GB2440709A

GB2440709A - Cooling equestrian equipment

Info

Publication number: GB2440709A
Application number: GB0615764A
Authority: GB
Inventors: Andrew Sean Gordon Daly
Original assignee: Individual
Current assignee: Individual
Priority date: 2006-08-09
Filing date: 2006-08-09
Publication date: 2008-02-13
Anticipated expiration: 2026-08-09
Also published as: GB0615764D0; GB0904796D0; GB2465640B; GB2465640A; GB2440709B

Abstract

The equipment comprises air intakes 5, air exits 6 and a passage 7 interconnecting the intakes and exits, the passage being adjacent to the skin of the horse. In use air is forced to move freely from the intakes to the exits over the horse's body during forward movement of the horse. In some embodiments the flow of air is fan-assisted. In one embodiment, an breastplate or chest pad is coupled to an saddle. In an embodiment comprising a horse blanket heating elements are provided and the blanket is adapted to provide a flow of heated air next to the horse's skin. The equipment may comprise a saddle, saddlecloth, blanket, saddle pad, numnah, bridle, bridle pad, breastplate, chest pad, or girth, or combinations thereof.

Description

A Protective Saddle, Saddlecloth, Blanket, Girth, Breastplate and

Bridle.

Introduction

The present invention relates to a protective system to prevent damage to the underlying skin, muscle, tendon and bone of a horse that would otherwise be caused by the use of conventional equestrian equipment, worn above the knee or hock of the horse, such as saddles, saddlecloths, girths, breastplates and bridles etc. during exercise.

Background of the invention

All equestrian activities require the use of equipment to manage horses during exercise and rest. The most frequently used exercise equipment worn above the knee or hock of the horse being the saddle, the bridle, the saddlecloth, the breastplate and the girth. I lowever it is well known amongst horse carers that such equipment frequently causes damage to the underlying body tissues of the horse where contact is made.

One major cause of the said damage is over heating of these tissues, particularly during exercise. As equine locomotion is extremely dynamic, much heat is generated naturally throughout the horse's body when galloping. In nature there is no covering of the horse's body and therefore there exists a very effective natural heat exchange cooling system created by the aerodynamic flow of high-speed coolant air over the body as it gallops forward. Speeds approaching 40 miles per hour are experienced during a high-speed gallop. This cooling effect is further enhanced by sweat evaporation as the high-speed coolant air passes over. However when we artificially cover the back, chest, shoulders and head of the domesticated horse, using the aforementioned exercise equipment, this natural cooling effect is significantly reduced. The result is unnatural overheating within the body systems of the horse which can exceed the viability of cells causing cell necrosis particularly at the areas where contact is made between the equipment and the horse's body.

Another major cause of the said damage is an excessive concentration of pressure and friction onto small localised areas between horse's body and the equipment. This is often caused by badly fitting conventional saddles and bridles and made worse by the fact that horses are frequently saddled up and ridden continually for prolonged periods, in some cases several hours at a time. As with humans, all horses are different in shape and size and it is therefore currently difficult for trainers to provide a perfect fit for a particular individual horse using the conventional saddles, bridles and girths available as yet. Also saddles, bridles and girths are often swapped from one horse to another and therefore never becoming a good fit for any particular animal. Makers of saddles, saddlecloths and girths have made efforts to distribute pressure evenly by constructing the surfaces that make contact with the horse, from various gel-like materials and quick rebound foams. Although these materials are to some extent effective at pressure distribution, they have a number of negative side effects. For example gel materials because of their high density are extremely heavy and therefore most unsuitable for high-speed competitions where lightness in weight is a prerequisite. Conventional closed cell quick rebound foams are inefficient at dissipating energy and lack an ability to distribute pressure evenly. Both these types

I

of material are ineffective at conforming to any variation of anatomical shape. Also these materials are heat insulating and therefore exacerbate the aforementioned problem of excessive heat accumulation.

Conventional girths pose a particular problem. As the horse exercises the lungs, and hence ribcage is constantly expanding and contracting at an extremely high rate. In fact the horse breathes in rhythm to its own stride so there is one inhalation and one exhalation per galloping stride. Since the girth embraces the ribcage there is a constant and rapid friction and pressure concentration that often results in necrotic damage to the underlying skin. Girth makers have made efforts to alleviate the problem by constructing girths from elastic materials that stretch as the ribcage expands but the problem associated with uneven pressure concentration and friction still remain.

Another cause of the said damage is due to the fact that the natural locomotion of the horse and rider, in conjunction with one another, exerts a heavy dynamic compression loading at the points of contact between the horse and the equipment. As the horse moves the pressure is rapidly and continuously loaded and unloaded onto the contact areas resulting in excessive friction and sweat. This in turn results in even further heat generation. The dynamic loading is primarily exerted by the mass of the rider moving in a continual cyclical motion.

The combined effect of overheating, pressure concentration, friction and dynamic loading is eventually skin ulceration most commonly to the back, shoulders, withers, behind the elbows, around the chest and around the head of the horse. In severe negligent cases the necrotic damage can be deeper and affect not only skin but also muscle, tendon and bone tissue beneath.

Thus a need is identified for a saddle, saddlecloth, girth, breastplate, blanket and bridle that can cool the underlying tissues during exercise.

Thus a need is identified for a saddle, saddle cloth, girth, breastplate, blanket and bridle that can distribute pressure evenly and reduce friction to underlying tissues during exercise while also being within an acceptable weight limit for competition purposes.

Thus a need is identified for a saddle, saddlecloth, girth, breastplate, blanket and bridle that can effectively dissipate the energy exerted by dynamic loading during exercise.

Thus a need is identified for a blanket that can safely regulate a horse's body temperature during or after exercise.

For simplicity of description the words saddle, saddlecloth, girth, breastplate and bridle will when necessary be described collectively as the equestrian equipment. The term saddlecloth is used to refer in general to all types of pads located between the saddle and the horse including nurnnahs, saddle pads etc. Boots worn below the horse's knee providing an air-cooling function are described in my British Patent No. 2,407,777B.

Statement of Invention

The present invention provides an effective means of exploiting the high-speed aerodynamic coolant airflow, which has heretofore been unused for the purposes of improving the welfare of horses in human care. According to the invention there is provided a saddle, a saddle cloth, a girth, a breastplate, blanket or a bridle that allows the high-speed aerodynamic airflow, created by the forward movement of the horse during exercise, to enter into and pass between the equipment and the horse's body.

This enables a heat exchange to occur in which the excessive body temperature is cooled by the flow of air over the surface. In practice the invention helps recreate in domesticated horses the natural cooling means that is available in the undomesticated environment. It is characterised by Air intakes allowing the high-speed air to enter freely, Air exits to allow air to exit freely, Air passages joining the air intake to the air exit to allow the high-speed coolant air to pass freely over the surfaces of the horse's body.

Preferably, for maximum aerodynamic efficiency, the air intakes are located at the front of the equipment to face against the direction of the moving air as the horse gallops forward. Conversely the air exits are preferably located at the rear of the equipment. The air passage joins the intakes to the exits.

In another embodiment of the invention there is a saddle or saddle cloth comprising enlarged air intakes extended laterally outward from the horse's body creating a greater cross-sectional area facing against the moving air and thereby increasing air intake efficiency as the horse gallops forward.

In another embodiment of the invention there is a saddlecloth comprising air intakes extending laterally outward from the body in front of the knee roll.

In another embodiment of the invention there is a saddle, a saddlecloth or a girth where the air passage comprises one large internal air cavity creating a space through which high-speed coolant air can travel between the equipment and the horse's skin.

In another embodiment of the invention there is a saddle, a saddlecloth or a girth where the internal air passage comprises a number of channels directing the flow of coolant air to specific locations over the horse's body.

In another embodiment of the invention there is a saddle, a saddlecloth or a girth where the air passages are exposed directly to the horse's skin under the equipment.

In another embodiment of the invention there is a saddle, a saddle cloth or a girth where the air passages are separated from the horse's skin by an air or fluid permeable membrane such as but not limited to an open weave fabric, a perforated flexible sheet material or a fleece type lining.

In another embodiment of the invention there is a saddle, a saddlecloth or a girth where the air passage comprises an air or fluid permeable material layer that allows air or fluid to pass freely. Such materials include but are not limited to open cell foam, a honeycomb matrix, a solid material with a plurality of hollow gas permeable tubes, a low density fibrous mat, a fleece like material or any air or fluid permeable substance.

In another embodiment of the invention there is a saddle, a saddlecloth or a girth constructed from lightweight energy absorbing materials that conform to various different body shapes. An ideal material with these properties is a visco-elastic foam.

In one embodiment of the invention there is a saddle, a saddle cloth or a girth where the air exits are located facing outwards at the sides of the equipment and comprising external surfaces constructed partially or entirely from air or fluid permeable material.

Such materials include but are not limited to an open weave fabric, a perforated sheet material, an open cell foam, a honeycomb matrix, a solid material with a plurality of hollow gas permeable tubes, a low density fibrous mat, a fleece like material or any air or fluid permeable substance.

In another embodiment of the invention there is a saddle, a saddlecloth, breastplate or a girth comprising an electrically powered fan sucking coolant air through the air intakes into the air passage. The electrical power is from a mobile source such as a battery or a photo voltaic cell located on the outer surfaces of the equipment exposed to the sun. Alternatively a thermo voltaic unit could advantageously use the horse's own body temperature to generate all or part of the electrical power.

In another embodiment of the invention there is a horse cooling blanket comprising air intakes, air passages and air exits allowing coolant air or fluid to pass over the horse's body as it moves forward.

In another embodiment of the invention there is a horse cooling blanket comprising enlarged air intakes extended laterally outward from the horse's body creating a greater cross-sectional area facing against the moving air and thereby increasing air intake efficiency as the horse moves forward.

In another embodiment of the invention there is a horse cooling blanket comprising one or more electrically powered fans sucking coolant air through the air intakes into the air passage. The fan or fans would be most effectively located at the front of the blanket however any location on the blanket can be potentially used. The source of electrical power is a battery or a photo voltaic cell located partially or throughout the outer surfaces of the blanket exposed to the sun. Alternatively a thermo voltaic unit could advantageously use the horse's own body temperature to generate all or part of the electrical power. Alternatively when the horse is stationary after strenuous exercise and when stabled, the source of electrical power could be from an AC mains supply.

In another embodiment of the invention there is a horse heating blanket comprising one or more electrically powered fans and one or more electrically powered heating element to send heated air through the air intakes into the air passage. The fan/s and elementls would be most effectively located at the front of the blanket. The source of electrical power is a battery or a solar voltaic cell located partially or throughout the outer surfaces of thc blanket exposed to the sun. Alternatively a thcrmo voltaic unit could advantageously use the horse's own body temperature to generate all or part of the electrical power. Alternatively when the horse is stabled, the source of electrical power could be from an AC mains supply.

In another embodiment of the invention there is an electrically powered horse heating blanket comprising a grid work of wires interspersed throughout the fabric of the blanket area. These wires or elements produce heat when energised and in turn apply heat to the body of the horse. The mobile source of electrical power is a battery or a photo voltaic cell located on the outer surfaces of the equipment exposed to the sun.

Alternatively a thermo voltaic unit could advantageously use the horse's own body temperature to generate all or part of the electrical power. Alternatively when the horse is stationary, for example when stabled, the source of electrical power could be from an AC mains supply.

In another embodiment of the invention, where excessively low outside temperatures are a problem, there is an electrically powered horse heating blanket comprising a thermal sensor that measures body temperature and uses this measurement to automatically adjust the temperature of the blanket for the purpose of maintaining an optimum body temperature.

In another embodiment of the invention there is a bridle comprising air intakes, air passages and air exits allowing coolant air or fluid to pass over the horse's head.

In another embodiment of the invention there is a bridle pad comprising a detachable part located under the brow band and/or headpiece of a conventional bridle. This bridle pad may also comprise air intakes, air passages and air exits allowing coolant air or fluid to pass over the horse's head.

In another embodiment of the invention there is a breastplate with air intakes, air exits and air passages to channel the coolant air from the front of the horse via connecting straps to the saddle or saddlecloth. The air passages can comprise a plurality of channels.

In another embodiment of the invention there is a breastplate comprising detachable air connectors to allow the coolant air captured by the breastplate pass into air receptors or intakes located on the saddle, saddlecloth or girth.

In one embodiment of the invention, when cross-sectional frontal area is limited, there is a breastplate where the air intakes and exits are located facing outwards at the sides of the equipment and constructed partially or entirely from air or fluid permeable material. Such materials include but are not limited to an open weave fabric, a perforated sheet material, an open cell foam, a honeycomb matrix, a solid material with a plurality of hollow gas permeable tubes, a low density fibrous material, a fleece like material or any air or fluid permeable substance.

In another embodiment of the invention there is a girth comprising air intakes, air exits and a passage there between allowing coolant air or fluid to pass over the horse's body.

In one embodiment of the invention there is a girth where the air exits are located facing outwards at the sides of the equipment and constructed partially or entirely from air or fluid permeable material. Such materials include but are not limited to an open weave fabric, a perforated sheet material, an open cell foam, a honeycomb matrix, a solid material with a plurality of hollow gas permeable tubes, a low density fibrous mat, a fleece like material or any air or fluid permeable substance.

In another embodiment of the invention there is a girth comprising enlarged air intakes extended outward from the horse's body to increase the air intake efficiency as the horse moves forward.

In another embodiment of the invention there is a girth comprising a chest pad embracing the horse's sternum and pectoral muscles on both sides. Externally to this is fixed centrally, about the position of the sternum, a non-detachable elasticated strap with a means of fastening to the saddle on both sides of the ribcage.

In another embodiment of the invention there is a chest pad embracing the horse's sternum and pectoral muscles on both sides. This chest brace is detachable from a girth fastened to the saddle.

In another embodiment of the invention there is a chest pad embracing the horse's sternum and pectoral muscles on both sides comprising air intakes, air exits and a passage there between allowing coolant air or fluid to pass over the horse's body.

In another embodiments of the invention, where contact with the skin and the equipment is made, it is envisaged that it should be constructed partially from lightweight energy absorbing materials that conform to various different body shapes.

An ideal material with these properties is a visco-elastic foam but could also include air bags or enclosed compartments containing a quantity of lightweight pellets such as polystyrene beads.

in another embodiment of the invention, it is envisaged that the aerodynamic air-cooling system, as previously described, is further enhanced by the application of a fluid, or any substance with a high evaporation rate. As the air flows over the evaporating fluid or substance, the latent heat of evaporation further increases the rate of heat loss. Such a substance with high evaporation rate could be applied in any of its physical states whether it be solid, liquid or gas. Such a substance could include, but is not limited to an alcohol or water based liquid or gel and is deposited directly to the surfaces of the horse's skin or alternatively located within the fabric of the equipment.

Detailed Description of the Invention

The invention will be more clearly understood from the following description of some embodiments thereof given by way of example only, with reference to the accompanying drawings in which: Fig 1. is a side view of a horse galloping Fig 2. is a plan view of a horse galloping Fig 3. is a plan view of a horse galloping with a saddlecloth in place Fig 4. is a part section plan view of a protective saddle according to the invention Fig 5. is a part section side view of the protective saddle of Fig. 4 Fig 6. is a section front view of the protective saddle of Fig. 4 Fig 7. is a part section plan view of another protective saddle Fig 8. is a side view of the protective saddle of Fig. 7 Fig 9. is a part section plan view of another protective saddle Fig 10. is a part section side view of the saddle of Fig. 9 Fig II. is a section front view of the saddle of Fig. 9 Fig 12. is a part section plan view of another protective saddle Fig 13. is a part section side view of the protective saddle of Fig. 12 Fig 14. is a part section front view of the protective saddle of Fig. 12 Fig 15. is an alternative part section front view of the protective saddle of Fig. 12 Fig 16. is a part section plan view of another protective saddle Fig 17. is a part section side view of the protective saddle of Fig. 16 Fig 18. is a part section plan view of another protective saddle Fig 19. is a part section side view of the protective saddle of Fig. 18 Fig 20. is a part section front view of the protective saddle of Fig. 19 showing added detail Fig 21. is a part section plan view of protective saddlecloth Fig 22. is a part section side view of the protective saddlecloth of Fig. 21 Fig 23. is a part section front view of the protective saddlecloth of Fig. 21 Fig 24. is a part section plan view of a protective saddlecloth Fig 25. is a part section side view of the protective saddlecloth of Fig. 24 Fig 26. is a front view of the protective saddlecloth of Fig. 24 Fig 27. is an alternative front view of the protective saddlecloth of Fig. 24 Fig 28. is a part section side view of a protective saddlecloth Fig 29. is a part section plan view of the protective saddlecloth of Fig. 28 Fig 30. is a part section front view of the protective saddlecloth of Fig. 28 Fig 31. is a part section front view of a protective saddlecloth Fig 32. is a part section side view of a protective saddlecloth Fig 33. is a part section plan view of the protective saddlecloth of Fig. 32 Fig 34. is a part section front view of the protective saddlecloth of Fig. 32 showing added detail Fig 35. is a part section front view of a protective saddlecloth Fig 36. is a plan view of the protective saddlecloth of Fig. 35 Fig 37. is a part section side view of a protective girth Fig 38. is a part section plan view of the protective girth of Fig. 37 Fig 39. is a part section side view of a protective girth Fig 40. is a part section front view of the protective girth of Fig. 39 Fig 41. is a part section side view of a protective girth Fig 42. is a part section front view of the protective girth of Fig. 41 Fig 43. is a part section front view of a protective girth Fig 44. is a part section side view of a protective girth Fig 45. is a part section side view of a protective girth Fig 46. is a part section front view of the protective girth of Fig. 44 showing added detail Fig 47. is a part section side view of a protective girth Fig 48. is a part section plan view of the protective girth of Fig. 47 Fig 49. is a side view of a protective girth Fig 50. is a plan view of the protective girth of Fig. 49 viewed from underneath Fig 51. is a side view of a protective girth Fig 52. is a plan view of the protective girth of Fig. 51 viewed from underneath Fig 53. is a perspective view of the protective girth of Fig. 51 Fig 54. is a part section side view of a protective breastplate Fig 55. is a part section plan view of the protective girth of Fig. 54 Fig 56. is a front view of the protective girth of Fig. 54 Fig 57. is a part section side view of a protective breastplate Fig 58. is a front view of the protective girth of Fig. 57 Fig 59. is a front view of a protective bridle Fig 60. is a side view of the protective bridle of Fig. 59 Fig 61. is a front view of a protective bridle pad Fig 62. is a side view of the protective bridle pad of Fig. 61 Fig 63. is a perspective view of the protective bridle pad of Fig. 61 Fig 64. is a side view of the protective blanket Fig 65. is a section side view of the protective blanket of Fig. 64 Fig 66. is a section plan view of the protective blanket of Fig. 64 Fig 67. is a section side view of the protective blanket Fig 68. is a side view of the protective blanket of Fig. 67 Fig 69. is a front view of the protective blanket of Fig. 67 Fig 70. is a side view of a protective blanket with added details Referring now to the drawings and initially to Figs. 1 and 2 which illustrate a horse 2 engaged in high-speed forward locomotion and how in nature there is no covering of the horse's body and therefore there exists an extremely effective natural cooling system created by the aerodynamic flow of high-speed coolant air I over the body as it gallops forward. This cooling effect is further enhanced by sweat evaporation as the high-speed coolant air passes over.

Referring now to Fig. 3 illustrates a part of the problem addressed by the present invention. When we artificially cover the back, chest, shoulders or head of the horse, using the currently available exercise equipment, exemplified in this case by a saddlecloth 3, this natural aerodynamic cooling effect, created by the aerodynamic flow of high-speed coolant air 1 is lost. The result is abnormal overheating and a temperature build up which can exceed the viability of cells causing cell necrosis particularly at the areas where contact is made between the equipment and the horse's body.

Referring now to Figs. 4, 5 and 6 which illustrate a saddle 4 that allows the high-speed aerodynamic airflow 1, created by the forward movement of the horse during exercise, to enter into and pass between the saddle and the horses body. It is characterised by Air intakes 5 allowing the high-speed air I to enter freely, Air exits 6 to allow air to exit freely and Air passages 7 joining the air intake to the air exit to allow the high-speed coolant air to pass freely over the surfaces of the horse's back 2.

Preferably, for maximum aerodynamic efficiency, the air intakes 5 are located at the front of the saddle 4 to face against the direction of the moving air I as the horse gallops forward. Conversely the air exits 6 are preferably located at the rear of the saddle 4. The air passage 7 joins the intakes to the exits. In this basic embodiment of the saddle the air passage comprises one large internal air cavity creating a space through which high-speed coolant air can travel between the equipment and the horse's skin 2.

Referring now to Figs. 7 and 8 which illustrate a saddle 4 where the air exits 6 are located facing outwards at the sides of the equipment and comprising external surfaces constructed partially or entirely from air or fluid permeable material. Such materials include but are not limited to an open weave fabric, a perforated sheet material, an open cell foam, a honeycomb matrix, a solid material with a plurality of hollow gas permeable tubes, a low density fibrous mat, a fleece like material or any air or fluid permeable substance.

Referring now to Figs. 9, 10 and 11 which illustrate another embodiment of the saddle 4 where the internal air passage comprises a plurality of air channels 8 directing the flow of coolant air to specific locations over the horse's body.

Referring now to Figs. 12, 13, 14 and 15 which illustrate another embodiment of the saddle 4 comprising enlarged air intakes 5 extended laterally outward from the horse's body 2 creating a greater cross-sectional area facing against the moving air I and thereby increasing air intake efficiency as the horse gallops forward.

Referring now to Figs. 16 and 17 which illustrate another embodiment of the saddle 4 where the air passage/s 7 are separated from the horse's skin by an air or fluid permeable membrane 9 such as but not limited to an open weave fabric, a perforated flexible sheet material or a fleece type lining. This layer allows air or fluid to pass freely and allows the high-speed coolant air 1 to cool the horse as in nature.

Referring now to Figs. 18, 19 and 20 which illustrate another embodiment of the saddle 4 where the air passage 7 is not an empty cavity but instead comprised of an air or fluid permeable material layer 10 that can allow the high-speed coolant air or fluid I to pass freely. Such materials include but are not limited to a very low density fibre fabric, a honeycomb matrix, a solid material with a plurality of hollow gas permeable tubes or any air or fluid permeable substance.

Referring now to Figs. 21, 22 and 23 which illustrate a saddlecloth, pad or numnah 11 that allows the high-speed aerodynamic airflow I, created by the forward movement of the horse during exercise, to enter into and pass between the saddlecloth, pad or numnah and the horse's body. It comprises Air intakes 5 allowing the high-speed air to enter freely, Air exits 6 to allow air to exit freely and Air passages 7 joining the air intake to the air exit to allow the high-speed coolant air I to pass freely over the surfaces of the horse's back 2. Preferably, for maximum aerodynamic efficiency, the air intakes are located at the front of thesaddle to face against the direction of the moving air 1 as the horse gallops forward. Conversely the air exits are preferably located at the rear of the saddlecloth, pad or numnah 11. The air passage 7 joins the intakes to the exits. In this basic embodiment of the invention the air passage comprises one large internal air cavity creating a space through which high-speed coolant air I can travel between the equipment and the horse's skin 2.

Referring now to Figs. 24, 25 and 27 which illustrate a saddlecloth, pad or numnah 11 comprising enlarged air intakes 5 extended laterally outward from the horse's body 2 creating a greater cross-sectional area facing against the moving air I and thereby increasing air intake efficiency as the horse gallops forward.

Referring now to Fig. 26 which illustrates a saddlecloth, pad or numnah 11 comprising air intakes 5 extending laterally outward from the body 2 in front of the knee roll. In this embodiment the air intake also forms part of the fastening strap 12 to the saddle.

Referring now to Figs. 28, 29 and 30 which illustrate a saddlecloth, pad or numnah 11 where the internal air passage comprises a plurality of air channels 8 directing the flow of coolant air I to specific locations over the horse's body 2.

Referring now to Fig. 31 which illustrates a saddlecloth, pad or numnah 11 where the air passage/s 7 are separated from the horse's skin by an air or fluid permeable membrane 9 such as but not limited to an open weave fabric, a perforated flexible sheet material or a fleece type lining. This layer allows air or fluid 1 to pass freely and allows the high-speed coolant air to cool the horse 2 as in nature.

Referring now to Figs. 32, 33 and 34 which illustrate a saddlecloth, pad or numnah 11 where the air passage 7 is not an empty cavity but instead comprised of an air or fluid permeable material layer 10 that can allow the high-speed coolant air or fluid 1 to pass freely. Such materials include but are not limited to a very low density fibre fabric, a honeycomb matrix, a solid material with a plurality of hollow gas permeable tubes or any air or fluid permeable substance of sufficient low density.

Referring now to Figs. 35 and 36 which illustrate a saddlecloth, pad or numnah 11 where the air exits 6 are located facing outwards at the sides of the equipment and comprising external surfaces 13 constructed partially or entirely from air or fluid permeable material. Such materials include but are not limited to an open weave fabric, a perforated sheet material, an open cell foam, a honeycomb matrix, a solid material with a plurality of hollow gas permeable tubes, a low density fibrous mat, a fleece like material or any air or fluid permeable substance.

Referring now to Figs. 37 and 38 which illustrate a girth 14 that allows the high-speed aerodynamic airflow 1, created by the forward movement of the horse during exercise, to enter into and pass between the girth 14 and the horse's body 2. It comprises Air intakes 5 allowing the high-speed air to enter freely, Air exits 6 to allow air to exit freely and Air passages 7 joining the air intake to the air exit to allow the high-speed coolant air I to pass freely over the surfaces of the horse's body2.

Preferably, for maximum aerodynamic efficiency, the air intakes are located at the front edges of the girth 14 to face against the direction of the moving air as the horse gallops forward. Conversely the air exits are preferably located at the rear of the girth.

The air passage joins the intakes to the exits. In this basic embodiment of the invention the air passage comprises one large internal air cavity creating a space through which high-speed coolant air can travel between the equipment and the horse's skin.

Referring now to Figs. 39 and 40, which illustrate a girth 14, comprising enlarged air intakes 5 extended laterally outward from the horse's body 2 creating a greater cross-sectional area facing against the moving air I and thereby increasing air intake efficiency as the horse gallops forward.

Referring now to Figs. 41 and 42 which illustrate a girth 14 where the internal air passage comprises a plurality of air channels 8 directing the flow of coolant air I to specific locations over the horse's body 2.

Referring now to Fig. 43 which illustrates a girth 14 where the air passage/s 7 are separated from the horse's skin 2 by an air or fluid permeable membrane 9 such as but not limited to an open weave fabric, a perforated flexible sheet material or a fleece type lining. This layer allows air or fluid 1 to pass freely and allows the high-speed coolant air to cool the horse as in nature.

Referring now to Figs. 44,45 and 46 which illustrate a girth 14 where the air passage 7 is not an empty cavity but instead comprised of an air or fluid permeable material layer 10 that can allow the high-speed coolant air or fluid I to pass freely. Such materials include but are not limited to a very low-density fibre fabric, a honeycomb matrix, a solid material with a plurality of hollow gas permeable tubes or any air or fluid permeable substance of sufficient low density.

Referring now to Figs. 47 and 48 which illustrate a girth 14 where the air exits 6 are located facing outwards at the sides of the equipment and comprising external surfaces 13 constructed partially or entirely from air or fluid permeable material. Such materials include but are not limited to an open weave fabric, a perforated sheet material, an open cell foam, a honeycomb matrix, a solid material with a plurality of hollow gas permeable tubes, a low density fibrous mat, a fleece like material or any air or fluid permeable substance.

Referring now to Figs. 49 and 50 which illustrate a girth 14 comprising a separate chest pad 15 embracing the horse's sternum 16 and pectoral muscles 17 on both sides.

Externally to this is fixed centrally 20 a non-detachable elasticated strap 18 with a means of fastening to the saddle 4 on both sides of the ribcage 19. A wide, non-elastic chest pad prevents friction and pressure concentration to the sternum 16, pectoral muscles 17 and ribcage 19.

Referring now to Figs. 51, 52 and 53 which illustrate a chest pad 15 embracing the horse's sternum 16 and pectoral muscles 17 on both sides. This chest brace 15 is detachable from a girth 14 fastened to the saddle on both sides. This embodiment may also comprise air intakes 5, air exits 6 and air passage/s 7.

Referring now to Figs. 54, 55 and 56, a breastplate 21 is illustrated with air intakes 5 of any shape, air exits 6 and air passages 7 to channel the coolant air I from the front of the horse 2 via connecting straps 22 to the saddle 4 or saddlecloth 11. In another embodiment of the invention there is a breastplate comprising detachable air connectors 23 to allow the coolant air I captured by the breastplate pass into air receptors 24 or intakes located on the saddle, saddlecloth or girth.

Referring now to Figs. 57 and 58 which illustrate another embodiment of the breastplate 21 where the air passage 7 is not an empty cavity but instead comprised of an air or fluid permeable material layer 10 that can allow the high-speed coolant air or fluid I to pass freely over the horse's body 2. Such materials include but are not limited to a vely low-density fibre fabric, a honeycomb matrix, a solid material with a plurality of hollow gas permeable tubes or any air or fluid permeable substance of sufficient low density.

Referring now to Figs. 59 and 60 which illustrate a bridle 25 comprising air intakes 5, air passages 7 and air exits 6 allowing coolant air or fluid 1 to pass over the horse's head.

Referring now to Figs. 61, 62 and 63 which illustrate a bridle pad 26 comprising a detachable part located under the brow band 27 andlor headpiece 28 of a conventional bridle. This bridle pad may also comprise air intakes 5, air passages 4 and air exits 6 allowing coolant air or fluid 1 to pass over the horse's head.

Referring now to Figs. 64, 65 and 66 which illustrate a horse cooling blanket 29 comprising air intakes 5, air passages 7 and air exits 6 allowing coolant air or fluid 1 to pass over the horse's body 2 as it moves forward. In another embodiment of the invention the cooling blanket comprising enlarged air intakes extended laterally outward from the horse's body creating a greater cross-sectional area facing against the moving air and thereby increasing air intake efficiency as the horse moves forward.

Referring now to Figs. 67, 68 and 69 a horse cooling blanket 29 is illustrated comprising one or more electrically powered fans 30 sucking coolant air 1 through the air intakes 5 into the air passage 7. The fanls 30 would be most effectively located at the front of the blanket. The source of electrical power is a battery 31 or a solar voltaic cell 32 located partially or throughout the outer surfaces of the blanket exposed to the sun. Alternatively when the horse is stationary after strenuous exercise and when stabled, the source of electrical power could be from an AC mains supply.

There is also a horse heating blanket comprising, one or more electrically powered fans 30 in conjunction with one or more electrically powered heating elements 33 to send heated air into the air passage 7. The fanls and elementls would be most effectively located at the front of the blanket. The source of electrical power is a battery 31 or a solar voltaic ccli 32 located partially or throughout the outer surfaces of the blanket exposed to the sun. Alternatively when the horse is stabled, the source of electrical power could be from an AC mains supply.

Referring now to Fig. 70 an electrically powered horse heating blanket 29 is illustrated comprising a grid work of wires 34 interspersed throughout the fabric 35 of the blanket area. These wires or elements produce heat when energised and in turn apply heat to the body of the horse. In this case, for more efficient heat transfer from blanket to horse, the lining of the blanket could be in direct contact with skin of the horse. The mobile source of electrical power is a battery 31 or a solar voltaic cell 32 located on the outer surfaces of the equipment exposed to the sun. Alternatively when the horse is stationary, for example when stabled, the source of electrical power could be from an AC mains supply. In another embodiment of the invention, when excessively low outside temperatures are a problem, there is an electrically powered horse heating blanket comprising an integral thermal sensor that measures horse body temperature and uses this measurement to automatically adjust the temperature of the blanket in order to maintain an optimum body temperature.

For the purposes of improved pressure distribution, energy dissipation and friction removal, all the above described embodiments of the invention, where in contact with the skin, should be constructed, at least partially from lightweight materials that can conform to various different body shapes, that have good energy dissipating characteristics. Materials with these properties include a visco-elastic foam, air bags or bags containing a quantity of lightweight pellets such as polystyrene beads.

For the purposes of enhanced heat loss during exercise, it is envisaged that the aerodynamic air-cooling system, as previously described, is further improved by the application of a fluid, or any substance with a high evaporation rate. As the air flows over the evaporating fluid or substance, the latent heat of evaporation is further increased and this in turn increases the rate of heat loss. Such a substance with high evaporation rate could include, but is not limited to an alcohol based liquid or gel and is applied directly to the surfaces of the horse's skin or alternatively located in the fabric of the equipment.

Claims

CLAIMS

1. Equestrian equipment adapted to be worn by a horse above the knee or hock joints, comprising air intakes, air exits, a passage interconnecting the intakes and exits, the passage being adjacent to the skin of the horse, such that the air intakes are arranged to cause air to be forced to move freely from the intakes to the exits over the horse's body, during forward movement of the horse, whereby said forced air movement provides a cooling action.

2. Equestrian equipment as claimed in claim I selected from a saddle, saddlecloth, blanket, saddle pad, numnah, bridle, bridle pad, breastplate, chest pad, girth, in which the air intakes are located at the front of the equipment to face against the direction of the moving air during forward movement of the horse.

3. Equestrian equipment as claimed in any of the preceding claims comprising a saddle or saddlecloth having enlarged air intakes extending laterally outward from the horse's body for creating a greater cross-sectional area facing against the moving air and thereby increasing air intake efficiency during forward movement of the horse.

4. Equestrian equipment as claimed in claim 3, comprising air intakes extending laterally outward from the body in front of a knee roll, which may also be adapted as a strap for securing the saddlecloth to a girth.

5. Equestrian equipment as claimed in any of the preceding claims comprising a saddle, a saddlecloth or a girth, where the air passage comprises one large internal air cavity creating a space through which coolant air can travel between the equipment and the horse's skin.

6. Equestrian equipment as claimed in any of the preceding claims comprising a saddle, a saddlecloth or a girth, where the air passage comprises a plurality of channels directing the flow of coolant air to specific locations over the horse's body.

7. Equestrian equipment as claimed in any of the preceding claims comprising a saddle, a saddlecloth, or a girth, where the air passage is exposed directly to the horse's skin under the equipment.

8. Equestrian equipment as claimed in any of claims 1 to 6, wherein the air passage is separated from the horse's skin by an air or fluid permeable membrane such as but not limited to an open weave fabric, a perforated flexible sheet material or a fleece type lining.

9. Equestrian equipment as claimed in any of the preceding claims wherein the air passage is defined by an air or fluid permeable material layer that allows air or fluid to pass freely adjacent to the horse's skin.

10. Equestrian equipment as claimed in preceding claims constructed from lightweight energy absorbing materials that conform to various different body shapes, including a visco-elastic foam.

11. Equestrian equipment as claimed in any of the preceding claims wherein the air exits are located facing outwards at the sides of the equipment and comprise external surfaces constructed partially or entirely from air or fluid permeable material.

12. Equestrian equipment as claimed in any of the preceding claims, with the modification that a fan is provided to assist air to be forced to move in the air passage from the intakes to the exits over the horse's body.

13. Equestrian equipment as claimed in claim 12, comprising one or more electrically powered fans arranged to suck coolant air through a respective air intake into the air passage, powered by a battery, a solar-powered photo voltaic cell, or a thermo voltaic unit using the horse's own body temperature to generate all or part of the required electrical power.

14. Equestrian equipment according to any one of the preceding claims, where contact with the horse's skin and the equipment is made, constructed partially from lightweight energy absorbing materials that conform to various different body shapes, including visco-elastic foam, air bags or enclosed compartments containing a quantity of lightweight pellets such as polystyrene beads.

15. Equestrian equipment according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein said cooling action is further enhanced by an evaporant fluid applied directly onto the surfaces of the horse's skin or to the material defining said air passage, such that as air flows over the evaporant fluid, the skin temperature is proportionally reduced.

16. Equestrian equipment according to claim 15, wherein said evaporant comprises an alcohol or water based liquid or gel.

17. A horse heating blanket comprising one or more electrically powered fans and one or more electrically powered heating elements arranged to send heated air through an air passage defined by the blanket adjacent the horse's skin for directing air from one or more air intakes to one or more air exits.

18. The horse heating blanket of claim 17, wherein the fan(s) and element(s) are located at the front of the blanket.

19. The horse heating blanket of claim 17 or claim 18, wherein the source of electrical power is a battery, a solar-powered photo voltaic cell located partially or throughout the outer surfaces of the blanket being exposed to the sun, a thermo voltaic unit using the horse's own body temperature to generate all or part of the electrical power; or when the horse is stationary, the source of electrical power may comprise an AC mains supply.

20. The horse heating blanket of any one of claims 17 to 19, wherein the heating element comprises a grid work of wires interspersed throughout the fabric of the blanket area.

21. The horse heating blanket of any one of claims 17 to 20, further comprising a thermal sensor to measure body temperature, an electronic control circuit to convert body temperature readings to predetermined electrical power outputs which in turn power said heating element(s).

22. Equestrian equipment adapted to be worn by a horse above the knee or hock joints, comprising air intakes, air exits, a passage interconnecting the intakes and exits, the passage being adjacent to the skin of the horse, such that the air intakes are arranged to cause air to be forced to move freely from the intakes to the exits over the horse's body, during forward movement of the horse, whereby said forced air movement provides a cooling action, wherein a breastplate or chest pad comprises primary air intakes, communicating with a breastplate air passage to breastplate air exits, and wherein a saddle, saddlecloth or girth comprises secondary air intakes, communicating with saddle, saddlecloth or girth air passages to saddle, saddlecloth or girth air exits, and wherein detachable air connectors are provided, securable at one end to the breastplate air exits, and at the other end to the saddle, saddlecloth or girth air intakes, such that air collected at the primary air intakes during forward movement of the horse is directed to supply or augment a flow of coolant air in the saddle, saddlecloth or girth air passages.

23. A saddle, saddlecloth, blanket, saddle pad, numnah, bridle, bridle pad, breastplate, chest pad, girth, or combination thereof, substantially as described herein with reference to and as shown in the accompanying drawings.