SE1730099A2 - Pad-like support device for a horses's hoof. - Google Patents

Abstract

The present invention concerns a pad-like support device (1) suitable to be attached to a horse's hoof (2) comprised of at least one first side part (6), at least one second side part (7), at least one intermediate pail (8) and a support section (9) for the frog. The pad-like support device (1) is comprised of at least one first flexible zone (10) and at least one second flexible zone (11) extending essentially along the pad-like support device's longitudinal direction, allowing for the support section (9) and the intermediate part (8) to be flexibly arranged in the horizontal and vertical directions relative to the first side part (6) and the second side part (7). The support section (9) preferably includes at least one first material layer (25) constituting a surface layer on the top side of the support section (9) and at least one second material layer (26) constituting a surface layer on the bottom side of the support section (9) and at least one intermediate material layer (27) positioned between the first material layer (25) and the second material layer (26). The intermediate material layer (27) is of a relatively softer material than the material of the first material layer (25) and the second material layer (26). The first side part (6) and the second side part (7) include at least one protruding segment (40) which extends a stretch (S) out from the plane (P) over all or part of the side parts' (6, 7) bottom side that during use is positioned at the hoofs quarter.

Description

PAD-LIKE SUPPORT DEVICE FOR A HORSE'S HOOF.

Field of the Invention The present invention concerns a pad-like support device in accordance with the claims.

Background of the Invention Horses have evolved over millions of years and have adapted in relation to their natural way of life and the wild habitats they have lived in. The natural evolution of horses has led to their hooves, although they feel hard and see, to lack flexibility, including parts that are mutually movable relative to each other. The anatomical structure of hooves with moveable hoof parts helps to dampen strain during impact with the ground, reduces the risk of a horse spraining itself and increases fluid (blood) circulation in the hoofs and legs. Figure 1A shows schematically a bottom view a horse hoof s elemental parts. A horse hoof consists essentially of a toe 101, two hoof walls 102 and 103, a sole 104, a frog 105, angle of walls 106 and 107 as well as bars 108 and 109. A hoof also includes a shock absorbing digital cushion 110. The parts of a horse's hoof parts move relative to each other during a hoofs impact phase, stance phase and breakover (rollover) phase.

Figures IB - ID show how a horse hoof s parts change position relative to each other during a hoof s impact phase and stance phase. When a hoof makes ground contact during the impact phase as well as when the load is applied during stance phase, the walls 102 and 103 are affected by die digital cushion s 110 change in shape, caused by the frog's 105 pressure against the digital cushion 110, to move away from one another in the horizontal direction. During the stance phase, even the sole 104 moves in a vertical direction downward thereby creating the ground contact.

In the wild the horse itself chooses where it wants to go and on what surface it wants to tread on. Since the taming of horses by humans, horses have for example been used as working animals, riding animals and the like. This results in people controlling where a horse goes and on what type of terrain the horse must tread on, respectively. For horses, this has resulted in a higher load and a higher wear on horses" hooves than horses in the wild have been subjected to. For example, riding and racing horses' hooves are exposed to high levels of load and wear during exercise and competition. Normally, a hoof impacts about 2800 times in a harness race, and more than 30000 times during normal training session. In order to reduce wear on the hooves, different types of horseshoes which are attached to the hoof with some type of scam (nails, glue), have been developed. Horseshoes are usually of rigid design and manufactured from steel or other type of metal. A horseshoe s rigidity leads to the previously mentioned natural movements of the parts of the hoof being prevented, or at least more obstruct. Because a horseshoe also raises the hoof a bit above the underlying surface, the hoofs frog does not receive the necessary contact with the ground. When an unshod horse's hoof touches ground, natural mechanical forces occur in the hoof by way of both the frog and the shij)rt pastern bone. These forces press the frog upward from below and provide pressure again pe elastic digital cushion, at the same time the short pastern bone presses against the digital cushion from above by the horse's weight. Together, these forces compel the digital cushion to widen horizontally pushing apart the hoof s walls. The hoof s widening movement is made possible thanks to the rear of the hoof being open and comprised of an elastic tissue (frog). When a horse is shod a space is created between the frog and the underlying surface. This entails that the frog's purpose during impact being absorbed through the hoof walls and inward toward bones and joints without first being cushioned. This results in the horse being afflicted by different types of health problems such as lameness and other ailments.

A large number of different kinds of pads, designed to be mounted between the hoof and the horseshoe have been developed to further reduce the load and wear on a horse's hooves. Pads are used for example if the ground is hard, rocky or similar. If a horse has sensitive hooves, it is common practice to use pads to protect the hoof. Special pads, so-called snow pads, are also used in winter to reduce risk of snowballs (ice clumps) and the like from forming under the hoof. Pads are also used in situations where it is desirable to modify a horse's step (gait). Today, pads are used for racing and riding.

Current pads have several problems. For example, they have inadequate elasticity in the horizontal direction. This means that the central section as well as the frog area of the pad does not, to any great extent, allow movement relative to the pads' slide parts where the pads are attached with seams (nails) to the hoof. The fact that pads have a limited horizontal elasticity means for example that bumps on the ground where the impact occurs will push (press) the pads into the cavity that's is naturally present under the hoof while the frog presses the pads rear part down. This result in the creation of tensile forces in the pad, which pulls at the seams (nails) (essentially in their transverse directions) also causing the shoe to start loosening. There is also a risk that the shoe may shear off the seams (nails) causing the shore to detach.

Known designs of pads also have the problem that they do not provide pressure against the frog. This in turn means that the frog moves relative to the pad thereby allowing heating to occur from the movement and friction between the frog and pad. Heat can damage the tissue of the frog.

Existing types of pads also have the problem that they have a low resistance (durability) to wear. The horse's weight and hoof mechanism's movement result in the pads wearing out quickly in the rear and central parts. The hoof and the shoe then get caught in the worn down depressions, and the hoof mechanism's natural motion is put out of play. Furthermore, this short lifetime result in the horse needing to be shod more often which is costly.

There is also a problem with the pads oozing out (squeezing, pressing out) between the hoof and the horseshoe during the compression of the pad in connection with hoof impact and gait Horseshoes and existing pads may also lead to the deterioration of the mechanical pump mechanism that occurs naturally in the hoof and thereby also impair circulation in the hoof. Another problem with existing designs of pads which are to be used in combination with the horseshoes is the space at the rear edge of the shoe. The problem consists of providing suitable support for the different parts of the hoof while minimizing the risk of the pad being stretched apart by the normal movement of the hoof.

There are also situations where further limitations of the horse's hoof natural movement is not desired as compared with a traditional whole horseshoe. This is solved with a shortened horseshoe in accordance with the present invention, where the pad-like support device includes protruding segments.

Prior Art A number of pad-like designs intended to be placed between a horseshoe and the horse's hoof are previously known. For example, a type of pad for horses which includes a support section for a hoof s frog is described in US6672395. This design does not include flexible zones in accordance with the present invention. Therefore this design has the previously stated problems. Consequently this design differs greatly from the present invention's design WO2006002623 describes a type of pad for horses intended for placement between the horseshoe and horse's hoof. This pad includes at its rear a radial groove which limits shock in the impact phase and the stance phase. This design differs substantially from the design in accordance with the present invention.

GB254386 describes a variant of a pad, which is designed to be removable in relation to the horse's hoof. The design includes a wedge-shaped (tapered) support section for the hoof s frog. In other aspects, the design in accordance with GB2S44386 differs greatly from the present invention's design.

The German design patent DE202008012227U1 describes a type of hoof boot which includes a portion located at the frog's position. This design differs greatly from the present invention's design.

DE69817417 describes a variant of a pad for a horse. The design described in DE69817417 differs substantially from the design in accordance with the present patent application. For example the design does not include bellow-like flexible zones which result in the design not being able to solve the same problems as the design in accordance with the present patent application.

US4513825 describes a variant of a pad intended to be used between a horse hoof and a horseshoe. This design differs substantially from the design in accordance with the present patent application. For example the design according to its description lacks of the flexibility that would prevent the pad from being stretched apart.

European patent application 10820895.0 describes a variant of a pad-like support device which includes a support section that via flexible zones is attached to the side parts. Even through this design may very well fulfill its purposes, there still exist problems. For example the risk of the pad being stretched apart has not been completely eliminated with the design according to the description. The flexible zones length of elasticity is most often limited. The design lacks the features that characterize the design of the present patent application. For example, the support section in accordance with the described invention consists of one layer of material and not several layers of material such as in the design of the present patent application. Furthermore, the design according to its description lacks intermediate material layers in the side parts.

Brief Description of the Concept of the Present Invention The main purpose of the present invention is to eliminate or substantially reduce at least one of the above mention problems.

Brief Description of the Drawings In the following detailed description of the present invention, reference and references to the following figures will occur. These figures are described briefly in the following figure list Fig. 1 A shows a horse's hoof in a view from below without a shoe.

Fig. 1 B shows a horse's hoof in a view from behind without a shoe.

Fig. 1 C shows a shod horse's hoof in a view from behind.

Figs. 1 D -1 E show schematically the frog's affect on the parts of the hoof during hoof movement Fig. 2 shows a shod horse's hoof with the present invention.

Fig. 3 shows the present invention's top side.

Figs. 4 and 5 show the present invention's topside in perspective.

Fig. 6 shows the present invention's bottom side.

Figs. 7 and 8 shows via bidden contours how the material layers in alternative embodiments are divided into sections with intermediate walls.

Figs. 9A and 9C show schematically the function of the bellow-like elastic zones.

Fig. 10 shows an alternative embodiment that includes reinforcement Figs. 11A -11C show an alternative embodiment of the invention.

Figs. 12A - 12B show an alternative structure against the ground.

Figs. 13 A -13B show a second alternative structure against die ground.

Figs. 14A - 14C show an alternative embodiment of the invention.

Fig. 15 shows schematically the device with materials with increased adhesive characteristics against the horseshoe.

Figs. 16A - 16B show an alternative embodiment of the invention with spikes.

Fig. 17 shows an exemplifying embodiment of the toe caulk.

Detailed Description of the Invention With reference to Figure 2, a shod horse hoof is shown schematically, as seen from the back of the horse, which is equipped with a pad-like support device 1 in accordance with the present invention. The support device may alternatively be referred as a pad. In figure 2 the support device 1 is attached between a horse's hoof 2 and a horseshoe 3. The pad-like support device 1 is attached to the horse's hoof 2 together with the horseshoe 3 in the usual manner with seams (nails) or glue. Alternatively, the pad-like support device 1 may be attached with another for the purpose suitable method of attachment. The shoe's 3 size and extension along the hoofs shape may vary within the scope of the invention. It is also conceivable that certain embodiments are used without shoes 3.

In the following description the terms "front part" and "front edge" of the support device and "rear part" or "rear edge" of the support device will be described. Furthermore, the terms "topside" and "bottom side" of the support device will be designated. Use of the front edge and front part means the edge, or part of the support device, that in the horizontal direction is closer to the horse's head than the rear edge, rear part is.

With reference to Figs. 3 to 10, the present support device is shown in more detail. The pad-like support device 1 has a topside 4 and a bottom side 5. The topside 4 is intended to be placed (up) against the hoof 2 and the bottom side S is intended to be attached (down) against the horseshoe 3.

The support device 1, according to the preferred embodiment, includes at least one first side part 6, at least one second side part 7, at least one middle part (center part) 8 and at least one support section 9 for the horse hoof s frog. Unique to the present invention is that it includes at least one first flexible zone 10 and preferably at least one second flexible zone 11. In the exemplary embodiment the first flexible zone 10 and the second flexible zone 11 each preferably include at least one front zone part 12 and at least one rear zone part 13.

The first side part 6 and second side part 7 are connected with each other (each side part merges into the other side part) in the pad-like device's front part 14. The material of the first side part 6 and the second side part 7 is preferably, essentially wedge-shaped along its length. In alternative embodiments, it is conceivable that the first side part's 6 and the second side part's 7 thickness may vary along each side parts' length in the longitudinal or transverse direction. Furthermore, it is also conceivable that the first side part 6 and the second side part 7 are of an even thickness along their length. The topside 4 of the side parts 6 and 7, facing the horse hoofs bar of wall, is of a flat design. The bottom side parts 6 and 7 are essentially of flat design. The bottom side of the parts 6 and 7 constitutes the contact surface against the horseshoe.

In a further embodiment of the present patent application, the support device has a slight wedge shape from the support device's front edge to support device's rear edge. The pad-like support device may successively become thicker from the front edge to the rear edge. The pad-like support device's wedge shape may also be divided into sections of different wedge shapes. The present design has thus a slight wedge shape.

The pad-like support device's 1 middle part (the center part) 8 protects the hoof (the sole of the hoof) against damage from sharp and jagged objects such as rocks, glass and the like on the underlying surface. The middle part's 8 topside is preferably somewhat elevated relative to the first side part's and the second side part's topside. The middle part 8 is comprised of a substantially thinner material than the material in the side parts 6 and 7. The first flexible zone's 10 and the second flexible zone's 11 flexibility allows the middle part 8 to move in a vertical direction relative to the side parts 6 and 7. Furthermore the side parts 6 and 7 are allowed to move in a horizontal direction relative to the middle part 8. The middle part's contact and adherence with the horse hoof s sole is thus increased. The middle part's mobility allows the middle part to move downward thus creating an effective percussion to keep ice from building up under the hoof in winter. During summer the middle part's movement also allows for increased compression of soil under the horse hoofs sole whereby better hoof traction against the ground is achieved.

The support section 9, for the frog, is placed in the pad-like support device's rear part between the first side part 6 and the second side part 7. The support section consists of at least one, relative the bottom side of the first side part 6 and the bottom side of the second side part 7, downwards protruding body (pillow) 16, or the like. Support section 9 has the task of being an extension of the frog (in vertical direction) when the horse is shod. The void (space) that is created between the frog and the ground when the horse is shod (in comparison to when the horse is not shod) is essentially filled by the support section 9. The support section 9 thereby limits or alleviates the unfavorable motion in the vertical direction that the frog receives from ground impact (when the horse is shod). Therefore support section 9 allows the frog during the hoof s ground impact to affect the digital cushion in a manner that essentially matches the manner of an unshod horse. With the pad-like support device in accordance with the present invention, a shod horse essentially receives the same dampening effect that an unshod horse hoof has.

Preferably, the topside of support section 9 is essentially flat (even) and slightly elevated relative to side parts' 6 and 7 upper flat surface. Support section 9 merges in the forward direction into the middle part 8. The support section's contact surface against the ground has preferably an arc/arch-shape, round or similar form along all or part of the bottom side's (contact surface's) length. The support section 9 may in alternative embodiments be wedge-shaped, with the thicker part at the rear part of the pad-like support device and the tapered section facing the direction of the middle part (the support section's 9 thickness decreases towards the middle part 8). In alternative embodiments, the support section 9 may be of another form suitable for the purpose.

Preferably, the body (pillow) 16 on its bottom side is fitted with at least one contour which in the exemplified embodiment consists of several longitudinal grooves (tracks) 17 (in the figures nine grooves are shown) in the pad-like support device's longitudinal direction. The grooves stretch along the entire or part of the support section's length. Preferably, the height of the grooves decreases in the forward direction. In alternative embodiments, the contour may be of another for the purpose suitable contour.

A unique feature of the present invention is that it includes at least one first flexible zone 10 and preferably also at least one second flexible zone 11. The first flexible zone 10 includes at least one material layer 18 that joins the first side part 6 with the middle part (center part) 8 and the support section 9. The second flexible zone 11 includes a material layer 19 that joins the second side part 7 with the middle part (center part) 8 and the support section 9.

The flexible zones 10 and 11 stretch along all or part of the pad-like support device's length. In the exemplifying embodiment, the first flexible zone 10 and the second flexible zone 11 extend along a portion of the pad-like support device's 1 length. Preferably, the flexible zones 10 and 1 I extend from the front part 14 (toe part) to the rear edge of the pad-like support device 1. Preferably, the first flexible zone 10 and the second flexible zone 11 each include a front zone part 12 and a rear zone part 13. Within the scope of the invention the length of the zones 11 and 12 may vary.

The materia) layer 18 of the first flexible zone 10 and the material layer 19 of the second flexible zone 11 are bellow-shaped (accordion-shaped) in the pad-like support device's 1 transverse direction. Preferably, the bellow-shaped section encompassed in the rear zone part 13 includes at least one first inverted (seen from the top side) U-shaped section 20. The bellow-shaped section included in the front zone part 12 includes at least one upright U-shaped section 21. Alternatively, one or both of the U-shaped sections 20 and 21 may have another for the purpose suitable form, such as a V-shaped section, or a section which is shaped entirely or partially as a sine wave or the like. Alternatively, the bellow-shaped material layer 18 and material layer 19 may be designed in another for the purpose suitable manner with a form suitable for the purpose.

On the bottom side 5 of the pad-like support device 1, the U-shaped section 20 included in the rear zone part mergers into a groove 22 in the front zone part 12. On the bottom side 5 of the pad-like support device I, the U-shaped section 21, in the front zone part 12, mergers into the rear zone part 13.

The flexible zones' 10 and 11 height in the vertical direction (the U-shaped sections' height or the wave-shaped amplitude in the vertical direction) decreases essentially in the direction towards the front part 14 (the toe section). Preferably, the flexible zones are formed so that they decrease in height, in the forward direction, until they are entirely smoothed out or essentially entirely smoothed out. This design reduces the risk of flexible zones 10 and 11 staying in the extended position. The U-shaped section (flexible zone) is turned upward, the design as such, provides more vertical movement without rubbing against the rearmost part of the hoof s (and shoe's) heel buttress.

The material layer's 18 thickness in the first flexible zone 10 and the material layer's 19 thickness in the second flexible zone 11 are less (thinner) than the material thickness of the side parts 6 and 7.

The material layer of the flexible zones 10 and 11 connects to the side sections in the lower half (vertically) of the side parts 6 and 7. Preferably, the material layer of the flexible zones connects to each side sections' bottom edge 23 (in the lower part of the material). Preferably, the material layer of the flexible zone connects to the support section 9 at its bottom half (vertically) which in the figures is illustrated by position 24.

Thanks to the bellow-like design of the material layer in the flexible zones, the support device 9 will flex to a different extent relative to the side parts in the horizontal and vertical directions. The material layers 18 and 19 in the flexible zones 10 and 11 are preferably more than a third thicker than the material layer's thickness in the middle part.

The material layer of the flexible zones 10 and 11 connects to the side sections in the lower half (vertically) of the side parts 6 and 7. Preferably, the material layer of the flexible zones connects to each side sections' bottom edge 23 (in the lower part of the material). Preferably, the material layer of the flexible zone connects to the support section 9 at its bottom half (vertically) which in the figures is illustrated by position 24.

Thanks to the bellow-like design of the material layer in the flexible zones, the support device 9 will flex to a different extent relative to the side parts in the horizontal and vertical directions. The material layers 18 and 19 in the flexible zones 10 and 11 are preferably more than a third thicker than the material layer's thickness in the middle part.

The present invention follows the hoofs and the frog's movement outward, inward, upward and downward regardless of movement differences and angular differences between the hoofs two side parts. This is especially advantageous in conjunction with use of the inventor's earlier invented and patented horseshoe which is sold under the brand name of Razer.

It has unexpectedly been discovered that a decreased risk of the pad being stretched apart is achieved if the support section 9 includes a first material layer 25 constituting the surface layer on the topside of the support section 9 and at least one second material layer 26 constituting the surface layer on the bottom side of the support section 9 and at least one intermediate, relatively softer material layer 27 positioned between the first material layer 25 and the second material layer 26. The first (top) layer of material 25 and the second (bottom) layer of material 26 are joined together in one layer at the merging point 28 to the flexible zones 10 and 11. This design achieves the unexpected technical effect that support section's 9 width increases during the stance phase. The increased width of the support section 9 is achieved by the intermediate layer 27 being compressed (becoming thinner) and that the distance between the merging points 28 thereby becomes longer. The increased width of the support section 9 means that the risk of being stretched apart decreases. In one preferred embodiment, the first material layer 25 and the second material layer 26 have a hardness with a shore number which exceeds 87 in the material layer and that the intermediate material layer1127 has a hardness with a shore number below 80. A nearly optimal performance is achieved if the shore number is 70. In alternative embodiments, however, it is conceivable that one or more layers of material 25,26 and 27 have a shore number different from the ones mentioned above. The harder material in the first layer and the second layer achieve the characteristic of improving wear resistance during use.

In variants of the alternative embodiment, the first side part 6 and the second side part 7 include at least one first material layer 29, which forms the surface layer on the topside of the side parts 6,7 and at least one second layer of material 30 which forms the surface layer on the bottom side of the side parts 6,7 and at least one intermediate material layer 31 positioned between the first material layer 29 and the second material layer 30. In one preferred embodiment, the first material layer 30 and the second layer of material have a hardness with a shore number exceeding 87 and that the intermediate material layer 31 has a hardness with a shore number below 80. The harder material in the first layer and the second layer have the characteristic of improving wear resistance during use. A nearly optimal performance is achieved if the shore number of the intermediate material layer 31 is 70. This design achieves the technical effect of reducing vibrations that arise by a shoe being attached to the pad and the horse hoof. Vibrations arise because the back part of the shoe is not attached with seams and this causes vibrations which may propagate to the horse's hoof and cause damage (which may be difficult to find the cause of). In alternative embodiments, however, it is conceivable that one or more of the material layers 29,30 and 3 have a shore number that differs from the ones mentioned above.

The relatively softer material layer 31 preferably extends from a position just behind the position of the rear seam of the shoe when the shoe and the support device are connected to the horse's hoof. The position may also be defined as just behind the widest part, in the hoofs transverse direction, of the pad. Referring to Fig. 7 and 8, is shown, via hidden contours (contours that are not normally visible), how material layer 27 in a preferred embodiment is partitioned into at least two sections 32 (pockets or the like). These sections 32 are partitioned by at least one intermediate wall 33 (partition or the like) extending between the first material layer 29 and the second material layer 30. In the exemplifying embodiment shown in the figures, the material layer is divided into eight sections with intermediate walls. The number of sections and intermediate walls may vary within the scope of protection.

M Ml Referring again to Fig. 7 and 8, is shown, via hidden contours how material layer 31 in one preferred embodiment is partitioned into at least two sections 34 (pockets or the like). The sections 34 are partitioned by at least one intermediate wall 35 (partition or the like) extending between the first material layer 29 and the second material layer 30. In the exemplifying embodiment shown in the figures, material layer 31 is divided into four sections 34 with intermediate walls 35. The number of sections 34 and intermediate walls 35 may vary within the scope of protection.

In alternative embodiments it is conceivable that the hardness of the intermediate material layer 27 in the support section 9 differ from the hardness of the intermediate material layer 31 in the side parts 6 and 7, It is further conceivable that at least one section 32 of material layer 27 has a different hardness than at least one second section 32 of material layer 27. In a corresponding manner, it is further conceivable that at least one section 34 of material layer 31 has a different hardness than at least one second section 34 of material layer 31. It is thus conceivable that each respective material layers' sections include multiple hardnesses (softnesses) than two up to the point that each section in each respective material layer 27 and 31 have a specific hardness (softness) which differs from the other sections.

The intermediate walls also have the technical effect of limiting, to some degree, changes in shape (form) in the rear area of the side parts 6 and 7 during a strain on these from the horse's hoof.

In an alternative embodiment, at least one of the intermediate material layers 27 and 31 may be comprised of a space, preferably enclosed, which contains at least one type of fluidic medium such as gas, combination of gases such as air, some type of liquid or mixture of liquids or a combination thereof.

In alternative embodiments, at least one of the material layers 29 and 30 in the side parts 6 and 7 are provided with one or more apertures in the direction toward the intermediate layer of a material of a relatively softer material that is included in the intermediate layer. The apertures have the technical effect of it improving the manufacturing process by allowing the infusion of the relatively softer material of the intermediate layer. The apertures allow the relatively softer material of the intermediate layer to stretch through at least one of the material layers 29 and 30. This has also unexpectedly been shown to have a positive effect associated with the application of adhesive or similar to the support device. The relatively harder material's glossy surface causes glue (adhesives) and the like to adhere more poorly to this material than to the relatively softer material.

Referring to Fig. 9 A and 9B, the function of the flexible bellow-shaped zones 10 and 11 is schematically shown. In the exemplary embodiment, the flexible zones have a bellow-shape. It is though conceivable that the shape differs in alternative embodiments. The bellow-shaped zones 10 and 11, according to the present invention, have a design that essentially allows for a maximum elastic spread of the support section relative to the side parts to be achieved. The bellow-shaped design includes (in an unaffected position) at least one essentially upwardly directed vertical section 36, at least one essentially vertically downward directed section 37 and an arc-shaped section 38 which connects the first essentially upwardly directed section 36 with the essentially downwardly directed section 38. A further unexpected technical effect is achieved by the material layer in the downwardly directed section 37 being secured in the lower half of the support device 9.

Referring to Fig. 9A, the pad-like support device is shown in its initial position. Referring to Fig. 9B, a variant is shown in which the underlying surface has affected part 6 in the upward direction. The flexible zone 10 allows part 6 to flex upward without part 6 essentially being moved in the direction towards the support device's 1 center. In Fig. 9B, the flexible zone has been partially stretched out. Fig. 9C shows the flexible zone in an essentially fully extended position. In a further stage (not shown in the figures), when the relative height in the vertical direction (in the figures) between part 6 and the support device's attachment point increases further, the fully extended flexible zone will cause part 6 to begin to twist (wrench) about the point of attachment of the bellow of the support section. The design should be compared with previously known designs of pads, where twisting of the corresponding parts such as part 6 and/or part 7 (in this patent application) starts directly or substantially directly. Known designs have nowhere near, or essentially nowhere near, a comparable flexibility as the design of the present patent application. During use, the design according to the present invention, allows mutual movement of the parts inherent in a hoof. Furthermore, the flexibility decreases the risk of the seam being pulled apart by the pad as is the case for known designs of pads. An equivalent functionality, flexibility, is also applicable for the side part 7 connected via zone 11. An equivalent functionality is essentially also achieved during a downward movement of the side part 6 and 7.

Referring to Fig. 10, an alternative embodiment of the support device is shown where it is provided with at least one first reinforcement 39. In the shown embodiment, the support device includes at least one first reinforcement 39 and at least one second reinforcement 39. In the exemplary embodiment, reinforcement 39 extends from the pad-like support device in the direction towards the front edge 14 of the pad-like support device. In alternative embodiments, the reinforcements may have a different extension. The reinforcements have the technical effect that they reinforce the center section and hold up the support section in the case where at least one hole is made in the center section. A hole may preferably be made if access to the underside of the hoof is necessary when the support device is connected to the hoof.

Referring to Figures 11A to 11C, an alternative embodiment of the present invention is shown comprised of at least one protruding (downward sticking, downwardly extending) segment (part, body) 40 which covers all or part of the bottom side of the pad-like support device's 1 side parts (the part of the side parts which in use lies against the horse hoof s quarter parts). The protruding segments 40 may be constituted by the material in parts of the pad-like support device being thicker than the other parts of the pad-like support. The protruding segments (body) 40 extend a distance S from the plane P on the pad-like support's bottom side 5. The distance essentially corresponds to a horse shoe's thickness (height in use). The distance (height) may also be smaller or larger than a horse shoe's thickness. The horseshoe is preferably a shortened horseshoe. In alternative embodiments, the pad-like support device may be used without a horseshoe. The distance S may vary over the extension of the segment. The protruding segment 40, or the protruding segments 40 are provided with a structure 41, or structures 41 on the bottom side which is or are intended to provide grip on the ground's surface (create grip against the surface). In the exemplifying embodiment, the structure 41 consist of a plurality of longitudinal grooves (in the figures, a plurality of grooves) 42 in the pad-like support device's longitudinal direction. The grooves 42 extend the entire or part of the segment's 40 length. The grooves 42 depth (height) are all essentially as deep or in alternative embodiments may be of decreasing depth in the forward direction. In this embodiment, the grooves' 42 shape are V-shaped or U-shaped or essentially V-shaped or U-shaped. In alternative embodiments it is conceivable that the grooves 42 have a different shape that is suitable for the purpose. Depth of the grooves may also vary over their stretches. The structure of the grooves according to the figures has the effect of controlling the hoof in the direction that the hoof points when the hoof slides against the ground during landing of the hoof against the ground. The grooves also have a dampening effect, and the grooves allow for less material being required for the production of the pad-like device. The shown groove structure is particularly useful on the horse's rear hooves.

Figs. 12A - 12C and 13A - 13C show alternative embodiments of the structure 41 of the protruding segment's 40 contact surface (structures) 41 against the ground. The structures 41 extend over the pad-like support device's protruding segments 40 (at quarter parts), and in the exemplifying embodiments also over the support section 9. In the shown embodiments the structure 41 consists of grooves 43 directed in the pad-like support device's transverse direction. In this embodiment, the grooves 43 are essentially V-shaped or U-shaped. In alternative embodiments it is conceivable that the grooves have a different shape suitable for the purpose.

In the exemplifying embodiment, the grooves 43 of the contact surfaces have a form which includes a V-like shape formed of at least one first flank 44 and at least one second flank 45. By definition, the respective grooves first flank 44 is located closer to the toe portion than the second flank 45. In the embodiment shown in Figures 12A - 12C, the front flank has a greater angle VI relative to the bottom side of the pad-like support device than the rear flank angle V2 to the bottom side of the pad-like support device. The structure is especially useful when the pad-like support device is connected to the horse's hooves. The named structure means that the hoof slides at impact with the ground without braking the hoof to an excessive extent. The structure provides cushioning and allows for less material being required for the production of the product.

In the embodiment shown in Figs. 13A -13C, the front flank has a smaller angle V relative to the bottom side of the pad-like support device than the rear flank angle V2 to the bottom side of pad-like support device. The structure (braking) is especially useful when the pad-like support device is connected to the horse's front hooves. The structure means that the hoof is braked at impact. The structure results in a faster reversal of the hoof, which allows for a faster step. The structure provides further dampening and means that less material is required to make the pad-like support device (product) than without them. In alternative embodiments it is conceivable that the structure 41 is a combination of the exemplifying structures or variants of another for the purpose suitable structure (shape, shapes).

Referring to Figs. 14A to 14C, an alternative embodiment of the support device where the side portions for all or part of its length from the quarter parts to the toe portion is shown including at least one protruding (downward stretching) segment (part, body) 46. In the exemplifying embodiment the protruding segments 46 extend from horse shoes quarter parts in the forward direction toward the toe portion. In an alternative embodiment, the protruding segment may also extend over the whole or part of the toe portion. This embodiment may be used with or without a horseshoe. The segments 46 may cover all or part of the side parts width. The protruding segments (body) 46 extend a distance (height) S2 from the plane P on the pad-like support device's bottom side 5. The distance (height) S2 corresponds essentially to a horse shoes thickness (height in use). The distance (height) S2 may also be smaller or greater than a horse shoe's thickness. The distance S2 may also vary across the segment's extension (stretch). The protruding segments may be constituted by the material in parts of the pad-like support device being thicker than in other parts of the device. The structure 47 of the protruding segment's contact surface against the ground may vary within the scope of the present invention. The structure 47, against the ground, may have the same shapes as that previously described regarding structure 41.

Figs. 14A to 14C show holes 48 for horse shoe nails which include at least one intermediate wall (partition) 49. The intermediate wall 49 divides the hole into at least one first section 50 and at least a second section 51. In the figures holes 48 are shown that are separated by three intermediate partitions 49 which divide the hole in four sections. The number of sections may in alternative embodiments be more or less than four (as shown in the figures). The design of the partitioned hole 48 permits the pad-like support device to be adapted to the hoof size without the holes' 48 function as recipients of the nail be impaired. The adaptation of the pad-like support device 1 after the hoof size is done by a part, or parts, of the pad-like support device side parts, or other parts being removed, for example by cutting, rasping or another for the purpose suitable method and/or technique.

In alternative embodiments of the present invention as shown in Figure 14B where it is used with open toe. With open toe means that the toe component is completely or partially missing or deleted. The material of the pad-like support device allows the toe portion to be cut away. In alternative embodiments it is conceivable that the pad-like support device receives another for the purpose suitable shape than the shape shown in the figure. Preferably, the reinforcements 39 are not cut away, but the reinforcements 39 are used to hold the frog positioned relative to the other parts of the pad-like support device such as side parts 6 and 7.

In alternative embodiments it is conceivable that the present invention includes a means such as a plate 52 or the like which extends over all or part of the toe portion's stretch. The plate's 52 height, thickness may vary within the scope of the present invention. The plate 52 is preferably of aluminum or of another for the purpose suitable metal, alloy or the like. In the exemplifying embodiment, the plate 52 may include holes (not shown in figures) adjacent to the ends, which in turn is cast fixed to the side parts. The holes cause the material to penetrate into them and hold the plate firmly against the fixed side parts.

Referring to Fig. 15, a variation of the present invention which includes at least one surface (portion) 53, insert or the like, comprised of materials with increased adhesive characteristics is shown. The material with the adhesive properties allows improved properties when the shoe is connected, such as glued, to the pad-like support device. The size of the surface 53 which comprises the material with increased adhesion may vary within the scope of the invention. The material with increased adhesion may be comprised of a material with a suction effect that is a material that takes up adhesive, glue and the like to higher extent than polyurethane. The material with the greater adhesive capacity may be comprised of a material which wholly or partially embedded in the other material in all or part of the side portions and/or the toe portion. The material with increased adhesive capability may be a felt material. The material with the greater adhesive capacity may be comprised of nylon or other suitable material or material combinations.

Referring to Figs. 16A - 16B, an alternative embodiment of the pad-like support device is shown which includes, or is provided with studs (cleats, spikes) 54 or the like. The number of studs 54 may vary within the scope of invention. In the exemplifying embodiment, the number of studs 54 is six. In alternative embodiments it is conceivable that the design includes one, two, three, four, five, seven or more studs 54. The studs 54 may be integrated or connected to or at the pad-like support device.

Fig. 16B shows a cross-section view of the pad-like support device. In the cross-section view the stud (studs) 54 is (are) connected to the relatively harder material layer 55. The stud 54, or studs 54, are also preferably movably connected to the relatively softer intermediate layer of material 56. The stud 54, or studs 54, extend then through the second layer 57 of relatively harder material. In the exemplifying embodiment, the studs 54 are movable relative to the other relatively harder material layer 57. Figure 16A shows that at least two studs are connected to at least one plate (attachment plate) 58 which holds two or more studs. The plate 58 is connected to (at) the first relatively harder material layer (the plate of Figure 16A has been made visible by reason of illustration; it is hidden by the second layer of material in normal use). The design means that the stud 54 is pushed out a stretch when the relatively softer material 56 is compressed. This means that the stud 54 does not slow down the hoof sliding against the ground when the hoof lands on the ground (by the stud does not protruding out at this stage). When the hoof stops sliding, the force against the ground causes the stud 54 to be partially pushed out and create grip against the surface. The design is especially beneficial to use on tracks, such as racetracks or other courses, which include asphalt (or other substrates) coated with a layer of gravel or similar.

The stud/studs 54 of the exemplifying embodiment have a cross-section that is triangular or essentially triangular. In alternative embodiments, the studs 54 may have a cross-section with a different shape suitable for the purpose. The material or combination of materials that make up the stud 54 may also vary within the scope of the invention.

In an alternative embodiment shown in Fig. 17, the present pad-like support device 1 is provided with at least one toe caulk (lip) 59 at the pad-like support device's front edge. The toe caulk 59 has the technical effect of preventing the pad-like support device 1 folding down when the hoof impacts the ground. The toe caulk 59 prevents gravel, sand, soil or similar getting between the hoof and the pad-like support device. The toe caulk may be used on the pad-like support device 1 with or without the shoe (which has a toe), and in combination with the named structures on the contact surfaces.

The material of the pad-like support device 1 consists preferably of a material that exhibits a good structural strength while at the same time having elastic properties. Suitably, polyurethane or another material with similar characteristics may be used in the pad-like support device 1 (an exemplifying material consist of Polyurethane Bayer 390X with shore number of 93).

It is conceivable that another for the purpose suitable material be used in the pad-like support device. The pad-like support device may for example be manufactured by injection molding or die casting. These production methods are previously known and this is why these production methods are not described in more detail in this patent application.

In the detailed description of the present invention, design details may have been omitted which are apparent to persons skilled in the art. Such obvious design details are included to the extent necessary so that the proper and full performance of the present invention is achieved.

Even if some preferred embodiments have been described in detail, variations and modifications within the scope of the invention may become apparent for specialist in the field and all such are regarded as falling within the scope of the following claims. For example, in alternative embodiments it is conceivable that the central portion include at least one through hole. It is conceivable that the pad-like support device's center portion in its entirety is a hole. The first side part and second side part have essentially the same thickness over their stretches. In alternative embodiments it is conceivable that the support device may be comprised of several parts which are joined in a manner suitable for the purpose. In alternative embodiments it is conceivable that the holes may be constituted by grooves or be a combination of grooves and holes.

The contact surfaces' shape allows the pad-like support device to preferably fit to more than one shoe size. The side parts 6 and 7, bottom side may further be provided with holes (airpads). The holes are preferably not through holes but consists of blind holes. The holes cross sectional shape may be oval, round or another for the purpose appropriate section. The holes may also have different cross-sectional area. The holes are intended to increase the cushioning characteristics of the material. The holes also minimize the risk of material being pressed out between the hoof 2 and the horseshoe 3 in conjunction with hoof impact with the ground and during gait movement (during the impact phase and the stance phase). The reduced risk of material being pressed out depends on the material of the first side portion 6 and the second side portion 7 can be compressed into the bores whereby the risk of material being pressed out between the hoof 2 and the horseshoe 3 decreases.

In alternative embociiments, the pad-like support device includes at least one edge extending over all or part of the toe portion. The edge has the technical effect of preventing the ingress of sand and the like between the hoof and the pad-like support device.

In alternative embodiments the pad-like support device's central portion 8 consists of or is comprised of a crimping (shrinking) material (not shown in figures). The material may be a material which shrinks and thus may be adapted to the respective horse's hoof.

Advantages of the Invention A number of advantages are achieved with the present invention. The main advantage of the present invention is that at least one of the above disadvantages are eliminated or reduced. The pad-like support device's dampening (resilient) function means that the horse hoof is given a function at impact comparable to the function at impact a hoof has when the horse is unshod (no shoe). A further advantage is that the risk of penetration is essentially eliminated. A further advantage of the present invention is that the flexible zones decreases drawn against the shoe and seam when rocks and uneven ground presses the middle portion in the upward direction. It is a further advantage that an effective dampening of the frog's impact is achieved wherein a reduced load against the horse's hoof, ligaments and joints are achieved. It is a further advantage of the present invention to improve circulation. By the frog's support essentially following all the frog's movements friction (rubbing) that occurs between the sole and the frog on existing soles is minimized.

Claims (10)

1. Pad-like support device (1) comprised of a top side (4) and a bottom side (5), said top side (4) during use being suitable to be placed up against and attached to a horse's hoof (2) and that the bottom side (5) has a plane surface (P) against which a shortened horseshoe (3) is suitable to be attached, and that the pad-like support device (1) is further comprised of at least one first side part (6), at least one second side part (7), at least one middle part (8) and a support section (9) for the frog, and at least one first flexible zone (10) and at least one second flexible zone (11) whose flexible zones (10, 11) extend essentially along the pad-like support device's (1) longitudinal direction, resulting in that the support section (9) and the middle part (8) are flexibly arranged in relation to the first side part (6) and the second side part (7), said support section (9) comprised of at least one first material layer (25) that constitutes the surface layer on the top side of the support section and at least one second material layer (26) that forms the material layer on the underside of the support section (9) and that at least one intermediate material layer (27) positioned between the first material layer (25) and the second material layer (26) is of a relatively softer material than the material of the first material layer (25) and the second material layer (26) and that the first side part (6) and the second side part (7) are comprised of a first material layer (29) that constitutes the surface layer on the top side of the side parts (6,7) and at least one second material layer (30) constituting the surface layer on the underside of the side parts (6,7) and that at least one intermediate material layer (31) positioned between the first material layer (29) and the second material layer (30) is of a relatively softer material than the material of the first material layer (29) and the second material layer (30) characterized in that the first side part (6) and the second side part (7) are each comprised of at least one protruding segment (40) which are positioned on the bottom side (5) under the hoofs quarter and whose segment's (40) bottom side, that completely or partially rest on the ground when the hoof impacts the ground, which segment (4) extends downward a distance (S), approximately corresponding to the thickness of the shortened horseshoe, from the plane (P) over the entire or parts of the side parts (6,7) surface stretch (S) and that the material layer (31) is partitioned in at least two sections (34) by at least one intermediate wall (35) that stretches between the first material layer (29) and the second material layer (30).

2. Pad-like support device (1) according to claim 1 characterized in that the protruding segments (40) stretch along all or a part of the surface of the pad-like support device's (1) bottom side (5).

3. Pad-like support device (1) according to one of the previous claims characterized in that the protruding segments (40) extend over parts of the pad-like support device's (1) surface and all or part of the distance up to the toe portion.

4. Pad-like support device (1) according to at least one of the previous claims characterized in that the pad-like support device (1) is comprised of at least one part surface (53) against the shoe which is of a material of relatively greater adherent properties than the material in the rest of the top side of the pad-like support device 0).

5. Pad-like support device (1) according to at least one of the previous claims characterized in that the pad-like support device (1) includes at least one or more studs (54).

6. Pad-like support device (1) according to one of the previous claims characterized in that the pad-like support device (1) is comprised of holes (48) for horse shoe nails, whose holes (48) are comprised of at least one partition (49) which divides the hole (48) into at least a first section (51) and at least a second section (52).

7. Pad-like support device (1) according to at least one of the previous claims characterized in that the material layer (27) is divided into at least two sections (32) of at least one intermediate wall (33) that stretches between the first material layer (25) and the second material layer (26).

8. Pad-like support device (1) according to at least one of the previous claims characterized in that the bottom side of the segments include grooves which extend in the longitudinal direction.

9. Pad-like support device (1) according to at least one of the previous claims characterized in that the bottom side of the segments include transverse grooves.

10. Pad-like support device (1) according to at least one of the previous claims characterized in that the pad-like device (1) includes at least a toe caulk.