Abstract: A feed metering apparatus for supplying a consumable substance to a feeding trough for consumption by an animal, such as a dairy cow, while at least one further animal that has voluntary access to the same trough to consume a consumable substance therefrom is waiting for the animal at the feeding trough to depart. The feeding trough has an entrance opening which can be closed by a closing member. The apparatus intermittently supplies a quantity of a consumable substance to the feeding trough. The feeding trough has a weighing mechanism for continuously weighing the amount of the consumable substance in the feeding trough. A control mechanism is provided for closing the feeding trough's opening and there is a timing component.
Type:
Grant
Filed:
March 1, 2002
Date of Patent:
November 30, 2004
Assignee:
Lely Enterprises A.G.
Inventors:
Karel van den Berg, Howard Sie, Lucien Eliza Niels Voogd