GB2583762A

GB2583762A - Livestock clamping apparatus

Info

Publication number: GB2583762A
Application number: GB1906617.4A
Authority: GB
Inventors: Leonard Ridley Michael
Original assignee: RAPPA FENCING Ltd
Current assignee: RAPPA FENCING Ltd
Priority date: 2019-05-10
Filing date: 2019-05-10
Publication date: 2020-11-11
Anticipated expiration: 2039-05-10
Also published as: GB201906617D0; GB2583762B

Abstract

A livestock clamping apparatus 106 comprising a first clamping assembly 114 comprising a first clamp 152, and a second clamping assembly 116 comprising a second clamp 166. The first and second clamps 152,166 pivot inwardly about their respective pivot axes to clamp a livestock animal therebetween. The top of the first clamp 152 pivots inwardly further than the bottom of the first clamp 152, and the bottom of the second clamp 166 pivots inwardly further than the top of the second clamp 166. Preferably, the second clamp 166 pivots upwardly to clamp the livestock-animal. The clamping apparatus 106 may comprise a locking mechanism to restrict outward pivoting of the first and second clamps 152,166. The clamping apparatus 106 may comprise an actuating mechanism to actuate the second clamp 166 in response to actuation of the first clamping assembly 114, causing the second clamp 166 to pivot inwardly after the first clamp 152 has pivoted inwardly by a predetermined amount. Also, a livestock handling system comprising: a livestock race 102 comprising left and right hurdles 104a,104b; and a modular livestock clamping apparatus 106 comprising a plurality of separable components, the apparatus 106 being mounted within, and supported by, the race 102.

Description

LIVESTOCK CLAMPING APPARATUS

Field of the invention

The invention relates to livestock handling systems, in particular to livestock clamping apparatuses and livestock handling systems comprising livestock clamping apparatuses.

Background

Livestock handling systems are used to confine livestock animals and to control their movement. Generally, livestock handling systems facilitate the efficient and controlled handling of livestock animals so that they can he subjected to various animal husbandry processes, such as weighing, sorting, tagging, dipping, shearing, and medication. Livestock handling systems may include various component parts, such as enclosures or races formed from barriers such as hurdles, clamps or crushes for confining livestock animals, weighing crates for weighing livestock animals, gates for controlling the movement of livestock animals within the handling system, baths or dips for bathing livestock animals, and various other components that are useful in livestock animal husbandry. Various types of livestock animal can be processed using livestock handling systems, but they are most commonly employed in the processing of sheep.

Mobile livestock handling systems, such as mobile yards, may be packed up into a mobile configuration, such as a trailer, which can be towed behind a vehicle. Mobile livestock handling systems enable the assembly of a livestock handling system wherever it is needed, such as in a field that is remote from the main farm complex.

This removes the need to move the livestock back to the main farm complex for processing, which is not always practical or desirable.

The main component of a mobile livestock handling system is typically a livestock race. A race typically comprises a left hurdle and a right hurdle, which are arranged so as to form a channel between them through which livestock may he channelled. Some races also comprise a floor between the left and right hurdles. In some mobile livestock handling systems, the main body of the trailer itself functions as a livestock race when the livestock handling system is deployed for use. In other mobile livestock handling systems the race is transported on a trailer and is transferred off from the trailer and onto the ground when it is deployed for use. The various other livestock handling components, such as hurdles and/or a livestock clamp, are mounted on the trailer either within or external to the race when the livestock handling system is packed for transport For example, the various hurdles used for constructing enclosures may be mounted along the sides of the race.

It is important that the channel of the race is sufficiently narrow such that a livestock animal may not turn around within the race. This ensures that the animals pass through the race from one end to the other in one direction only. However, this limits the maximum width of components that can he transported within the race, especially where small or medium sized livestock animals, such as sheep, are to be handled by the system. In particular, any component must not have a width that is wider than the width of the channel of the race.

Typically, livestock clamping apparatuses are large and bulky items and typically have a width that is greater than the width of the channel of a livestock race. Consequently, livestock clamping apparatuses must be carried external to the race when in transport, and are typically mounted or hung on the rear end of the trailer. However, this arrangement is undesirable for a number of reasons. Firstly, it is difficult to secure the large and heavy clamping apparatus on the rear end of the trailer, especially so that the clamping apparatus is mounted securely enough for transport over rough terrain or by road. Secondly, the livestock clamping apparatus is a heavy item, and raising it up to the level of the trailer is therefore difficult and potentially dangerous. Thirdly, the length of the trailer is extended by mounting the livestock clamping apparatus off the rear of the race, which makes the trailer more cumbersome and more difficult to manoeuvre. Fourthly, the livestock clamping apparatus is likely to obscure the registration plate and lights on the trailer, necessitating the use of a temporary lights and registration board, which must be affixed to the clamping apparatus. Fifthly, the centre of gravity of the trailer will be transferred towards the rear of the trailer, which may adversely affect the balance of the trailer and may cause an upward force on the tow bar, which is potentially dangerous. Finally, a trailer with a livestock clamping apparatus mounted off its rear end may not conform to various regulations or other legal requirements that must be met for the trailer to be considered roadworthy. It would therefore be desirable to provide a mobile livestock handling system, and in particular a system comprising a livestock clamping apparatus, that addresses these disadvantages.

In general, it is also desirable for a mobile livestock handling system to be as lightweight and compact as possible, while also providing the greatest flexibility in terms of possible functionality and use.

Livestock clamping apparatuses may also be used in static or permanent livestock handling systems. Since livestock clamps are generally only required intermittently, for example when trimming or shearing livestock, inspecting livestock or administering medication, it is desirable for livestock clamping systems to he convenient to store and for them to be as lightweight and easy to manoeuvre as possible.

It would therefore be desirable to provide a livestock handling system, and in particular a livestock clamping apparatus, that addresses these requirements.

Another problem with known livestock clamping apparatuses is that they are generally set up to clamp a certain size or "grade" of livestock and have to he adjusted to accommodate livestock of different sizes. As such, livestock animals must be sorted into various size grades appropriate for the various settings, which is inconvenient and time consuming. Between the processing of each size grade of livestock the clamping apparatus must be adjusted for the next size grade. Typically, livestock clamping apparatuses comprise a gripper panel, which is connected to the floor of the apparatus by a hinge. The livestock are gripped or clamped by swinging the gripper panel towards the animal about its hinge to clamp the animal between the gripper panel and an opposing side panel. In order to accommodate animals of different sizes, livestock clamping apparatuses typically comprise a number of different hinge mounts on the floor across the width of the apparatus allowing the gripper panel to be hinged to the floor at different positions across the width of the apparatus. In order to adjust the apparatus to accommodate different sized livestock, the gripper panel must be unhinged from the floor of the apparatus and remounted on another of the hinge mounts, which is time consuming and inconvenient. It would therefore be desirable to provide a livestock clamping apparatus that addresses these drawbacks.

Summary of the Invention

According to a first aspect of the invention, there is provided a livestock clamping apparatus. The apparatus may comprise a first or primary clamping assembly comprising a first or primary clamping structure. The first clamping structure may be arranged on a first side of a clamping space. The first clamping structure may be arranged to pivot inwardly towards the clamping space about a first pivot axis. The apparatus may comprise a second or secondary clamping assembly comprising a second or secondary clamping structure. The second clamping structure may be arranged on a second side of the clamping space. The second clamping structure may be arranged to pivot inwardly towards the clamping space ahout a second pivot axis.

The first and second clamping structures may be arranged to pivot inwardly about their respective pivot axes to clamp a livestock animal therebetween. The first clamping structure may be arranged to pivot inwardly so that the top of the first clamping structure pivots inwardly further than the bottom of the first clamping structure. The second clamping structure may be arranged to pivot inwardly so that the bottom of the second clamping structure pivots inwardly further than the top of the second clamping structure.

The second clamping structure may he arranged to pivot upwardly to clamp the livestock animal.

The second pivot axis may be located proximate to the top of the second clamping structure.

The first pivot axis may be located proximate to the bottom of the first clamping structure.

The first and second clamping structures may be configured for actuation by hand.

The first clamping assembly may comprise a handle for actuating the first clamping structure so as to cause the first clamping structure to pivot inwardly.

The apparatus may further comprise an actuating mechanism arranged to actuate the second clamping structure in response to actuation of the first clamping assembly so as to cause the second clamping structure to pivot inwardly when the first clamping structure pivots inwardly.

The actuating mechanism may be configured so that the second clamping structure begins to pivot inwardly only after the first clamping structure has pivoted inwardly by a predetermined amount or angle.

The actuation mechanism may comprise a compressible structure, member, or assembly configured to compress as the first clamping structure is pivoted inwardly until the first clamping structure pivots inwardly by the predetermined amount or angle, whereafter further compression of the compressible structure is restricted or prevented, for example so that the compressible structure is no longer compressed, thereby causing actuation of the second clamping structure upon further actuation of the first clamping structure. For example, the compressible structure may reach a maximum compression when the first clamping structure reaches the predetermined angle. The compressible structure may he arranged to mechanically couple the first and second clamping structures. The compressible structure may comprise a slide rod and a slider. The compressible structure may comprise a spring.

The actuating mechanism may comprise a slide rod pivotably connected to one of the clamping assemblies, a slider pivotably connected to the other clamping assembly, and a contact structure. The actuating mechanism may be configured so that the slider slides along the slide rod as the first clamping structure is actuated until the slider contacts the contact structure, whereafter the slider is restricted from sliding further along the slide rod, thereby causing actuation of the second clamping structure upon further actuation of the first clamping structure.

The apparatus may comprise a locking mechanism configured to restrict outward pivoting of the first and second clamping structures.

The locking mechanism may comprise a release mechanism which, when actuated, releases the locking mechanism, thereby allowing the first and second clamping structures to pivot outwardly.

The apparatus may comprise a base, the first clamping assembly being pivotably mounted on the base.

According to a second aspect of the invention, there is provided a livestock handling system. The livestock handling system may comprise a livestock race comprising a left hurdle and a right hurdle. The livestock handling system may comprise modular livestock clamping apparatus, which may he mounted on or within the race, for example substantially within the race, and supported by the race. The livestock clamping apparatus may comprise a plurality of separable components. The separable components may comprise a base comprising a floor having a front end and a rear end.

The separable components may comprise a first clamping assembly pivotably mounted on the base and comprising a first clamping structure, the first clamping structure arranged on a first side of a clamping space and arranged to pivot inwardly towards the clamping space about a first pivot axis to clamp a first side of a livestock animal.

The modular livestock clamping apparatus may be configured such that the separable components may he separated from each other and removed from the race.

The plurality of separable components may further comprise a second clamping assembly comprising a second clamping structure. The second clamping structure may be arranged on a second side of the clamping space and arranged to pivot inwardly towards the clamping space about a second pivot axis to clamp a second side of the livestock animal. The first and second clamping structures may be arranged to pivot inwardly about their respective pivot axes to clamp a livestock animal therehetween. The first clamping structure may be arranged to pivot inwardly so that the top of the first clamping structure pivots inwardly further than the bottom of the first clamping structure. The second clamping structure may he arranged to pivot inwardly so that the bottom of the second clamping structure pivots inwardly further than the top of the second clamping structure.

The second clamping assembly may be mounted on a hurdle of the race.

The plurality of separable components may comprise an exit gate arranged to control movement of livestock off from a front end of the floor of the base. The exit gate may be separably mounted on the second clamping assembly.

The plurality of separable components may further comprise a riser, a rear end of the base being supported by the riser such that the rear end of the base is elevated relative to a front end of the base.

The race may further comprise a floor. The front end of the base may be supported on the floor of the race.

The system may comprise a lead-up ramp. The front end of the lead-up ramp may be supported by the riser such that the front end of the lead-up ramp is elevated relative to a rear end of the lead-up ramp. The lead-up ramp may he a modular lead-up ramp.

The modular lead-up ramp may comprise a plurality of separable components.

The lead-up ramp may be located outside of the race to a rear end of the race.

The modular livestock clamping apparatus may comprise one or more, for example all, of the above-mentioned separable components, but none is essential. In general, the invention provides a modular livestock clamping apparatus configured to be mounted on or within and supported by a livestock race.

According to a third aspect of the invention, there is provided a kit of parts for a livestock clamping apparatus according to the invention.

According to a fourth aspect of the invention, there is provided a kit of parts for a livestock handling system according to the invention.

According to a fifth aspect of the invention, there is provided a kit of parts for a modular livestock clamping apparatus according to the invention.

According to a sixth aspect of the invention, there is provided a method of assembling a livestock clamping apparatus. The method may comprise providing a livestock race.

The method may comprise removably mounting a base within the race. The base may comprise a floor having a front end and a rear end. The method may comprise pivotably mounting a first clamping assembly on the base. The first clamping assembly may comprise a first clamping structure. The first clamping assembly may be mounted on the base so that the first clamping structure is arranged on a first side of a clamping space. The first clamping assembly may be arranged to pivot inwardly towards the clamping space about a first pivot axis to clamp a first side of a livestock animal.

The method may comprise removably mounting a second clamping assembly comprising a second clamping structure on a hurdle of the race. The second clamping assembly may be mounted so that the second clamping structure is arranged on a second side of the clamping space and arranged to pivot inwardly towards the clamping space about a second pivot axis to clamp a second side of the livestock animal. The second clamping assembly may he mounted or arranged so that the first and second clamping structures are arranged to pivot inwardly about their respective pivot axes to clamp a livestock animal therebetween. The second clamping assembly may be mounted or arranged so that the first clamping structure is arranged to pivot inwardly so that the top of the first clamping structure pivots inwardly further than the bottom of the first clamping structure. The second clamping assembly may be mounted or arranged so that and so that the second clamping structure is arranged to pivot inwardly so that the bottom of the second clamping structure pivots inwardly further than the top of the second clamping structure.

Brief Description of the Figures

The invention will now be described by way of example only with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which: Figure 1 shows a perspective view from the left-hand side of a livestock handling system comprising a livestock clamping apparatus; Figure 2 shows a perspective view from the left-hand side of a livestock handling system comprising a livestock clamping apparatus; Figure 3 shows a perspective view from the rear of a livestock clamping apparatus mounted in a race with the secondary clamping assembly removed; Figure 4 shows a perspective view from an inner side of a primary clamping assembly; Figure 5 shows a perspective view from an inner side of a secondary clamping assembly; Figure 6 shows a perspective view from the left-hand side of parts of a clamping apparatus including an actuating mechanism and a locking mechanism; Figures 7A to C show perspective views from the rear of a livestock clamping apparatus as the clamping apparatus is progressively actuated; Figure 8 shows a perspective view from the rear of a livestock handling system comprising a lead-up ramp; Figure 9A shows a perspective view from the left-hand side of a lead-up ramp; Figure 9B shows a perspective view from the left-hand side of a lead-up ramp.

Unless otherwise indicated, the same reference numerals are used to denote the same or corresponding features in all of the drawings.

Detailed Description

Referring primarily to Figures 1 and 2, a livestock handling system 100 according to the invention comprises a livestock race 102 comprising a left hurdle 104a and a right hurdle 104b, and a modular livestock clamping apparatus 106. The livestock handling system may also comprise a lead-up ramp assembly 108.

The livestock handling system 100 may be a mobile livestock handling system, sometimes referred to as a "mobile yard". For example, the system 100 may be configurable into a deployed configuration, in which the system 100 is deployed for use for processing livestock, and a transport or mobile configuration, in which the system 100 is configured for transport. For example, the livestock race 102 may he configured such that it may be converted into a trailer, for example by attaching wheels to the race 102, or it may be configured to be loaded onto and transported on a trailer, optionally together with other components of the mobile yard, such as hurdles. and

The modular clamping apparatus 106 may comprise a plurality of component parts, including a base 110, which provides a floor 112, a primary (or first) clamping assembly 114, a secondary (or second) clamping assembly 116, and an exit gate 118.

The modular clamping apparatus 106 may be disassembled into its component parts and removed from the race 102, either for storage or transport. When disassembled the component parts are completely separate and independent from each other and can be stored and arranged in the most convenient manner. Thus, the component parts may be referred to as separable components. This allows for more compact storage of the clamping apparatus 106 and allows the clamping apparatus 106 to be transported within the race 102, either while assembled or when disassembled into its component parts. This is particularly advantageous for mobile livestock handling systems because the weight load can be more evenly distributed.

Also, because the clamping apparatus 106 is supported by the race 102, it does not need to he made as robustly as a stand-alone clamping apparatus. This is because the race 102 provides the majority of the strength and stability to the clamping apparatus 106. This means that the clamping apparatus 106 can he manufactured from lighter materials, such as aluminium, and need not be manufactured to include various bulky and heavy structural elements that are usually required to provide support and stability to the clamping apparatus 106. The modular clamping apparatus 106 is therefore considerably lighter and more compact than a stand-alone clamping apparatus, which are further advantages of the invention.

Mounting the clamping apparatus 106 within the race 102 itself also makes the fully assembled system 100 more compact. In particular, a separate clamping apparatus need not be positioned outside of the race 102, which would increase the overall length of the system 100.

Livestock Race Referring primarily to Figure 2, the race 102 comprises a left hurdle 104a, a right hurdle 104b, and a base 117. The race 102 has a rear end 120, through which livestock may enter the race 102, a front end 122, through which livestock may exit the race 102, and a left hand side and a right hand side. As used herein, "front" and "rear" are generally used to refer to the direction of travel of animals through the systems and apparatuses, with animals entering from the rear and exiting from the front. The left 104a and right 104b hurdles extend longitudinally (lengthways) along the race 102 and define the left and right hand sides of the race 102, respectively. The left 104a and right 104b hurdles are arranged substantially parallel to each other and define a channel between them through which a livestock animal may pass. The race channel is typically wide enough to allow a livestock animal to pass along it, but narrow enough to prevent the animal from turning around within the race 102. The race 102 is also sufficiently narrow that livestock animals are kept in single file within the race 102 and cannot be arranged two-abreast.

The term "hurdle" is used to mean any barrier that can be used to confine a livestock animal. For example, the hurdle may comprise a solid panel or a plurality of bars. In the example illustrated in Figures 1 and 2, the left 104a and right 104b hurdles each comprise a hurdle frame 105. Each hurdle frame 105 comprises a substantially horizontal top rail 124, which is connected to the base 117 of the race 102 at either end of the race 102 by substantially vertical or upstanding support pillars 126. Each hurdle frame 105 also comprises a plurality of struts 128 extending between the base 117 of the race 102 and the top rail 124 to provide additional support and rigidity to the hurdle 104a, 104b. Each of the hurdle frames 105 is arranged to support at least one side panel (not shown) to form a barrier through which livestock animals may not pass. The side panels are mounted on the inward-facing side of the hurdle frames 105.

In a conventional livestock race 102, such as of the sort that may be used as the race 102 in accordance with the present invention, end gates would typically be mounted on the hurdle frames 105 to extend across the ends of the race. In particular, the end gates would typically be hinged to the support pillars 126 and, when closed, would extend across the open ends of the race 102. Therefore, in livestock races 102 according to the invention, the hurdle frames 105 may comprise mounting points, as best shown in Figure 3, in the form of mounting lugs 130a, 130b or hinge barrels mounted on the support pillars 120. The mounting lugs 130a, 130h are generally configured to receive a hinge pin upon which a gate may be hinged. The mounting lugs 130a, 130b therefore generally comprise a barrel, with the bore of the barrel extending substantially vertically. Each end support pillar 120 typically comprises a lower mounting lug 130a located towards its lower end and an upper mounting lug 130b located towards its upper end.

The hurdles 104a, 104b are mounted on the base 117. The base 117 comprises a floor 132, upon which livestock animals are supported when they are within the race 102. The floor 132 is a flat structure which extends between the left 104a and right 104h hurdles. The base 117 also comprises a plurality of support bars 134, which extend under and support the floor 132. The support bars 134 extend in a transverse direction across the width of the race 102 and protrude from either side of the race 102 in a transverse (i.e. sideways) direction. When deployed for use, the race 102 is supported on the ground on the support bars 134, which provide enhanced stability to the race 102 and help to prevent the race 102 from tipping over sideways. The base 117 may also comprise mounting points for mounting wheels on the race 102 so that the race 102 can be converted into a trailer for transport. Alternatively, the race 102 may be configured to be mounted on a separate trailer so that it can be transported.

In some embodiments of the invention, the race 102 does not include a base 117 and the hurdles 104a, 104h are instead supported directly on the ground or are secured in or to the ground. This will generally be the case for static races that are not intended for transport. The floor 132 of the race 102 may therefore simply be the ground where no base 117 is present.

Clamping Apparatus Base Referring primarily to Figures 1, 2 and 3, the clamping apparatus 106 may comprise a base 110. The base 110 provides or comprises a floor 112 for supporting a livestock animal within the clamping apparatus 106. The base 110 may therefore comprise a substantially planar floor structure 112. The base 110 may comprise mounting points or structures 136 for pivotably or hingedly mounting the primary clamping apparatus 114 to the base 110, specifically to the floor 112 provided by the base 110. For example, the mounting structures 136 may comprise mounting lugs configured to receive a hinge pin 138 for hingedly or pivotably mounting the primary clamping assembly 114. The mounting structures are preferably provided on the upper surface of the floor 112 of the base 110. The mounting structures are also preferably located towards one side of the base 110 so that the primary clamping assembly 114 is located on that side of the apparatus 106 when mounted to the base 110. The base 110 is supported, at least in part, on the floor 132 of the race 102. For example, the front end 140 of the base 110 may be supported on the floor 132 of the race 102.

Alternatively, if the race 102 does not comprise a floor, the base 110 may rest on and be supported by the ground between the hurdles of the race 102. The rear end 142 of the base 110 may he supported by a riser structure 144, which is described in more detail below, so as to elevate the rear end 142 of the base 110. This has the effect of providing a sloping floor 112, wherein the rear end 142 of the floor 112 is elevated relative to the front end 140 of the floor 112. This has the advantage that, when clamped, the rear end of the animal is directed upwardly, which aids inspection of the animal by a user of the apparatus 106, and also presents the rear of the animal more conveniently for procedures such as trimming, shearing, or examination. Riser

Referring primarily to Figure 3, the clamping apparatus may comprise a riser 144 for supporting the rear end 142 of the base 110 of the clamping apparatus 106 so as to elevate the rear end 142 of the base 110. The riser 144 may he configured for mounting on the race 102, specifically on the hurdles 104a, 104b of the race 102. For example, the riser 144 may be mounted on the rear end support pillars 126 of the hurdles 104a, 104b. For example, the riser 144 may be configured to receive mounting pins 146 that are themselves received by the mounting lugs 130a, 130b located on the hurdles 104a, 104b of the race 102. The riser 144 may comprise left 148a and right 148b side members, preferably arranged parallel to each other, and at least one cross member 150 extending between the two side members 148a, 148b. Each of the side members 148a, 148b may be configured to receive a mounting pin 146 that is received by the mounting lugs 130a, 130b on the corresponding side of the race 102 so as to locate the riser 144. For example, each of the side members 148a, 148b may be hollow or tubular in form. The riser 144 may be supported on the lower mounting lugs 130a on the left and right rear support pillars 126, each of the left 148a and right 148b side members resting on the corresponding lower mounting lug 130a and being held in place by the respective mounting pin 146. The base 110 of the clamping apparatus 106 may be supported on the cross member 150 of the riser. For example, the cross member 150 may comprise mounting structures in the form of mounting lugs (not shown), which arc configured to receive mounting pins on the underside of the base 110.

Primary Clamping Assembly Referring primarily to Figures 1, 2 and 4, the clamping apparatus 106 may comprise a primary clamping assembly 114. The primary clamping assembly 114 is arranged on one side of the apparatus 106, i.e. on or towards one side of channel of the race 102. In the example illustrated, the primary clamping assembly 114 is located towards and adjacent the right-hand hurdle 104h, but it could equally he located towards the left-hand hurdle 104a instead. The primary clamping assembly 114 is generally located on the opposite side of the apparatus 106, and therefore of the race 102, to the secondary clamping assembly 116. Together, the primary 114 and secondary 116 clamping assemblies define a clamping space 101 (see Figures 7A and 7B) between them where a livestock animal may he clamped or gripped in place by the clamping assemblies 114, 116. The primary clamping assembly 114 is therefore arranged on one side of the clamping space 101 with the secondary clamping assembly 116 arranged on the other side of the clamping space 101 opposing the primary clamping assembly 114.

The primary clamping assembly 114 comprises a primary clamping structure 152 configured to clamp or grip a first side of a livestock animal located within the clamping space 101. The primary clamping structure 152 may comprise a clamping or gripper panel, or may comprise a cage-like structure, straps, or a flexible sheet, for example. The precise construction of the primary clamping structure 152 is not important, but generally the primary clamping structure 152 comprises a clamping surface 154 arranged to contact a livestock animal so as to clamp or grip at least a first side of the animal. In the example illustrated, the primary clamping structure 152 comprises one or more clamping panels and a support frame 158 upon which the clamping panel is mounted. In this example, a textured covering in the form of a flexible sheet 160 (for example made of rubber) is affixed to the inner face of the clamping panel to provide a clamping surface 154 having increased friction, which allows the clamping surface 154 to effectively clamp or grip an animal with less inward force being applied.

The primary clamping assembly 114 may be pivotably or hingedly mounted to the base 110 of the clamping apparatus 106 so that it may pivot inwardly towards the clamping space 101 about a first pivot axis and as such may also comprise mounting structures 162 for pivotably mounting the primary clamping assembly 114 on the base 110. The primary pivot axis may be proximate to the bottom of the primary clamping structure. For example, the mounting structures 162 may be provided at or towards the bottom of the primary clamping assembly 114, or at or towards the bottom of the primary clamping structure 152. For example, the mounting structures 162 may be provided on the frame 158 of the primary clamping structure 152. The mounting structures 162 may he configured to receive a hinge pin 138, by way of which the primary damping assembly 114 may he pivotably connected to the base 110. The mounting structures 162 may therefore comprise tubular lugs or hinge knuckles configured to receive the hinge pin 138. In other words, the clamping apparatus 106 may comprise a hinged connection pivotably connecting the primary clamping assembly 114 to the base 110. However, it is not essential for the primary clamping assembly 114 to he mounted to the base 110 and it may instead he pivotably mounted in other ways.

The primary clamping structure 152 may therefore pivot over and above the pivot axis defined by the pivotal or hinged connection of the primary clamping assembly 114 to the base 110. The pivot axis about which the primary clamping assembly 114 pivots is preferably closer to the bottom than to the top of the primary clamping structure 152. This means that when the primary clamping structure 152 is pivoted its top part pivots or moves further than its bottom part. Thus, when actuated to clamp an animal, the top or top portion of the primary clamping structure 152 moves inwardly by a greater distance than the bottom or bottom portion of the primary clamping structure 152. For example, the top portion may pivot inwardly and the bottom portion may not pivot inwardly at all or may even pivot outwardly. The top of the primary clamping assembly 114 may therefore pivot inwardly towards the clamping space 101 so that the primary clamping structure 152 may contact and clamp a livestock animal.

The primary clamping assembly 114 may further comprise one or more handles 164 for actuating the primary clamping assembly 114 by hand. For example, a handle 164 may be provided towards the top of the primary clamping assembly 114 so as to provide a substantial mechanical advantage when actuating the primary clamping assembly 114. Alternatively, the primary clamping assembly 114 may be configured for actuation by other means, such as by foot or by automated means.

Secondary Clamping Assembly Referring primarily to Figures 1, 2, and 5, the clamping apparatus may also comprise a secondary clamping assembly 116. The secondary clamping assembly 116 is arranged on the other side of the apparatus 106 to the primary clamping assembly 114, i.e. on or towards the other side of channel of the race 102. In the example illustrated, the secondary clamping assembly 116 is located towards and adjacent to the left-hand hurdle 104a, but it could equally he located towards and adjacent to the right-hand hurdle 104b instead.

The secondary clamping assembly 116 comprises a secondary clamping structure 166 configured to clamp or grip a second side of a livestock animal located within the clamping space 101, the second side being opposite the first side clamped by the primary clamping structure 152. The secondary clamping structure 166 may comprise a clamping or gripper panel, or may comprise a cage-like structure, straps, or a flexible sheet, for example. The precise construction of the secondary clamping structure 166 is not important, but generally the secondary clamping structure 166 comprises a secondary clamping surface 168 arranged to contact a livestock animal so as to clamp or grip at least a second side of the animal. In the example illustrated, the secondary clamping structure 166 is constructed similarly to the primary clamping structure 152 and comprises one or more clamping panels 170 and a support frame 172 upon which the clamping panel 170 is mounted. Again, a textured covering in the form of a flexible sheet 174 (for example made of rubber) is affixed to the inner face of the clamping panel 170 to provide a clamping surface 168 having increased friction, which allows the secondary clamping surface 168 to effectively grip an animal with less inward force being applied.

The secondary clamping assembly 1 1 6 may also comprise a frame part 176, otherwise known as the mounting frame. The secondary clamping assembly 116 may be mounted on the hurdle of the race 102 adjacent to the secondary clamping assembly 116 via the frame part 176. In particular, the secondary clamping assembly 116 may be suspended from or otherwise supported by the hurdle 104a of the race 102 via the frame part 176.

In the example illustrated, the frame part 176 is supported on the top edge of the hurdle 104a, specifically on the top rail 124, and comprises brackets 178 configured to locate and hold the frame part 176 in position. The frame part 176 may therefore he configured for mounting the secondary clamping assembly 116 on the race 102, specifically on a hurdle 104a of the race 102.

The secondary clamping structure 166 may he pivotahly or hingedly mounted or supported on the frame part 176 so that it may pivot inwardly towards the clamping space 101 about a second pivot axis and as such may comprise mounting structures 180 for pivotahly mounting the secondary clamping assembly 116 on the frame part 176. The second pivot axis may be proximate to the top of the secondary clamping structure. For example, the mounting structures 180 may be provided at or towards the top of the secondary clamping structure 166. For example, the mounting structures 180 may be provided on the frame 172 of the secondary clamping structure 166. The mounting structures 180 may each he configured to receive a hinge pin 182, by which the secondary clamping structure 166 may be pivotably connected to the frame part 176. The mounting structures 180 may therefore comprise tubular lugs or hinge knuckles configured to receive a hinge pin. The frame part 176 may also comprise corresponding mounting structures 184 for pi votably mounting the secondary clamping structure 166 on the frame part 176. In other words, the secondary clamping assembly 116 may comprise a hinged connection pivotably connecting the secondary clamping structure 166 to the frame part 176.

The secondary clamping structure 166 may therefore pivot under and below the pivot axis defined by the pivotal or hinged connection of the secondary clamping structure 166 to the frame part 176. The pivot axis about which the secondary clamping structure 166 pivots is preferably closer to the top than to the bottom of the secondary clamping structure 166. This means that when the secondary clamping structure 166 is pivoted its bottom or bottom portion pivots or moves further than its top or top portion. Thus, when actuated to clamp an animal, the bottom of the secondary clamping structure 166 moves inwardly by a greater distance than the top of the secondary clamping structure 166. The bottom of the secondary clamping assembly 116 may therefore pivot inwardly towards the clamping space 101 so that the secondary clamping structure 166 may contact and clamp a livestock animal.

The secondary clamping assembly 116 may further comprise a lever arm 186 connected, for example at its upper end, to an actuating mechanism 188 for actuating the secondary clamping structure 166 so as to cause it to pivot inwardly to clamp an animal. The lever arm 186 may be connected to the secondary clamping structure 166, for example to the top edge of the secondary clamping structure 166, and may extend upwardly therefrom. The lever arm 186 may, for example, be connected to the frame 172 of the secondary clamping structure 166.

Exit Gate The clamping apparatus 106 may further comprise an exit gate 118 arranged to control the movement of animals out from the front end of the clamping apparatus 106. The exit gate 118 may therefore be arranged to extend across the channel of the race 102 when in a closed configuration, so as to prevent livestock from leaving the clamping apparatus 106, and to extend alongside a hurdle 104a of the race when in an open configuration, so as to allow livestock to pass through the gate 118. The exit gate 118 may be pivotably mounted on the secondary clamping assembly 116, for example the frame part 176 of the secondary clamping assembly 116, for example on a front edge of the frame part 176. Each of the secondary clamping assembly 116 and the exit gate 118 may therefore comprise mounting structures for mounting the exit gate 118 on the secondary clamping assembly 116.

Actuating Mechanism Referring primarily to Figures 6 and 7A-C, the clamping apparatus 106 may further comprise an actuating mechanism 188 for actuating the secondary clamping structure 166. The actuating mechanism 188 may be configured to actuate the secondary clamping structure 166 so as to cause it to pivot inwardly in response to inward pivoting (i.e. actuation) of the primary clamping structure 152 or assembly.

The actuating mechanism 188 may be pivotably connected to the primary clamping assembly 114 and also to the secondary clamping assembly 116. For example, a first end of the actuating mechanism 188 may be connected to the primary clamping assembly 114 and a second end of the actuating mechanism 188 may be connected to the secondary clamping assembly 116, thereby mechanically coupling the primary and secondary clamping assemblies. The actuating mechanism 188 may he configured to cause actuation (i.e. inward pivoting) of the secondary clamping structure 166 only after or once the primary clamping structure 152 has pivoted inwardly by a predetermined amount. Thus, the actuating mechanism 188 is configured to effect delayed actuation of the secondary clamping structure 166 in response to actuation of the primary clamping structure 152.

The actuation mechanism may comprise a slide rod 190 pivotably connected to the lever arm 186 of the secondary clamping assembly 116, and a slider 192 pivotably connected to the primary clamping assembly 114. Alternatively, the slider 192 may be pivotahly connected to the secondary clamping assembly 116 and the slide rod 190 may he pivotably connected to the primary clamping assembly 114. The slider 192 may comprise a barrel 194 and may be configured to receive the slide rod 190 and to slide longitudinally along the slide rod 190 towards the proximal end of the slide rod 190 connected to the lever arm 186 as the primary clamping structure 152 is initially pivoted inwardly. Eventually, the barrel 194 of the slider 192 contacts a contact structure or portion of the slide rod 190, as shown in Figure 7B, which in this case is a flange 196 located towards the proximal end of the slide rod 190. This restricts or prevents the slider 192 from sliding further along the slide rod 190 and causes the actuating mechanism 188 to push outwardly on the lever arm 186, which causes the secondary clamping structure 166 to pivot inwardly about the second pivot axis, as shown in Figure 7C. However, other arrangements having the same delayed actuation effect are possible. For example, any other compressible assembly may be used to couple the primary 152 and secondary 166 clamping structures and to effect the delayed actuation of the secondary clamping structure 166.

When the primary clamping structure 152 is reverse actuated, i.e. pivoted outwardly, the actuating mechanism 188 allows the secondary clamping structure 166 to also pivot outwardly, for example under the influence of gravity. In the example illustrated, the secondary clamping assembly 116 is arranged so that it is biased under the influence of gravity into a "rest" or "open" configuration in which the secondary clamping structure 166 is located alongside the hurdle 104a substantially vertically. However, other means of biasing the secondary clamping structure 166 may be used instead.

Locking Mechanism Referring primarily to Figures 6 and 7A-C, the clamping apparatus 106 may also comprise a locking mechanism 200 arranged to prevent the reverse actuation of the clamping structures 152, 166. In other words, the locking mechanism 200 is arranged to prevent or restrict outward pivoting of the clamping structures 152, 166 once they have been actuated so as to pivot inwardly. The locking mechanism 200 may also comprise a release mechanism configured to release the locking mechanism 200 so as to allow the reverse actuation of the clamping structures 152, 166, i.e. to allow the clamping structures 152, 166 to pivot outwardly. The locking mechanism 200 may therefore comprise a handle 202 configured for actuating the release mechanism. Advantageously, the handle 202 may be configured to actuate the release mechanism as the handle 202 is pushed to cause the primary clamping structure 152 to pivot outwardly, thereby permitting the reverse actuation of the primary 152 (and therefore secondary 166) clamping structure by pushing the handle 202 outwardly.

The locking mechanism 200 may comprise a locking assembly 204 mounted on the primary clamping assembly 114, and a slide rod 206 pivotably connected to the frame part 176 of the secondary clamping assembly 116, the slide rod 206 passing through the locking assembly 204. The locking assembly 204 may be arranged to permit the slide rod 206 to pass through the locking assembly 204 in one direction only, unless the release mechanism is actuated. For example, the locking assembly 204 may be configured such that, as the primary clamping assembly 114 is actuated so as to cause the primary clamping structure 152 to pivot inwardly, the slide rod 206 slides through the locking assembly 204 in a first direction. The locking assembly 204 may be configured to prevent the slide rod 206 from sliding through the locking assembly 204 in the second direction, thereby preventing the primary 152 (and therefore secondary 166) clamping structures from being reverse actuated to pivot outwardly. Only once the release mechanism is actuated may the slide rod 206 travel through the locking assembly 204 in the second direction, thereby allowing the reverse actuation of the primary 152 (and therefore secondary 166) clamping assemblies.

This functionality may be provided in a number of different ways, as will be appreciated by those skilled in the art. One such way is to employ a ratchet mechanism in which the slide rod 206 comprises a plurality of teeth that engage with a pawl in the locking assembly 204 so as to allow the slide rod 206 to pass through the locking assembly 204 in the first direction but not in the second direction. The release mechanism may he configured to disengage the pawl from the teeth of the ratchet, thereby allowing the slide rod 206 to travel in the second direction. Alternatively, the locking assembly 204 may comprise a locking member having an aperture formed therethrough, the slide rod 206 passing through the aperture. The locking member 204 may extend at an oblique angle to the slide rod 206, thereby allowing the slide rod 206 to pass through the aperture in the first direction but to grip the slide rod 206 when pulled in the second direction. The release mechanism may be configured to reorient the locking member at a more perpendicular (i.e. less oblique) angle to the slide rod 206, thereby allowing the slide rod 206 to pass through the aperture in the second direction.

Lead-up Ramp Referring primarily to Figures I, 2, 8, 9A and 9B, the livestock handling system may further comprise a lead-up ramp assembly 300 for leading animals up into the clamping apparatus. The lead-up ramp assembly 300 is configured to channel animals into the livestock handling apparatus from the rear of the clamping apparatus 106, and is therefore arranged to the rear of the clamping apparatus 106 and of the race 102.

The lead-up ramp assembly 300 comprises a base 302, providing or comprising a floor 304 for supporting a livestock animal, and may also comprise left 306a and right 306h hurdles arranged on either side of the base 302 and arranged to define a channel therebetween for channelling animals up the lead-up ramp 300 towards the clamping apparatus 106. The lead-up ramp assembly 300 may also comprise an exit gate 308. The exit gate 308 is arranged to control the passage of livestock towards and off from the front or upper end of the lead-up ramp 300 and is therefore arranged to extend across the channel of the lead-up ramp 300 when closed. When opened, the exit gate 308 is arranged to extend along or adjacent to a side of the lead-up ramp 300 to allow animals to pass up the lead-up ramp 300 through the exit gate 308. As best shown in Figure 8, the lead-up ramp assembly 300 may also comprise an entrance gate 310 arranged towards the rear or bottom end of the lead-up ramp 300. The entrance gate 310 may be a no-return gate configured so that animals may pass forward through the entrance gate 310 to move onto the lead-up ramp but may not pass backwards through the entrance gate 310 once through the entrance gate 310. For example, the entrance gate 310 may comprise one or more gate parts 312 biased into a closed configuration and arranged to open in a forwards direction only. The entrance gate 310 may also comprise a frame 314, upon which the gate parts 312 are pivotably mounted. For example, the frame 314 may comprise two opposing upright pillars 316 on the left and right sides of the lead-up ramp 300, to which the gate parts 312 are pivotably mounted, the upright pillars 316 being joined by a cross member 318 at their lower ends, the cross member 318 providing a base. Alternatively, instead of an entrance gate 310, the lead-up ramp may simply comprise a rear-end support frame, which may otherwise comprise corresponding elements to the entrance gate frame 314.

The base 302 of the lead-up ramp may he supported at its upper or front end on the riser 144. For example, the riser 144 may comprise mounting structures 320 (see Figure 3) in the form of mounting lugs arranged to receive mounting pins or rods provided on the base 302 of the lead-up ramp 300. The rear or lower end of the lead-up ramp base 302 may he supported on the ground to the rear of the race 102, or may be supported on the frame 314 of the entrance gate 310 or rear-end support frame, specifically on the cross member 318. As such, the front end of the lead-up ramp base 302 is elevated relative to the rear end of the lead-up ramp base 302. The left 306a and right 306h hurdles of the lead-up ramp 300 may he mounted on the base 302 of the lead-up ramp 300, for example via mounting points 322, such as lugs, provided on the base 302, which arc configured to receive mounting pins provided on the hurdles 306a, 306b. The left 306a and right 306b hurdles may also be supported on the entrance gate 310 or rear-end support frame, for example via mounting lugs on the hurdles and on the upright pillars, and pins received by the lugs. The exit gate 308 may be arranged to pivot about a pivot axis proximate to a front edge of one of the hurdles 306a of the race 102. For example, the exit gate 308 may be pivotably or hingedly mounted on one of the hurdles 306a of the lead-up ramp 300, for example on the left-hand hurdle 306a, specifically the exit gate 308 may be pivotably mounted on the front edge of the hurdle 306a.

As shown best in Figures 9A and 9B, the exit gate 308 may comprise a main gate part 324, configured to extend across the channel of the lead-up ramp 300 when in its closed position, and an extension part 326 pivotably connected to the distal edge of the main gate part 324, the main gate part 324 being arranged to pivot between its open and closed positions about a pivot axis adjacent to its proximal edge. The extension part 326 may be biased into a first configuration in which it extends substantially parallel to the main gate part 324, but may pivot into a second configuration in which it extends substantially perpendicular to the main gate part 324. The hurdle on the side of the race 102 to which the exit gate 308 is pivotably mounted extends only part of the way towards the upper or front end of the lead-up ramp 300, leaving a portion of the upper or front end of the lead-up ramp 300 without a permanent side. This allows for improved access to the rear end of an animal confined within the clamping apparatus 106. When the exit gate 308 is in its open position, as illustrated in Figure 9A, the extension part 326 is in its first configuration and the main gate part 324 and the extension part 326 cooperate with the hurdle 306a to which the exit gate 308 is mounted to define a side of the lead-up ramp 300 defining one side of the channel of the lead-up ramp 300. When the exit gate 308 is closed, as illustrated in Figure 9B, the extension part 326 contacts the opposing hurdle 306b on the other side of the lead-up ramp 300 to which the exit gate 308 is pivotably connected and is urged into its second configuration to extend along the inner side or face of the opposing hurdle 306h.

In general, the lead-up ramp 300 may also he of a modular construction and each of the above-mentioned components may therefore he separated from each other. For example, the base 302, the left hurdle 306a, the right hurdle 306b, the entrance gate 310/rear-end frame, and the exit gate 308 may all be separable from one another.

Operation of the Clamping Apparatus Livestock animals enter the clamping apparatus 106 from the rear, optionally via the lead-up ramp 300. As shown best in Figure 7A, the primary clamping assembly 114 may be arranged such that, in its fully open configuration prior to actuation, the primary clamping structure 152 slopes away from the clamping space 101 towards its upper end so that the upper or top portion of the primary clamping structure 152 is located further from the centre of the channel of the race 102 than the lower or bottom portion of the primary clamping structure 152. The primary clamping structure 152 is therefore at an oblique angle to vertical.

When the livestock animal enters the clamping space 101, the primary clamping structure 152 may be actuated to pivot inwardly towards the clamping space 101 and therefore towards the animal. Upon actuation, the primary clamping assembly 114, and therefore the primary clamping structure 152, pivots inwardly towards the clamping space 101 about the first pivot axis, as shown in Figures 7B and 7C. Initially, the primary clamping structure 152 pivots inwardly and upwardly until it reaches the vertical, whereafter it pivots inwardly and downwardly towards the clamping space 101. The upper portion or top of the primary clamping structure 152 pivots or travels inwardly further than the lower portion or bottom of the primary clamping structure 152 due to the greater distance between the top of the primary clamping structure 152 and the first pivot axis. Thus, the upper part of the clamping space 101 is reduced in width by the movement of the primary clamping structure 152 more rapidly than the lower part of the clamping space 101 as the primary clamping structure 152 pivots inwardly.

Initially, the secondary clamping structure 166 is not actuated and does not pivot inwardly towards the clamping space 101 when the primary clamping structure 152 is actuated, as illustrated in Figure 7B. However, once the primary clamping structure 152 reaches a predetermined pivot angle or position, as shown in Figure 7B, the actuation mechanism causes the secondary clamping structure 166 to also pivot inwardly upon further inward pivoting of the primary clamping structure 152, as shown in Figure 7C. For example, the slider 192 of the actuation mechanism may contact the flange 196 when the primary clamping structure 152 reaches the predetermined position, as shown in Figure 7B, thereby causing actuation of the secondary clamping structure 166 upon further actuation of the primary clamping structure 152, as shown in Figure 7C. Upon actuation, the secondary clamping structure 166 also pivots inwardly towards the clamping space 101. Although the secondary clamping structure 166 may initially pivot downwardly and inwardly for a short period, primarily the secondary clamping structure 166 pivots inwardly and upwardly. The lower portion or bottom of the secondary clamping structure 166 pivots or travels inwardly further than the upper portion or top of the primary clamping structure 152 due to the greater distance between the bottom of the secondary clamping structure 166 and the second pivot axis. Thus, the lower part of the clamping space 101 is reduced in width by the inward movement of the secondary clamping structure 166 more rapidly than the upper part of the clamping space 101 as the secondary clamping structure 166 pivots inwardly.

For larger livestock animals, the primary clamping structure 152 will contact and clamp the animal sufficiently strongly before the primary clamping structure 152 reaches the predetermined pivot angle at which the secondary clamping structure 166 is actuated. The animal is still clamped between the primary 152 and secondary 166 clamping structures, but the secondary clamping structure 166 is not actuated and is located in its rest or pre-actuation position adjacent to the side (i.e. hurdle 104a) of the apparatus 106. Thus, when clamping larger livestock animals the secondary clamping structure 166 is not actuated and only the first clamping structure 152 is actuated to clamp the livestock animal.

For smaller livestock animals, the primary clamping structure 152 pivots inwardly beyond the predetermined pivot angle before the animal is sufficiently clamped. This causes the secondary clamping structure 166 to also be actuated to pivot inwardly and upwardly to clamp the livestock animal. Continuing to pivot only the primary clamping structure 152 would continue to narrow the upper part of the clamping space 101 while having little effect on the width of the lower part of the clamping space 101, which is unhelpful when trying to clamp smaller animals, which will be located more towards the lower part of the clamping space 101. Pivoting the primary clamping structure 152 beyond the vertical also has the undesirable effect of pushing downwardly on the animal, which is uncomfortable for the animal and is inconvenient for users inspecting and tending to the clamped animal. The secondary clamping structure 166 therefore overcomes these problems by pivoting inwardly and upwardly to primarily reduce the width of a lower portion of the clamping space 101, which is useful for clamping smaller animals. The upward pivoting motion of the secondary clamping structure 166 also acts to support the clamped animal from below, thus preventing the animal from being pushed downwardly. This improves comfort for the animal and also presents the animal to a user of the apparatus more conveniently. The clamping apparatus of the invention is therefore suitable for clamping livestock animals of different sizes without requiring adjustment of the apparatus. The clamping apparatus of the invention also improves the comfort of animals that are clamped within it.

The secondary clamping structure 166 may be arranged so that, once actuated, it pivots inwardly by a greater extent than the primary clamping structure 152 when both are actuated. In other words, the secondary clamping structure 166 rotates or pivots about its pivot axis to a greater degree (for example a greater angle) than the corresponding rotation or pivoting of the primary clamping structure 152 when both are simultaneously actuated. Put another way, the rate of pivoting or rotation of the secondary clamping structure 166 is greater than the rate of pivoting or rotation of the primary clamping structure 152 when both are simultaneously actuated. In the example illustrated, this effect is achieved by the distance between the connection of the actuating mechanism 188 to the primary clamping structure 152 and the first pivot axis being further than the distance between the connection of the actuating mechanism 188 to the secondary clamping structure 166 and the second pivot axis.

This is advantageous because, once the primary clamping structure 152 reaches the predetermined pivot angle at which the secondary clamping structure 166 is actuated, it is of limited usefulness to further pivot the primary clamping structure 152 because the secondary clamping structure 166 is most suited for providing the additional clamping required for smaller livestock.

Notable Variants

Although the livestock clamping apparatus has been described in the context of a modular system configured to be mounted within a race, the same principals and corresponding components may equally be provided as a stand-alone unit, for example a stand-alone integrated clamping apparatus. For example, the clamping apparatus may comprise a frame upon which the various components are mounted. It is therefore not essential that the clamping apparatus he provided as a modular system.

It should also be noted that, while advantageous, the secondary clamping assembly 116 is not entirely necessary and may therefore he dispensed with. In that case, the secondary clamping assembly 116 may be replaced by a static gripper structure against which the animal is clamped by the primary clamping assembly 114, or the animal may be clamped between the primary clamping assembly 114 and an opposing part of the apparatus or the opposing hurdle 104a of the race, e.g. a side panel of the hurdle, located on the other side of a clamping space.

Although the invention has been described above in relation to specific embodiments, it is to be understood that these are merely exemplary and that the features and aspects of the described embodiments need not he combined in the manner described. For example, features or aspects of the described embodiments may be included in the invention without necessarily also including other features or aspects of the described embodiments. The invention may also include features or aspects described above in combination with one or more other features or aspects described above, either from the same or different embodiments.

Claims

Claims 1. A livestock clamping apparatus comprising: a first clamping assembly comprising a first clamping structure, the first clamping structure arranged on a first side of a clamping space and arranged to pivot inwardly towards the clamping space about a first pivot axis; a second clamping assembly comprising a second clamping structure, the second clamping structure arranged on a second side of the clamping space and arranged to pivot inwardly towards the clamping space about a second pivot axis; wherein the first and second clamping structures are arranged to pivot inwardly about their respective pivot axes to clamp a livestock animal therebetween; and wherein the first clamping structure is arranged to pivot inwardly so that the top of the first clamping structure pivots inwardly further than the bottom of the first clamping structure, and wherein the second clamping structure is arranged to pivot inwardly so that the bottom of the second clamping structure pivots inwardly further than the top of the second clamping structure.
2. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the second clamping structure is arranged to pivot upwardly to clamp the livestock animal.
3. The apparatus of claim 1 or claim 2, wherein the second pivot axis is located proximate to the top of the second clamping structure.
4. The apparatus of any preceding claim, wherein the first pivot axis is located proximate to the bottom of the first clamping structure.
5. The apparatus of any preceding claim, wherein the first and second clamping structures are configured for actuation by hand.
6. The apparatus of claim 5, wherein the first clamping assembly comprises a handle for actuating the first clamping structure so as to cause the first clamping structure to pivot inwardly.
7. The apparatus of any preceding claim, wherein the apparatus further comprises an actuating mechanism arranged to actuate the second clamping structure in response to actuation of the first clamping assembly so as to cause the second clamping structure to pivot inwardly when the first clamping structure pivots inwardly.
8. The apparatus of claim 7, wherein the actuating mechanism is configured so that the second clamping structure begins to pivot inwardly only after the first clamping structure has pivoted inwardly by a predetermined amount.
9. The apparatus of claim 8, wherein the actuating mechanism comprises a slide rod pivotably connected to one of the clamping assemblies, a slider pivotably connected to the other clamping assembly, and a contact structure, the actuating mechanism configured so that the slider slides along the slide rod as the first clamping structure is actuated until the slider contacts the contact structure, whereafter the slider is restricted from sliding further along the slide rod, thereby causing actuation of the second clamping structure upon further actuation of the first clamping structure.
10. The apparatus of any preceding claim, further comprising a locking mechanism configured to restrict outward pivoting of the first and second clamping structures.
11. The apparatus of claim 10, wherein the locking mechanism comprises a release mechanism which, when actuated, releases the locking mechanism, thereby allowing the first and second clamping structures to pivot outwardly.
12. The apparatus of any preceding claim, further comprising a base, the first clamping assembly being pivotably mounted on the base. 25
13. A livestock handling system comprising: a livestock race comprising a left hurdle and a right hurdle; and a modular livestock clamping apparatus mounted within and supported by the race, the livestock clamping apparatus comprising a plurality of separable components, the separable components comprising: a base comprising a floor having a front end and a rear end; and a first clamping assembly pivotably mounted on the base and comprising a first clamping structure, the first clamping structure arranged on a first side of a clamping space and arranged to pivot inwardly towards the clamping space about a first pivot axis to clamp a first side of a livestock animal; wherein the modular livestock clamping apparatus is configured such that the separable components may be separated from each other and removed from the race.
14. The system of claim 13, wherein the plurality of separable components further comprises a second clamping assembly comprising a second clamping structure, the second clamping structure arranged on a second side of the clamping space and arranged to pivot inwardly towards the clamping space about a second pivot axis to clamp a second side of the livestock animal; wherein the first and second clamping structures are arranged to pivot inwardly about their respective pivot axes to clamp a livestock animal therehetween; and wherein the first clamping structure is arranged to pivot inwardly so that the top of the first clamping structure pivots inwardly further than the bottom of the first clamping structure, and wherein the second clamping structure is arranged to pivot inwardly so that the bottom of the second clamping structure pivots inwardly further than the top of the second clamping structure.
15. The system of claim 14, wherein the second clamping assembly is mounted on a hurdle of the race.
16. The system of any one of claims 13 to 15, wherein the plurality of separable components further comprises an exit gate arranged to control movement of livestock off from a front end of the floor of the base; the exit gate being separably mounted on the second clamping assembly.
17. The system of any one of claims 13 to 16, wherein the plurality of separable components further comprises a riser, a rear end of the base being supported by the riser such that the rear end of the base is elevated relative to a front end of the base.
18. The system of claim 17, wherein the race further comprises a floor, and wherein the front end of the base is supported on the floor of the race.
19. The system of claim 17 or claim 18, further comprising a lead-up ramp, a front end of the lead-up ramp being supported by the riser such that the front end of the lead-up ramp is elevated relative to a rear end of the lead-up ramp.
20. The system of claim 19, wherein the lead-up ramp is located outside of the race to a rear end of the race.
21. A kit of parts for a livestock clamping apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 12.
22. A kit of parts for a livestock handling system according to any one of claims 13 to 20.
23. A kit of parts for a modular livestock clamping apparatus according to any one of claims 13 to 20.
24. A method of assembling a livestock clamping apparatus, the method comprising: providing a livestock race; removably mounting a base within the race, the base comprising a floor having a front end and a rear end; pivotably mounting a first clamping assembly on the base, the first clamping assembly comprising a first clamping structure, the first clamping assembly being mounted on the base so that the first clamping structure is arranged on a first side of a clamping space and arranged to pivot inwardly towards the clamping space about a first pivot axis to clamp a first side of a livestock animal.
25. A method according to claim 24, further comprising removably mounting a second clamping assembly comprising a second clamping structure on a hurdle of the race so that the second clamping structure is arranged on a second side of the clamping space and arranged to pivot inwardly towards the clamping space about a second pivot axis to clamp a second side of the livestock animal, and so that the first and second clamping structures are arranged to pivot inwardly about their respective pivot axes to clamp a livestock animal therebetween, and so that the first clamping structure is arranged to pivot inwardly so that the top of the first clamping structure pivots inwardly further than the bottom of the first clamping structure, and so that the second clamping structure is arranged to pivot inwardly so that the bottom of the second clamping structure pivots inwardly further than the top of the second clamping structure.