AU2017225091B2

AU2017225091B2 - Apparatus for feeding livestock

Info

Publication number: AU2017225091B2
Application number: AU2017225091A
Authority: AU
Inventors: Phillip D. Wallace
Original assignee: Raxel Pty Ltd
Current assignee: Raxel Pty Ltd
Priority date: 2016-09-09
Filing date: 2017-09-07
Publication date: 2023-08-17
Anticipated expiration: 2037-09-07
Also published as: AU2023210545A1; AU2017225091A1

Abstract

Disclosed is an apparatus comprising a hopper 102, which has opposing side walls 104, and opposing end walls 106 that extend between the side walls 104, and which are connected to the side walls 104 by way of a releasable fastening 5 arrangement. A lower opening 114 of the hopper 102 allows feed to be dispensed from the cavity 108 and onto a tray 116 that is suspended below the lower opening 114. In this way, the tray 116 supports the feed and livestock (such as sheep, cows, horses, etc.) are able to access the feed to consume it. 10 Figure 1A 9466804_1 (GHMatters) P104000.AU.1 CN CN CN co CN C) CN C) co CN (D CN LL C) CN co (D co CN (D LO LO (Y) (Y) C:) C) (Y) 0') CN C) LO C) C) C) co CN (D CY) CY) co CN 0 CY) CN co co C) (D 00 C) (D LL co CN 0') CN C) co LO CN CN C) C) (D 0') LO co co I- 0')

Description

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APPARATUS FOR FEEDING LIVESTOCK TECHNICAL FIELD

This disclosure relates to an apparatus for feeding livestock such as cows, sheep, horses, etc.

BACKGROUND ART

Livestock feeders are used to feed animals such as cows, sheep, horses, etc. Such feeders may be used e.g. where, due to various circumstances, sufficient food is not available to the livestock through grazing alone. Similarly, feeders may also be used to supplement the diet of the livestock (e.g. with minerals that may not be acquired through grazing).

One type of feeder is formed of welded steel bars to form a cage for receipt of feed (e.g. hay). Such feeders provide minimal weather protection. Such feeders can also be bulky, which can make transportation of such feeders expensive and/or difficult.

Another type of feeder is a 'lick feeder'. This feeder requires e.g. sheep to access feed that is contained in holes by using their tongue. In particular, feed sticks to saliva on the tongue which allows the sheep to remove the feed and consume it. After a quantity of feed has been consumed, the sheep's tongue becomes dry and the sheep is unable to continue consuming the feed. In this way, the amount of feed consumed by the sheep can be limited. Such feeders are particularly suited to (and were designed for) grain, but are not suitable for use with hay, or hay/grain mixtures.

It is to be understood that, if any prior art is referred to herein, such reference does not constitute an admission that the prior art forms a part of the common general knowledge in the art, in Australia or any other country.

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20088337_1(G HMattes) P104000.AU.1

SUMMARY

In a first aspect there is disclosed an apparatus for providing feed to livestock. The apparatus comprises a hopper and a tray. The hopper comprises walls releasably connected to one another so as to define a cavity for receipt of the feed, and a lower opening for dispensing feed from the cavity. At least one wall is sloped inwardly from an in use lower portion of the hopper to an in use upper portion of the hopper. The tray is disposed at the lower opening to support feed thereon for access by the livestock.

The provision of releasable connections between the walls may allow the hopper (and the apparatus) in a disassembled configuration. In this way, the apparatus may be packaged and transported in a "flat pack" arrangement. This may simplify transportation and may reduce transportation costs. Further, the use of releasable connections may avoid the need for weld spots, which can otherwise result in regions that are susceptible to rust.

In one embodiment the hopper may comprise opposing spaced side walls releasably connected to opposing spaced end walls. The cavity defined by the walls may have a generally rectangular profile.

In one embodiment the opposing side walls may be sloped inwardly towards one another from an in use lower portion of the hopper to an in use upper portion of the hopper. Having one or more walls sloped in this manner may reduce bridging or blockages of feed (e.g. hay) within the cavity.

In one embodiment the walls may be releasably connected by way of a plurality of fastening arrangements. For example, the walls may be releasably connected by a plurality of bolts and corresponding nuts. This may allow the walls to be assembled and/or disassembled without specialist equipment or skills.

In one embodiment the apparatus may further comprise elongate support members secured to the hopper at the connections between the end walls and the side walls. The support members may provide support to the walls and may provide rigidity

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20088337_1 (GHMatters) P104000.AU.1 and strength to the hopper. This may reduce the necessity for welded connections, and may also avoid the need for bracing within the cavity of the hopper.

In one embodiment the support members may releasably connect the end walls to the side walls.

In one embodiment each support member may be in the form of a U-shaped channel section comprising a web extending between two spaced parallel flanges. The use of a channel section may be cost-effective, because such sections may be readily available.

In one embodiment the web of each support member may be fastened to a respective end wall, and a flange of each support member may be fastened to a respective side wall.

In one embodiment each support member may extend beyond an in use lower end of the hopper to support the hopper above the ground in use. In this way, the support members may act as legs for the apparatus.

In one embodiment the apparatus may comprise one or more foot members releasably attached to the support members. The releasable mounting of the foot members may allow the foot members to be replaced with replacement foot members. Such replacement foot members may be different from those originally attached to the support members and may, in particular, result in the hopper being supported a greater or lesser distance from the ground. In this way, the replacement of foot members may be used to adjust the height of the apparatus (so as to make it suitable for different types of livestock).

In one embodiment the tray may be suspended from the hopper by way of a mounting assembly. The mounting assembly may be configured to allow the tray to move relative to the hopper.

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20088337_1(G HMatters) P104000.AU.1

In one embodiment the mounting assembly may comprise one or more flexible mounting elements connected between the tray and the hopper to allow the tray to swing in a pendular motion.

In one embodiment the apparatus may comprise two mounting assemblies, each mounting a respective opposing end of the tray to the hopper.

In one embodiment the mounting assembly may be configured to allow adjustment of the distance of the tray from the lower opening of the hopper. This distance may be adjusted, for example, to suit different types of feed (e.g. grain may require a smaller distance than hay).

In one embodiment the tray may be releasably mounted to the hopper. This may allow simple replacement of the tray with another tray.

In one embodiment the cavity of the hopper may be substantially free of obstructions, providing substantially obstruction-free passage of feed from an upper end of the hopper to the lower opening.

In one embodiment the apparatus may further comprise a shelter hingedly mounted to a side wall of the hopper to shelter feed supported on the tray. The shelter may be hingable between a closed position and an open position. In the closed position the shelter may extend generally parallel to the side wall. In the open position the shelter may extend generally perpendicular to the side wall.

The ability to hinge the shelter into the closed position may allow the side wall/shelter assembly to for a relatively flat package. This may facilitate transportation of the apparatus.

In one embodiment the shelter may be able to support a person when in the open position. This may allow a person to view or access the cavity through the upper opening.

In one embodiment the apparatus may further comprise a lid for covering an upper opening of the hopper. The lid may be hingedly mounted to a wall of the

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20088337_1 (GHMatters) P10400.AU.1 hopper. The lid may protect the feed from the weather. Hinging of the lid rather than e.g. sliding may make it easier to access the entire area of the upper opening. That is, it may be easier for a user to hinge the lid open to provide access across the entire opening, that it would be to slide the lid off the hopper.

In one embodiment the lid may comprise a lever engagement means for engaging a lid-operating lever. The lever engagement means may comprise a projection, and the lid-operating lever may comprise a corresponding recess for receipt of the projection in use.

In one embodiment at least a portion of each end wall proximate the lower opening may be sloped inwardly towards the lower opening of the hopper. This may funnel the feed onto the tray as it is dispensed through the lower opening of the hopper.

In a second aspect there is disclosed an apparatus for providing feed to livestock. The apparatus comprises a hopper, a tray and one or more leg assemblies supporting the hopper above the ground in use. The hopper comprises walls defining a cavity for receipt of the feed, and a lower opening for dispensing feed from the cavity. The tray is disposed at the opening to support feed thereon for access by the livestock. Each leg assembly is adjustable in length so as to allow adjustment of the distance between the hopper and the ground in use.

As set above, adjustment of the length of the legs may allow the apparatus to be used with different types of livestock.

In one embodiment each leg assembly may comprise a removable foot member. Replacement of the foot member with a replacement foot member may provide the adjustment of the length of the leg.

The apparatus of the second aspect may be as otherwise described with respect to the first aspect.

In a third aspect there is disclosed an apparatus for providing feed to livestock. The apparatus comprises, a hopper, a tray and a lid. The hopper comprises walls 5

20088337_1 (GHMatters) P10400.AU.1 defining a cavity for receipt of the feed, an upper opening for receipt of feed into the cavity, and a lower opening for dispensing feed from the cavity. The tray is disposed at the opening to support feed thereon for access by the livestock. The lid hingedly mounted to the hopper at the upper opening, and is hingable between a closed position and an open position. In the closed position, the lid covers the upper opening. In the open position, the lid allows access to the cavity through the upper opening.

The apparatus of the third aspect may be as otherwise described with respect to the first aspect.

In a fourth aspect there is disclosed an apparatus for providing feed to livestock. The apparatus comprises a hopper, a tray, and a shelter. The hopper comprises walls defining a cavity for receipt of the feed, and a lower opening for dispensing feed from the cavity. The tray is disposed at the opening to support feed thereon for access by the livestock. The shelter is hingedly mounted to a wall of the hopper, and is hingeable between an open position and a closed position. In the open position the shelter extends generally perpendicular to the wall of the hopper to shelter feed supported on the tray. In the closed position, the shelter extends generally parallel to the sidewall of the hopper.

The apparatus of the fourth aspect may be as otherwise described with respect to the first aspect.

The apparatuses of the first, second, third and fourth aspects may be provided in a disassembled configuration.

In a fifth aspect there is disclosed a kit of parts for assembling an apparatus for providing feed to livestock. The kit comprises a plurality of walls and a tray. Each wall comprises one or more mounting regions for releasably connecting the walls to one another such that, when connected, the walls form a hopper defining a cavity for receipt of the feed and a lower opening for dispensing feed from the cavity. The tray is configured to be mounted to the hopper at the lower opening to support feed thereon. 6

20088337_1 (GHMatters) P10400.AU.1

In one embodiment the kit of parts may further comprise a mounting assembly for mounting the tray to the hopper at the lower opening.

In a sixth aspect there is disclosed a kit of parts configured to be assembled to form the apparatus as described above with respect to the first, second, third or fourth aspects.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

Embodiments will now be described by way of example only, with reference to the accompanying drawings in which

Figure 1A is a perspective view of an apparatus for providing feed to livestock;

Figure 1B is a detailed sectioned view of an intersection of a side wall and an end wall of the apparatus;

Figure 1C is a perspective section view of the apparatus;

Figure 1D is an end view of the apparatus;

Figures 2A and 2B are top and bottom perspective views of a tray of an apparatus for providing feed to livestock;

Figures 3A and 3B are top and bottom perspective views of a shelter of an apparatus for providing feed to livestock; and

Figures 4A and 4B are top and bottom perspective views of a lid of an apparatus for providing feed to livestock.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

In the following detailed description, reference is made to accompanying drawings which form a part of the detailed description. The illustrative embodiments described in the detailed description, depicted in the drawings and

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20088337_1 (GHMatters) P10400.AU.1 defined in the claims, are not intended to be limiting. Other embodiments may be utilised and other changes may be made without departing from the spirit or scope of the subject matter presented. It will be readily understood that the aspects of the present disclosure, as generally described herein and illustrated in the drawings can be arranged, substituted, combined, separated and designed in a wide variety of different configurations, all of which are contemplated in this disclosure.

Referring firstly to figures 1A, 1B, IC andID, the apparatus 100 comprises, among other features, a hopper 102, which has opposing side walls 104, and opposing end walls 106 that extend between the side walls 104, and which are connected to the side walls 104 by way of a releasable fastening arrangement. This arrangement is shown in detail in figure 1B and will be described further below with reference to this figure.

The side walls 104 define a cavity 108 having a generally rectangular profile that, in use, provides a space for the storage of feed. The feed is generally supplied to the cavity 108 through an upper opening 110 in the hopper 102, which is covered by a lid 112. A lower opening 114 of the hopper 102 (at an opposite end of the hopper 102 to the upper opening 110) allows feed to be dispensed from the cavity 108 and onto a tray 116 that is suspended below the lower opening 114. In this way, the tray 116 supports the feed, and livestock (such as sheep, cows, horses, etc.) are able to access the feed to consume it. The apparatus may be particularly suited for dispensing feed in the form of, for example, hay, or a hay/grain mixture.

Both the side walls 104 and the end walls 106 are formed of sheet metal parts, which may be e.g. laser cut (along with other sheet metal components of the apparatus 100). The side walls 104 are generally planar and rectangular and define longitudinal sides of the hopper 102. The end walls 106 each have a generally trapezoidal shape. That is, each end wall 106 comprises an upper edge that is smaller than a lower edge, and angled side edges that extend between the upper and lower edge. As a result, the side walls 104, which are connected at the

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20088337_1 (GHMatters) P10400.AU.1 side edges of the end walls 106, are sloped inwardly (i.e. towards one another) in the direction of an in use upper end of the hopper 100.

This arrangement results in a cavity 108 (defined within the side walls 104 and end walls 106) that narrows towards its upper end. That is, it generally has a smaller cross-section at its upper end than its lower end. In use, this shape may prevent or reduce bridging or blockages of feed within the cavity 108 (i.e. where feed becomes "stuck" within the cavity 108 and does not fall through the lower opening).

As set forth above, the side walls 104 and end walls 106 are connected at their edges. This connection is by way of four support members 118 extending along these four intersections. One of these connections is shown in more detail in Figure lB. As is apparent from this figure, each support member 118 is in the form of U-shaped channel section comprising a web 120 extending between two parallel flanges 122. The orientation of each support member 118 is such that its respective web 120 lies flat against an outer surface of a respective end wall 106 and the flanges 122 extend outwardly and generally perpendicularly from the end wall 106. The side edges of the side walls 104 extend a small distance beyond the respective connected end walls 106 and one flange 122 of each of the support members 118 abuts this portion of a respective side wall 104. In this way the end wall 106 and side wall 104 form an 'internal' corner (i.e. that is external to the hopper 102) that the support member 118 closely fits within.

The web 120 of each support member 118 is permanently secured to the respective end wall 106 by way of a plurality of blind rivets 124. The use of blind rivets 124 allows the support members 118 to be secured to the end wall 106 when only one side of the assembly is accessible. One flange 122 of each support member 118 (i.e. the flange 122 that abuts the respective side wall 104 is releasably secured to the respective side wall 104 by way of a plurality of bolts 126 and corresponding nuts 128. In this way, the support members 118 may be secured to the end walls 106 at the point of manufacture (e.g. a factory), and then

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20088337_1 (GHMatters) P10400.AU.1 this end wall 106/support member 118 assembly can be secured to the side walls 104 on site. Due to the relatively planar nature of these components, this means that the end walls 106 and side walls 104 may be transported as a relatively compact (e.g. flat pack) package. When multiple apparatuses 100 require transportation, this can provide significant cost benefits.

The releasable nature of the side wall 104/end wall 106 connection also means that when a component (e.g. a side wall 104) becomes worn or damaged, it can be replaced easily, which may extend the overall life of the apparatus 100. Further, the use of fasteners rather than welds generally eliminates the need for spot painting welds, which can often result in regions that are susceptible to rust.

The use of support members 118 at the intersections of the end walls 106 and side walls 104 also provides some rigidity and/or stiffness to the hopper 102. This, in combination with various other aspects of the apparatus 100, means that the cavity 108 of the hopper 102 can remain generally free of obstructions (e.g. in the form of transverse bracing). Like the sloped side walls 104, this helps to prevent bridging of feed or blockages within the hopper 102.

The support members 118 are longer than the end walls 106 and side walls 104, such that their distal ends extend beyond a lower end (i.e. at the lower opening 114) of the hopper 102. In this way the hopper 102 is supported above the ground by the support members 118.

As is apparent from the figures, and the above description, each end wall 106 is secured to a pair of respective support members 118. The apparatus 100 further comprises two elongate foot members 130 that are generally parallel to the end walls 106 and extend across the distal ends of a corresponding pair of support members 118. Each foot member 130 is in the form of a U-shaped channel section having a web 132 extending between parallel flanges 134. This channel section is oriented so that the "U" is upside down - that is, the web 132 is generally horizontal in use and supported above a ground surface by the flanges 134. The use of channel sections for both the support members 118 and the foot

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20088337_1 (GHMatters) P10400.AU.1 members 130 may be cost effective, because such sections are commonly available at relatively low cost.

Each foot member 130 is mounted to the two respective support members 118 by releasable mounting arrangements that each comprise a pair of mounting lugs 136. The mounting lugs 136 project from the web 132 of the foot member 130 and are spaced from one another so as to be configured to receive the distal end of a corresponding support member 118 therebetween. Holes are formed in the flanges 122 of the support member 118 and the mounting lugs 136, and when mounted in this way the holes align and bolts can be received therethrough to secure the foot members 130 to the support members 118. Hence, the foot members 130 are releasable or detachable from the support members 118 and do not require e.g. welding equipment for attachment. In this way, the foot members 130 may be supplied in a detached state, which can reduce the overall packaged dimensions of the apparatus 100 e.g. for delivery.

Further, the releasable nature of the foot members 130 means that they can be replaced by alternate replacement foot members if required. Such replacement foot members may comprise an extension portion that extends the height of the foot member such that, when mounted to the apparatus 100, they increase the distance of the hopper 102 from the ground. In this way, the height of the hopper 102 (and the tray 116) above the ground may be adjustable. For example, a particular height may be chosen depending on the type of livestock that is being fed using the apparatus 100 (i.e. a cow may require a higher tray 116/hopper 102 than a sheep).

Other than providing height adjustment, the foot members 130 provide the apparatus 100 with stability by effectively increasing the width of the base of the apparatus 100. They also provide further rigidity to the structure of the apparatus 100 (i.e. by providing a rigid connection between the distal ends of the support members 118). This rigidity is further increased by frame members 138 (also in

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20088337_1(G HMatters) P104000.AU.1 the form of U-shaped channel sections) that extend horizontally between each pair of support members 118 at the end walls 106.

As discussed above, the side walls 104 of the hopper 102 generally slope inwardly towards the upper end (at the upper opening 110) of the hopper 102. The end walls 106 also have a sloped portion 140. For the most part the end walls 106 are generally vertical - however, a lower portion of each end wall 106 (i.e. proximate the lower opening) slopes inwardly towards the lower opening 114 to define the sloped portion 140. This funnels the feed onto the tray 116 and helps to prevent feed from spilling over the sides of the tray 116.

The tray 116 is suspended from the hopper 102 so as to be disposed beneath the lower opening 114 of the hopper 102. The tray 116 is shown alone in Figures 2A and 2B. As is apparent from these figures, a base 142 of the tray 116 supports feed as it is received from the hopper 102, and opposing longitudinal (sloped) side walls 144 and opposing end walls 146 contain the feed on the tray 116. The base 142 is supported by two beams 148 (in the form of rectangular hollow sections) that extend longitudinally between the end walls 146 and along a bottom surface of the base 142. As well as ensuring the tray 116 is able to support the load of the feed, the beams 148 provide an engagement surface for a lifting device (e.g. forklift) that may be used to lift and handle/manoeuvre the apparatus 100. When the apparatus 100 is lifted, the beams 148 provide the necessary transfer of load to reduce or prevent bending or buckling of the tray 116.

Further support is provided by a rail 150 that extends around an upper periphery of the tray 116. At each end of the tray 116, the rail 150 extends beyond the end walls 146 so as to extend around the support members 118 (i.e. the support members 118 extend through a gap that is defined between the rail 150 and the end walls 146 of the tray 116). The rail 150 also extends around a guard panel 152 that is mounted across the support members 118 so as to prevent access to the tray 116 via the ends of the tray 116.

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20088337_1 (GHMatters) P10400.AU.1

The base 142 and walls 144, 146 of the tray are formed from sheet metal. The rail 150 is formed from four parts: two circular hollow sections that form side portions 154 and extend along (and are welded to) top edges of the side walls 144 of the tray, and two further circular hollow sections that form end portions 156 and are bent into a U-shape. The diameters of the end portions 156 are such that they the ends of these portions 156 can be inserted into the hollow centres of the side portions 154 to form the assembled rail 150.

Each end portion 156 of the rail 150 comprises two coupling plates 158 that project upwardly. Each pair of coupling plates 158 forms part of a flexible mounting assembly 160 that suspends the tray 116 from the hopper 102. Each mounting assembly 160 includes (from top to bottom) a lug plate 162 secured to the hopper 102, a ratchet mechanism 164 connected to the lug plate 162, and two arms 166 that extend at an angle (e.g. approximately 45) from the ratchet mechanism 164 towards respective coupling plates 158. Flexible elements, in the form of chains 168, are connected between the arms 166 and the coupling plates 158 to suspend the tray 116. To provide this connection, each coupling plate 158 comprises a plurality of holes for the chain 168 to e.g. hook into. The provision of multiple holes means that the positioning of the chains 168 can be adjusted to modify balance and movement (e.g. swing) of the tray 116 in use. For example, the chains 168 may be adjusted such that movement allows the livestock to feed, but does not cause misalignment or tilting of the tray 116 due to contact with livestock.

Like many other components of the apparatus 100, the connections between the components of the mounting assemblies 160 are provided by nut and bolt arrangements so that these components can be assembled (and/or disassembled) on site without the need for specialist skills or equipment (e.g. welding skills or equipment).

The ratchet mechanism 164 allows the height of the tray 116, relative to the hopper 102, to be adjusted. In particular, this enables adjustment of the distance

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20088337_1 (GHMatters) P10400.AU.1 between the tray 116 and the lower opening 114 of the hopper 102. Adjustment of this distance may alter the quantity of feed that is dispensed onto (and that is supported by) the tray 116 that, in turn, may affect the quantity of feed that is accessible and available for immediate consumption by the livestock. The adjustment of the tray 116 may also facilitate cleaning and maintenance (e.g. dislodging blockages) of the apparatus 100 without needing to completely remove the tray 116.

The chains 168 connected between the arms 166 and the coupling plates 158 mean that the tray 116 is free to move (i.e. swing) relative to the hopper 102. In particular, the angled nature of the chains 168 (i.e. that they connect up to a central point) means that the tray 116 is moveable in a pendular motion. In use, as livestock access feed in the tray 116, the tray 116 is caused to swing (i.e. due to contact with the livestock) which promotes flow of feed onto the tray 116. In other words, movement of the tray facilitates replenishment of the feed as it is consumed by the livestock.

The arrangement of the chains 168 (i.e. that they connect diagonally from a generally central region to an outer region of each side wall 144 of the tray 116) also provides the tray 116 with more stability that, for example, an arrangement whereby chains are connect between the tray and a point vertically above the corner (e.g. four substantially vertical chains at the corners). The presently illustrated arrangement may especially provide stability of movement of the tray 116 in the lateral direction (i.e. in the direction of the longitudinal axis of the tray 116).

The apparatus 100 further comprises two fold-out shelters 170 (i.e. awnings or verandas). One of these shelters 170 is illustrated in more detail in figures 3A and 3B. These shelters 170 provide some protection to livestock feeding from the tray 116, but their primary function is to shelter 170 the feed from sun, rain, snow, etc. Each shelter 170 is mounted to a respective side wall 104 of the hopper 102 by way of four hinge mechanisms 172 and extends for the length of the side wall

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20088337_1 (GHMatters) P10400.AU.1

104. The hinge mechanisms 172 enable the shelter 170 to be hinged (i.e. pivoted) between an open position and a closed position. In the open position, which is shown in the figures, the shelters 170 are pivoted downwards so as to extend outwardly from the side walls 104 so as to be generally perpendicular to the side walls 104. The hinges 172 are such that they support the shelters 170 in this position. When in the closed position, the shelters 170 are pivoted upwards so as to lie generally flat against their respective side walls 104 (i.e. so as to be parallel with the side walls 104). This configuration is not shown in the figures. The closed position allows the overall size (i.e. envelope) of the apparatus 100 to be reduced. The shelters 170 may optionally be lockable in the open and/or closed positions. This may be beneficial for moving or transporting the apparatus 100 when in an assembled state. It may also allow the shelters 170 to be mounted to the side walls 104 during manufacture (i.e. at the factory) and then transported in a flattened state (i.e. to minimise package size). Alternatively, the shelters 170 can be transported in an unassembled state, because the hinges 172 are secured to the sidewalls 104 by a plurality of (releasable) nuts and bolts.

The shelters 170 each comprise a frame 174 formed of rectangular hollow steel and a sheet metal panel 176 secured to an in use upper side of the frame 174. The sheet metal panel 176 comprises longitudinally extending ridges 178 to provide rigidity to the shelter 170, and a distal edge of the panel wraps around the frame 174 so that the (potentially sharp) distal edge is not exposed in general use. The ridges 178 mean that the shelter 170 possesses sufficient strength to support a user standing thereon (i.e. when 'locked' in the open position). This may enable a user to step up onto the shelter 170 to inspect the cavity of the hopper 102 via the upper opening 110.

Each shelter 170 is located a small distance above the lower edge of its respective side wall 104. This lower edge of each wall comprises an edge protector 180 in the form of a sheet metal strip that wraps around the edge and forms a ridge at the edge. Because this each edge protector 180 wraps around the edge of the side wall, it protects the livestock from being injured by contact with the potentially

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20088337_1 (GHMatters) P10400.AU.1 sharp lower edge of the side wall. The ridges of the edge protectors 180 also provide further strength to the side walls. This additional strength may, again, reduce the need for welding of the components to one another. The edge protectors 180 also provide a suitable contact surface for the tray 116 during lifting of the apparatus 100. That is, when e.g. a forklift is used to lift the apparatus 100, the forklift engages an underside of the tray 116 and lifts the tray 116 until an upper surface of the base 142 of the tray 116 contacts the edge protectors 180. The edge protectors 180 ensure that this contact does not result in buckling of the side walls 104 of the hopper 102 and also guide the tray 116 into a stable position.

The feed is also protected from the weather by the lid 112, which covers the upper opening 110 of the hopper 102. The lid 112 is depicted alone in Figures 4A and 4B, and is connected to an upper edge of a sidewall 104 of the hopper 102 by three evenly spaced hinge mechanisms such that it can be hinged (i.e. pivoted) between an open position and a closed position. In the closed position the lid 112 protects the feed, whilst in the open position the lid 112 extends generally vertically such that the cavity 108 of the hopper 102 can be accessed.

In order to fill the hopper 102 with feed, the lid 112 is opened and feed is dispensed into the cavity 108 via the upper opening 110. Because the lid 112 is generally vertical in the open position, it can be used as a 'backboard' for directing feed into the cavity 108. That is, feed directed at the lid 112 will be redirected into the cavity 108 by an inner surface of the lid 112.

A lever system is provided to pivot the lid 112 between the open and closed positions. This system is in the form of a lever 182 and a corresponding lever coupling projection 184. The projection 184 is a square hollow section that is mounted to the lid 112 and projects in a generally horizontal direction away from the lid 112. The lever 182 is also a square hollow section and is sized such that the projection 184 can fit closely within its hollow interior. In use, the projection 184 can be received in the hollow interior of the lever 182 and the lever 182 can

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20088337_1 (GHMatters) P10400.AU.1 be levered downwards to hinge the lid 112 into an open position. The side wall 104 of the hopper 102 comprises a holder assembly 186 mounted thereto, that may be used to store the lever when not in use.

The lid is predominantly formed of sheet metal panels and comprises a body portion 188 that extends across the upper opening 110 (in the closed position) and end panels 190 that cap either end of the body portion 188. The body portion 188 is in the form of a sheet that comprises a bend extending longitudinally between the end panels 190 such that the body portion 188 is sloped either side of the bend. This ensures that water (e.g. rain) does not pool on the lid 112 and instead runs off the lid 112 and away from the hopper 102. To facilitate this run-off of water, the front edge of the body portion 188 comprises a channel 192 that extends therealong. This channel 192 at the front edge of the lid 112 is integral with the body portion 188 and is formed by bending the edge of the body portion 188 so as to have a U-shaped profile. As well as acting as a gutter, the channel 192 strengthens the lid 112 (which also reduces the need for welding).

The opposite (back) edge of the body portion 188 comprises an angle section 194 (i.e. having an L-shaped profile), which extends along, and is secured to, the edge. Again, this angle section 194 provides strength to the lid 112. It also provides an attachment point for a seal, which is in the form of a rubber panel (not shown) that is able to prevent (or reduce) the ingress of water into the hopper 102 between the lid 112 and the hopper 112.

Further strengthening is provided by a lip 196 at an upper edge of each side wall 104. Each lip 196 is integral with the sidewall 104 and folds over a corresponding elongate reinforcement element 198 that extends along the upper edge of the side wall 104 (adjacent the lid 112). Each reinforcement element 198 is in the form of a strip of sheet metal comprising a base secured to the sidewall 104, and two L shaped flanges (one received in the side wall lip 196) that project from the base. The strengthening or rigidity provided by these reinforcement elements 198, again, means that welding is not required to provide the necessary structure.

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An added benefit of the presence of the reinforcement elements 198 is that they effectively provide thicker regions on the side walls 104. These thicker regions of the side walls may allow a bolt, such as a carriage-type bolt, to be used whereby a portion of the bolt is flattened (rather than threaded) in order to engage the side wall 104 during fastening. This allows the bolt to be tightened from a single side of the side wall, which may simplify assembly.

Variations and modifications may be made to the parts previously described without departing from the spirit or ambit of the disclosure.

For example, various releasable fastening means may be used for fastening the components (e.g. end and side walls) of the apparatus. Some examples include screws, clips, locking arrangements, etc.

The end walls and side walls may not necessarily be connected via support members. Instead the walls may be secured directly to one another.

Other means may be provided for adjusting the height of the hopper from the ground. For example, the legs may comprise a sliding component that can be moved and locked into place to change the length of the legs.

The assembly for mounting the tray to the hopper may comprise flexible elements other than chains. For example, the flexible elements may be in the form of wire rope or cable, or rubber bands.

There may be more or less walls that may be arranged to form other hopper shapes (e.g. hexagonal, triangular, etc.).

In the claims which follow and in the preceding description of the invention, except where the context requires otherwise due to express language or necessary implication, the word "comprise" or variations such as "comprises" or "comprising" is used in an inclusive sense, i.e. to specify the presence of the stated features but not to preclude the presence or addition of further features in various embodiments of the invention.

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Claims

1. An apparatus for providing feed to livestock, the apparatus comprising:

a hopper comprising walls releasably connected to one another so as to define a cavity for receipt of the feed and a lower opening for dispensing feed from the cavity, wherein the hopper comprises opposing spaced side walls, wherein at least one side wall is sloped inwardly from an in use lower portion of the hopper to an in use upper portion of the hopper such that a cross sectional area of the cavity at an upper end is smaller than a cross sectional area of the cavity at the lower opening from which the feed is dispensed;

a tray disposed at the lower opening to support feed thereon for access by the livestock.

2. An apparatus according to claim 1 wherein the side walls are releasably connected to opposing spaced end walls.

3. An apparatus according to claim 2 wherein the cavity defined by the walls has a generally rectangular profile.

4. An apparatus according to any one of the preceding claims wherein the opposing side walls are sloped inwardly towards one another from an in use lower portion of the hopper to an in use upper portion of the hopper.

5. An apparatus according to any one of the preceding claims wherein the walls are releasably connected by way of a plurality of fastening arrangements.

6. An apparatus according to any one of claims 2 to 5 when dependent on claim 2 further comprising elongate support members secured to the hopper at the connections between the end walls and the side walls.

7. An apparatus according to claim 6 wherein the support members releasably connect the end walls to the side walls.

8. An apparatus according to claim 7 wherein each support member is in the form of a U-shaped channel section comprising a web extending between two spaced parallel flanges and wherein the web of each support member is fastened to a respective end wall, and a flange of each support member is fastened to a respective side wall.

9. An apparatus according to any one of claims 6 to 8 wherein each support member extends beyond an in use lower end of the hopper to support the hopper above the ground in use and, optionally, comprises one or more foot members releasably attached to the support members.

10. An apparatus according to any one of the preceding claims wherein the tray is suspended from the hopper by way of a mounting assembly, the mounting assembly configured to allow the tray to move relative to the hopper.

11. An apparatus according to claim 10 comprising two mounting assemblies each mounting a respective opposing end of the tray to the hopper.

12. An apparatus according to claim 10 or 11 wherein the mounting assembly is configured to allow adjustment of the distance of the tray from the lower opening of the hopper.

13. An apparatus according to any one of the preceding claims wherein the tray is releasably mounted to the hopper.

14. An apparatus according to any one of the preceding claims wherein the cavity of the hopper is substantially free of obstructions, providing substantially obstruction-free passage of feed from an upper end of the hopper to the lower opening.

15. An apparatus according to any one of claims 2 to 14, when dependent on claim 2, further comprising a shelter hingedly mounted to a side wall of the hopper to shelter feed supported on the tray, the shelter hingable between: a closed position in which it extends generally parallel to the side wall; and an open position in which it extends generally perpendicular to the side wall.

16. An apparatus according to claim 15 wherein the shelter is able to support a person when in the open position.

17. An apparatus according to any one of the preceding claims further comprising a lid for covering an upper opening of the hopper, the lid hingedly mounted to a wall of the hopper and comprising a lever engagement means for engaging a lid-operating lever.

18. An apparatus according to claim 17 wherein the lever engagement means comprises a projection, and the lid-operating lever comprises a corresponding recess for receipt of the projection in use.

19. An apparatus according to any one of claims 2 to 18, when dependent on claim 2, wherein at least a portion of each end wall proximate the lower opening is sloped inwardly towards the lower opening of the hopper.

20. A kit of parts configured to be assembled to form the apparatus as defined in any one of claims I to 19.