Tools Patents (Class 168/45)
  • Patent number: 11096384
    Abstract: An enhanced equine tool has an enhanced pick tool, an enhanced grip handle, and an interchangeable tool head. The pick tool extends through the handle and out one end, curves into a flex fulcrum, and then extends upwards to a pick tip. The handle has two finger stops and a tool mount that releasably mounts an interchangeable tool head. The tool head can be a collateral groove brush head, bale twine cutter head, etc. The collateral groove brush head is adapted to fit within the collateral groove of an equine hoof and provide enhanced cleaning. The V-shaped brush head also efficiently cleans the central groove of the frog and other areas. Together, the components of an enhanced equine tool provide a plethora of enhanced functionalities that allow the equine caregiver to efficiently clean the hoof and undertake other tasks as well.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 2, 2019
    Date of Patent: August 24, 2021
    Inventor: Christina Jemail
  • Patent number: 10052679
    Abstract: Disclosed is a method for producing a horseshoe, wherein the following steps are carried out: a) at least partially viewing the hoof (16) to be shod in order to determine the required measurements for producing a shoe that fits the hoof, b) processing the measurements in order to deduce a provisional shape of the horseshoe, c) recording definitive parameters of the horseshoe, and d) producing the horseshoe on the basis of the definitive parameters. Before step b), the potential existence of at least one area of inflammation and/or at least one area of reduced blood circulation of the foot of the horse, of which the hoof is to receive the shoe, is determined by an infrared detector (17), and in step b), the existence of at least one such area is taken into account in order to determine the provisional shape and/or the structure of the horseshoe.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 24, 2015
    Date of Patent: August 21, 2018
    Assignee: VALUE FEET SAS
    Inventors: Thibaut Rooryck, Maxime Rooryck
  • Patent number: 9434119
    Abstract: A quick-connect coupling for connecting an exchangeable head to a pressing device has balls K1 with a diameter D1, which are radially movably disposed in a ball-holding part on the pressing device. Balls K1 being held radially fixed in a groove on the head with a depth N1 by a locking ring in the connected state. The head has a further peripheral groove with a depth N2. The further groove is designed to hold part of further balls K2 with a diameter D2, wherein the balls K2 are likewise disposed in a radially movable manner in the ball-holding part and wherein the diameter D2 is greater than the diameter D1. The diameter D1 is the same or smaller than the difference between the diameter D2 and the groove depth N2.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 18, 2012
    Date of Patent: September 6, 2016
    Assignee: Von Arx AG
    Inventors: Beat Schweizer, Martin Moritz
  • Patent number: 8939224
    Abstract: A hoof medical device comprises two attaching plates, two clamp bands, each clamp band attached to one of the two attaching plates, a band adjustor comprising a band adjustor screw and configured to connect and slidably adjust the two clamp bands relative to each other by rotating the band adjustor screw, a strap folded over at least one of the clamp bands so that the at least one of the clamp bands is movable within a fold of the strap, and a plurality of screws configured to attach the two attaching plates and the strap to a hoof of an animal.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 14, 2013
    Date of Patent: January 27, 2015
    Inventor: Charles Spencer Potter
  • Patent number: 8821165
    Abstract: A hoof mounting for a farrier training includes a positioning block with a fixture for attaching to a central shaft of an artificial horse leg. The block has a front surface, a rear surface and first and second side surfaces and first and second securing ledges that extend laterally from the side surfaces. An artificial hoof has an open interior space with a partially open top, a closed bottom, a closed front wall, closed first and second side walls and an open back. The side walls have mating grooves sized and shaped to fit slidably about the securing ledges. At least one securing channel extends from a closed portion of the partially open top into one the mating grooves. A fastening latch has an activating tab and a locking portion that is slidably mounted to the positioning block and fits the securing channel when the block is within the hoof.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 22, 2014
    Date of Patent: September 2, 2014
    Inventor: Wesley Jon Champagne
  • Patent number: 8807232
    Abstract: An integrated horseshoe stud storage, insertion and removal apparatus is provided. The apparatus includes a stud storage cylinder containing a multi-function tool set for cleaning horseshoe stud holes; and removing and inserting horseshoe studs. The multi-function tool set is adapted to secure storage within the stud storage cylinder. In addition, the stud storage cylinder is adapted securely hold a variety of studs readily visible and available.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 18, 2011
    Date of Patent: August 19, 2014
    Inventor: John Elliot Bahret
  • Patent number: 8754641
    Abstract: The invention provides a hoof angle measuring device for use on horses. A base is configured to be held against the bottom of a horse hoof and a pivoting arm can then be aligned with the forward edge of the hoof to define the hoof angle. Without physical or electrical contact with the base or arm, an enclosed sensor detects relative angular position between the base and arm. Supporting circuitry also provided in an enclosure accepts signal voltage from the sensor and provides a protected digital display of the measured angle magnitude for the user.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 11, 2012
    Date of Patent: June 17, 2014
    Inventors: Samuel S. McKee, Roy A. Young
  • Publication number: 20130068485
    Abstract: A method for cold manufacturing horseshoes utilizes a laser cutter, a hydraulic press, and a sanding belt to cut horseshoes from a sheet of material without heating up the sheet of material. Information, including dimensions of the horseshoe as well as position and size of a plurality of nail holes, is fed into a control computer for the laser cutter. The laser cutter cuts an outline of the horseshoe from the sheet of material, as directed by the control computer. The laser cutter also creates nail outlines, providing a guide for the second step involving the hydraulic press. Once the nail outlines are created an appropriately sized punch is selected for the hydraulic press. The hydraulic press uses the punch to bore through the outlines, creating beveled nail holes. The horseshoe is then moved to a sanding belt, where a rear surface and edge of the horseshoe is sanded smooth.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 17, 2012
    Publication date: March 21, 2013
    Inventors: Rozanne E. Adams, Alan Dale
  • Publication number: 20120305271
    Abstract: Improved tool with reusable holder, including a U-shaped holder (1) with elongate ends, a tab (4), nail-holes (5) for the insertion of nails and at least three circular holes (6) with a peripheral stepped portion (7); and a disposable part (2) with a concave shape (3) that matches that of the holder, with an upper recess (8) corresponding to the tab (4), and at least three flared protrusions (9) positioned in line with the circular holes (6) in the holder (1). The flared protrusions (10) are in the form of vertically open studs with a wider part that engages in the stepped portion (7) of the circular holes (6). To secure the attachment, a plastic screw (10) is inserted in each flared protrusion (9), causing the flared protrusion (9) and the wider part thereof to expand over the stepped portion (7) of the circular hole in which it is inserted.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 19, 2010
    Publication date: December 6, 2012
    Applicant: LUJO HERRADURAS, S.L.
    Inventor: Luis Uttley Del Corral
  • Publication number: 20120111582
    Abstract: An integrated horseshoe stud storage, insertion and removal apparatus is provided. The apparatus includes a stud storage cylinder containing a multi-function tool set for cleaning horseshoe stud holes; and removing and inserting horseshoe studs. The multi-function tool set is adapted to secure storage within the stud storage cylinder. In addition, the stud storage cylinder is adapted securely hold a variety of studs readily visible and available.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 18, 2011
    Publication date: May 10, 2012
    Inventor: John Elliot Bahret
  • Patent number: 7716843
    Abstract: A flat transparent overlay for measurement of equine foot x-rays employs a flat lower edge for alignment with a ground surface and an anterior edge angled to approximate a hoof distal wall. A first sight ring positions the tool over a tip of an image of a third phalanx. Six interrelated scales are provided for measurement of the palmar cortex, distal sole thickness, break-over distance and coronet band to extensor process distance, and in conjunction with a second site ring, center of rotation and palmar sole thickness. A first protractor element is centered posterior on the first sight ring for measurement of the palmar angle. A dual scale extends from the angled anterior edge portion with a measurement line for measurement of the hoof-lamella zone. A second protractor element is posterior to and centered on the second sight ring for measurement of a pastern angle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 13, 2007
    Date of Patent: May 18, 2010
    Inventor: Pete Healey
  • Patent number: 7628215
    Abstract: A hoof pick measure tool that includes a hoof pick and a measuring body. The hoof pick may be used to remove foreign material from a horse's hoof. Additionally, the hoof pick measure tool further includes the measuring body. The measuring body includes at least one set of indicia linear measurement lines that allows a user to evaluate changes in dimensions of areas in the horse's hoof.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 7, 2007
    Date of Patent: December 8, 2009
    Inventor: Sarah J. Nickle
  • Patent number: 7614155
    Abstract: A farrier's tool and a method of using the tool for preparing the hoof of a horse to receive a shoe. The tool is, in one aspect, a goniometer used for determining the angle of heel-toe taper when preparing a horse's hoof to receive a shoe. After the angle between the anterior surface of the first phalanx of the foot and the anterior surface of the hoof is determined, the ground-facing surface of the hoof is beveled by means of a trimming tool at an angle determined by the goniometer to reduce uneven pressure on the underlying coffin bone and to balance the tension on the tendons and ligaments in the horse's foot, particularly during locomotion. The method provides, inter alia, means for accurately aligning the hoof capsule with the coffin bone in the hoof.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 24, 2007
    Date of Patent: November 10, 2009
    Inventor: Pete Healey
  • Patent number: 7596875
    Abstract: A template and method for sizing horseshoes. The template includes a plate against which ground-contacting portion of a horse's hoof is placed. The plate has a plurality of adjustment members thereon. Each adjustment member is individually movable from a first position remote from a perimeter of said hoof, to a second position adjacent the perimeter. When the adjustment members are all in the second position, they are locked into position. The adjustment members define a region that is generally shaped to conform to the perimeter of the horse's hoof. The farrier works a horseshoe until the shoe is able to be received within the region defined by the adjustment members. The worked horseshoe may then be nailed to the horse's hoof.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 13, 2007
    Date of Patent: October 6, 2009
    Assignee: Eagle's Eye, LLC
    Inventor: Phillip Ross
  • Publication number: 20090188680
    Abstract: A removable horseshoe clip for temporarily placement on a horseshoe during the fitment process to secure the horseshoe against slipping or rotational movement during nailing, and method of use. The removable horseshoe clip includes an inner retaining clip sized to engage the inner peripheral edge of a horseshoe, a broad base for seating against the bottom surface of the horseshoe, and an outer retaining clip adapted to abut the outer peripheral edge of a horseshoe and the outer surface of a hoof wall.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 3, 2009
    Publication date: July 30, 2009
    Inventor: Lawrence Ronald Daine
  • Publication number: 20090172959
    Abstract: The present invention is a visual aid for balancing and aligning the equine hoof. Unlike previous devices that consider only the ground surface when balancing the hoof capsule, this invention utilizes coronet band and hoof capsule deformation as the start point for rebalancing giving it a top down approach. This wrap-around device is superimposed upon a live hoof capsule for measurement and visualization. The invention is flexible, resilient, and adjustable allowing for proper placement and utilization on all equine hooves. A posterior attaching mechanism is incorporated into the device for added stability. On the surface of the device are various markings with which measurements are made.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 7, 2008
    Publication date: July 9, 2009
    Inventors: Phillip Carleton Bushman, James L. Brady
  • Patent number: 7552538
    Abstract: The present invention is a visual aid for balancing and aligning the equine hoof. Unlike previous devices that consider only the ground surface when balancing the hoof capsule, this invention utilizes coronet band and hoof capsule deformation as the start point for rebalancing giving it a top down approach. This wrap-around device is superimposed upon a live hoof capsule for measurement and visualization. The invention is flexible, resilient, and adjustable allowing for proper placement and utilization on all equine hooves. A posterior attaching mechanism may be incorporated into the device for added stability. On the surface of the device are various markings with which measurements are made.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 7, 2008
    Date of Patent: June 30, 2009
    Inventors: Phillip Carleton Bushman, James L. Brady
  • Patent number: 7533733
    Abstract: A hoof plate is provided which is applied to a hoofed animal having a hoof problem, such as laminitis which is characterized by a degeneration of the horny and sensitive laminae in the hoof that causes the coffin bone to drop and rotate, resulting in pain and debilitation of the animal. Other problems treated are split, cracked, shelly and splayed hoofs, and thin hoof walls. The plate is flexible metal plate having a plurality of spaced apertures. If the horse is to be treated shod, a shoe is applied and nails are driven through the hoof wall and the plate apertures and clinched against the plate. Screws are then applied to immovable secure the plate to the hoof. If unshod treatment is used, the plate is just screwed to the hoof. Outward hoof growth is restrained for a period of 8-16 weeks, during which oxygenated blood flow is stimulated to the circumflex artery in the hoof capsule, resulting in laminae regeneration, and growth in the hoof wall, frog, heels and sole.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 2, 2005
    Date of Patent: May 19, 2009
    Inventor: Michael E. Nolan
  • Publication number: 20090101365
    Abstract: The design of this shoeing system is specifically produced to ensure the maintenance of the breakover function of the hoof. The breakover built into the shoe is specifically produced to ensure the tip of the pedal bone remains the central point of rotation following the addition of a shoe. The dimension of this breakover can be calculated using the following equation: R=A+(B?b)+C. This equation can be used on all horses, all shoes and all terrains offering the trainer/owner/farrier the opportunity to shoe the horse using the most efficient breakover possible.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 28, 2006
    Publication date: April 23, 2009
    Inventors: Wayne Turner, Emily Rimmer
  • Patent number: 7516799
    Abstract: The invention relates to an apparatus for the treatment of horn splits or cracks on the hoof of horses or other hoofed animals. The apparatus according to the invention is characterized by holding parts (1, 1?) for fastening to the longitudinal sides of a horn split or crack so as to be situated one opposite the other on the hoof and is further characterized by devices (3-14) which connect the holding parts (1, 1?) and by which the distance between the holding parts (1, 1?) is adjustable, causing the horn split or crack to be widened or narrowed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 30, 2006
    Date of Patent: April 14, 2009
    Inventor: Michael Puhl
  • Patent number: 7494341
    Abstract: A farrier training system includes an artificial leg portion attached to an artificial hoof portion. The hoof portion is removably attached to the lower end of the leg portion. The leg is articulated with at least one spring-loaded joint to simulate a real horse's leg and train the farrier in proper shoeing techniques. The removable hoof portion is replaceable with hoof portions exhibiting typical hoof diseases and abnormalities. The hoof portion is carvable and indicates through color changes when the hoof portion has been carved too deeply. The hoof portion is also nailable and includes the ability to indicate when nails have been inserted too deeply. Horseshoe stock is provided along with tools for forming the stock into horseshoes fitted to the removable hoof portion. A support platform is provided to allow the upper end of the leg portion to be removably attached to a fixture, building or ground surface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 20, 2007
    Date of Patent: February 24, 2009
    Inventors: Wesley Jon Champagne, Robert F. Champagne
  • Publication number: 20080289199
    Abstract: A farrier's tool and a method of using the tool for preparing the hoof of a horse to receive a shoe. The tool is, in one aspect, a goniometer used for determining the angle of heel-toe taper when preparing a horse's hoof to receive a shoe. After the angle between the anterior surface of the first phalanx of the foot and the anterior surface of the hoof is determined, the ground-facing surface of the hoof is beveled by means of a trimming tool at an angle determined by the goniometer to reduce uneven pressure on the underlying coffin bone and to balance the tension on the tendons and ligaments in the horse's foot, particularly during locomotion. The method provides, inter alia, means for accurately aligning the hoof capsule with the coffin bone in the hoof.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 24, 2007
    Publication date: November 27, 2008
    Inventor: Pete Healey
  • Publication number: 20080271899
    Abstract: An adjustable inductive shoeing apparatus including an inductive heating element, an adjustable mounting structure, and a control circuit is described. The inductive heating element is substantially U-shaped and disposed in a serpentine arrangement to replicate the U-shape of a horseshoe at least twice. The adjustable mounting structure supports and secures a horseshoe adjacent to the inductive heating coil so as to facilitate heating of the horseshoe and/or an adhesive. The adjustable mounting structure includes a pair of jaws and/or a plurality of brackets which are movable to conform to the lateral extents of a horseshoe. Brackets are disposed in a substantially U-shaped pattern along the adjustable mounting structure. In some embodiments, brackets contact the inductive heating element so as to adjust the inductive heating element to the shape and size of a horseshoe. In other embodiments, inductive heating element passes through the brackets.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 1, 2008
    Publication date: November 6, 2008
    Inventors: Robert A. Kolonia, Kenneth M. Dillabough
  • Publication number: 20080257562
    Abstract: A farrier training system includes an artificial leg portion attached to an artificial hoof portion. The hoof portion is removably attached to the lower end of the leg portion. The leg is articulated with at least one spring-loaded joint to simulate a real horse's leg and train the farrier in proper shoeing techniques. The removable hoof portion is replaceable with hoof portions exhibiting typical hoof diseases and abnormalities. The hoof portion is carvable and indicates through color changes when the hoof portion has been carved too deeply. The hoof portion is also nailable and includes the ability to indicate when nails have been inserted too deeply. Horseshoe stock is provided along with tools for forming the stock into horseshoes fitted to the removable hoof portion. A support platform is provided to allow the upper end of the leg portion to be removably attached to a fixture, building or ground surface.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 20, 2007
    Publication date: October 23, 2008
    Inventors: Wesley Jon Champagne, Robert F. Champagne
  • Publication number: 20080257563
    Abstract: A method for shodding a horse with a variety of orthotic and prosthetic shoes is provided, which includes the use of a laser mounted on a vertically variable staging platform to measure the differences in length of a horse's legs. The laser-based measurements are then combined with observed hoof pitch dimensions in order to determine the height and angle of appropriate build-ups for a horseshoe, of which a mold is than made. A conventional horseshoe is placed in a shoe mold, and a polyurethane or other durable but initially pliable material is selectively poured so as to build up portions of the shoe. The build ups correct both the differences in leg length and variations and inconsistencies in the shape of the horse's hooves, thereby creating an appropriate orthotic or prosthetic shoe suitable for shodding.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 4, 2008
    Publication date: October 23, 2008
    Inventor: Brent E. Huskey
  • Publication number: 20080110645
    Abstract: A template and method for sizing horseshoes. The template includes a plate against which ground-contacting portion of a horse's hoof is placed. The plate has a plurality of adjustment members thereon. Each adjustment member is individually movable from a first position remote from a perimeter of said hoof, to a second position adjacent the perimeter. When the adjustment members are all in the second position, they are locked into position. The adjustment members define a region that is generally shaped to conform to the perimeter of the horse's hoof. The farrier works a horseshoe until the shoe is able to be received within the region defined by the adjustment members. The worked horseshoe may then be nailed to the horse's hoof.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 13, 2007
    Publication date: May 15, 2008
    Applicant: EAGLE'S EYE, LLC
    Inventor: Phillip Ross
  • Patent number: 7165623
    Abstract: A farrier's tool and a method of using the tool for preparing the hoof of a horse to receive a shoe. The tool is a symmetrical measuring device used for determining the position of the breakover point on a horse's hoof. After the position of the break-over point is determined, the portion of the hoofwall forward of the breakover point is beveled by means of a trimming tool to reduce leverage on the underlying coffin bone, particularly during locomotion. A horseshoe is then shaped to conform to the contour of the trimmed and beveled hoof and nailed to the hoof. The method provides means for accurately aligning the hoof capsule with the coffin bone in the hoof.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 12, 2006
    Date of Patent: January 23, 2007
    Inventor: Pete Healey
  • Patent number: 7013981
    Abstract: A trim guide used by farriers for the hooves of animals. The trim guide has a shank with a bend. At one end of the shank is positioned an anchor, ideally configured as an “X”. The anchor rests on the flexor tendons. A leveling bar is attached to the opposing end of said shank and forms a “T” with said shank. A leveling bulb is secured near or on the leveling bar allowing proper measurement on the level of the hoof to be easily determined.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 13, 2004
    Date of Patent: March 21, 2006
    Inventor: George Goode
  • Patent number: 6907670
    Abstract: A farrier's measurement instrument is disclosed to use in locating the preferred position for affixing a shoe to the bottom of a horse's hoof. The invention is comprised of a base of a rectilinear shape with a lower surface, a flange disposed orthogonally to the base at one end of the base, such that a long edge of the flange is aligned with the lower surface of the base, a slot disposed centrally and longitudinally within the base, wherein the slot extends to the edge of the base opposite the flange, a sliding rule which can slide longitudinally within the slot and has a lower surface coplanar with the lower surface of the base forming a planar lower surface of the farrier's measurement instrument, and a first and a second measurement scales disposed on the lower surface of the farrier's measurement instrument. The increment of the graduations of the second measurement scale is either directly or inversely three times proportional to those of the first measurement scale.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 19, 2004
    Date of Patent: June 21, 2005
    Inventor: Gail A. Teed
  • Publication number: 20040244995
    Abstract: A trim guide used by farriers for the hooves of animals. The trim guide has a shank with a bend. At one end of the shank is positioned an anchor, ideally configured as an “X”. The anchor rests on the flexor tendons. A leveling bar is attached to the opposing end of said shank and forms a “T” with said shank. A leveling bulb is secured near or on the leveling bar allowing proper measurement on the level of the hoof to be easily determined.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 13, 2004
    Publication date: December 9, 2004
    Inventor: George Goode
  • Patent number: 6591917
    Abstract: A tool for removing retaining clips from a surface, and particularly from a horseshoe attached to an animal's hoof, that includes a first plier lever, a second plier lever, a pivot point at which the first and second plier levers are rotatably fastened, an upper jaw portion on the first plier lever where the upper jaw is a wedge, and a lower jaw portion on the second plier lever where the lower jaw has a face that contacts the wedge when the first and second plier levers are pivoted closed, thereby providing support for the surface from which the fastener is being removed. Also included are a method of removing retaining clips, particularly from a horseshoe attached to an animal's hoof.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 18, 2002
    Date of Patent: July 15, 2003
    Inventors: David E. Clough, David W. Vos
  • Patent number: 6530434
    Abstract: An improved hammer for attaching a horseshoe to a hoof of a horse and having a head member at one end for driving a horsenail through the shoe and a portion of the horse's hoof and a uniquely shaped claw member at the opposite end which incorporates an essentially rectangularly shaped hiatus for wringing and severing the projecting end of a horsenail at the outer periphery of the horse's hoof and displacing the severed portion of the horsenail from the uniquely shaped hammer claw incorporating the rectangular shaped hiatus.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 5, 2001
    Date of Patent: March 11, 2003
    Inventor: Roger H. Grant
  • Patent number: 6505686
    Abstract: A hoof shoe formed in situ and a method for building a hoof shoe, such as a horseshoe, of an intended shape in situ are disclosed, including cleaning the surface of the shoe area of horse hoof of debris, extruding onto the cleaned hoof surface from a common mix tip communicating with separate reactive resin precursors in first and second chambers a flowable horseshoe preform comprising an intimate curable mixture of reactive resin precursors at a profile depth and width generally conforming to the intended horseshoe shape, adhering the mixture to said shoe area surface, rapidly curing the mixture to a non-flowable mass by reaction of said resin precursors, and locally shaping the horseshoe mass to modify its extruded profile to a final intended horseshoe shape on the surface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 31, 2001
    Date of Patent: January 14, 2003
    Assignee: Vettec, Inc.
    Inventor: Frank Rovelli
  • Patent number: 6502642
    Abstract: A diagnostic tool for use in trimming and shoeing a hoof includes a substantially planar base having a top surface and a bottom surface. A heel member is coupled to the base. At least one radio-opaque marker is rigidly coupled to said top surface of said base. In use, a hoof is positioned on the base, with the hoof resting on the top surface and a heel portion of the hoof placed against the heel member. A side view radiographic image of the hoof positioned on the base is made, with the at least one radio-opaque marker being visible therein. Accurate hoof measurements and location determinations may then be obtained, with reference to the at least one radio-opaque marker in the radiographic image.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 10, 2001
    Date of Patent: January 7, 2003
    Inventor: Gaylord L. Ahrens
  • Publication number: 20020174993
    Abstract: A hoof shoe formed in situ and a method for building a hoof shoe, such as a horseshoe, of an intended shape in situ are disclosed, including cleaning the surface of the shoe area of horse hoof of debris, extruding onto the cleaned hoof surface from a common mix tip communicating with separate reactive resin precursors in first and second chambers a flowable horseshoe preform comprising an intimate curable mixture of reactive resin precursors at a profile depth and width generally conforming to the intended horseshoe shape, adhering the mixture to said shoe area surface, rapidly curing the mixture to a non-flowable mass by reaction of said resin precursors, and locally shaping the horseshoe mass to modify its extruded profile to a final intended horseshoe shape on the surface.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 31, 2001
    Publication date: November 28, 2002
    Applicant: Vettec, Inc.
    Inventor: Frank Rovelli
  • Publication number: 20020170722
    Abstract: A hoof shoe formed in situ and a method for building a hoof shoe, such as a horseshoe, of an intended shape in situ are disclosed, including cleaning the surface of the shoe area of the horse hoof of debris, depositing a malleable mass of resin onto the cleaned hoof surface, supporting the resin mass until no longer malleable and shaped into an intended horseshoe shape.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 31, 2001
    Publication date: November 21, 2002
    Applicant: Vettec, Inc.
    Inventor: Frank Rovelli
  • Publication number: 20020144823
    Abstract: A diagnostic tool for use in trimming and shoeing a hoof includes a substantially planar base having a top surface and a bottom surface. A heel member is coupled to the base. At least one radio-opaque marker is rigidly coupled to said top surface of said base. In use, a hoof is positioned on the base, with the hoof resting on the top surface and a heel portion of the hoof placed against the heel member. A side view radiographic image of the hoof positioned on the base is made, with the at least one radio-opaque marker being visible therein. Accurate hoof measurements and location determinations may then be obtained, with reference to the at least one radio-opaque marker in the radiographic image.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 10, 2001
    Publication date: October 10, 2002
    Inventor: Gaylord L. Ahrens
  • Publication number: 20020117310
    Abstract: A tool for removing retaining clips from a surface, and particularly from a horseshoe attached to an animal's hoof, that includes a first plier lever, a second plier lever, a pivot point at which the first and second plier levers are rotatably fastened, an upper jaw portion on the first plier lever where the upper jaw is a wedge, and a lower jaw portion on the second plier lever where the lower jaw has a face that contacts the wedge when the first and second plier levers are pivoted closed, thereby providing support for the surface from which the fastener is being removed. Also included are a method of removing retaining clips, particularly from a horseshoe attached to an animal's hoof.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 18, 2002
    Publication date: August 29, 2002
    Inventors: David E. Clough, David W. Vos
  • Patent number: 6360824
    Abstract: A farrier's sighting instrument is designed as a portable, lightweight tool, easily carried by a farrier. It comprises a flat, transparent plate of a rectangular configuration, and sized to overlie the foot of a horse. The plate has a plurality of parallel indicia line sets on it, with the line sets arranged perpendicular to one edge of the plate. The lines in the line sets are spaced from one another by a uniform distance. A stop plate is attached to the one edge, and extends above the top surface of the flat transparent plate, with the stop plate located in a plane perpendicular to the plane of the parallel indicia lines.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 10, 2000
    Date of Patent: March 26, 2002
    Inventor: Robert Singley
  • Patent number: 5816327
    Abstract: A tool for unclinching nails from horseshoes, securing said horseshoe from horse's hoof. It is comprised of a top handle with a chisel-like end, generally having a chisel on the end of a lever, a bottom handle comprised of a raised quarter circle, bow down, pivot slot and a flat hook which curls up and attaches to said horseshoe. The top handle slides the chisel end under the clinched nail and lifts it up to a straight position allowing easy removal of the horseshoe.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 7, 1997
    Date of Patent: October 6, 1998
    Inventor: Patrick E. Howey
  • Patent number: 5636696
    Abstract: A hoof sensitivity testing device, in which an L-shaped member, having a handle and a slide, is positioned so that the slide passes through a hole in a pivoting arm, having a handle and a jaw. The pivoting arm rotationally moves around a pivot pin, located on the L-shaped member and pivoting arm. A second jaw is positioned on the slide, which allows the second jaw to move laterally in relation to the first jaw, so that the mouth portion, defined by the jaws, can grip a wide range of objects. The adjustable positioning of the jaws allow them to apply force along a shared axial line to various portions of the bottom of an animal hoof, to test for sensitivity to pressure in the hoof.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 18, 1995
    Date of Patent: June 10, 1997
    Inventor: Paul Ryding
  • Patent number: 5095995
    Abstract: A shaping tool has first and second handles pivotally joined at jaws on the handles. Bending blocks are eccentrically and releasably fixed to the jaws of the handles. The bending blocks may be rotated to adjust spacing. A bracing block and a center block may also be fixed onto the jaws to provide additional versatility.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 5, 1990
    Date of Patent: March 17, 1992
    Inventor: Leslie M. Emery
  • Patent number: 4916288
    Abstract: The tool is electrically heated and has a flat working surface, essentially horseshoe shaped. The working surface is heated to between 500.degree. F. and 900.degree. F. and pressed for from 3 to 10 seconds against the ground contact surface of a horse's hoof prepared for shoeing. The contact sears the insensitive part of the hoof, the horn, to dry out the horn, seal off the capillary tubes in the tubular of the hoof and flatten any irregularities left on the surface during the preparation for shoeing. This treatment reduces the potential for hoof damage caused by moisture. The working surface is on the horseshoe shaped part which encloses an electrical heating element. The heating element is attached to a handle for the tool. In the steady state heated condition the heat radiated by the tool equals the heat produced by the heating element and no thermostatic temperature control is required.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 26, 1989
    Date of Patent: April 10, 1990
    Inventor: Ralph F. Redden
  • Patent number: 4830246
    Abstract: A bracelet-like device adapted to be worn on a Farrier's wrist is provided for holding a multitude of horse shoe nails in an orderly array. The device utilizes arcuately shaped forward and rearward aligned members which secure the nails by frictional means. The nails are disposed in parallel juxtaposition with their heads forwardly directed, and pointed extremities rearwardly directed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 11, 1988
    Date of Patent: May 16, 1989
    Inventor: Michael K. Ryan
  • Patent number: 4696346
    Abstract: A multi-functional adjustable hand tool useful in attaching shoes to the hooves of horses is comprised of two lever members pivotably interengaged in the general manner of pliers and having opposed fixed and adjustable jaws. The adjustable jaw is capable of being disposed in several positions relative to the fixed jaw to provide the various jaw separations of clinching tools used by farriers. A nail cutter associated with the jaws provides even further versatility of the tool, causing it to be a replacement for several standard farrier's tools.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 2, 1986
    Date of Patent: September 29, 1987
    Inventor: Michael K. Ryan
  • Patent number: 4429749
    Abstract: A farrier's equine hoof-sizer characterized by its adaptation to an equine's individual hooves for purposes of sizing in shoeing. The sizer is extensible to a straight line for portability. It is lightweight, durable and of such construction that in the sizing of hooves of various lateral configuration, the measurement may be sustained in semi-rigidity for comparative guidance in the farrier's shaping of the shoe. It is adaptable to either cold or hot shoeing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 30, 1982
    Date of Patent: February 7, 1984
    Assignee: Allfarr Enterprises, Inc.
    Inventor: Robert L. Nelms
  • Patent number: 4367798
    Abstract: A combination tool for manually picking, scraping, brushing, and in general cleaning a horse's hoof. The tool includes a replacable brush threadably fastening at one end and a body having an integrally formed handle for effective and comfortable manipulation of the tool, the tool including a scraper and pick disposed at the opposite end.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 18, 1981
    Date of Patent: January 11, 1983
    Inventor: Linda M. Sabol
  • Patent number: 4214370
    Abstract: The hoof alignment apparatus for measuring the size and determining the shape of a horse's hoof. The apparatus comprises a pair of pivotal arms which may be closed around the outer hoof wall whereby longitudinal and circumferential measurements may be made of the hoof. The apparatus includes a straightedge member for determining the hoof length at various positions around the hoof and for measuring the angle of the wall with respect to the base of the hoof.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 7, 1978
    Date of Patent: July 29, 1980
    Inventor: Bud A. Beaston