at two lateral edges 43 (Figures 4 and 9).
    Each sealed cavity 4 here has a vertical section which, when empty (not shown), is flattened or flat: the distance between the lateral edges 43 (width) is greater than the distance between its upper 41 / lower 42 surfaces opposite (height).
    When a sealed cavity 4 is filled with fluid, its vertical section is for example round, oval or elliptical, depending in particular on the pressure of the fluid, with:
    the upper 41 / lower 42 surfaces which are curved, concave, and
    - a major axis (passing through its lateral edges 43) which extends parallel to the faces 25, 26 of the comfort mattress 2.
    By way of indication only, when empty, the sealed cavities 4 advantageously have a width, between their two respective lateral edges 43, of between 70 and 100 mm.
    The sealed cavities 4 are further apart from each other by a distance of between 80 and 130 mm.
    These sealed cavities 4, filled with fluid, for example each have a height (along their small vertical axis) of between 60 and 100 mm.
    The sealed cavities 4 are each intended to contain the heat transfer fluid which is circulated over their respective lengths, to regulate the temperature of the upper face 25 of the comfort mattress 2.
    For this, each of the sealed cavities 4 is terminated by two through orifices 45 which are each provided at one of the transverse edges 34 of the elastomer layer 3.
    These through holes 45 allow a fluid connection with the heat transfer fluid circuit 5.
    The sealed cavities 4 are here fluidly independent from one another. In this case, drilling one of the sealed cavities 4 would not cause all of the sealed cavities of the elastomeric layer 3 to be emptied.
    Each of the sealed cavities 4 therefore comprises two through orifices 45 which are specific to it, for the circulation of the heat transfer fluid.
    The through holes 45 open here directly at the transverse edges 35 of the elastomer layer 3. Alternatively, not shown, the through holes 45 on the same side open in a duct formed in the elastomer layer 3, itself opening at an edge of said elastomer layer 3.
    The through holes 45 are advantageously obtained by cutting the elastomer layer 3 to length, along a cutting line oriented perpendicular to the longitudinal edges 32, 33.
    Indeed, the elastomeric layer 3, before its installation, is advantageously stored in the form of a roll having a length of several meters, in particular greater than 3 meters long.
    This embodiment in roll has the advantage of allowing a simple and rapid installation of the elastomer layer 3 in the breeding enclosure, by unrolling along a line of cubicles L then by a cut adapted to the length desired from this line.
    In addition, the thickness of the material forming the sealed cavity 4 (in particular its thickness at its upper surface 43) is advantageously minimal, for example between 2 and 5 mm, to promote heat transfer by phenomenon of conduction through of said material.
    Two particular embodiments of this comfort mattress 2 according to the invention are described below.
    First embodiment of the comfort mattress
    A first embodiment of the comfort mattress 2 according to the invention is illustrated in FIGS. 2 to 6.
    The general structure of this comfort mattress is for example of the type of Louisiana mattress marketed by the company BIORET AGRI-LOGETTE CONFORT (Nort sur Erdre, France).
    According to this first embodiment, the comfort mattress 2 comprises a lower comfort layer 8 constituted by a plate of elastic material, for example a plate of rubber aggregates (agglomerated or non-agglomerated, or of latex) (visible in the figures 3 and 4).
    The comfort layer 8 then forms the lower face 26 of the comfort mattress 2.
    This comfort layer 8 is wrapped in the elastomer layer 3 forming a film, which replaces a film conventionally used (for example made of elastomeric material, PVC or fabric).
    Such an embodiment is advantageous in particular in a “renovation” use, in which the used film is replaced while providing an additional function of thermal comfort.
    This elastomer layer 3 thus has the following two faces:
    the upper face 35 forming the upper face 25 of the comfort mattress 2, and
    - the underside 36, enveloping the comfort layer 8.
    Preferably, the final thickness of the elastomer layer 3 (once its sealed cavities 4 are filled) is approximately double compared to the initial thickness of this elastomer layer 3 (before filling).
    For example, the initial thickness of the elastomer layer 3 is of the order of 5 to 10 mm.
    The sealed cavities 4 have a continuous section over their respective lengths.
    However, the sealed cavities 4 extending respectively along the longitudinal edges 32, 33 of the elastomer layer 3, also called "peripheral sealed cavities 47", each have a plurality of transverse extensions 471.
    The transverse extensions 471 are distributed over the length of their respective peripheral waterproof cavities 47.
    These transverse extensions 471 each extend perpendicular to the longitudinal axis 4 ′ of the associated peripheral sealed cavity 47 and in the direction of the longitudinal edge 32, 33 juxtaposed.
    As an indication, these transverse extensions 471 each have a length (front / rear) of between 300 and 500 mm.
    Such structures make it possible to obtain an upper face 35 whose temperature is controlled, while forming a relief extending in a front / rear direction to avoid a phenomenon of retention of the biological materials produced by the bovine (milk, excrements, urine , etc.).
    This promotes the flow of these biological materials outside the comfort mattress 2.
    This elastomer layer 3 is advantageously secured to the ground by means of rod-type profiles (not shown), fixed by spikes or nails, in particular along the front 23 and rear 22 edges of the comfort mattress 2.
    For this, the elastomer layer 3 advantageously comprises two longitudinal strips 39, one front and the other rear, which are devoid of sealed cavities 4 and which are intended to cooperate with these rods.
    These longitudinal strips 39 have for this, for example, a width of between 100 and 300 mm.
    Second embodiment of the comfort mattress
    A second particular embodiment of the comfort mattress 2 is illustrated in FIGS. 7 to 10.
    According to this second embodiment, the comfort mattress 2 is formed directly by the elastomer layer 3 which comprises:
    the watertight cavities 4 which are distributed on the plane P situated on the side of the lower face 26, 36 coming to bear on the ground, and
    - Several sealed chambers 9 (or sealed pockets), each filled with a damping fluid and overlying these sealed cavities 4 (one of these sealed chambers 9 is visible in Figure 9).
    This elastomer layer 3 thus comprises the upper 35 and lower 36 faces, which respectively form the upper 25 and lower 26 faces of the comfort mattress 2.
    This elastomer layer 3 is here formed by a superposition of two skins 10 (FIG. 9):
    a lower skin 101, in which the sealed cavities 4 are formed, and
    an upper skin 102, integral in a single piece with the lower skin 101 on their respective peripheries, to delimit the sealed chambers 9.
    The thermal regulation between the sealed cavities 4 and the upper face 35 of the elastomer layer 3 is then carried out via the sealed chambers 9, by a phenomenon of thermal convection provided by the damping fluid.
    Preferably, each reception area 21 then comprises one of these sealed chambers 9, which is specific to it.
    The elastomer layer 3 thus comprises a succession of waterproof pockets 9 juxtaposed, which each correspond to one of the reception areas
    21.
    Each sealed chamber 9 has, seen from above, a rectangular outline corresponding at least approximately to the surface of a cubicle L.
    The fluid intended to fill each sealed chamber 9 is advantageously chosen from water, a gas (notably air), a gel.
    Each sealed chamber 9 is therefore associated with a through orifice (not shown) for its access, in particular for its filling and / or emptying, for example an orifice equipped with a valve.
    The valve is tightly connected with the through hole, for example via a metal crimp.
    Each sealed chamber 9 is thus individual. And it is intended to regain its shape when the animal withdraws.
    The upper surface of each sealed chamber 9 advantageously has a cross section (along a plane parallel to the transverse edges 24 - Figure 9) which has a generally convex curved shape.
    This particular shape forms front and rear slopes which promote the flow of biological materials outside said comfort mattress 3.
    Two juxtaposed sealed chambers 9 are separated by a transverse strip 11 extending between the longitudinal edges 22, 23.
    These transverse bands 11 have two functions:
    they constitute the lines for cutting to length the elastomeric layer 3, so as to obtain the through orifices 45, and
    - They are intended to be covered by a transverse fixing element 111, for example a plinth, to allow fixing of the elastomer layer 3 while ensuring the passage of the heat transfer fluid.
    Preferably, the final thickness of the lower skin 101 (once its tight cavities 4 are filled) is approximately double compared to its initial thickness (before filling).
    For example, the initial thickness of the lower skin 101 is of the order of 5 to 10 mm.
    Still preferably, the final thickness of a sealed chamber 9 (here at the level of its arrow) is advantageously between 10 and 50 mm.
    More preferably, the initial thickness of the elastomer layer 3 (before filling) is between 6 and 20 mm.
    The sealed chambers 9 have for example a width (parallel to the longitudinal edges 22, 23) of the order of 1 m; the transverse strips 11 advantageously have a width of the order of 100 mm.
    Manufacturing of the elastic layer
    The elastomer layer 3 according to the invention can be manufactured by assembling a set of superimposed sublayers, to form a set of one-piece type.
    The assembly technology can be chosen, for example, from - vulcanization, - bonding, - welding.
    As illustrated in FIG. 6 for the first embodiment and in FIG. 10 for the second embodiment, the method for manufacturing the elastic layer 3 comprises:
    (i) a step of superposing elastomeric material sublayers 15 comprising two opposite surfaces 151, between which are reported:
    - intermediate means 16 capable of locally preventing the joining together of the surfaces 151 opposite said layers 15 to form the sealed cavities 4 and, where appropriate, the sealed chambers 9, and
    - optionally reinforcing layers 17, then (ii) a step of joining the surfaces 151 in contact with said superimposed sublayers 15 (that is to say outside the size of the intermediate means 16), so that the intermediate means 16 form the sealed cavities 4 and, where appropriate, the sealed chambers 9.
    The intermediate means 16 consist of any means avoiding the connection between the surfaces 151 opposite the layers 15 to be assembled.
    In the case of vulcanization, the intermediate means 16 consist for example of strips or tubes which are advantageously made of a material chosen from:
    a fire-retardant film containing a retarder, for example made of polypropylene, acrylonitrile butadiene styrene,
    - a layer of silicone,
    - A layer of vulcanized elastomeric material, for example a hose made for example of styrene-butadiene rubber (SBR), natural rubber (NR), or ethylene-propylene-diene monomer.
    These intermediate means 16 are in particular arranged between two elastomeric layers 15 to be assembled with one another.
    In general, these intermediate means 16 are distributed so as a function of the desired arrangement of the sealed cavities 4 and, where appropriate, of the sealed chambers 9.
    In this case, as illustrated in FIG. 6 for the first embodiment, the superposition step comprises a superposition of four sublayers of elastomeric material 15 with a sublayer of intermediate means 16 which is added between two of said sublayers layers of elastomeric material 15.
    The sublayer of intermediate means 16 comprises several strips 161 which are juxtaposed over the width of the two sublayers of elastomeric material 15 to form the sealed cavities 4 juxtaposed (including the peripheral sealed cavities 47).
    As illustrated in FIG. 10 for the second embodiment, the superposition step comprises a superposition of six sublayers of elastomeric material 15 with two sublayers of intermediate means 16 which are added each between two sublayers of material elastomer 15.
    In particular :
    a lower sub-layer comprises several strips 161 which are juxtaposed over the width of the sub-layers of elastomeric material 15 to form the tight cavities 4 juxtaposed, and
    an upper sub-layer comprises several rectangles 162 which are distributed over the length of the sub-layers of elastomeric material 15, to form the sealed chambers 9.
    In general, the comfort system according to the invention has the advantage of implementing comfort mattresses whose upper face is optimally regulated in temperature, this so as to ensure optimal thermal comfort for the animals.
    Comfort mattresses have the advantage of being installed in a conventional manner, advantageously by unrolling from wall to wall.
    The surface pressure on the animal is reduced compared to lying on a concrete structure. The animal's blood circulation is improved.
    Operation
    The heat exchanger means 7 are connected with the heat transfer fluid circuit 5 and with the watering fluid circuit 6.
    In particular, the drinking water fills the chamber 72 of the heat exchanger means 7, drowning the first internal fluid circuit 73.
    Then, the circulation of the drinking water and / or the heat transfer fluid within the heat exchanger means 7 generates a phenomenon of regulation of the temperature of the drink water and / or the heat transfer fluid.
    In this case, the control means 12 can automatically control the operation of the heat transfer fluid circuit 5, advantageously taking into account the ambient temperature within the breeding enclosure E acquired by the measurement means 13.
    In the presence of unfavorable surrounding thermal conditions, the control means 12 generate a start-up of the pump 54.
    The heat transfer fluid is then switched on in the heat transfer fluid circuit 5, passing through the heat exchanger means 7 and into the sealed cavities 4 of the comfort mattress or mattresses 2.
    Within the heat exchanger means 7, the heat transfer fluid circulates along the first internal fluid circuit 73, from its upper orifice 731 to its lower orifice 732.
    A heat exchange then occurs between, on the one hand, the drinking water contained in the chamber 72 and, on the other hand, the heat transfer fluid present in the first internal fluid circuit 73.
    The heat transfer fluid, coming from the heat exchanger means 7, then travels in parallel in the sealed cavities 4: the stream of heat transfer fluid divides in order to simultaneously pass through these sealed cavities 4.
    This circulation of the heat transfer fluid also takes place in the same direction within the juxtaposed tight cavities 4: the fluid thus travels from the through orifices 45 located at a first transverse edge 34 of the elastic layer 3 (on the right on the Figure 2) to the through holes 45 located at a second transverse edge 34 of the elastic layer 3 (left in Figure 2).
    At the same time, the circulation of the drinking fluid is regulated as a function of the water consumption at the level of the drinkers A by the animals: the increase in the consumption of drinking water generates an increase in the circulation of water in the fluidic watering circuit 6.
    The drinking water circulates from the inlet 61 (upstream) to the outlet 62 (downstream) through the heat exchanger means 7.
    In the chamber 72 of the heat exchanger means 7, the drinking water flows from the second conduit 742, lower, to the first conduit 741, upper (this circulation of the drinking water is thus countercurrent with respect to circulation of the heat transfer fluid).
    In cooling mode, the nominal temperature of the drinking water is lower than the temperature of the heat transfer fluid entering the heat exchanger means 7 (the heat transfer fluid has warmed up when it passed the comfort mattress 2).
    Indeed, the drinking water advantageously has a nominal temperature between 10 ° C and 15 ° C; the temperature of the heat transfer fluid, entering the heat exchanger means 7, is higher than the latter.
    The heat transfer fluid is then cooled by its passage through the heat exchanger means 7, or even in addition by the regulation means 57.
    The comfort system 1 according to the invention thus makes it possible to directly bring a reduction in the temperature of the animal within its cubicle L.
    Thus, in walking configuration, the comfort system 1 according to the invention makes it possible to cool the upper face 25 of the comfort mattress 2 which refreshes the cow's coat and which limits the increase in its body temperature.
    At the same time, the drinking fluid is heated by its passage through heat exchanger means 7.
    The comfort system 1 according to the invention thus makes it possible to provide drinking water whose temperature is increased relative to its nominal temperature.
    Conversely, in heating mode, the heat transfer fluid is heated. The comfort system 1 according to the invention makes it possible to directly bring heat to the animal within its cubicle L.
    The drinking water is again heated by its passage through the heat exchanger means 7.
    Again, the comfort system 1 according to the invention makes it possible to provide drinking water whose temperature is optimal for the animals.
    For example, the drinking water has a nominal temperature between 10 ° C and 15 ° C; it is released into drinker A at a temperature between 17 ° C and 23 ° C.
    Generally, when the risk of thermal stress is eliminated, the control means 12 automatically control the stopping of the circulation of the heat transfer fluid in the heat transfer fluid circuit 5.
    权利要求:
    Claims (11)
    [1" id="c-fr-0001]
    1. System for the thermal comfort of animals in a breeding enclosure, characterized in that it comprises:
    (a) at least one comfort mattress (2) which comprises at least one elastomer layer (3) and which has two opposite faces:
    - an upper face (25), capable of undergoing elastic deformation and comprising at least one reception area (21) on which an animal is intended to rest, and
    - a lower face (26), intended to rest on a receiving surface, which at least one elastomer layer (3) comprises several sealed cavities (4) intended to contain a heat-transfer fluid, which sealed cavities (4) are underlying at least part of said at least one reception area (21) and each comprise at least two through orifices (45), (b) a heat transfer fluid circuit (5), intended to contain said heat transfer fluid, which circuit heat transfer fluid (5) is connected to the through holes (45) of said sealed cavities (4) and comprises means (54) for generating a circulation of said heat transfer fluid within each of said sealed cavities (4), between their through holes (45 ) respective, (c) a fluidic watering circuit (6), distinct from said heat-carrying fluidic circuit (5), intended to contain drinking water and to supply at least one drinker (A), and (d) heat exchanger means (7) which are im planted between said coolant fluid circuit (5) and said watering fluid circuit (6), to ensure heat exchanges between said heat transfer fluid and said drinking water.
    [2" id="c-fr-0002]
    2. System according to claim 1, characterized in that the heat exchanger means (7) comprise a hollow body (71) defining a chamber (72) containing two separate internal fluid circuits:
    - A first internal fluid circuit (73), comprising a tube implanted in said chamber (72) and provided with two orifices (731, 732) opening out from said hollow body (71) for its connection to one of the fluid circuits chosen from the coolant fluid circuit (5) or the watering fluid circuit (6), and
    - a second internal fluid circuit (74), formed by said chamber (72) which is provided with two conduits (741, 742) each provided with an orifice (7411, 7421) opening out from said hollow body (71) for connection to the other of the fluid circuits chosen from the coolant fluid circuit (5) or the watering fluid circuit (6), and an orifice (7412, 7422) opening into said chamber (73) to allow fluid circulation in said chamber (73) between said conduits (741,742).
    [3" id="c-fr-0003]
    3. System according to claim 2, characterized in that the first internal fluid circuit (73) of the heat exchanger means (7) is connected to the heat transfer fluid circuit (5), and in that the second internal fluid circuit (74) of the heat exchanger means (7) is connected to the fluidic watering circuit (6).
    [4" id="c-fr-0004]
    4. System according to any one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that the sealed cavities (4) of said at least one comfort mattress (2) extend parallel, or at least approximately parallel, with respect to the others, and in that said sealed cavities (4) each have an elongated rectilinear shape.
    [5" id="c-fr-0005]
    5. System according to claim 4, characterized in that said at least one elastomeric layer (3) has two longitudinal edges (32, 33), and in that said sealed cavities (4) extend parallel, or at least approximately parallel to said longitudinal edges (32, 33).
    [6" id="c-fr-0006]
    6. System according to any one of claims 1 to 5, characterized in that said at least one elastomer layer (3) comprises at least one sealed chamber (9), intended to contain a damping fluid and formed between said sealed cavities ( 4) and said upper face (25) of said mattress (2), which at least one elastomer layer (3) has at least one opening orifice for access to said at least one sealed chamber (9).
    [7" id="c-fr-0007]
    7. System according to any one of claims 1 to 6, characterized in that the heat transfer fluid circuit (5) further comprises means (57) for regulating the temperature of said heat transfer fluid, and in that said temperature regulation means (57) are located between said heat exchanger means (7) and said at least one comfort mattress (2).
    [8" id="c-fr-0008]
    8. System according to any one of claims 1 to 7, characterized in that said at least one elastomer layer (3) is made in one piece, which elastomer layer (3) directly defines said sealed cavities (4) and where appropriate said at least one sealed chamber (9).
    [9" id="c-fr-0009]
    9. Livestock enclosure equipped with a system for thermal comfort according to any one of claims 1 to 8.
    [10" id="c-fr-0010]
    10. Breeding enclosure according to claim 9, characterized in that it comprises cubicles (L) and at least one watering tank (A), in that said at least one comfort mattress (2) covers the floor of at least one of said cubicles (L), in that said at least one comfort mattress (2) comprises a plurality of sealed cavities (4) which extend within at least one of said cubicles ( L), and in that the fluidic watering circuit (6) is connected to said at least one watering tank (A).
    [11" id="c-fr-0011]
    11. A method for improving the thermal comfort of animals in a breeding enclosure (E) according to any one of claims 9 or 10, which method comprises an operation for regulating the temperature of the upper face (25) of said at least a comfort mattress (2) by:
    a circulation of the heat transfer fluid in said sealed cavities (4) of said at least one comfort mattress (2), and
    - Optionally regulating the temperature of said coolant, which method also comprises an operation of regulating the temperature of the drinking water and / or the coolant, by circulating said drinking water and said coolant to the within the heat exchanger means (7).
    1/4
    2/4
    类似技术:
    公开号 | 公开日 | 专利标题
    EP3361859B1|2019-09-04|Thermal comfort system for an animal stall
    EP3518662A1|2019-08-07|System for the thermal comfort of animals in a farm enclosure
    US6935273B2|2005-08-30|Bedding for livestock
    DE69533908T2|2006-04-06|CONTAINER WITH COOLANT
    US20160235034A1|2016-08-18|Animal bed having dual independent support chambers
    US9706748B2|2017-07-18|Stall floor heat exchanger reducing heat stress and lameness
    FR3076978A1|2019-07-26|MATTRESSES FOR THE THERMAL COMFORT OF ANIMALS IN A BREEDING STOVE
    KR101784388B1|2017-10-11|Water Supply System for Stall
    JP2000509601A|2000-08-02|Livestock bedding
    EP3803216A1|2021-04-14|System for producing hot water in a livestock enclosure
    US20190045936A1|2019-02-14|Cooling Chair
    KR20190134113A|2019-12-04|Versatile cold and hot water cushion
    CN107372166A|2017-11-24|A kind of calf automatic milk-feeding device
    CN211129341U|2020-07-31|Cattle breeding is with easily clean heatable trough
    CN215123176U|2021-12-14|Thermal cycle heat preservation basin
    RU2318378C2|2008-03-10|Floor topping to be filled with water
    KR102223432B1|2021-03-05|feeding device having elevating boat structure linked to adjustable buoyancy body for bees
    EP0619968A1|1994-10-19|Accessory for a seat to be placed on the seat and/or back of a seat
    CN209788172U|2019-12-17|Chick breeding box
    KR20140094397A|2014-07-30|Portable boiler valve set and sleeping bag type hot water mat
    KR101705448B1|2017-02-09|Water bottle for pets
    CA2905814C|2018-09-04|Animal bed having dual independent support chambers
    CN112535112A|2021-03-23|Thermal cycle heat preservation basin
    JP3158814U|2010-04-22|Livestock drinking equipment with anti-freezing function
    CN106016423A|2016-10-12|High-efficiency solar indoor heating system
    同族专利:
    公开号 | 公开日
    EP3518662A1|2019-08-07|
    WO2018065716A1|2018-04-12|
    FR3056880B1|2018-11-02|
    引用文献:
    公开号 | 申请日 | 公开日 | 申请人 | 专利标题
    US20110283952A1|2010-08-05|2011-11-24|Conco Technology, Inc.|Thermal conductive cooling method and system for livestock farm operations|
    US20140374056A1|2013-06-24|2014-12-25|Wisconsin Alumi Research Foundation|Stall floor heat exchanger reducing heat stress and lameness|CN109964841A|2019-04-02|2019-07-05|陈绪涛|A kind of intelligent water supplement apparatus of environmental protection type agricultural farm animals cultivation|
    WO2019229393A1|2018-06-01|2019-12-05|Bioret Agri-Logette Confort|System for producing hot water in a livestock enclosure|
    CN108174793A|2017-12-29|2018-06-19|黄理钗|A kind of livestock-raising winter drinking equipment|
    法律状态:
    2017-09-05| PLFP| Fee payment|Year of fee payment: 2 |
    2018-04-06| PLSC| Search report ready|Effective date: 20180406 |
    2018-09-04| PLFP| Fee payment|Year of fee payment: 3 |
    2019-09-09| PLFP| Fee payment|Year of fee payment: 4 |
    2020-08-04| PLFP| Fee payment|Year of fee payment: 5 |
    2021-08-03| PLFP| Fee payment|Year of fee payment: 6 |
    优先权:
    申请号 | 申请日 | 专利标题
    FR1659521|2016-10-03|
    FR1659521A|FR3056880B1|2016-10-03|2016-10-03|SYSTEM FOR THE THERMAL COMFORT OF ANIMALS IN AN ENCLOSURE|FR1659521A| FR3056880B1|2016-10-03|2016-10-03|SYSTEM FOR THE THERMAL COMFORT OF ANIMALS IN AN ENCLOSURE|
    EP17792114.5A| EP3518662A1|2016-10-03|2017-10-02|System for the thermal comfort of animals in a farm enclosure|
    PCT/FR2017/052704| WO2018065716A1|2016-10-03|2017-10-02|System for the thermal comfort of animals in a farm enclosure|
    [返回顶部]