WO2024218153A1 - An autonomous feed distribution system and methods of utilizing the same - Google Patents

Abstract

An animal feeding system (10) includes a movable platform (100) including a platform drive configured to move the movable platform and a feed distribution unit (14). The feed distribution unit includes a mixing chamber (18), an auger chamber (46), and a variable feed door (64). The mixing chamber includes a mixing assembly (34) configured to mix a feed material into a mixed feed ration. The auger chamber is arranged adjacent to the mixing chamber and opens into the mixing chamber via a first opening (19) formed in a side surface of the mixing chamber. The mixed feed ration is configured to pass through the first opening and into the auger chamber. The variable feed door (64) is arranged adjacent to the first opening and is configured to selectively cover the first opening so as to vary an amount of the mixed feed ration that passes from the mixing chamber to the auger chamber.

Description

AN AUTONOMOUS FEED DISTRIBUTION SYSTEM AND METHODS OF UTILIZING THE SAME

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0001] This application claims the benefit under 35 U.S.C. § 119(e) of U.S. Provisional Application Serial No. 63/496,479, filed on April 17, 2023, the entire disclosures of which is incorporated herein by reference.

TECHNICAL FIELD

[0002] The present disclosure generally relates to components and methods for distributing feed, in particular feed distribution systems for livestock.

BACKGROUND

[0003] Livestock have been selected, bred, and/or sold over the past 20-50 years for specific phenotypic characteristics such as growth, leanness, and metabolism efficiency. Over that time, approaches toward providing animal nutrition have changed. No longer are animals fed whatever forage or other material that may be available. Instead, the diets of animals are closely monitored for total nutrition value, cost, and genetic or phenotypic outcomes. Very often, animals on specific diets are monitored for quality and performance characteristics with the nutritional components of the feed being adjusted to maximize nutritional value of the feed and optimization of animal performance characteristics.

[0004] In addition to nutritional concerns, the feed must be precisely and properly prepared and administered to livestock in order to ensure optimal portions and desired outcomes are being delivered. Automation of feed delivery to livestock can further improve the feeding process, as well as provide additional nutritional optimization options for the livestock. Accordingly, it would be advantageous to provide a feed distribution system capable of enhanced feed preparation, delivery, and/or automation.

SUMMARY

[0005] According to a first aspect of the present disclosure, an animal feeding system includes a movable platform including a platform drive configured to move the movable platform and a feed distribution unit. The feed distribution unit includes a mixing chamber, an auger chamber, and a variable feed door. The mixing chamber includes a mixing assembly configured to mix at least one feed material into a mixed feed ration. The auger chamber is arranged adjacent to the mixing chamber and opens into the mixing chamber via a first opening formed in a side surface of the mixing chamber. The mixed feed ration is configured to pass through the first opening and into the auger chamber. The variable feed door is arranged adjacent to the first opening and is configured to selectively cover the first opening so as to vary an amount of the mixed feed ration that passes from the mixing chamber to the auger chamber.

[0006] In some embodiments, the auger chamber includes an auger assembly arranged therein, the auger assembly including an auger rod and a plurality of flights extending radially away from the auger rod. In some embodiments, the plurality of flights include a first flight located axially forward of a central point of the auger rod and a second flight located axially aft of the central point. The first flight can be a continuous helix wrapping around the auger rod and spiraling in a first axial direction toward the central point. The second flight can also be a continuous helix wrapping around the auger rod and spiraling in a second axial direction opposite the first axial direction toward the central point. The auger rod is configured to rotate such that rotation of the auger rod causes rotation of the first and second flights which causes the mixed feed ration to move toward the central point of the auger rod along the first and second flights.

[0007] In at least some embodiments, the auger chamber further includes a feed outlet opening formed in a side surface of the auger chamber opposite the first opening and adjacent to the central point of the auger rod. The feed distribution unit can further include a feed outlet assembly including a feed-out tray arranged below the feed outlet opening such that mixed feed ration that is moved toward the central point of the auger rod via the first and second flights is configured to fall into the feed-out tray. The feed outlet assembly can further include at least one magnet arranged on the feed-out tray and can be configured to remove metallic materials from the mixed feed ration via the mixed feed portion passing over the at least one magnet.

[0008] In some embodiments, the variable feed door is configured to selectively slide relative to the first opening so as to selectively meter the amount of mixed feed ration that passes from the mixing chamber to the auger chamber. The feed distribution unit further includes a monolithic frame that defines the mixing chamber and the auger chamber. The variable feed door can include at least one actuator coupled to the frame and can be configured to slide the variable feed door relative to first opening and thus control a position of the variable feed door.

[0009] In some embodiments, the mixing assembly includes a rotor tube and a plurality of paddles coupled to the rotor tube. The mixing chamber includes a top opening through which the at least one feed material is configured to be deposited into the mixing chamber. The rotor tube is configured to be rotated so as to rotate the paddles about a central axis of the rotor tube, and rotation of the paddles causes the paddles to engage the at least one feed material and thus mix the at least one feed material into the mixed feed ration. The feed distribution unit can further include a drive system including an electric motor and a gearbox configured to drive rotation of the auger assembly and the mixing assembly. The electric motor drives the gearbox, and an output shaft of the gearbox is fixedly coupled to the auger rod so as to drive the auger assembly. The drive system further includes a drive chain coupled to the output shaft and to the rotor tube of the mixing assembly, and rotation of the output shaft further drives rotation of the mixing assembly via the drive chain. In some embodiments, the movable platform is configured to be controlled via a controller so as to automatically move from a first location to a second location.

[0010] According to a further aspect of the present disclosure, an animal feed distribution unit configured to couple with an autonomous movable platform includes a mixing chamber, an auger chamber, and a variable feed door. The mixing chamber includes a mixing assembly and the auger chamber is arranged adjacent to the mixing chamber. The auger chamber opens into the mixing chamber via a first opening and includes a feed outlet opening formed in a side surface of the auger chamber. The variable feed door is arranged adjacent to the first opening and is configured to selectively cover the first opening based on movement of the variable feed door.

[0011] In some embodiments, the mixing assembly is configured to mix at least one feed material into a mixed feed ration, and the mixed feed ration is configured to pass through the first opening and into the auger chamber. The auger chamber can include an auger assembly arranged therein, the auger assembly including an auger rod and a plurality of flights extending radially away from the auger rod. The auger rod is configured to rotate such that rotation of the auger rod causes rotation of the first and second flights which causes the mixed feed ration to move toward a central point of the auger rod along the first and second flights. In some embodiments, the variable feed door is configured to selectively slide relative to the first opening so as to selectively meter the amount of mixed feed ration that passes from the mixing chamber to the auger chamber.

[0012] According to a further aspect of the present disclosure, a method of feeding animals includes coupling a movable platform including a platform drive configured to move the movable platform with a feed distribution unit and operating the feed distribution unit, including mixing at least one feed material in a mixing chamber, producing a mixed feed ration, directing the mixed feed ration to a first opening of the mixing chamber, an auger chamber opening into the mixing chamber via the first opening, covering the first opening with a variable feed door, and varying an amount of the mixed feed ration passing from the mixing chamber to the auger chamber via selectively moving the variable feed door relative to the first opening. The method can further include feeding the mixed feed ration to animals via a feed outlet of the auger chamber.

[0013] In some embodiments, the method can further include positioning the movable platform and the feed distribution unit coupled thereto at a first location for a first predetermined period of time, receiving the at least one feed material in the mixing chamber to be mixed thereby during the first predetermined period of time, and moving the movable platform and the feed distribution unit coupled thereto to a second location after expiration of the first predetermined period of time. In some embodiments, the method can further include selectively moving the variable feed door relative to the first opening to a predetermined opened position in response to the movable platform traveling from the first location to the second location or in response to the movable platform arriving at the second location so as to allow a predetermined amount of mixed feed ration to pass from the mixing chamber to the auger chamber, rotating an auger assembly arranged in the auger chamber so as to direct the mixed feed ration toward the feed outlet, and selectively moving the movable platform in a first direction at a predetermined speed for a second predetermined period of time so as to control a distribution of feed dispensed to the animals via the feed outlet.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

[0014] The detailed description particularly refers to the following figures in which:

[0015] FIG. 1A is a perspective view of a feed distribution system according to a first aspect of the present disclosure, showing the system includes a movable platform and a feed distribution unit arranged on the movable platform, the feed distribution unit including a feed outlet;

[0016] FIG. IB is a perspective view of the feed distribution system of FIG. 1A, showing a feed curtain of the feed outlet arranged away from the feed outlet to show a feed outlet opening and a feed out tray;

[0017] FIG. 2 is an expanded perspective view of the feed distribution system of FIG. 1A, showing the feed distribution unit removed from the movable platform;

[0018] FIG. 3 is a front view of the feed distribution system of FIG. 1 A; [0019] FIG. 4 is a diagrammatic view of the feed distribution system of FIG. 1 A, showing that the system is mobile and can move from a feed kitchen to a livestock barn;

[0020] FIG. 5 is a cutaway perspective view of the feed distribution system of FIG. 1A, showing that the system includes a mixing chamber having a mixing assembly and an auger assembly;

[0021] FIG. 6A is a cross-sectional view of the feed distribution system of FIG. 5, showing the mixing chamber, the auger assembly, and a variable feed door;

[0022] FIG. 6B is a top view of the feed distribution system of FIG. 5, showing the mixing chamber and the paddle assemblies arranged therein;

[0023] FIG. 7 is a cutaway perspective view of the mixing chamber of the feed distribution system of FIG. 5, showing that the mixing chamber includes both steel and polyethylene liners;

[0024] FIG. 8A is a cutaway perspective view of the mixing chamber of the feed distribution system of FIG. 5, showing that the variable feed door in a closed position that closes off an opening from the mixing chamber to an auger chamber within which the auger assembly is arranged;

[0025] FIG. 8B is a perspective view of the variable feed door of FIG. 8 A;

[0026] FIG. 9 is a cutaway perspective view of the mixing chamber of the feed distribution system of FIG. 8 A, showing the variable feed door in a fully opened position;

[0027] FIG. 10 is a perspective view of the feed distribution system of FIG. 1A, showing a drive system of the mixer assembly and the auger assembly, the drive system having a gearbox and motor;

[0028] FIG. 11 is a perspective view of the drive system of the feed distribution system of FIG. 1A, showing an output shaft of the gearbox that drives a driving sprocket of the drive system, which in turn drives a driven sprocket of the drive system that drives the mixing assembly;

[0029] FIG. 12 is a schematic view of a controller and related components configured to be utilized with the feed distribution system of FIGS. 1-11; and

[0030] FIG. 13 is an image of feed produced by a first embodiment of the feed distribution system of FIGS. 1-11 and as shown in Tables 1 and 2. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0031] Certain exemplary embodiments will now be described to provide an overall understanding of the principles of the structure, function, manufacture, and use of the devices and methods disclosed herein. One or more examples of these embodiments are illustrated in the accompanying drawings. Those skilled in the art will understand that the devices and methods specifically described herein and illustrated in the accompanying drawings are nonlimiting exemplary embodiments and that the scope of the present disclosure is defined solely by the claims. The features illustrated or described in connection with one exemplary embodiment may be combined with the features of other embodiments. Such modifications and variations are intended to be included within the scope of the present disclosure.

[0032] Further, the present disclosure provides some illustrations and descriptions that include prototypes, bench models, and/or schematic illustrations of set-ups. A person skilled in the art will recognize how to rely upon the present disclosure to integrate the techniques, systems, devices, and methods provided for herein into a product and/or a system provided to customers, such customers including but not limited to individuals in the public or a company that will utilize the same within manufacturing facilities or the like. To the extent features are described as being disposed on top of, below, next to, etc. such descriptions are typically provided for convenience of description, and a person skilled in the art will recognize that, unless stated or understood otherwise, other locations and positions are possible without departing from the spirit of the present disclosure.

[0033] Unless otherwise defined, all technical terms used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which this disclosure belongs. Additionally, like-numbered components across embodiments generally have similar features unless otherwise stated or a person skilled in the art will appreciate differences based on the present disclosure and his/her knowledge. Accordingly, aspects and features of every embodiment may not be described with respect to each embodiment, but those aspects and features are applicable to the various embodiments unless statements or understandings are to the contrary.

[0034] The present disclosure is directed to systems, assemblies, and methods used to optimize feed distribution. In particular, in at least some embodiments, the present disclosure is directed to a feed distribution system 10 or method of providing feed utilizing the feed distribution system 10 or any configuration of feed distribution system 10 or a feed distribution unit 14 described herein. Illustratively, the feed distribution system 10 includes a feed distribution unit 14 and a movable platform 100 on which the feed distribution unit 14 is arranged. The movable platform 100 allows the feed distribution unit 14 and the feed distribution system 10 to be mobile or moved via the movable platform 100.

[0035] As shown in FIGS. 1 A-3, a feed distribution system 10 according to a first aspect of the present disclosure includes a feed distribution unit 14 and a movable platform 100.

Typically, while any material may be utilized, the feed distribution system and its corresponding components, as described herein, are made of metal, such as steel (e.g., stainless steel), plastics, and/or combinations thereof. The feed distribution unit 14 can include a frame 16 defining a mixing chamber 18 and an auger chamber 46. As shown in FIGS. 1A-2 and 5-6B, the mixing chamber 18 includes a mixing assembly 34 configured to mix at least one feed material, fed into the mixing chamber 18 via an opening 17 in the top of the mixing chamber 18, shown by arrow 90 in FIG. 6A, into a total mixed ration (“TMR”), also referred to as a mixed feed ration. The feed material may include one or more raw or processed materials for feeding, providing nutrients, and/or obtaining specific outcomes to animals and/or livestock, such as forages, grains, minerals, feedstocks, concentrates, and/or combinations thereof.

[0036] Any animal may be livestock. Livestock typically comprise animals that are housed on a farm and/or in a pasture. Often livestock are bought, sold, and/or bred for sale or trade. Typical livestock comprise animals such as bovines (e.g., cows, cattle, and/or heifers), porcines (e.g., pigs, hogs, and/or sows), sheep, horses, oxen, goats, poultry (e.g., chickens or turkeys), fish, etc.

[0037] The feed distribution unit 14 can further include the auger chamber 46 as defined by the frame 16, as shown in detail in FIGS. 5 and 6A. The auger chamber 46 opens into the mixing chamber 18 via a first opening 19. The auger chamber 46 can include an auger assembly 48 arranged therein and configured to move mixed feed toward a feed outlet assembly 54 of the feed distribution unit 14. The mixed feed can then be distributed to livestock in the area of the feed distribution unit 14.

[0038] The movable platform 100 on which the feed distribution unit 14 is configured to be arranged, associated, and/or coupled to can move the feed distribution unit 14 to the appropriate location for feed distribution to livestock, as shown in FIGS. 2-4. Moreover, the movable platform 100 may direct the route or path that the feed distribution unit 14 may follow in order to arrive as its desired location. The movable platform 100 can also control a speed of the feed distribution to livestock by controlling the speed of movement of the movable platform 100, among other functionalities. [0039] As shown in FIGS. 1 A and IB, and in greater detail in FIGS. 5 and 6 A, the feed distribution unit 14 includes a frame 16. The frame 16 can be formed from metal, plastics (e.g. high strength), and/or any other material known to a person skilled in the art to support the feed distribution unit 14. As shown more clearly in FIGS. 1 A-3, 6A, and 6B, the frame 16 is generally formed as a rectangular prism shape, although any other appropriate shape is contemplated by this disclosure. As shown in FIGS. 1 A-2, an opening 17 is formed in a top side of the frame 16, through which one or more feed materials may be inserted for mixing, as will be described in detail below. In some embodiments, the frame 16 may be a monolithic, single piece that defines each chamber 18, 46. In other embodiments, the frame 16 may include multiple, separate pieces that each separately define the chambers 18, 46 and that are coupled together to form a single, full frame 16. In other embodiments, multiple pieces of the frame may be combined to define each specific chambers 18, 46.

[0040] The frame 16 includes a main portion 16A that defines approximately two-thirds of the mixing chamber 18, as shown in the cross-sectional view of FIG. 6 A. The frame 16 further includes a feed-side portion 16B that is located on a side of the frame 16 that houses the auger chamber 46, a feed outlet assembly 54, and the variable feed door 64, as shown in FIG. 6A. In some embodiments, the feed-side portion 16B of the frame 16 can be thicker than the main portion 16A so as to encase the auger chamber 46 and various components related to the variable feed door 64, as will be described in greater detail below.

[0041] The frame 16 defines the mixing chamber 18 therein, which is defined by a generally cylindrical inner surface 20 of the frame 16, as shown in FIGS. 5-7. In some embodiments, the longitudinal extent of the cylindrical inner surface 20 is larger than a diameter of the mixing chamber 18, as shown in FIGS. 5 and 7. The frame 16 can further include a first end surface 22 A (as shown in FIGS. 10 and 11) and a second end surface 22B (see FIG. 7) opposite the first end surface 22A. The first and second end surface 22A, 22B along with the cylindrical inner surface 20 delimit the mixing chamber 18. The cylindrical inner surface 20 can also include the first opening 19 through which the mixing chamber 18 opens into the auger chamber 46.

[0042] In some embodiments, the mixing chamber 18 has a diameter that is in a range of about 1000mm to about 2000mm, including any specific or range of diameter comprised therein. The mixing chamber 18 also has an axial length that is in a range of about 2000mm to about 3000mm, including any specific or range of length comprised therein. The mixing chamber 18 also has an internal volumetric capacity ranging from about Im³ to about 15m³, including any specific or range of volume comprised therein. A person skilled in the art will understand that any value within these ranges or values outside of these ranges are also feasible given the design requirements of the feed distribution unit 14.

[0043] For example, as a non-limiting example, a mixing chamber 18 including a diameter of about 1000mm and a length of about 2000mm may include a volumetric capacity of about 1.76m³. As another non-limiting example, a mixing chamber 18 including a diameter of about 2000mm and a length of about 3000mm may include a volumetric capacity of about 10m³. In some other embodiments, the mixing chamber 18 has a diameter that is in a range of about 1100mm to about 1700mm and an axial length that is in a range of about 2200mm to about 2800mm. In some further embodiments, the mixing chamber 18 has a diameter that is in a range of about 1200mm to about 1500mm and an axial length that is in a range of about 2400mm to about 2600mm. In some additional embodiments, the mixing chamber 18 has a diameter that is about 1350mm, an axial length of about 2500mm, and has an internal volumetric capacity of about 4.0m³.

[0044] As shown in FIG. 7, the mixing chamber 18 may include a variety of liners 24, 25, 26, 28, 29, 30, 31 arranged on the inner surface 20 and end surfaces 22 A, 22B. The liners are configured to protect the chamber 18 and facilitate smooth mixing of the one or more feed materials. The liners may be made of any material that protects the mixing chamber 18. However, an exemplary liner material is polyethylene, steel (e.g., stainless steel), and/or combinations thereof. Different liners may be affixed to different surfaces 22A, 22B of the mixing chamber 18 by any relevant mechanism known in the art including one or more fasteners (e.g., adhesives, bolts, screws, clamps, hinges, etc.).

[0045] For example, in some embodiments (see FIG. 7), the first end surface 22 A and the second end surface 22B of the mixing chamber 18 may each include a bolt-in polyethylene liner 24, 26 arranged thereon so as to cover the surfaces 22 A, 22B. The bolt-in polyethylene liners 24, 26 may have any texture, shape, size, and/or dimensions, including being flat, textured, and/or semi-circularly shaped. Similarly, the cylindrical inner surface 20 of the mixing chamber 18 may include a bolt-in stainless steel liner 25 arranged thereon. The stainless steel liner 25 may be cylindrically shaped so as to substantially match or mimic the contour of the cylindrical inner surface 20. In some embodiments, the bolt-in stainless steel liner 25 may extend along an entire axially extending length of the inner surface 20. The stainless steel liner 25 along with the polyethylene liners 24, 26 define the internal volume or area in which a feed will be mixed by the mixing assembly 34. [0046] In some embodiments, the mixing chamber 18 may further include additional liners arranged therein. As shown in FIG. 7, the mixing chamber 18 may include a further bolt-in stainless steel liner 28 arranged on an upper surface 16U1 of the inner surface 20 of the main portion 16A of the frame 16 opposite the feed-side portion 16B. The further bolt-in stainless steel liner 28 may extend along a majority of the axially extending length of the inner surface 20.

[0047] The feed-side portion 16B may also include liners, such as further bolt-in polyethylene liners 29, 30 arranged opposite the further bolt-in stainless steel liner 28 on an opposing upper surface of the frame 16U2. In some embodiments, the further bolt-in polyethylene liners 29, 30 may extend along an entire axially extending length of the inner surface 20, the same extent of the bolt-in stainless steel liner 25. The further bolt-in polyethylene liners 29, 30 may be circumferentially offset from the bolt-in stainless steel liner 25 so as to accommodate for the first opening 19. A further bolt-in stainless steel liner 31 may be arranged within the auger chamber 46.

[0048] A person skilled in the art will understand that, in embodiments such as those described above or other embodiments liners made of only a single material (e.g., stainless steel or polyethylene) or combinations of stainless steel and polyethylene liners may be utilized. Typically, stainless steel liners may be utilized in areas of the mixing chamber 18 where higher wear rates are expected. Polyethylene liners may be utilized in areas of the mixing chamber 18 where lower wear rates are expected. Because polyethylene is generally lighter or lesser in weight than stainless steel, the overall weight of the feed distribution assembly can be reduced by incorporating polyethylene in combination with or in substitution of stainless steel, while still protecting areas and/or components of the mixing chamber 18 and the feed distribution system 10, particularly where substantial wear due to the mixing of the feed materials occurs.

[0049] As shown in detail in FIG. 5, the mixing assembly 34 is arranged within the mixing chamber 18 and is configured to mix at least one feed material into a mixed feed ration. The mixing assembly 34 includes a central rotor tube 36 that extends from the first end surface 22A to the second end surface 22B of the frame 16 and serves as the central rotational axis 36 of the mixing assembly 34. The rotor tube 36 is rotationally coupled to the first end surface 22A and the second end surface 22B so as to rotate relative thereto about the central axis 36C.

[0050] In some embodiments, the rotor tube 36 has a diameter of about 100mm to about 200mm, including any specific or range of diameter comprised therein. In other embodiments, the rotor tube 36 has a diameter of about 120mm to about 175mm, including any specific or range of diameter comprised therein. In further embodiments, the rotor tube 36 has a diameter of about 130mm to about 150mm, including any specific or range of diameter comprised therein. In particular embodiments, the rotor tube 36 has a diameter of about 140mm. A person skilled in the art will understand that any value within these ranges or values outside of these ranges are also feasible given the design requirements of the feed distribution unit 14.

[0051] The mixing assembly 34 further includes a plurality of paddle supports 38 A, 38B, 38C that may be configured in any number, size, shape, dimensions, and/or arrangement on the central rotor tube 36. In an exemplary embodiment, as shown in FIG. 5, the mixing assembly 34 can include three (3) paddle supports 38 A, 38B, 38C. For example, a first paddle support 38A is located at a first axial position along the rotor tube 36. A second paddle support 38B is located at a second axial position along the rotor tube 36 offset from the first axial position of the first paddle support assembly 38A in a first axial direction. A third paddle support 38C is located at a third axial position along the rotor tube 36 offset from the second axial position of the second paddle support 38B in the first axial direction

[0052] The paddle supports 38 A, 38B, 38C each include one or more support extensions 38AE, 38BE, 38CE coupled to and extending away from the central rotor tube 36. For example, any number, size, shape, dimensions, and/or arrangement of the support extensions 38AE, 38BE, 38CE may be comprised on each paddle support 38 A, 38B, 38C. Illustratively, the number of support extensions 38AE, 38BE, 38CE may range from about two (2) to about six (6), including any specific number or range comprised therein, including about three (3) and/or about six (6), as shown in FIG. 5. In some embodiments, the first and third paddle supports 38 A, 38C include about half the number of support extensions 38AE, 38CE as the second paddle support 38B, the significance of which will be described below with regard to paddle assemblies 40 A, 40B.

[0053] The support extensions 38AE, 38BE, 38CE may be formed in any shape or size that is able to successfully operate and mix the feed material comprised in the mixing chamber 18. As shown in one embodiment, the support extensions 38AE, 38BE, 38CE may be thin, flat support structures that extend away from the rotor tube 36. The support extensions 38AE, 38BE, 38CE terminate substantially near the cylindrical inner surface 20, in particular near the liner 25 covering the surface 20, as shown in FIG. 6A.

[0054] The mixing assembly 34 further includes paddle assemblies 40 A, 40B arranged between the central, second paddle support 38B and the first and/or third paddle supports 38 A, 38C, as shown in FIGS. 5-6B. Specifically, the first paddle assemblies 40A may be arranged between each first support extension 38AE and a corresponding second support extension 38BE. Similarly, the second paddle assemblies 40B may be arranged between each third support extension 38CE and a corresponding second support extension 38BE.

[0055] In some embodiments, the mixing assembly 34 includes the same number of paddle assemblies 40 A, 40B as there are first and third support extensions 38AE, 38CE on the first and third paddle supports 38A, 38C, as shown in FIG. 5. Illustratively, the mixing assembly 34 includes three first support extensions 38AE and three first paddle assemblies 40 A. Similarly, the mixing assembly 34 includes three third support extensions 38CE and three second paddle assemblies 40B.

[0056] As shown in FIG. 5, the first paddle assemblies 40A are arranged on the second support extensions 38BE in alternating fashion with respect to the second support extensions 38BE that the second paddle assemblies 40B are arranged on. The alternating fashion of the paddle assemblies 40A, 40B allow for the feed material to be pushed off of the axial ends of the paddle assemblies 40A, 40B during rotation of the mixing assembly 34, thus reducing clumping of the feed material within the mixing chamber 18. Therefore, this alternating arrangement of the paddle assemblies 40A, 40B provides an advantage in the mixing and consistency of the feed material comprised within the mixing chamber 18.

[0057] In some embodiments, the second support extension 38BE that a paddle assembly 40A, 40B is coupled to is circumferentially offset from the corresponding support extension 38AE, 38CE coupled to that paddle assembly 40A, 40B, as can be seen in FIGS. 5-6B. As can be seen in FIG. 6B, the first support extensions 38BA are circumferentially offset from the corresponding second support extension 38CB as measured at a root of the support extensions 38AE, 38BE by an offset distance 40L1. Similarly, as can be seen in FIG. 6B, the second support extensions 38BE are circumferentially offset from the corresponding third support extensions 38CE as measured at a root 38AR, 38BR, 38CR of the support extensions 38BE, 38CE by an offset distance 40L2.

[0058] As shown in FIG. 6B, the offset distance 40L1 of each first support extension 38AE creates a first offset angle 39A of the first paddle assemblies 40A. The offset distance 40L2 of each third support extension 38 AC creates a second offset angle 39B of the paddle assembly 40B. The offset distances 40L1, 40L2 can apply to all paddle assemblies 40 A, 40B.

[0059] The offset distance 40L1 between the first support extensions 38AE and the corresponding second support extensions 38BE can be offset in a first direction. For example, the first direction may be an upward direction relative to the central axis 36C, as shown in FIG. 6B. The first direction may also be a circumferential direction 95, as shown in FIG. 6A.

[0060] The offset distance 40L2 between the third support extensions 38 AC and the corresponding second support extensions 38BE can be offset in a second, opposite direction. The second, opposite direction may be a downward direction relative to the central axis 36C, as shown in FIG. 6B. The second, opposite direction may be a circumferential direction 96, as shown in FIG. 6A.

[0061] In some embodiments, the first and second offset directions may also both extend in the same direction relative to the central axis 36C, i.e. both upwardly relative to the central axis 36C or both downwardly relative to the central axis 36C, as shown in FIG. 6B. More specifically, the first support extensions 38AE can be offset from the second support extensions 38BE in the first circumferential direction 95, and the third support extensions 38CE can be offset from the second support extensions 38BE in the first circumferential direction 95. In such an embodiment, the first and second offset angles 39 A, 39B extending in the same direction cause the feed material, and thus the mixed feed ration, to be pushed toward the center of the mixing chamber 18. As a result, the feed material (shown entering the mixing chamber 18 as arrow 90 in FIG. 6A) and the mixed feed ration (shown exiting the unit 14 via the feed- out tray 56 as arrow 91 in FIG. 6A) is pushed more toward the center of the auger chamber 46 when exiting the opening 19, and thus closer toward the feed outlet assembly 54.

[0062] In some embodiments, the first and/or second offset angles 39A, 39B created by the paddle assemblies 40A, 40B relative to the central axis 36C can be in a range of about 3 to about 9 degrees, including any specific or range of angles comprised therein. In some embodiments, the angles 39 A, 39B created by the paddle assemblies 40 A, 40B relative to the central axis 36C can be in a range of about 4 to about 8 degrees, including any specific or range of angles comprised therein. In some embodiments, the angles 39A, 39B created by the paddle assemblies 40A, 40B relative to the central axis 36C can be in a range of about 5 to about 7 degrees, including any specific or range of angles comprised therein. In an illustrative embodiment, the angles 39 A, 39B created by the paddle assemblies 40 A, 40B relative to the central axis 36C can be about 6 degrees. A person skilled in the art will understand that any value within these ranges or values outside of these ranges are also feasible given the design requirements of the feed distribution unit 14.

[0063] Each paddle assembly 40A, 40B can include a paddle beam 41 A, 41B that extends between and couples to the respective support extensions 38AE, 38BE, 38CE, as shown in FIG. 5. Each paddle assembly 40 A, 40B can further include a toothed paddle 42 A, 42B arranged on the respective paddle beam 41 A, 41B and extending radially outwardly from a first side 41 Al, 41B1 of the paddle beam 41A, 41B. As will be described in detail below, the paddles 42A, 42B of each paddle assembly 40A, 40B are configured to engage the feed materials via rotation of the mixing assembly 34 so as to mix the feed materials into the mixed feed ration.

[0064] One or more sweepers 43 A, 43B can be arranged on an opposing second side 41 A2, 41B2 of the paddle beam 41 A, 41B. The sweepers 43 A, 43B help direct and/or navigate the feed material toward the center of the auger chamber 46 when exiting the opening 19, and thus closer toward the feed outlet assembly 54. The sweepers 43 A, 43B may be made of any flexible materials including but not limited to rubber, plastic, and combinations thereof.

[0065] As shown in FIGS. 5 and 6 A, the mixing chamber 18 can further include a plurality of serrated blades 44 arranged on and extending radially inwardly away from the inner surface 20. Illustratively, the plurality of serrated blades 44 are arranged generally toward the lowest area of the inner surface 20 (e.g., a bottom inner surface) on which a substantial portion of the feed material will fall when deposited into the mixing chamber 18, as shown in FIGS. 5 and 6A.

The plurality of serrated blades 44 may be arranged in alternating fashion along an axial length of the inner surface 20. In particular, the serrated blades 44 may be alternating in their circumferential position along an axial extent of the inner surface 20, as shown in FIG. 5.

[0066] In some embodiments, the mixing chamber 18 includes about 5 to about 15 serrated blades 44, including any specific number or range of blades comprised therein. In some embodiments, the mixing chamber 18 includes about 7 to about 13 serrated blades 44, including any specific number or range of blades comprised therein. In some embodiments, the mixing chamber 18 includes about 9 to about 11 serrated blades 44, including any specific number or range of blades comprised therein. In some embodiments, the mixing chamber 18 includes about 10 serrated blades 44.

[0067] In operation, the mixing assembly 34 is configured to be rotated via a drive system 80 in a rotational direction 95, as shown in FIGS. 5-6B. The rotational direction 95 of the mixing assembly 34 may be any direction that enables the feed materials to be thoroughly mixed into the mixed feed ration. Typically, the rotational direction 95 of the mixing assembly 34 and/or the mixing chamber 18 is a direction in which the paddle assemblies 40A, 40B move past the lowest area of the inner surface 20 (e.g., a bottom inner surface) and then immediately towards the opening 19 (i.e. counterclockwise, as viewed in FIG. 6A). In some embodiments, the rotational direction 95 may only be in the counterclockwise direction, as shown in FIGS. 5-6B. [0068] The feed materials can be loaded through the opening 17 and into the mixing chamber 18 (shown by arrow 90 in FIG. 6A). As the feed materials fall into the mixing chamber 18, the materials are moved via one or more paddles 42A, 42B of the paddle assemblies 40A, 40B. Specifically, the feed materials are lifted and tumbled via the paddles 42A, 42B such that they cohesively mix with each other to form the mixed feed ration. Additionally, the feed materials may be dropped by the paddles 42A, 42B such that they also engage the serrated blades 44 on the inner surface 20 (e.g., the bottom inner surface 20), which creates a fine mixed feed ration to be distributed. The sweepers 43 A, 43B effectively pick up and move any feed material that was missed by and/or escaped from the paddles 42A, 42B. The feed materials are sufficiently mixed until the mixed feed ration is created according to the desired or satisfactory consistency, texture, and/or nutritional content of a user or an operator (e.g., a farmer or breeder). The variable feed door 64 may be selectively opened in order to allow the mixed feed ration to pass through the opening 19 and into the auger chamber 46 for further processing.

[0069] Although only three paddle supports 38 A, 38B, 38C are described herein, a person skilled in the art will understand that any number of paddle supports may be utilized in order to support rotation of the paddle assemblies described below. As a non-limiting example, the mixing assembly 34 may include about four (4) paddle supports with three (3) paddle assemblies arranged therebetween. In some embodiments, the mixing assembly 34 may include about five (5) paddle supports with about four (4) paddle assemblies arranged therebetween. As a further non-limiting example, the mixing assembly 34 may include about six (6) paddle supports with about five (5) paddle assemblies arranged therebetween.

[0070] In addition to the mixing assembly 34 and the mixing chamber 18, the frame 16 also defines the auger chamber 46. The auger chamber 46 may be an enclosed space located radially outwardly of the mixing chamber 18 and to a side of the mixing chamber 18, as shown in FIG. 6 A. The frame 16 may include chamber walls 47 that define the auger chamber 46 such that the auger chamber 46 is fully enclosed except for an outlet opening 55 and the first opening 19, as shown in FIG. IB.

[0071] The outlet opening 55 can be formed centrally in a side wall 47 of the auger chamber 46 opposite the opening 19 of the mixing chamber 18, as shown in FIG. 6 A. In some embodiments, the outlet opening 55 is offset slightly toward the surface 22B by approximately 177mm. As can be seen in FIG. 5, the auger chamber 46 extends axially the same length as the mixing chamber 18, although a person skilled in the art will understand that the auger chamber 46 may be larger or smaller than the mixing chamber 18 based on the design requirements of the feed distribution unit 14. [0072] Although similarly long, the auger chamber 46 is significantly smaller widthwise than the mixing chamber 18. In particular, a width 46W, or diameter in some embodiments, of the auger chamber 46 is less than a width 18W, or diameter in some embodiments, of the mixing chamber 18. In some embodiments, the width 46W of the auger chamber 46 ranges from about one-eighth to about one-half of the width of the mixing chamber 18, including any specific or range of widths comprised therein. In one embodiment, the width 46W of the auger chamber 46 is approximately one-seventh of the width 18W of the mixing chamber 18. In other embodiments, the width 46W of the auger chamber 46 is approximately one-fifth of the width 18W of the mixing chamber 18. In further embodiments, the width 46W of the auger chamber 46 is approximately one-third of the width 18W of the mixing chamber 18.

[0073] In some embodiments, the auger chamber 46 has a width 46W or diameter in a range of about 100mm to about 500mm and/or an axial length in a range of about 1000mm to about 3000mm. In some embodiments, the auger chamber 46 has a width 46W or diameter in a range of about 200mm to about 400mm and/or an axial length in a range of about 1500mm to about 2500mm. In some embodiments, the auger chamber 46 has a width 46W or diameter of about 292mm and an axial length of about 2000mm. A person skilled in the art will understand that any value within these ranges or values outside of these ranges are also feasible given the design requirements of the feed distribution unit 14.

[0074] As shown in FIG. 5, the auger chamber 46 includes an auger assembly 48 arranged therein. The auger assembly 48 is configured to facilitate movement of the mixed feed ration that has entered the auger chamber 46 from the mixing chamber 18 toward the center of the auger chamber 46, and thus toward the outlet opening 55 of the feed outlet assembly 54. The auger assembly 48 includes an auger rod 50 that generally extends the entire axial length of the auger chamber 46 and that is configured to rotate therein (see FIG. 5).

[0075] In particular, a first end 50A of the auger rod 50 can be coupled to an output shaft 89 of a gearbox 82, as shown in FIG. 10. The gearbox 110 along with an electric motor 102 is configured to rotate the auger rod 50, as will be described in detail below. A second end 50B of the auger rod 50 may be rotationally coupled to an end wall 47B of the chamber walls 47. In some embodiments, the auger rod 50 may or may not be parallel to the rotor tube 36.

[0076] The auger assembly 48 further includes a plurality of auger flights 52A, 52B, as shown in FIG. 5. A first flight 52 A that is a continuous, generally helical flat blade that wraps around the auger rod 50 such that the helix runs, or spirals, in a direction from the first end 50 A to the second end 50B. Similarly, a second flight 52B is a continuous, generally helical flat blade that and wraps around the auger rod 50 such that the helix runs, or spirals, in a direction from the second end 50B to the first end 50A, or. In some embodiments, the second flight 52B may be oriented in an opposite or the same direction of the first flight 52A. In the illustrative embodiment of FIG. 5, the first flight 52A and the second flight 52B are oriented in the opposite directions.

[0077] In some embodiments, the auger rod 50 has a diameter in a range of about 50mm to about 250mm and/or the flights 52A, 52B have a radial height of about 50mm to about 100mm. In some embodiments, the auger rod 50 has a diameter in a range of about 75mm to about 200mm and/or the flights 52A, 52B have a radial height of about 60mm to about 90mm. In some embodiments, the auger rod 50 has a diameter in a range of about 100mm to about 175mm and/or the flights 52A, 52B have a radial height of about 60mm to about 80mm. In some embodiments, the auger rod 50 has a diameter of about 114mm and/or the flights 52A, 52B have a radial height of about 75mm. A person skilled in the art will understand that any value within these ranges or values outside of these ranges are also feasible given the design requirements of the feed distribution unit 14.

[0078] Due to the shape, size, location, and/or orientation of the helices or spirals of the two auger flights 52A, 52B being toward the center of the auger rod 50, during rotation of the auger assembly 48, the two flights 52A, 52B are configured to push the mixed feed ration that is received from the mixing chamber 18 toward a central area of the auger chamber 46. The auger assembly 48 moves the mixed feed ration axially, in particular toward the central area of the auger chamber 46, further processes the mixed feed ration in order to create a more consistent and uniform feed output, producing less clumps in the feed than would be present without the auger assembly 48. The outlet opening 55 is generally located centrally on the side wall 47 such that when the mixed feed ration reaches the central area of the auger chamber 46, the mixed feed ration will fall through the outlet opening 55 and onto the feed-out tray 56.

[0079] In some embodiments, the outlet opening 55 has a length in a range of about 500mm to about 900mm and a width in a range of about 300mm to about 600mm. In some embodiments, the outlet opening 55 has a length in a range of about 600mm to about 800mm and a width in a range of about 400mm to about 500mm. In some embodiments, the outlet opening 55 has a length of about 700mm and a width of about 450mm. A person skilled in the art will understand that any value within these ranges or values outside of these ranges are also feasible given the design requirements of the feed distribution unit 14. [0080] As can be seen in FIG. IB, the feed outlet assembly 54 includes the outlet opening 55 formed in the chamber wall 47, the feed-out tray 56, magnets 57, and a cover 60. The feed-out tray 56 is angled downwardly away from the auger chamber 46 such that the mixed feed ration may fall downwardly and outwardly away from the feed distribution unit 14 and towards the livestock to be fed (shown by arrow 91). The magnets 57 are arranged under or within the feed- out tray 56 and may be configured to remove any unwanted metallic particles that may be present in the mixed feed ration. The cover 60, which may be formed of rubber in some embodiments, is arranged on a top portion of the outlet opening 55 so as to cover at least a top portion of the opening 55 and prevent mixed feed ration from exiting the opening 55 above the feed-out tray 56.

[0081] As shown in detail in FIGS. 8A-9, the feed distribution unit 14 further includes a variable feed door 64 arranged to cover the opening 19 of the mixing chamber 18. As such, movement (e.g., opening and closing) of the variable feed door 64 controls the amount of mixed feed ration that passes through the opening 19 and into the auger chamber 46. Thus, the variable feed door 64 controls the amount of mixed feed ration that is distributed to the feed-out tray 56 and ultimately to livestock and/or animals. In this way, the amount of mixed feed ration may be selectively metered and/or managed via control of the variable feed door 64.

[0082] In some embodiments, the variable feed door 64 is arranged in slots 65A, 65B formed in the frame 16 of the mixing chamber 18. Such configuration enables the variable feed door 64 to slide therein between being fully open (FIG. 9) and fully closed (FIG. 8A) positions. In some embodiments, the variable feed door 64 can be formed to be any shape, size, and/or dimension including being rectangular and flat and extends over the entire area of the opening 19,. In other embodiments, the variable feed door 64 may be other shapes, such as curved to match the curved contour of the cylindrical inner surface 20.

[0083] In some embodiments, the variable feed door 64 may be configured to slide downwardly (direction arrows 92) from the closed position to the open position within the frame 16 and below the mixing chamber 18, as shown in FIGS. 8A and 9. In other embodiments, the variable feed door 64 may be configured to move from a closed or partially closed position to an opened position by moving upwardly into the frame 16. The variable feed door 64 may be configured to slide within the opening 19 such that when moving into the opened position, as shown in FIG. 9, the door 64 slides adjacent to a lower edge 19E of the opening 19. As can be seen in FIGS. 8A and 9, the slots 65A, 65B can extend below the opening 19 so that the door 64 can slide into the fully open position. [0084] In some embodiments, the door 64 can include seals 64A, 64B. These seals 64A, 64B may be located in any position, but particularly on a top and a bottom edge of the door 64. The seals 64A, 64B are configured to seal off the opening 19 such that no feed material can pass through the opening 19 until the variable feed door 64 is opened. In some embodiments, the seals 64A, 64B may be comprised of rubber or other flexible materials.

[0085] The feed distribution unit 14 can further include actuators 66 A, 66B configured to selectively control the position of the variable feed door 64, as shown in FIGS. 8A-9.

Illustratively, the actuator 66A, 66B are electric linear actuators, although a person skilled in the art will understand that other known actuators and actuation methods or mechanisms may be utilized, such as pneumatic, mechanical, hydraulic, and the like. The electric linear actuators 66A, 66B allow for precise movement of the variable feed door 64, which in turn allows for precise metering of the amount of mixed feed ration that exits the opening 19 and enters the auger chamber 46. In some embodiments, the linear actuators may be two 48V electric linear actuators having a maximum stroke of 300mm, although a person skilled in the art will understand that other embodiments may include different actuators with different stroke lengths.

[0086] As shown in FIGS. 10 and 11, the feed distribution unit 14 may further include a drive system 80. Illustratively, the drive system 80 includes an electric motor 81 operably coupled to a primary reduction gearbox 82 and configured to rotate gears arranged within the gearbox 82 in order to drive an output shaft 89. The electric motor 81 may be battery power sourced and/or may be an 1 IkW 400V motor. The gearbox 82 may have a ratio of approximately 38 (in some embodiments, 38.16) and/or produce a torque of about 69Nm. The gearbox 82 may also include a motor speed of about 1460RPM, which results in an auger speed of about 38.3RPM. A torque at the auger can be about 2646Nm in such embodiments.

[0087] As shown in FIGS. 10 and 11, the drive system 80 can further include a drive sprocket assembly 84 including a driven sprocket 85, a driving sprocket 86, and a reduction drive chain 87. The driving sprocket 86 is fixedly coupled to the output shaft 89, and the output shaft 89 is coupled to the auger rod 50. The driven sprocket 85 is fixedly coupled to the rotor tube 36.

The reduction drive chain 87 extends around the outer circumferential surface 85 S of the driven sprocket 85 and the outer circumferential surface 86S of the driving sprocket 86.

[0088] The drive system 80 may further include a plate 88 covering the driven sprocket 85 so as to protect the components therein (see FIG. 11). A drive system cover 120 may cover the entire drive system 80, as shown in FIGS. 1 A-3, so as to provide external protection for the drive system 80 and the components described therein. The drive system cover 120 engages and couples to the feed distribution unit 14, such as with fasteners (e.g., bolts and/or screws), so as to provide a closed or semi-closed feed distribution system 10.

[0089] In some embodiments, the driven sprocket 85 can include teeth in a number ranging from about 70 to about 110 teeth and/or the driving sprocket 86 can include teeth in a number ranging from about 5 to about 15 teeth, including any specific number or range comprised therein. In some embodiments, the driven sprocket 85 can include teeth in a number ranging from about 80 to about 100 teeth and/or the driving sprocket 86 can include teeth in a number ranging from about of 8 to about 12 teeth number ranging from about. In some embodiments, the driven sprocket 85 can include about 96 teeth and/or the driving sprocket 86 can include about 11 teeth. In such an embodiment, the speed of the mixing assembly 34 would be approximately about 4.4RPM given the auger speed of about 38.3RPM. In such embodiments, the torque of the driving sprocket 86 can be about 2646Nm at idle speed, the torque of the driven sprocket 85 can be about 23096Nm at rotor speed, with a ratio between the teeth being about 8.7 and an overall ratio of about 333.0. A person skilled in the art will understand that any value within these ranges or values outside of these ranges are also feasible given the design requirements of the feed distribution unit 14.

[0090] In operation, the electric motor 81 is configured to rotate gears within the gearbox 82, which in turn rotates the output shaft 89. The output shaft is directly couple to components of both the mixing assembly 34 and the auger assembly 48. For example, the output shaft 89 is directly coupled to the auger assembly via the auger rod 50, such that rotation of the output shaft 89 rotates the auger rod 50 and/ thus the auger assembly 48.

[0091] Similarly, rotation of the output shaft 89 rotates the mixing assembly 34. Specifically, rotation of the output shaft further rotates the driving sprocket 86, which, via the reduction drive chain 87, drives the driven sprocket 85. The rotation of the driven sprocket 85 turns the rotor tube 36, thus rotating the mixing assembly 34. As a result, the feed materials can be continuously mixed within the mixing chamber 18 via the mixing assembly 34. Further, the feed materials are pushed to and/or through the opening 19 (based on the position of the variable feed door 64) into the auger chamber 46. The continuous rotation enables the feed materials to be further pushed and directed toward the center of the auger chamber 46 via the rotation of the auger assembly 48 into the feed-out tray 56. It will be understood that the drive system 80 described above may be augmented or replaced by other systems for driving rotation of the mixing assembly 34 and/or the auger assembly 48, as would be understood by a person skilled in the art. [0092] As shown in FIGS. 1A-3 and in more detail in FIG. 2, the feed distribution system 10 may include a movable platform 100. The feed distribution unit 14 can be coupled to and arranged on the movable platform 100, thus allowing the feed distribution unit 14 to be selectively moved and controlled. In some embodiments, the movable platform 100 includes a base 102 having a flat upper surface 103 on top of which the feed distribution unit 14 can be arranged, positioned, and/or located. In some embodiments, the feed distribution unit 14 may be fully, partially, or segmentally positioned above, atop, and/or on top of and the movable platform 100. In some embodiments, the feed distribution unit 14 may be fully, partially, or segmentally affixed or coupled to and/or associated with the movable platform 100 to provide a single unit of the feed distribution system 10.

[0093] As shown in FIGS 1 A-3, and in greater detail in FIGS. 2 and 3, the movable platform 100 can further include an upright housing 106 configured to house (i) a controller 200 that controls the movable platform 100 and/or the feed distribution unit 14, and/or (ii) a power source (e.g., battery and/or fuel cell) that powers the movable platform 100. In some embodiments, the upper surface 103, and/or other portions of the base 102, and/or the upright housing 106 can include fasteners for securing or coupling the feed distribution unit 14 to the movable platform 100. Such coupling of the feed distribution unit 14 to the movable platform 100 may be accomplished with fasteners, such as bolts, screws, clamps, hinges, etc. In other embodiments, the coupling of the feed distribution unit 14 to the movable platform 100 can simply include the feed distribution unit 14 resting on the upper surface 103 of the movable platform 100 without fasteners.

[0094] In some embodiments, the upper surface 103 of the base 102 can include at least one weighing unit 104 A. In some embodiments, there can be any number of weighing units 104 A comprising any range of weights. However, illustratively, FIG. 2 shows an embodiment of the movable platform 100 that includes four weighing units 104A, 104B, 104C, 104D. The weighing units 104A, 104B, 104C, 104D are configured to weigh the feed distribution unit 14 and/or the contents of the one or more feed materials within the unit 14 in order to determine and/or calculate how much feed material and/or mixed feed ration is in the feed distribution unit 14.

[0095] In order to move or relocate the movable platform 100, the platform 100 can include a plurality of wheels 105 powered by the electric motor 81 or any motor known to a person skilled in the art, as shown in FIG. 3. Illustratively, the feed distribution unit 14 is configured to be selectively moved via a user or operator (e.g., a farmer or breeder) manually controlling the movable platform 100, a user preprogramming the movable platform 100 for movement, and/or by autonomous control of the movable platform 100. A person skilled in the art will understand that the movable platform 100 is not required to move the feed distribution unit 14 or the feed distribution system 10, as other means known in the art may be utilized to selectively position the feed distribution unit 14, such as by lifting or pulling by a tractor or an animal (e.g., a horse).

[0096] In an illustrative embodiment, the movable platform is autonomously controlled. Such an autonomous movable platform 100 is coupled to the feed distribution unit 14 to provide an exemplary autonomous feed distribution system 10. This autonomous feed distribution system 10 is automatically and/or electronically controlled in the absence of external physical movement of the platform 100.

[0097] The movement of the movable platform 100 can be controlled via a controller 200, which is housed in an upright housing 106 of the platform 100. In particular, the controller 200 can be configured to drive the platform 100 forward, reverse, left, right, in straight lines, and/or around comers. The controller 200 can also be configured to turn the wheels 105 in order to move the feed distribution unit 14 to particular desired areas in order to distribute the mixed feed ration, such as to livestock or animals.

[0098] In some embodiments, the controller 200 can also be configured to control the feed distribution unit 14 via a wired or wireless connection between the controller 200 and the feed distribution unit 14. The controller 200 can control the rate of rotation of the motor 81, and as such, can control a rate of rotation of the auger assembly 48 and/or the mixing assembly 34. In some embodiments, the controller 200 can also be configured to control actuation of the actuators 66A, 66B that control the variable feed door 64.

[0099] In some embodiments, the feed distribution unit 14 can include its own separate controller 300 (as shown in FIGS. 8 A- 10) configured similarly to the controller 200 and configured to execute the same control over the feed distribution unit 14 as the controller 200 as described herein. In such embodiments, the feed distribution unit 14 is controlled by controller 300 and the movable platform 100 is controlled by controller 200.

[0100] The controller 200 can be preprogrammed by a user in order to set various parameters of movement of the moveable platform 100, such as to move along a preprogrammed route of an area (e.g., a farm or pasture). The controller 200 may also comprise predetermined operational parameters of the feed distribution unit 14 components. In some embodiments, the controller 200 can be directly controlled by a user in real-time in order to move and steer the movable platform 100, as well as to control the feed distribution unit 14 components in realtime (e.g., such as by remote).

[0101] For example, a user can preprogram the movable platform 100 to move from a first location to a second location and to rest and/or operate at each location for a specified period of time. In other non-limiting examples, a user can preprogram the feed distribution unit 14 to rotate the mixing assembly 34 at the first location with the variable feed door 64 fully closed, and then stop the mixing assembly 34 at the second location with the variable feed door 64 fully opened, or in any position between fully opened and fully closed. Such control schemes can be executed in real-time, by preprogramming, as well via user control of the movable platform 100 and feed distribution unit 14 via the controller 200.

[0102] In some embodiments, the controller 200 can utilize the weighing units 104 A, 104B, 104C, 104D of the movable platform 100 in order to determine how much time to spend at a certain location/ Alternatively, a user can set a specific weight, as determined or measured by the weighing units 104 A, 104B, 104C, 104D of the movable platform 100, at which to begin movement of the movable platform 100 from one location to another location and/or specific operations of the feed distribution unit 14. Finally, a user may also preprogram a specific weight, as determined or measured by the weighing units 104 A, 104B, 104C, 104D of the movable platform 100, at which to begin or stop rotation of one or both of the mixing and auger assemblies 34, 48 and/or open and close the variable feed door 64.

[0103] In an exemplary operational scenario in which the controller 200 can control the movable platform 100 and the feed distribution unit 14, as shown in FIG. 4, the controller 200 may be configured to autonomously perform, via preprogramming, a full mixing and feeding process. In particular, such a feeding process may include a feed kitchen 130 at which feed material is provided and a livestock bam 160 where livestock or animals are to be fed. The feed kitchen 130 may include a hopper section 140, including a plurality of raw feed material hoppers 142, configured to convey feed material above and into the opening 17 in the top of the feed distribution unit 14.

[0104] The controller 200 may be configured to keep the feed distribution unit 14 in position to receive feed material from the hoppers 142 for a predetermined period of time, in particular until a desired amount of one or more feed materials is deposited into the mixing chamber 18. In some embodiments, the controller 200 may be configured to monitor the weighing units 104 A, 104B, 104C, 104D in order to determine how much time to spend at the hoppers 142, which is determined by a weight of feed material deposited into the mixing chamber 18. The controller 200 may be configured to have the mixing assembly 34 rotating before, during, and/or after the mixing chamber 18 is sufficiently filled with feed material. In some embodiments, the controller 200 may keep the variable feed door 64 closed during the mixing process of the mixing assembly 34 such that the feed is not allowed to pass to the auger chamber 46 until it is sufficiently mixed into a mixed feed ration.

[0105] After the mixing chamber 18 is sufficiently filled with feed material that has been sufficiently mixed into a mixed feed ration, the controller 200 may be configured to perform a variety of operations. In some embodiments, the controller 200 may move the autonomous movable platform 100 to any position on an area, such as a farm or pasture. For example, the controller 200 may move the movable platform 100 from the feed kitchen 130 to a second location, namely the livestock barn 160, along a movement path 150. The movement path 150 may also be predetermined and preprogrammed on the area. The movable platform 100 may include sensors 205 operatively connected to the controller 200 and configured to sense environmental surroundings such that the controller 200 can autonomously move the platform 100 based on the sensed environment, particularly environmental conditions (e.g., rain, snow, sleet, wind, hail, lightning, drought, heat, etc.).

[0106] This mixing of the feed material may occur, for example, before the autonomous movable platform 100 leaves the feed kitchen 130, during the trip from the feed kitchen 130 to the second location or the livestock barn 160, when the movable platform 100 arrives at the livestock barn 160, and/or after the movable platform 100 arrives at the livestock barn 160. At a point at which the feed material is sufficiently mixed into a mixed feed ration, the controller 200 may be configured to selectively open the variable feed door 64 to begin distribution of the mixed feed ration into the auger chamber 46 and thus to the feed-out tray 56 for feeding.

[0107] When the controller 200 selectively opens the variable feed door 64 to begin distribution of the mixed feed ration into the auger chamber 46 and thus to the feed-out tray 56 for feeding, the mixed feed ration exits the feed distribution unit 14 and falls to an external surface for feeding livestock 162. In some embodiments, the controller 200 may be configured to hold the movable platform 100 in place when distributing the mixed feed ration. In some embodiments, the controller 200 may be configured to move the movable platform 100 at a predetermined speed while distributing the mixed feed ration. In such an embodiment, the speed can be adjusted, either by preprogramming or in real-time via the weighing units 104A, 104B, 104C, 104D indicating the weight of feed left in the mixing chamber 18, in order to place the feed in a desired line of feed along the surface. In some embodiments, the variable feed door 64 may be opened and closed at small intervals in order to produce separate piles of mixed feed ration such as for separate animals or livestock. In some embodiments, the controller 200 can be configured to repeat this process over predetermined periods of times, such as returning the movable platform 100 to the feed kitchen 130 every 20-30 minutes to refill the mixing chamber 18 with feed material and repeat the feed distribution process described above.

[0108] The controller 200, as described above, is shown in FIG. 12. The controller 200 may include a memory 201, a processor 202, and additional storage 204. The memory 201 and processor 202 are in communication with each other. The processor 202 may be embodied as any type of computational processing tool or equipment capable of performing the functions described herein. For example, the processor 202 may be embodied as a single or multi-core processor(s), digital signal processor, microcontroller, or other processor or processing/controlling circuit.

[0109] The memory 201 may be embodied as any type of volatile or non-volatile memory or data storage capable of performing the functions described herein. Moreover, the controller 200 may also include additional or alternative components, such as those commonly found in a computer (e.g., various input/output devices, resistors, capacitors, etc.). In other embodiments, one or more of the illustrative controllers 200 of components may be incorporated in, or otherwise form a portion of, another component. For example, the memory 201, or portions thereof, may be incorporated in the processor 202.

[0110] In operation, the memory 201 may store various data and software used during operation of the controller 200 such as operating systems, applications, programs, libraries, and drivers. The memory 201 is communicatively coupled to the processor 202 via an VO subsystem, which may be embodied as circuitry and/or components to facilitate input/output operations with the processor 202, the memory 201, and other components of the controller 200. In one embodiment, the memory 201 may be directly coupled to the processor 202, for example via an integrated memory controller hub. Additionally, in some embodiments, the I/O subsystem may form a portion of a system-on-a-chip (SoC) and be incorporated, along with the processor 202, the memory 201, and/or other components of the controller 200, on a single integrated circuit chip (not shown).

[OHl] The components of the communication network 206 may be configured to use any one or more communication technologies (e.g., wired, wireless and/or power line communications) and associated protocols (e.g., Ethernet, InfiniBand®, Bluetooth®, WiFi®, WiMAX, 3G, 4G LTE, 5G, etc.) to effect such communication among and between system components and devices as described above, including but not limited to between a user interface 208, the autonomous movable platform 100, and the feed distribution unit 14.

[0112] The following tables, as well as FIG. 13, include information regarding at least one non-limiting example of a prototype of a feed distribution system 10 as described herein. The data provided in Table 1 convey operational and/or performance result details for the prototype as an embodiment of the feed distribution system 10 tested on multiple summer dates (e.g., 6 repetitions between June 29^th and August 16th). For example, the prototype of the feed distribution system 10 can distribute different feeding materials (e.g., silage, straw, molasses, minerals, etc.) to one or more livestock or animals on a location, such as a farm or a pasture. Table 2 provides additional data for the prototype as tested on yet another date (e.g., July 26^th).

Table 1 : Prototype First Test Results Summary

Table 2: Prototype Second Test Results Summary

Loading Sequence:

Start

Straw Chop Length-5-10cm (Average 7cm)

Mid

Straw Chop Length-4-11cm (Average 7cm)

End

Straw Chop Length-6-11cm (Average 8cm)

[0113] A method of feeding animals according to a further aspect of the present disclosure can include coupling a movable platform including a platform drive configured to move the movable platform with a feed distribution unit, operating the feed distribution unit, and feeding a mixed feed ration to animals via a feed outlet of an auger chamber. The operating the feed distribution unit can include mixing at least one feed material in a mixing chamber, producing a mixed feed ration, directing the mixed feed ration to a first opening of the mixing chamber, wherein an auger chamber opens into the mixing chamber via the first opening, covering the first opening with a variable feed door, and varying an amount of the mixed feed ration passing from the mixing chamber to the auger chamber via selectively moving the variable feed door relative to the first opening.

[0114] The method can further include positioning the movable platform and the feed distribution unit coupled thereto at a first location for a first predetermined period of time, receiving the at least one feed material in the mixing chamber to be mixed thereby during the first predetermined period of time, and moving the movable platform and the feed distribution unit coupled thereto to a second location after expiration of the first predetermined period of time.

[0115] The method can further include selectively moving the variable feed door relative to the first opening to a predetermined opened position in response to the movable platform traveling from the first location to the second location or in response to the movable platform arriving at the second location so as to allow a predetermined amount of mixed feed ration to pass from the mixing chamber to the auger chamber, rotating an auger assembly arranged in the auger chamber so as to direct the mixed feed ration toward the feed outlet, and selectively moving the movable platform in a first direction at a predetermined speed for a second predetermined period of time so as to control a distribution of feed dispensed to the animals via the feed outlet.

[0116] While the disclosure has been illustrated and described in detail in the drawings and foregoing description, such an illustration and description is to be considered as exemplary and not restrictive in character, it being understood that only illustrative embodiments have been shown and described and that all changes and modifications that come within the spirit of the disclosure are desired to be protected.

[0117] There are a plurality of advantages of the present disclosure arising from the various features of the method, apparatus, and system described herein. It will be noted that alternative embodiments of the method, apparatus, and system of the present disclosure may not include all of the features described yet still benefit from at least some of the advantages of such features. Those of ordinary skill in the art may readily devise their own implementations of the method, apparatus, and system that incorporate one or more of the features of the present invention and fall within the spirit and scope of the present disclosure as defined by the appended claims.

[0118] The features illustrated or described in connection with one exemplary embodiment may be combined with any other feature or element of any other embodiment described herein. Such modifications and variations are intended to be included within the scope of the present disclosure. Further, a person skilled in the art will recognize that terms commonly known to those skilled in the art may be used interchangeably herein.

[0119] The above embodiments are described in sufficient detail to enable those skilled in the art to practice what is claimed and it is to be understood that logical, mechanical, and electrical changes may be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the claims. The detailed description is, therefore, not to be taken in a limiting sense.

[0120] As used herein, an element or step recited in the singular and proceeded with the word “a” or “an” should be understood as not excluding plural of said elements or steps, unless such exclusion is explicitly stated. Furthermore, references to “one embodiment” of the presently described subject matter are not intended to be interpreted as excluding the existence of additional embodiments that also incorporate the recited features. Specified numerical ranges of units, measurements, and/or values comprise, consist essentially or, or consist of all the numerical values, units, measurements, and/or ranges including or within those ranges and/or endpoints, whether those numerical values, units, measurements, and/or ranges are explicitly specified in the present disclosure or not.

[0121] Unless defined otherwise, technical and scientific terms used herein have the same meaning as is commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which this disclosure belongs. The terms “first,” “second,” “third” and the like, as used herein do not denote any order or importance, but rather are used to distinguish one element from another. The term “or” is meant to be inclusive and mean either or all of the listed items. In addition, the terms “connected” and “coupled” are not restricted to physical or mechanical connections or couplings, and can include electrical connections or couplings, whether direct or indirect.

[0122] Moreover, unless explicitly stated to the contrary, embodiments “comprising,” “including,” or “having” an element or a plurality of elements having a particular property may include additional such elements not having that property. The term “comprising” or “comprises” refers to a composition, compound, formulation, or method that is inclusive and does not exclude additional elements, components, and/or method steps. The term “comprising” also refers to a composition, compound, formulation, or method embodiment of the present disclosure that is inclusive and does not exclude additional elements, components, or method steps.

[0123] The phrase “consisting of’ or “consists of’ refers to a compound, composition, formulation, or method that excludes the presence of any additional elements, components, or method steps. The term “consisting of’ also refers to a compound, composition, formulation, or method of the present disclosure that excludes the presence of any additional elements, components, or method steps.

[0124] The phrase “consisting essentially of’ or “consists essentially of’ refers to a composition, compound, formulation, or method that is inclusive of additional elements, components, or method steps that do not materially affect the character! stic(s) of the composition, compound, formulation, or method. The phrase “consisting essentially of’ also refers to a composition, compound, formulation, or method of the present disclosure that is inclusive of additional elements, components, or method steps that do not materially affect the characteristic(s) of the composition, compound, formulation, or method steps.

[0125] Approximating language, as used herein throughout the specification and claims, may be applied to modify any quantitative representation that could permissibly vary without resulting in a change in the basic function to which it is related. Accordingly, a value modified by a term or terms, such as “about,” and “substantially” is not to be limited to the precise value specified. In some instances, the approximating language may correspond to the precision of an instrument for measuring the value. Here and throughout the specification and claims, range limitations may be combined and/or interchanged. Such ranges are identified and include all the sub-ranges contained therein unless context or language indicates otherwise.

[0126] As used herein, the terms “may” and “may be” indicate a possibility of an occurrence within a set of circumstances; a possession of a specified property, characteristic or function; and/or qualify another verb by expressing one or more of an ability, capability, or possibility associated with the qualified verb. Accordingly, usage of “may” and “may be” indicates that a modified term is apparently appropriate, capable, or suitable for an indicated capacity, function, or usage, while taking into account that in some circumstances, the modified term may sometimes not be appropriate, capable, or suitable.

[0127] It is to be understood that the above description is intended to be illustrative, and not restrictive. For example, the above-described embodiments (and/or aspects thereof) may be used individually, together, or in combination with each other. In addition, many modifications may be made to adapt a particular situation or material to the teachings of the subject matter set forth herein without departing from its scope. While the dimensions and types of materials described herein are intended to define the parameters of the disclosed subject matter, they are by no means limiting and are exemplary embodiments. Many other embodiments will be apparent to those of skill in the art upon reviewing the above description. The scope of the subject matter described herein should, therefore, be determined with reference to the appended claims, along with the full scope of equivalents to which such claims are entitled.

[0128] This written description uses examples to disclose several embodiments of the subject matter set forth herein, including the best mode, and also to enable a person of ordinary skill in the art to practice the embodiments of disclosed subject matter, including making and using the devices or systems and performing the methods. The patentable scope of the subject matter described herein is defined by the claims, and may include other examples that occur to those of ordinary skill in the art. Such other examples are intended to be within the scope of the claims if they have structural elements that do not differ from the literal language of the claims, or if they include equivalent structural elements with insubstantial differences from the literal languages of the claims.

[0129] While only certain features of the invention have been illustrated and described herein, many modifications and changes will occur to those skilled in the art. It is, therefore, to be understood that the appended claims are intended to cover all such modifications and changes as fall within the true spirit of the invention.

Claims

WHAT IS CLAIMED:

1. An animal feeding system, comprising: a movable platform including a platform drive configured to move the movable platform; and a feed distribution unit including: a mixing chamber including a mixing assembly configured to mix at least one feed material into a mixed feed ration; an auger chamber arranged adjacent to the mixing chamber, wherein the auger chamber opens into the mixing chamber via a first opening formed in a side surface of the mixing chamber, and wherein the mixed feed ration is configured to pass through the first opening and into the auger chamber; and a variable feed door arranged adjacent to the first opening and configured to selectively cover the first opening so as to vary an amount of the mixed feed ration that passes from the mixing chamber to the auger chamber.

2. The animal feeding system of claim 1, wherein the auger chamber includes an auger assembly arranged therein, the auger assembly including an auger rod and a plurality of flights extending radially away from the auger rod.

3. The animal feed system of claim 2, wherein the plurality of flights include a first flight located axially forward of a central point of the auger rod and a second flight located axially aft of the central point, wherein the first flight is a continuous helix wrapping around the auger rod and spiraling in a first axial direction toward the central point, wherein the second flight is a continuous helix wrapping around the auger rod and spiraling in a second axial direction opposite the first axial direction toward the central point, and wherein the auger rod is configured to rotate such that rotation of the auger rod causes rotation of the first and second flights which causes the mixed feed ration to move toward the central point of the auger rod along the first and second flights.

4. The animal feed system of claim 3, wherein auger chamber further includes a feed outlet opening formed in a side surface of the auger chamber opposite the first opening and adjacent to the central point of the auger rod.

5. The animal feed system of claim 4, wherein the feed distribution unit further includes a feed outlet assembly including a feed-out tray arranged below the feed outlet opening such that mixed feed ration that is moved toward the central point of the auger rod via the first and second flights is configured to fall into the feed-out tray.

6. The animal feed system of claim 5, wherein the feed outlet assembly further includes at least one magnet arranged on the feed-out tray and configured to remove metallic materials from the mixed feed ration via the mixed feed portion passing over the at least one magnet.

7. The animal feeding system of claim 1, wherein the variable feed door is configured to selectively slide relative to the first opening so as to selectively meter the amount of mixed feed ration that passes from the mixing chamber to the auger chamber.

8. The animal feeding system of claim 7, wherein the feed distribution unit further includes a monolithic frame that defines the mixing chamber and the auger chamber.

9. The animal feeding system of claim 8, wherein the variable feed door includes at least one actuator coupled to the frame and configured to slide the variable feed door relative to first opening and thus control a position of the variable feed door.

10. The animal feeding system of claim 2, wherein the mixing assembly includes a rotor tube and a plurality of paddles coupled to the rotor tube, wherein the mixing chamber includes a top opening through which the at least one feed material is configured to be deposited into the mixing chamber, wherein the rotor tube is configured to be rotated so as to rotate the paddles about a central axis of the rotor tube, and wherein rotation of the paddles causes the paddles to engage the at least one feed material and thus mix the at least one feed material into the mixed feed ration.

11. The animal feeding system of claim 10, wherein the feed distribution unit further includes a drive system including an electric motor and a gearbox configured to drive rotation of the auger assembly and the mixing assembly.

12. The animal feeding system of claim 11, wherein the electric motor drives the gearbox, wherein an output shaft of the gearbox is fixedly coupled to the auger rod so as to drive the auger assembly, wherein the drive system further includes a drive chain coupled to the output shaft and to the rotor tube of the mixing assembly, and wherein rotation of the output shaft further drives rotation of the mixing assembly via the drive chain.

13. The animal feeding system of claim 1, wherein the movable platform is configured to be controlled via a controller so as to automatically move from a first location to a second location.

14. An animal feed distribution unit configured to couple with an autonomous movable platform, comprising: a mixing chamber including a mixing assembly; an auger chamber arranged adjacent to the mixing chamber, wherein the auger chamber opens into the mixing chamber via a first opening and includes a feed outlet opening formed in a side surface of the auger chamber; and a variable feed door arranged adjacent to the first opening and configured to selectively cover the first opening based on movement of the variable feed door.

15. The animal feed distribution unit of claim 14, wherein the mixing assembly is configured to mix at least one feed material into a mixed feed ration, and wherein the mixed feed ration is configured to pass through the first opening and into the auger chamber.

16. The animal feed distribution unit of claim 15, wherein the auger chamber includes an auger assembly arranged therein, the auger assembly including an auger rod and a plurality of flights extending radially away from the auger rod, and wherein the auger rod is configured to rotate such that rotation of the auger rod causes rotation of the first and second flights which causes the mixed feed ration to move toward a central point of the auger rod along the first and second flights.

17. The animal feed distribution unit of claim 14, wherein the variable feed door is configured to selectively slide relative to the first opening so as to selectively meter the amount of mixed feed ration that passes from the mixing chamber to the auger chamber.

18. A method of feeding animals, comprising: coupling a movable platform including a platform drive configured to move the movable platform with a feed distribution unit; operating the feed distribution unit, including: mixing at least one feed material in a mixing chamber; producing a mixed feed ration; directing the mixed feed ration to a first opening of the mixing chamber, wherein an auger chamber opens into the mixing chamber via the first opening; covering the first opening with a variable feed door; and varying an amount of the mixed feed ration passing from the mixing chamber to the auger chamber via selectively moving the variable feed door relative to the first opening; and feeding the mixed feed ration to animals via a feed outlet of the auger chamber.

19. The method of claim 18, further comprising: positioning the movable platform and the feed distribution unit coupled thereto at a first location for a first predetermined period of time; receiving the at least one feed material in the mixing chamber to be mixed thereby during the first predetermined period of time; and moving the movable platform and the feed distribution unit coupled thereto to a second location after expiration of the first predetermined period of time.

20. The method of claim 19, further comprising: selectively moving the variable feed door relative to the first opening to a predetermined opened position in response to the movable platform traveling from the first location to the second location or in response to the movable platform arriving at the second location so as to allow a predetermined amount of mixed feed ration to pass from the mixing chamber to the auger chamber; rotating an auger assembly arranged in the auger chamber so as to direct the mixed feed ration toward the feed outlet; and selectively moving the movable platform in a first direction at a predetermined speed for a second predetermined period of time so as to control a distribution of feed dispensed to the animals via the feed outlet.