GB2589707A

GB2589707A - Animal feeder with flexible fingers

Info

Publication number: GB2589707A
Application number: GB2014024.0A
Authority: GB
Inventors: Hadfield Kevin; Day Robert
Original assignee: Mattii Labs Ltd
Current assignee: Mattii Labs Ltd
Priority date: 2019-09-09
Filing date: 2020-09-07
Publication date: 2021-06-09
Anticipated expiration: 2040-09-07
Also published as: GB201912965D0; GB2586879B; GB2586879A; GB2589707B; GB202014024D0

Abstract

An animal feeder, e.g. a slow feeding bowl, comprises a sidewall or other food retaining feature that surrounds a lower feed surface from which one or more flexible fingers 32 project into the feed area. The protruding fingers may be formed of silicone or polyurethane elastomer, may taper between proximal and distal sections of constant diameter, and may be arranged in concentric rings. The resilient fingers or bristles may be formed integrally with the bowl or its feed surface or, alternatively, as part of a fingered mat 30 that is either affixed to the feed surface or located below it with the fingers passing through holes (24, Fig. 7) in the feed surface and into the feed area, e.g. retained by a resilient outer lip or rim 31 of the mat that grips the feed surface from beneath.

Description

ANIMAL FEEDER WITH FLEXIBLE FINGERS

The present disclosure relates to a mat comprising a plurality of flexible fingers on one or more sides thereof and in particular to an animal feeder comprising one or more flexible finger in a feeder region. The specific design of said mat allows for multiple uses depending upon the final configuration thereof.

It is well-known that people tend to play with items with their hands, either whilst concentrating on difficult tasks to provide a calming sensory feedback, during conversations to assist focusing the mind or indeed in times of calm simply as a method of providing pleasant sensory feedback. Such feedback can also be of benefit in cases where nerve damage has occurred; continued gentle stimulation of the nerves at the extremities, typically the hands, can assist in improving the signalling and regaining some sense of touch with time. Such products, either for casual use or medical use, are based on the tactile interaction between the user and said product.

The present disclosure provides a convenient design for such uses, having a pleasing and reinforcing tactile effect on the user.

In the field of animal care, problems can exist with animals eating too quickly and suffering from essentially the same problems effecting humans who overeat or eat too quickly. Slowing down the eating habits of animals is non-trivial, and it is not always easy to train animals to either eat more slowly, or to enjoy smaller portions more often. Furthermore, such feeding plans are often difficult in today's society. Mats of the disclosure herein can also be used as products for encouraging more natural and slower eating in animals, thus reducing the health problems associated with overeating or fast eating in pets.

Problems with regard to bedridden patients are, sadly, well-known. Lying for long periods of time in bed can lead to significant reduction in the airflow underneath the patients, and in cases where it is not readily possible to turn patients, this can lead to bedsores and the like. Appropriately shaped mats of the present disclosure can be used as mattresses, or at least as mattress tops, for improving airflow underneath patients. Additionally, designs which benefit bedridden patients are also of benefit for people and animals on hot days, providing a comfortable mat/blanket substitute for lying upon.

The mats of the present disclosure are beneficial in each of the three disparate fields described above. They provide a simple and yet effective product in addressing one or more of the above issues, wherein the size of mat and nature of the finger array is tailored for each end use.

The present disclosure thus provides an animal feeder comprising a feed region comprising a lower surface, the feed region adapted for holding animal food and being surrounded by a retaining feature which is adapted to hold the animal food within the feed region, the feed region comprising one or more flexible fingers extending away from the lower surface and into the feed region.

Embodiments of the invention define different aspects of the animal feeder.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES

Fig. 1: Four views of a mat according to the present disclosure Fig. 2: Another four views of a different mat of the present disclosure showing a different pitch and size of fingers Fig. 3: A close-up of a finger according to the present disclosure Fig. 4: The finger according to Fig. 3 showing different zones and sizes on the finger Fig. 5: Table 1 showing range of possible sizes for fingers and mat Fig. 6: Table 2 showing a preferred combination of values for fingers and mats

of the disclosure

Fig. 7: An animal feeder for accommodating fingers Fig. 8: Plan view of the animal feeder shown in Fig. 7 Fig. 9a: Mat of fingers for integration with the animal feeder of Figs. 7 and 8 Fig. 9b: Cross section of one finger and the mat shown in Fig. 9a

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Figs. 1 and 2 show aspects of the present disclosure and relate to a mat 1 comprising an array of fingers 2 extending from one side of the mat 1. The plurality of fingers 2 are, as can be seen in the figures, preferably arranged in a regular array on one surface of the mat 1. As will be seen in each of Figs. 1 and 2, the mat 1 comprises the array of fingers 2 and a base 3. In combination, the fingers 2 and base 3 make up the mat 1 of this disclosure. It is also possible to generate a mat 1, wherein the fingers 2 extend from both sides of the base 3.

The fingers 2 are made from a flexible material, preferably some form of rubber -natural or synthetic. The material of the fingers 2 is not particularly limited, however a silicone material is particularly advantageous as this material is both flexible and chemically inert with good hygienic properties. Polyurethane elastomers may also be used. The mat 1 will often come into contact with humans and animals using the mat 1, thus meaning that the use of silicone or polyurethane elastomer fingers 2 is advantageous in reducing undesirable reactions. Furthermore, the use of an inert flexible material, such as the silicone rubber or polyurethane elastomer, also means that the mat 1 can be used in patient and animal care: many silicone rubber materials are also medically approved, for example in the US under FDA approval. Further advantages of using such silicone rubber or polyurethane elastomer materials, is that the fingers 2 and base 3 can be formed to include silver powder -thus giving the mat 1 antibacterial and antimicrobial properties, a further advantage when the mat 1 is used by individuals and animals.

The particular silicone rubber or polyurethane elastomer which is chosen can vary the end properties of the matrix of fingers 2, and thus tailor the mat 1 for appropriate end usage. In particular, the silicone material can be to give different flexibilities and hardness, hardness being defined by means of the known "shore hardness scale". By tuning the choice of silicone or polyurethane elastomer material, the fingers 2 and base 3 can be provided with different flexibilities: either the same material can be used for the fingers 2 and base 3, giving uniform flexibility across the whole mat; alternatively, the fingers 2 could be formed from a different silicone or polyurethane elastomer material from the base 3, thus giving a different flexibility to the fingers 2 with respect to the base 3. For example, the end usage of the mat 1 may require a more rigid base 3, however the fingers 2 may be desired to be more flexible than the base 3. In this manner, the fingers 2 can be selected from a material, for example silicone rubber or polyurethane elastomer, with a lower shore hardness rating than the base 3. It is expected that the fingers 2 and base 3 will be best served from silicone materials with a Shore A hardness of between 30 and 60. It is expected that the choice of this particular compound and flexibility/hardness will allow the mat 1 to fulfil a wide range of end roles.

As can be seen from the mat 1 in Figs. 1 and 2, the fingers 2 may be arranged in a square matrix or array. That is, a finger 2 is positioned at the apex of a square to form a repeat array across the surface of the base 3. The choice of a square array is by example only, and it will be apparent that other arrays of fingers 2 on the base 3 to are conceivable. Any tessellating regular geometric figure would allow for a full array of fingers 2 to be located on the base 3 of the mat 1. By way of example, instead of the square array shown in the figures, a triangular array would lead to an appropriate repeat pattern of fingers 2, and would also provide a mat 1 of the present disclosure. Other array shapes are conceivable, these include, but are not limited to, rectangular arrays, hexagonal arrays or a mix of two different types of geometric shape, for example octagons and squares, to lead to a slightly irregular density of fingers 2 on the surface of the base 3.

Forming the mat 1 according to the present disclosure can be achieved in a number of different ways. One preferred method of manufacture is that of injection moulding the entire combination of fingers 2 and base 3, to produce a single element of fingers 2 and base 3 in the form of a mat 1. Evidently, the single injection moulding step will lead to a uniform end mat 1, and can be completed in a single injection moulding step. Additionally, it is possible to have a dual material injection moulding process, such that the material being injected into the fingers 2 is a different material from that of the base 3. Such dual-injection moulding techniques are well-known in the art, and the skilled person will appreciate the final structure which would result therefrom.

Another technique for manufacturing the mat 1 is a combination technique wherein the base 3 is manufactured separately from individual fingers 2. The base 3 may be formed from the desired end material, wherein this material may be a flexible material as described above, but may be a solid material such as metal, wood, solid plastics and the like. End uses of the mat 1 may benefit from having a rigid base 3 with flexible fingers 2 on one surface of the base 3. The use of a rigid base 3 allows for the mat 1 to have a defined footprint and can consequently occupy a desired topography, wherein this need not be limited to a flat sheet. By producing the base 3 with the desired shape and topography and from the desired end material, the resultant mat 1 can take on a variety of different forms. Once the base 3 has been manufactured, the fingers 2 can be fit into a plurality of appropriately shaped holes through the base 3. It will also be appreciated that the base 3 may be quite thick, such that only a portion of the fingers 2 are fitted within blind holes in one of the surfaces of the base 3. The base 3 may either be formed with an appropriate array of holes in the surface thereof, or blind holes in the chosen surface or surfaces for finger 2 insertion, or the holes may be formed after the base 3 has been manufactured. Such hole formation can proceed by a simple drilling step, or the like.

Once the holes in the base 3 have been manufactured, the fingers 2 are then forced into the holes and held therein to produce the final mat 1. The fingers 2 may be friction fit and held within the holes base 3, or they can be held in the base 3 by means of an adhesive or melting and fusing the base and fingers 2 together, to form a mat 1.

It is generally conceived that the original structure of the mat 1 will be of a planar base 3 structure, such that the base 3 is as shown in Figs. 1 and 2. With such a flat base 3, it is preferable for the fingers 2 to be provided in the array such that the fingers 2 extend substantially perpendicular from the plane of the base 3.

Additionally, it is desirable for the fingers 2 to extend substantially parallel with respect to each other, as shown in the figures 1 and 2, thus leading to a generally upstanding array of figures 2. Of course, if the base is flat and the fingers are formed to be perpendicular to the surface, the fingers 2 will extend parallel with each other. Alternatively, if the base is not flat but has a 3D curved structure, the fingers 2 may not extend perpendicularly from the surface of the base 3, but can still be structured to extend parallel with respect to each other. Alternatively, the fingers 2 of such a non-planar base 3, may extend perpendicularly from the base 3 and would thus not extend parallel with each other. The specific positioning of the fingers 2 in the base 3 depends upon the end usage of the mat 1.

Each of the fingers 2 of the mat 1 has a particular physical form, and desirably each of the fingers 2 in the mat 1 has the same general shape. Fig. 3 shows a single finger and explains each of the different elements which are preferably seen in the finger 2. As mentioned, it is preferable for the mat 1 to comprise a plurality of fingers 2, wherein each of the fingers is of the same size and structure. Of course, a mat 1 can be manufactured in which different shaped/sized fingers 2 are positioned in an array, thus leading to a different final end product. It is to be generally expected, however, that the end mat 1 will comprise predominantly one form of finger 2, and that this will be repeated throughout the whole mat 1.

Considering Fig. 3, this shows the finger 2 to have four distinct sections therein. The finger 2 is shown in a vertical orientation, and such fingers 2 can also be seen in Figs. 1 and 2. At the first end of the finger 2, that which is intended to be closest to the base 3 of the mat 1, the finger 2 possess a so-called first diameter section 10. As will be noted from the fingers 2 in the figures, the fingers 2 are expected to be approximately cylindrical in form, with varying diameters along the length of the to finger 2. Of course, this is one preferred example, and it is conceivable that the fingers would have a different shaped cross-section, for example any of the regular geometric figures -triangle, square, pentagonal, hexagonal and so forth, as well as none regular cross-sections, such as rectangles and ovals and the like. When the discussion of diameter is presented below, this diameter is taken to be the largest cross-sectional measurement through the shape making up the cross-section of the finger 2. For example, in circular cross-section fingers 2, the diameter of a circle is well-defined. In the case of a square, for example, the diameter would be the largest diameter from opposing corners thereof. In each case, the term "diameter" is intended to be the largest cross-sectional measurement of the section making up the finger 2.

Adjacent to the first diameter section 10 moving from the proximal lower end of the finger 2, this being the end intended to be next to the base 3, the finger 2 comprises an intermediate section 12. The intermediate section 12 is provided with a variable diameter, wherein the proximal diameter is the same as the diameter of the first diameter section 10 of the finger 2. Moving along the intermediate section 12, the diameter thereof changes, such that at the distal end of the intermediate section 12, the diameter matches that of the second diameter section 11 of the finger 2. The second diameter section 11 extends from the distal end of the intermediate section 12 to the distal end of the finger 2. In the figures, the distal end of the second diameter section 11 ends at a tip 13 (at the distal end) of the finger 2. As is shown in the figures, one preferred form of the tip 13 of the finger 2 is that of a hemispherical, rounded tip 13. The shape of the tip 13 of the fingers 2 is not limited to a rounded, hemispherical tip 13, however this forms a preferred end to the fingers 2. The reason for using the rounded tip 13 is one of user interaction, wherein the rounded tip 13 is particularly tactile and provides a nicer sensation to the user of the mat 1.

The whole finger 2 is, as seen in Fig. 3, made up of the first diameter section 10, intermediate section 12 and second diameter section 11, wherein the tip 13 is optionally positioned at the distal end of the second diameter section 11. The intermediate section 12 of the finger 2 is shown to have a linearly variable diameter, such that the intermediate section 12 linearly tapers from the first diameter section to the second diameter section 11. This linear tapering is a preferred option, as it provides a gradual change in the flexibility of the fingers 2 from the first diameter section 10 through to the second diameter section 11, however it is also possible for the intermediate section 12 to have different forms. For example, the diameter of the to intermediate section 12 could vary in a curved manner, such as an S-curve from the diameter of the first diameter section 10 to the diameter of the second diameter section 11. An abrupt change in diameter is also possible, however this may not lead to such a strong overall finger 2 design, as the discontinuity in the change of diameter may lead to a stress point in the finger 2 and a weakness therein. As will be appreciated from Figs. 1 and 2, the mat 1 is made up of an array of fingers 2 showing the three distinct sections along the length of said fingers 2, to thus provide the resultant mat 1.

It is preferred for stability of the mat 1, and in particular of the fingers 2, that the first diameter section 10 has a larger diameter than the second diameter section 11.

The strength of interaction between the finger 2 and the mat 3 is increased by having the first diameter section 10, wherein this of course leads to a stronger fixing of the finger 2 to the mat 3. It will be appreciated that providing the fingers 2 with a single diameter, or just a tapered section like the intermediate section 12 leading to a straight second diameter section 11, would not lead to such a stable interaction and fixation of the fingers 2 to the base 3. Indeed, the first diameter section 10 provides a rigid fixing to the base 3, whilst also providing the starting point of the flexible nature of each of the fingers 2 but then allowing a gradual change in the flexibility along the length of the finger 2. The first diameter section 10 therefore greatly improves the stability of the mat 1, by ensuring that the fingers 2 are each well integrated with the base 3; this structure also allows the fingers 2 to exhibit similar flexibility behaviour, as the flexibility generally increases in a regular manner along each of the fingers 2 from the first diameter section 10 through the intermediate section 12 to the second diameter section 11.

It will be understood that an almost infinite possibility of finger 2 sizes and base 3 thicknesses can be conceived of. The size of the finger 2 is generally chosen dependent upon the end use of the mat 1. If the end usage requires a mat 1 with a soft feel thereto, the fingers 2 are desirably of a narrower and longer structure, more densely packed on the base 3 and are made of a material with a lower Shore A hardness rating. Alternatively, if the use of the mat 1 requires a more rigid or firm upper surface, for example the massage type properties described below or for providing support for heavier individuals or animals to lie on, the fingers 2 can be made with larger first and second diameters for the first diameter section and second diameter section 11, respectively, and indeed the overall length of the fingers 2 can be tailored to ensure the desired flexibility. Furthermore, the pitch of the array of to fingers 2 can be appropriately chosen to provide greater or lesser support to the end user.

As can be seen in Fig. 4, each of the sections of the finger 2 is provided with specific lengths and diameters. For the range of intended uses of the mat 1, appropriate selection of the particular sizes of each of the sections of the finger 2 (in combination with the flexibility of the end material and the thickness of the base 3) will lead to a number of varied structures with end properties desirable for particular functions. The measurements of the different sections for a number of different fingers 2 can be seen in tables 1 and 2 of Figures 5 and 6. Table 1 gives a general range of values for each of the individual sections of the finger as shown in Fig. 4, whereas table 2 provides a particularly desirable selection of finger sizes and individual sections of the fingers 2. Additionally seen in tables 1 and 2, are values for the spacing between the fingers 2, as well as possible thicknesses for the base layer 3. It is of particular note that the thickness of the base layer is generally not decisive in determining the end feel and tactile properties of the mat 1. The base 3 generally provides an appropriate structure for the array of fingers 2, but has less or even no actual input on the final tactile nature of the mat 1. To this end, the thickness of the base 3 is very much by way of example and is not to be considered as a limiting feature of the overall design of the mat 1. The base thickness is indicated in the tables, as this leads to a particular combination of finger array 2 and mat base 3 which leads to a mat 1 which is both completely flexible, thus meaning that the base 3 should be chosen from a flexible material similar to that of the fingers 2 in the manner described above, whilst also providing appropriate support for the particular fingers 2. As will thus be noted, the larger fingers 2 shown as fingers C and D in tables 1 and 2, tend to be provided with a base 3 with greater thickness, as this will more rigidly and stably hold the fingers 2 in the mat 1.

As will also be apparent from Figures 3 and 4, the lower portion of the first diameter section 10 preferably does not transition to the base 3 abruptly, but, as is shown, it has a curved section; in Figures 4, this has a radius of curvature, r. In general, the radius of curvature for each finger 2 will be between 0.5mm and 2mm, ideally around lmm. This radius of curvature not only improves the strength of the connection of the finger 2 with the base 3, but also improves manufacturing of the mat 1, especially when the mat 1 is a single piece construction. The measurements for the diameter, d, of the first diameter section 10 throughout this disclosure does not take account of the curved section, and relates to the diameter of the straight-walled section. The height, X, of the first diameter section 10, by contrast, generally relates to the height from the bottom of the radius of curvature to the distal end of the first diameter section 10 as it transitions to the intermediate section 12.

Particular selections of the overall size of the finger 2 as well as the material making up the finger and the overall mat 1 are as follows: Firstly, the relative diameters of the first diameter section and second diameter section 11, as well as the overall length of the finger 2 and the choice of material is ideally selected, such that the finger 2 remains substantially straight in all orientations of the mat 1. That is, the size and shape of the finger 2, as well as the material thereof, is chosen to ensure that the finger 2 does not droop in any orientation of the mat 1. This sets a minimum boundary for the combination of finger geometry and material hardness.

Secondly, the array of fingers 2 can be selected, such that it is possible to bend one of the fingers 2 over into the structure of the finger array, and pass the bent finger 2 through adjacent fingers 2 making up columns or rows of the finger array, without substantially moving any of the other fingers 2. This means that the movement of any individual finger does not have to influence the position and orientation of any other fingers in the mat 1, thus ensuring that the fingers 2 generally have complete freedom to move when under physical stress and adopt any orientation generally unhindered. That is, the movement of some of the fingers 2, perhaps by a user putting their hand on the mat 1, will tend to mean that the majority of fingers 2 under the hand of the user are free to move over the surface of the mat 1 and do not interlock and block the full movement of each other, to bring the fingers 2 into near contact with the upper surface of the base 3. This means that the flexibility and range of movement of the fingers 2 is primarily unhindered, which greatly improves the tactile feel of the mat 1 to a user.

Thirdly: one aspect which improves the interaction of the array of fingers 2 with the user, is the ratio of the length of the second diameter section 11 and the total length of the finger 2. It has been observed that the flexibility of the finger 2 is generally a result of the second diameter section, and in particular the length thereof. The second diameter section 11 will tend to bend most freely and lead to the intermediate section 12 also bending to a degree and allowing the finger to exhibit desirable flexibility properties. Ensuring that the length of the second diameter section 11 is between around 50% to 70% of the total length of the finger 2, preferably around 55% to 68% of the total length of the finger 2, means that the fingers 2 will have repeatable and desirable flexibility properties, whilst also ensuring that the first diameter section 10 firmly and rigidly holds the finger 2 in combination with the base 3.

Fourthly, if the base 3 is to be chosen from a flexible material, thus allowing for the mat 1 to be flexible in use, the thickness of the base 3 can be between around 50% to 62% of the diameter of the first diameter section of the finger 2, and/or this means that the overall flexibility of the mat 1 can also benefit from an appropriately stable base 3 which provides rigid connection to the fingers 2, whilst also allowing for appropriate flexibility of the base 3 to cover any desired topography of the mat 1.

Fifthly, the preferred finger structure is that the diameter of first diameter section 10 is larger than that of the second diameter section 11. In particular, the second diameter is between around 65% to 85% the diameter of the first diameter section 10. Preferably, the diameter of the second diameter section 11 is between 69% and 80%, further preferably one of 69%, 75% or 80% of the first diameter section 10.

This ratio between the two diameters leads to desirable and appropriate flexibilities of the fingers 2 when integrated with the mat 1.

As can be seen from above as well as the values given in tables 1 and 2 for the fingers 2, the mat 1 is intended to have a number of selected combinations of fingers and spacings on the base 3. The combination of finger design, that being one of A, B, C, or D as shown in tables 1 and 2, with appropriate spacings between the fingers 2, leads to different tactile properties of the mat 1 and consequently different uses thereof. The values for the fingers A-D and spacings given in tables 1 and 2, are particularly interesting for a range of different uses of the mat 1; it will be appreciated, however, the spacing between the fingers 2 is not limiting in the overall mat 1. Should different uses or different desired tactile properties of the mat 1 be desired, a different combination of fingers 2 and spacings there-between, is to be fully contemplated. The combinations of finger sizes and array spacings in tables 1 and 2, leads to a number of particular properties and end uses of the mat 1.

As has been mentioned, the mat 1 provides a very specific and particular tactile feel to the user. It has been noted by the Applicants that certain combinations of finger choice, A-D, with different finger spacings, leads to different end uses of the mat 1.

to For example, the combination of the fingers A or B in a relatively tight packed array, perhaps with spacings between the fingers 2 of between 6 and 16 mm, wherein the spacings here and throughout this text refer to the central longitudinal axis of one finger 2 to the central longitudinal axis of an adjacent finger 2 spacing, leads to a particular sensation when the user interacts with the mat 1. In particular, the sensory feedback and tactile nature of such mats 1 is particularly stimulating to the nerves in the hand, for example, which is interacting with the mat 1. Such sensory feedback is useful in a range of particular situations, and can be highly beneficial in situations for reducing stress of the user, or simply providing a relaxing sensation to the user interacting with the mat 1. Furthermore, medical based uses are also contemplated for patients who have suffered nerve damage, perhaps from diabetes or the use of drugs which effect the nerves, for example chemotherapy drugs, wherein interacting with the mat 1 generates a number of sensory signals which can help improve nerve sensations in the extremities, in particular fingers of the patient. It has been noted that users of the mat 1 find a combination of fingers A or B at the spacings given in table 1, to be particularly calming and provide positive reinforcement and comfort to the user. For medical uses, the extent of nerve damage is of relevance, and it is also been seen that for severe nerve damage the combination of finger C at a spacing of between 10 and 20 mm (again centre-centre spacing of adjacent fingers 2) is particularly advantageous for providing more stimulation to the user, in particular the fingers, and can potentially improve the signalling and lead to improved sensation in the extremities. It is expected that a user may begin with a mat 1 comprising fingers C, and then progress through to a different mat 1 with fingers B or A, as nerve sensation improves with time.

Further uses for the mat 1 are as a mattress or bed for patients, general users or animals. Patients who are bed prone, typically suffer from decreased airflow underneath the patient when lying on a mattress. It will be appreciated that a larger mat 1 comprising appropriate fingers would provide a comfortable over-surface for lying upon, or at least for use with one or more limbs for resting upon, and would therefore also provide significantly increased airflow underneath the patient, user or limb resting on the mat 1. The fingers 2 are not so dense as to form a solid mat underneath the user, thus allowing for some airflow to exist and to improve the comfort for the user. The same can obviously apply to a casual mat 1 for use in hot weather or by pets for lying upon when hot. The choice of finger, A-D, and spacing there-between for appropriate mattress-type use of the mat 1, depends very much on to the weight of the user or animal. Generally, however, fingers A-C with the spacing ranges given in table 1 are noted as being particularly appropriate for use as mattresses; in the case of children or smaller adults and pets, fingers A and B are ideal; larger to full sized adults may appreciate more the use of fingers B and C. The combination of fingers 2 and in the mat 1 can also be used as a sort of massage product. For example, a small mat 1 comprising fingers, ideally C or D, in the base 3 provide a solid but tactile surface for a footstool. The combination of fingers C and D, as shown in table 1, and with the spacing between said fingers 2 of between 12mm and 25mm, provides a solid upper surface to the mat 1 for interacting with feet of a user, thus bringing comfort to a user sitting for a long time. In the same manner as described above for the tactile mats, such footstool could lead to improved blood flow to the feet. The footstool also tends to lead to the person moving their feet more to gain sensory feedback, which obviously reduces the risk of poor blood flow leading to medical conditions.

One final usage for the mats 1 is as animal feeding mats. There is condition in animals called bloating, which is not unknown to humans when they over eat, which results from animals eating their food too quickly. Most animals developed as animals foraging for food, and consequently tended to eat smaller portions spread out throughout the day. If an animal, for example a cat or dog, is provided with a bowl of food, it is not uncommon for the animal to eat too quickly, thus leading to essentially indigestion or bloating, which is uncomfortable for the animal. In the same manner as for humans, forcing an animal to eat more slowly will reduce the effects of overeating and bloating, and will be more comfortable for the animal. The mat 1 can be used as a feeding mat for pets, wherein animal food can be essentially strewn across mat 1 leading to the animal needing to forage for said food. Essentially, any of the finger combinations A-D as given in table 1 will allow for animals to interact with the mat 1 in a more natural way in order to try and obtain food which is within the mat 1. Small dry food pellets for cats or dogs will tend to fall through the fingers 2 of the mat 1 and cannot be instantly accessed by the pet, thus meaning that the pet must essentially forage for each bit of food. This drastically increases the time taken by the animal to obtain the food, which reduces the effects of overeating and bloating. For smaller animals, such as cats and small dogs, the combination of finger B (or even finger A) in the mat 1 with small dried food is appropriate. Larger animals, for example larger dogs, would more likely benefit from fingers C or D in the mat, with larger food pellets or even wet food positioned within the finger 2 array.

to As should be clear from the above, the possibilities for the mat 1 and end uses thereof are numerous. The combination of fingers and spacings given in tables 1 and 2 are particularly interesting combinations, but are no way exhaustive. It is the particular structure and shape of the fingers and spacings there-between, which provide the interesting tactile nature to the mat 1, and the combinations in tables 1 and 2 are not intended to be limiting. The current invention is thus appropriately defined in the attached claims and the above disclosure is intended to provide a combination of features and aspects which can be appropriately combined to lead to the invention.

Further developing the concept of the animal feeding mats, Fig. 7 shows an animal feeder 20 which can be used for promoting slower eating and foraging for food by a pet, in order to reduce the chances of the animal suffering from medical conditions resulting from eating too quickly. The animal feeder 20 is shown in the form of a feeding bowl, this being generally round comprising a retaining feature 21 in the form of a sidewall defining a central feed region 22 into which the animal feed will be placed. It is to be understood that the round feeding bowl structure as shown in Fig. 7 is purely exemplary. Any shape or form of the animal feeder 20 is explicitly included in this disclosure, the round animal feeding bowl shown in Fig. 7 being one example.

The animal feeder 20 shown in Fig. 7 shows one possible embodiment of incorporating fingers 2 into an animal feeder 20. The animal feeder 20 shown in Fig. 7 shows one embodiment in which the feeder surround, in this example the bowl structure shown in Fig. 7, is a separate item from the fingers 2 which are to be located in the feed region 22. To this end, the fingers 2 are not shown in Fig. 7. Fig. 8 shows a top view of the animal feeder 20 shown in Fig. 7, and explains the positioning of the constituent items in one specific embodiment thereof. It will be noted that the plan view in Fig. 8 shows various sizes and locations for the elements of the animal feeder 20, wherein these are to be considered as one specific embodiment and in no way limiting. Discussion below will highlight the individual technical features of the animal feeder 20, making reference to Fig. 8, however the specific locations and sizes shown in Fig. 8 relate to one possible structure and not to

a limiting disclosure.

Fig. 9a shows a mat of fingers 30 comprising a base 31 and a plurality of flexible fingers 32. The number of flexible fingers 32 is not limiting, and indeed the presence of even one flexible finger 32 in the animal feeder 20 of this disclosure will improve to the effects of natural eating of the animal using the animal feeder 20, reduce the speed of eating and decrease or even obviate the chances of eating disorders resulting from the animal eating too quickly. In general, a plurality of flexible fingers 32 will be included in the animal feeder 20, thus forcing the animal to forage more naturally for food held in the animal feeder 20 and consequently eat more slowly. The embodiment shown in Figs. 7, 8, 9a and 9b relates to one embodiment in which the surround of the animal feeder 20 is separate from the one or more flexible fingers 32. In other embodiments, the animal feeder 20 presents a feed region 22 comprising integrally formed flexible fingers 32. Such an integrally formed embodiment is not shown in any of the figures, but its form will be immediately clear to the skilled reader.

When considering the animal feeder 20 shown in Fig. 7 and the mat of fingers 30 shown in Fig. 9a, the mat of fingers 30 is to be located within the feed region 22 of the animal feeder 20. It is possible to separately produce the mat of fingers 30 comprising the one or more flexible fingers 32 and base 31, the base 31 then being located on top of the lower surface 23 of the animal feeder 20. Positioning the mat of fingers 30 within the feed region 22 of the animal feeder 20 by resting the base 31 on top of the lower surface 23 of the animal feeder 20, will then position the one or more flexible fingers 32 into the feed region 22. Affixing the base 31 to the lower surface 23 can be achieved mechanically: such mechanical fixing may be by means of snap-fit connectors or projections from the lower side of the base 31 fixing within appropriate holes or cavities in the lower surface 23 of the animal feeder 20, this is not shown in any of the figures. Alternatively, the base 31 could be attached by means of known adhesives to the lower surface 23 of the animal feeder 20, or could be heat welded to form a bond or melt bond between the base 31 of the mat of fingers 30 and the lower surface 23 of the animal feeder 20. The mechanism of attaching the mat of fingers 30 to the lower surface 23 is not limited, however it is desirable that the mat of fingers 30 be held firmly on the lower surface 22 in order to avoid the mat of fingers 30 disengaging from the animal feeder 20. The mechanism of attachment should also ensure that the animal feeder 20 is safe to be used by all animals, that is the materials must not be toxic to the animal.

The embodiment shown in Figs. 7 and 9a is one in which the mat of fingers 30 will be positioned underneath the lower surface 23 of the animal feeder 20. The lower surface 23 comprises one or more holes 24 there-through, thus allowing the one or more flexible fingers 32 to pass through these holes 24 and be positioned in the feed to region 22 of the animal feeder 20. Evidently, it is desirable that the number of holes 24 matches the number of flexible fingers 32, and of course of the holes 24 should be located at the same relative positions as the relative positions between the flexible fingers 32. In order to combine the mat of fingers 30 to the underside of the lower surface 23, the mat of fingers 30 comprises a lip 33 at its outer edge. The lip 33 extends away from the base 31 of the mat of fingers 30, in the general direction of the flexible fingers 32. The lip 33 is preferably so sized that it matches the size of the lower surface 23 of the animal feeder 20. The lip 33 is ideally made of a flexible material which can be physically deformed in order to grip the underside of the lower surface 23 of the animal feeder 20, thus physically affixing the mat of fingers 30 to the lower surface 23 of the animal feeder 20. It will be appreciated that to construct the animal feeder 20: the mat of fingers 30 will be located under the animal feeder 20, with each of the flexible fingers 32 positioned within the holes 24 of the lower surface 23 of the animal feeder 20, the flexible fingers 32 are then fed completely through the holes 24 to extend fully into the feed region 22. Once the base 31 of the mat of fingers 30 reaches the underside of the lower surface 23, the lip 33 can then be physically deformed to grip around the outer edge of the lower surface 23 on the underside of the animal feeder 20. This gripping will physically hold the mat of fingers 30 to the animal feeder 20, ensuring that the flexible fingers 32 are then held properly within the feed region 22. To further secure the mat of fingers 30 within the animal feeder 20, after locating said mat of fingers 30 as described above, an adhesive or other mechanical means, perhaps clips or snap-fit connectors or heat welding, could be used to join the mat of fingers 30 to the underside of the lower surface 23 of the animal feeder 20. It is, however, preferable that the lip 33 provides the physical connection between the mat of fingers 30 and animal feeder 20, as this allows for the mat of fingers 30 to be easily disengaged from the animal feeder 20 to allow for separate and complete cleaning of the animal feeder surround shown in Fig. 7 and the mat of fingers 30 shown in Fig. 9a.

The mat of fingers 30 is, in general, a specific form of the mat 1 described above. It will be noted that each of the flexible fingers 32 has the same form as the fingers 2 as shown in Figs. 3 and 4. In particular, each of the flexible fingers 32 comprises: a first diameter section 10 adjacent the base 31, a second diameter section 11 at the distal end of each of the flexible fingers 32, the first diameter section 10 and second diameter section 11 extending along the longitudinal axis of each of the flexible fingers 32. Between the first diameter section 10 and second diameter section 11, to each of the flexible fingers 32 comprises an intermediate section 12. The intermediate section 12 has a varying diameter which progresses from the diameter of the first diameter section 10 to the diameter of the second diameter section 11. It is preferable that the first diameter section 10 has a larger diameter than the second diameter section 11. A tip 13, preferably hemispherical, is located at the very distal end of each of the flexible fingers 32 at the distal point of the second diameter section 11. In other words, the flexible fingers 32 have the same general structure as the fingers 2 described above.

Fig. 8b shows one, non-limiting, particular choice of the sizes of each of the flexible fingers 32. The first diameter section 10 has a diameter of lOmm, and an extension along the axis of the flexible finger 32 of 4mm. The second diameter section 11 has a diameter of 8mm, and a length of 29mm. The hemispherical tip 13 consequently has a radius of 4mm. The intermediate section 12 has a length of 15mm and varies in diameter from lOmm at the distal end of the first diameter section 10 to 8mm at the proximal end of the second diameter section 11. This particular size of flexible finger 32 is not limiting, however it has been shown that this particular finger performs extremely well in allowing animals of all sizes to forage for food held within the feed region 22 of the animal feeder 20, whilst also providing appropriate resilience to slow the animal down whilst feeding and not be too flexible that larger animals can simply push each of the flexible fingers 32 out of the way and obtain the food at the same rate as for animal feeders without said flexible fingers 32. Indeed, the fingers may have a first diameter section with a diameter of between 8mm and 12mm and a length of between 3 and 6mm; a second diameter section with a diameter smaller than the first diameter section and being between 6mm and 10mm and having a length of between 25mm and 35mm; and the intermediate section having a length of between llmm and 19mm. Of course, for particularly large animals, perhaps large dogs, the flexible fingers 32 could be made longer or wider to accommodate the simple size and strength of the animals. Likewise, for particularly small dogs or other animals, the flexible fingers 32 could be made appropriately smaller, more flexible and still perform properly to reduce the speed of eating by the animals. That said, the particular dimensions of the flexible finger 32 as shown in Fig. 9b have been shown to work significantly for most, if not all, animals using the animal feeder 20.

The flexible fingers 32, in the same manner as the fingers 2 above, as well as the base 31, are preferably made from a silicone material or a polyurethane elastomer. Each of these materials are safe for animals to interact with and use as a feeder, whilst also providing the desired flexibility and strength for continued use. In order to reduce the chances of infection, it is further possible that the flexible fingers 32 and/or base 31 are made from a material comprising silver powder; silver powder being known for its anti-infection properties. As will be appreciated from Figs. 9a and 9b, the mat of fingers 30 is generally conceived to be a single extruded item of uniform material. This is by way of example only, and the base 31 could be a separate item from the flexible fingers 32, or the material of the base 31 and flexible fingers 32 could differ.

In the mat of fingers 30 shown in Fig. 9a, each of the one or more flexible fingers 32 extends approximately perpendicular away from the base 31 with each of the flexible fingers 32 being parallel with each other. This is again exemplary, and indeed the flexible fingers 32 could also extend away from the base 31 at varying or different angles, in order to provide different regions in the animal feeder 20 for the animal to forage for food. One possible example would be for the outermost flexible fingers 32 to extend generally radially outward from the centre of the array of flexible fingers 32, the fingers closer to the centre of this array of fingers being increasingly perpendicular to the base 31, such that a central finger is then located perpendicular to the base 31. As will be seen in the mat of fingers 30 according to Fig. 9a, the flexible fingers 32 are generally positioned in an array on the base 31. This array of flexible fingers 32 could take any form; changing from a regular array of flexible fingers 32 to an irregular array, would change the ease with which an animal could obtain the food when using the animal feeder 20. A preferred example for the flexible fingers 32 is shown in Fig. 9a, and the relative spacing and location can be seen in Fig. 8. The array comprises a single central flexible finger 32 surrounded by further flexible fingers 32 positioned on the circumferences of circles which are concentric with the central flexible finger. Increasing the diameter of the circles around this central flexible finger 32 allows for an increasingly large array of flexible fingers 32 attached to the base 31. The design shown in the figures includes 21 flexible fingers 32. A central flexible finger 32 is surrounded by eight flexible fingers 32 on the circumference of a circles concentric with the central flexible finger 32 at a first diameter; twelve further flexible fingers 32 are located at a circumference of a second circle, again concentric with the central flexible finger 32, with a larger diameter than the first circle.

As discussed above, the option of incorporating the separate mat of fingers 30 into the feed region 22 of the animal feeder 20 is one example. It is also possible to to manufacture the animal feeder 20 to have integrally formed flexible fingers 32 within the feed region 22. Instead of providing the separate mat of fingers 30 and holes 24 as described above, each of the flexible fingers 32 could be integrally formed or moulded on top of the lower surface 23 of the animal feeder 20. Such flexible fingers 32 would then extend into the feed region 22 of the animal feeder 20, thus providing the same benefits of forcing the animal to forage for food and slowing the animal when eating. This integrally formed animal feeder 20 is not shown in the figures. In the integrally formed animal feeder 20, the entire bowl could be made from the same material as the flexible fingers 32; it is preferable to have a dual extrusion process when making the integrally formed animal feeder 20, thus having a more rigid form to the outer surround of the feed region 22 and having an appropriately flexible material for the flexible fingers 32.

Returning to Fig. 7, the retaining feature 21, in the form of a sidewall in the figure, extends around the entire perimeter of the animal feeder 20. The retaining feature 21 extends from lower surface 23 to the upper point of the animal feeder 20, and then provides the generally concaved feed region 22 within the retaining feature 21. It is preferred that the retaining feature 21 be a generally inverted V-shape, leading from the lower surface 23 to the upper edge of the animal feeder 20 then back into the feed region 22 to meet with the lower surface 23 of the animal feeder 20. The retaining feature 21 is therefore not a complete structure, but has a gap between each side of the two sides of the V form. This reduces material, whilst also allowing for a lighter design to the dog animal feeder 20. The lower edge 25 of the retaining feature 21 provides the base on which the animal feeder 20 rests when in use. The lower edge 25 will therefore be positioned on the ground for the animal to use. The lower edge 25 may be provided with a non-slip, anti-slip or high resistance material coating, thus reducing the chances of the animal feeder 20 slipping across the surface when in use.

An additional aspect of the animal feeder 20, is the relative positioning of the underside of the lower surface 23 with respect to the lower edge 25. In order to further stabilise the animal feeder 20, the underside of the lower surface 23 is positioned such that it can provide further contact to the ground when the animal feeder 20 is in use. In the embodiments of integrally formed flexible fingers 32, the underside of the lower surface 23 is positioned on the same plane as the lower edge 25. In this embodiment the animal feeder 20 will thus rest on the floor by means of to the lower edge 25 and the underside of the lower surface 23. This would also be the case when the mat of fingers 30 is to be attached to the upper surface of the lower surface 23 and into the feed region 22. In the design shown in Figs. 7 and 9a, by contrast, the lower surface 23 is so located that the underside of the base 31 of the mat of fingers 30 will lie on the same plane as the lower edge 25 of the retaining feature 21, when the mat of fingers 30 is properly integrated with the animal feeder 20. This brings the further advantage that the material choice of the base 31 can further increase the frictional contact between the animal feeder 20 and the underlying surface, thus reducing the slip of the animal feeder 20 when in use. For example, if the base 31 is also made from a silicone material or polyurethane elastomer, this is generally a high friction "grippy" material and will almost grip the under surface upon which the animal feeder 20 is resting, thus reducing the chances of the animal feeder 20 slipping when in use or even tipping over. In embodiments where the mat of fingers 30 is located on top of the lower surface 23 or the flexible fingers 32 are integrally formed with the animal feeder 20, the underside of the lower surface 23 can be provided with a non-slip, anti-slip or high resistance material coating to reduce the chances of the animal feeder 20 being pushed or tipped when in use.

As best seen in Fig. 7, the animal feeder 20 can comprise a single or multiple lower recess 26 in the lower edge 25 of the retaining feature 21. The lower recess 26 is generally shown in Fig. 7 as a cut-out extending into the retaining feature 21 away from the lower edge 25. The lower recess 26 is generally shaped to allow for the fingers of the hand of a user of the animal feeder 20 to slot, or be positioned, within the lower recess 26 and provides enough space for the fingers to be located within the lower recess 26 when the lower edge 25 is resting on the lower surface. Providing the lower recess 26 reduces the height of the retaining feature 21 at this point, and allows for users of the animal feeder 20 with smaller hands to properly grip the animal feeder 20 in order to position the filled animal feeder 20 on the ground for the animal to use. In the case of larger animal feeders 20, these can comprise a significant weight of food for larger animals, and for users with smaller hands or weaker grips, the simple weight of the filled animal feeder 20 can lead to handling instability. Provision of the lower recess 26 allows for the animal feeder 20 to be more readily gripped. Additionally, as shown in Figs. 7 and 8, the retaining feature 21 can comprise an upper recess 27. The upper recess 27 is preferably located opposite the lower recess 26 in the retaining feature 21, and generally provides a thumb sized to upper recess 27. In use, it will be appreciated that the user can then grip the animal feeder 20 at the lower recess 26 by insertion of fingers into the lower recess 26, the upper recess 27 will then be conveniently located such that the thumb of the user will also fit therein and allow for a stronger and more stable grip of the animal feeder 20. Provision of the upper recess 27, preferably aligned with the lower recess 26, reduces the size of the retaining feature 21 that must be gripped by the user, thus ensuring that the animal feeder 20 when filled can be safely carried and positioned for the animal to use.

The description above relates to a round circular bowl as the animal feeder 20. This is a preferred form, as a circular animal feeder 20 does not comprise corners into which feed can get pushed by the animal in use and provide regions that are more difficult to clean by the user. The animal feeder 20 and mat of fingers 30 can have any other shape or form, the preferred shape simply being round. It has been shown that the particular form of each of the flexible fingers 32, as described and shown in Fig. 9b, provides for a stable mat of fingers 30 where each of the flexible fingers 32 is properly and firmly fixed to the base 31 and will not readily be damaged. The use of the intermediate section 12 with the second diameter section 11 allows for enough space to incorporate plenty of food for the animal, whilst also providing appropriate flexibility to each of the flexible fingers 32 with which the animal can interact to forage whilst eating. As discussed above with regard to the mat 1, the particular form of each of the flexible fingers 32 having the three regions provides repeatable and desirable flexibility properties to each of the flexible fingers 32 and improves the interaction with the animal feeding. It is this two-diameter section to each of the fingers with the intermediate section 12 changing the diameter there-between, which allows for the flexible nature of the fingers to interact with the animal and slow down the feeding. A further benefit of the current design is that the feed region 22 can be made larger or smaller by changing the slope of each two sides of the retaining feature 21. For larger bowls, the size of the lower edge 25 can be increased, thus leading to two shallower sidewalls or a shallower sidewall of the retaining feature 21 from the upper edge into the feed region 22, thus increasing the size of the feed region 22 without changing the size of the lower surface 23. This means that the same mat of fingers 30 can be used with animal feeders 20 of different sizes, the advantage then of having the separate mechanically attached mat of fingers 30 being that the same mat of fingers 30 can be used with different animal feeders 20. Additionally, the mat of fingers 30 being removable as described above allows for this mat of fingers 30 to be easily replaced as necessary. Given that the mat of fingers 30 will interact most with the animal and could suffer from wear or damage before the surround of the animal feeder 20 as generally shown in Fig. 7, being able to replace only the mat of fingers 30 improve the costs for the end user.

Claims

CLAIMS1. An animal feeder comprising a feed region comprising a lower surface, the feed region adapted for holding animal food and being surrounded by a retaining feature which is adapted to hold the animal food within the feed region, the feed region comprising one or more flexible fingers extending away from the lower surface and into the feed region.
2. The animal feeder according to claim 1, wherein the one or more flexible fingers each comprise a first diameter section extending along the finger at the proximal end of the finger, that being adjacent the base, a second diameter section extending along the finger at the distal end of the finger and an intermediate section extending along the finger located between the first diameter section and the second diameter section, the intermediate section comprising a diameter which varies from the first diameter to the second diameter when progressing from the first diameter section to the second diameter section.
3. The animal feeder according to claim 2, wherein the first diameter section has a diameter of between 8mm and 12mm, preferably lOmm, and a length of between 3 and 6mm, preferably 4mm; and the second diameter section has a diameter smaller than the first diameter section and being between 6mm and lOmm, preferably 8mm, and a length of between 25mm and 35mm, preferably 29mm; and the intermediate section has a length of between llmm and 19mm, preferably 23 15mm.
4. The animal feeder according to any of the previous claims, where a plurality of flexible fingers is provided and are arranged in an array in the feed region.
5. The animal feeder according to claim 4, wherein the array of flexible fingers is formed from a first central finger surrounded by a plurality of fingers each being spaced apart and located around the circumferences of one or more circles concentric with the central finger.
6. The animal feeder according to claim 5, wherein the array comprises 21 fingers arranged with the central finger surrounded by 8 fingers located on a circumference of a first circle concentric with the central finger and a further 12 fingers lying on the circumference of a second circle concentric on the central finger, the second circle having a diameter greater than the first circle.
7. The animal feeder according to any of the previous claims, wherein the one or more flexible fingers are integrally formed with the animal feeder in the feed region.
8. The animal feeder according to any of claims 1 to 6, wherein one or more flexible fingers are connected with a base to form a mat of fingers, the one of more flexible fingers extending away from one surface of the base.
9. The animal feeder according to claim 8, wherein the mat of fingers is located on, and affixed to, the lower surface of the feed region so as to locate the one or more flexible fingers within the feed region.
10. The animal feeder according to claim 8, wherein the base is located at the underside of the lower surface of the feed region, the one or more flexible fingers passing through holes within the lower surface of the feed region and extending into the feed region.
11. The animal feeder according to claim 10, wherein the base comprises a lip around the outer edge thereof, the lip extending in the same direction as the one or more fingers, the mat being so sized that the lip extends around the outer edge of the lower surface of the feed region to grip said outer edge and hold the mat to the animal feeder.
12. The animal feeder according to any of the previous claims comprising a plurality of flexible fingers, each of which being parallel with each other.
13. The animal feeder according to any of the previous claims, wherein the retaining feature is a sidewall surrounding the feed region, the retaining feature having an opening to allow access to the feed region.
14. The animal feeder according to any of the previous claims, wherein the retaining feature has a lower edge surrounding substantially all, or all, of the animal feeder and providing the base for the animal feeder to rest upon the floor when in use.
15. The animal feeder according to claim 14, wherein the lower edge of the retaining feature comprises an anti-slip and/or high frictional material.
16. The animal feeder according to either of claims 14 or 15, wherein the underside of the lower surface of the feed region, that being the side opposite the feed region, is located on the same plane as the lower edge of the retaining feature, the feed region thus resting on the floor when the animal feeder is in use.
17. The animal feeder according to claim 16, wherein the underside of the lower surface of the feed region comprises an anti-slip and/or high frictional material.
18. The animal feeder according to either of claim 14 or claim 15 when dependent upon either of claims 10 or 11, wherein the thickness of the mat and the location of the underside of the lower surface of the feed region is such that the underside of the base mat, when located under the feed region with the one or more fingers extending into the feed region, will lie on the same plane as the lower edge of the retaining feature thus resting on the floor when the animal feed is in use.
19. The animal feeder according to any of claims 14 to 18, wherein the retaining feature comprises one or more lower recesses in the lower edge extending into the retaining feature and away from the lower edge, the one or more lower recesses being sized to contain one or more fingers from a user of the animal feeder whilst the remainder of the lower edge is in contact with a surface onto which the animal feeder is placed.
20. The animal feeder according to any of claims 14 to 19, wherein the retaining feature comprises one or more upper recesses in an upper edge thereof, the upper edge being located next to the opening, the one or more upper recesses being sized to contain one or more figures and/or a thumb from a user of the animal feeder.
21. The animal feeder according to claim 20 when dependent upon claim 19, wherein the one or more upper recesses are aligned with the one or more lower recesses.
22. The animal feeder according to any of the previous claims, wherein the flexible fingers are composed of silicone material or a polyurethane elastomer.
23. The animal feeder according to any of the previous claims, wherein the animal feeder is a generally round, animal feed bowl.