WO2011153571A2

WO2011153571A2 - Animal tag

Info

Publication number: WO2011153571A2
Application number: PCT/AT2011/000257
Authority: WO
Inventors: Wolfgang Auer
Original assignee: Mkw Electronics Gmbh
Priority date: 2010-06-09
Filing date: 2011-06-09
Publication date: 2011-12-15
Also published as: EP2579709A2; WO2011153571A3; AT509892B1; AT509892A1

Abstract

The invention relates to an animal tag (1) for applying to an animal (29), comprising: a housing (2) having an electronic circuit (3) and a receptacle for a housing counterpart (4), a housing counterpart (4), which can be connected to the housing (2) such that a body part of the animal (29) is located between the housing (2) and at least part of the housing counterpart (4). The housing (2) and/or the housing counterpart (4) comprise(s) at least one connecting element which connects the housing (2) and the housing counterpart (4) to each other, taking the thickness of the body part into account, such that both the housing (2) and the housing counterpart (4) rest at least partially against the body part and/or that the connecting element is arranged at least approximately at the center of gravity or on the axis through the center of gravity of the housing (2) and/or of the housing counterpart (4).

Description

animal tag

The invention relates to a pet tag, in particular ear tag, for application to an animal, comprising a housing with a receptacle for a housing counterpart and optionally with an electronic circuit, a housing counterpart, which is connectable to the housing such that a body part of Tieres between the housing and at least part of the housing counterpart comes to rest. It has long been known that animals are marked with animal marks, which include an electronic circuit, in particular a passive transponder. For example, the identification of animals for research purposes, for example, to explore the migratory behavior of animals. The labeling of animals in breeding cattle, which is even required by law in most countries, is also widespread. In the mentioned transponder data about the animal, for example origin, date of birth, etc., as well as data about a livestock owner, for example its name and address, can be stored and if necessary read without contact.

A form of such an animal mark, as described for example in EP 1 799 031 B1 or WO 2009/034497 A2, consists of a housing with the transponder, and a housing counterpart, which is connected to the housing, so that a body part of the animal comes to lie in between. Often the transponder is simply in a plastic part, i. cast in a plate-like housing. Animal stamps are very often carried out as ear tags, as they can be easily applied and this process is largely painless for the animal.

A disadvantage of the known animal brands is that they sit relatively loosely on the body part of the animal and can easily change their position. When using omnidirectional antennas for the transponder this does not matter, because the writing and reading of data can be done in any position. However, this behavior is disadvantageous when using certain antennas and / or certain sensors. However, this also has the disadvantage that the animal may be injured by the loose animal mark, for example by branches of shrubs or trees in which can jam the gap between the ear and the ear tag. Last but not least, there is the danger that the animal brand will be lost. The object of the invention is therefore to improve animal husbandry or simplify, in particular to provide an improved ear tag.

The object of the invention is achieved with an animal brand of the type mentioned above, in which the housing and / or the housing counterpart comprises at least one connecting element, in particular an at least partially elastically yielding or resilient element, which encloses the housing and the housing. Taking into account the thickness of the body part, the counterpart connects to one another such that the housing and the housing counterpart each rest at least partially on the body part and / or that the connecting element at least approximately in the center of gravity or in the axis through the center of gravity of the housing and / or of the housing counterpart is arranged.

According to the invention is achieved by the fact that the animal brand is not loose on the body part, in particular on the ear, sits and can easily change its location. In this way, for example, a position sensor can provide reliable information about the position or orientation of the animal. Due to the arrangement of the connecting element in the focus of the animal brand is balanced, so that the animal brand due to heavy components of the animal brand, such as the batteries or accumulators for the power supply in the housing arranged electronic circuit animal mark after application to the animal does not change the situation, in particular if the connecting element also has elastic properties, so that the animal tag fits snugly against the body of the animal. Unlike known animal brands from the prior art - it should be mentioned that in the sense of the invention under animal brands no implants are understood - is therefore trying in the invention to arrange the components of the animal brand around the center of gravity or the axis distributed through the center of gravity so that the animal brand, especially ear tag, not dangling loose down, as is the case in the prior art, whereby parts of it cut over a longer period, especially in ear tags, and thus the animal brand is relaxed. The close-fitting and / or balanced animal mark may mean greater data accuracy in the measurement of data and / or in the exchange of data with other animals. can be achieved brands or with other electronic reading and / or writing devices and also the risk of injury to the animal can be reduced. The said "centering attachment" also has the advantage that the body part, so in particular the ear, is exposed to a lower load, whereby the bearing life can be extended without, for example, the hole in the ear, through which the connecting element protrudes increases, and thus In turn, the risk of injury or loss of the animal brand can be reduced.

Furthermore, this embodiment of the invention improves or makes possible the accuracy of a contactless temperature measurement with the aid of an infrared sensor through the body contact of the animal mark. It is therefore no longer necessary to measure the body temperature per se, but can by the at least approximately planar resting the animal mark on the body part or by their predefinable distance of a part of the animal brand, for example, a central region of the animal to the surface of the body part for temperature detection of the Tieres whose surface temperature are used, so that therefore a more gentle for the animal or more pleasant capture of at least one vital function is possible. The functionality of an animal brand is thus increased by the fact that the animal brand maintains its position on the body part to which it is attached, at least for a long time.

Regardless of the object of the invention is achieved by an animal mark, wherein the housing and / or the housing counterpart is structured on the body part facing the outer surface, in particular knobs and / or ribs. The advantage here is that in this way the skin of the animal, on which so the housing and the housing counterpart rests, can be ventilated, so that the animal brand for the animal is comfortable to wear and no skin diseases or skin irritation arise. In particular, this is advantageous if the animal tag is designed as an ear tag, since it is used, for example, as an ear tag. Necroses, especially in the area of the puncture, can be better avoided by the oxygen exchange or the oxygen supply.

Regardless of the object of the invention is achieved by an animal tag, wherein the housing and / or the housing counterpart has at least one active ingredient. It is thus possible that the animal brand is not only purely functional for the collection and transmission or storage of data, and thus purely for the benefit of the animal owner, but it is thus possible to act positively on and for the animal. In particular, in connection with the electronics of the animal brand, it is also possible to selectively deliver predeterminable doses of active substances at determinable times, which primarily serve the health or the restoration of the animal's health. In addition, it is also possible that in stress situations when determining a temperature increase by measurement or by the measurement of an accelerated pulse automatically drugs are delivered. This can also be used when the animal is attacked by a predator, and as an active ingredient an odorant can be used which deters the attacking animal, thus increasing the survival of the animal.

In particular, the at least one active ingredient is selected from a group comprising antibacterial agents, antiallergic agents, antiviral agents, fragrances, bitters, flavors, therapeutic agents, prophylactic agents, anti-inflammatory agents. For example, an antibacterial agent can accelerate wound healing. On the other hand, an anti-allergic active ingredient can improve the compatibility of the ear tag. Finally, a fragrance may be provided as an active ingredient, in particular a bittering agent. This prevents the animal or another animal from attempting to remove the animal mark with its mouth, which is particularly important if the animal tag is not attached to the ear but to a location that is more accessible to the animal.

Regardless of the object of the invention is achieved by an animal tag, wherein the housing and / or the housing counterpart at least partially made of at least partially transparent material.

In this way, a look inside the ear tag is possible. For example, it can be checked whether a container of an active substance is still filled or needs to be refilled. Also, optical sensors and / or actuators may be provided in the interior of the housing, for which no special viewing window must be provided in an already transparent housing. Furthermore, it is thus possible that in the housing, in particular via the electronics activatable light sources are arranged, whereby the optical Or- tion of the animal, especially at night, can be done easily. Such a configuration with a light source is also advantageous if animals of a herd are marked with this animal mark, since this in turn makes the optical sighting or localization of the animal in the middle of the other animals easier. In particular, this is also advantageous if the protocol on the transmitter or in a chip of the animal brand sends the hardware.

Regardless of the object of the invention is achieved by an animal tag, wherein the housing and / or the housing counterpart made of compostable material, in particular compostable plastic.

The advantage here is that in this way at least the parts of the animal brand consisting of this decomposable material do not have to be specially disposed of, but rather how biowaste can be treated. This is advantageous because when handling the animal mark during application or the decrease, for example when kinking, parts thereof, especially the housing counterpart, often fall on the mostly dirty floor and therefore for hygiene reasons may even becomes unusable. Also, the housing and or the housing counterpart can break when falling into several parts or be crushed by an animal. This variant of the invention can thus avoid the need for a cumbersome and possibly dangerous (the animal is usually very irritated when applying the animal brand) collecting parts that may be useless anyway under circumstances. In addition, it is not disturbing if parts fall through the gaps of slatted floors in the liquid manure when the animal mark is torn off after use, since these parts can rot therein.

Regardless of the object of the invention is achieved by an animal tag, in which the housing is constructed in several parts and at least two parts are welded together by means of ultrasound or laser. In this way, parts of the housing can be rationally and permanently connected to each other, because the ultrasonic or laser welding is a proven and reliable connection method. In addition, such welds are also waterproof, so that the electronic circuit is optimally protected inside the housing. In addition, it has been provides that adhesive bonds are prone to error in the application of the animal mark on the animal, especially if for the at least approximately planar or planar attachment of the animal mark on the body part this is applied so that between the housing and the housing counterpart a low voltage is built up.

Regardless of the object of the invention is achieved by an animal brand, in which the housing is constructed in several parts and at least two parts are connected to each other by means of a screw cap, bayonet or snap closure. In this way, the housing can also be disassembled, if necessary, for example, to wait for the electronic circuit arranged therein or exchange or supply for reuse in another, new animal brand. Advantageously, a seal is arranged between the housing parts to prevent the ingress of water and dirt. In particular, it is thus also possible that in the animal brand no battery for power supply must be used, which must be charged from the outside over a longer time, but that the battery or a battery can be exchanged within a relatively short time. Thus, the animal-tagged animal does not have to be forced to stand still for a long time, which can lower the animal's stress burden. In addition, it is also possible through this interchangeability to use the animal brand multiple times when a non-externally rechargeable battery, for example a rechargeable via a rechargeable battery arranged on or in the housing counterpart, is used, thereby reducing the investment costs for the animal marking can be. However, it is within the scope of the invention also possible that a battery of the animal brand, after it can be removable and at least partially reusable, is charged in a charging station for the animal brand during non-charge, said charging station for contacted or contactless charging of the battery can be executed and it is also possible that the charging station for loading the battery or rechargeable batteries - it can be arranged in an animal brand several accumulators, one or more animal mark (s) is formed. Regardless of the object of the invention is achieved by an animal tag, wherein the electronic circuit comprises one or more of the following modules: a reed contact with which the animal brand can be switched on and / or off, a radio interface, a transponder, a Antenna of the radio interface, at least one infrared sensor, a vibration motor, at least one light source, in particular at least one light emitting diode, a compass, a position sensor, a motion sensor, an acceleration sensor, means for locating, in particular a GPS receiver, a micro - Controller, at least one light sensor, at least one receiver, at least one gas sensor and / or a power generator.

The radio interface with the antenna serves to control the electronic circuit or to activate certain functions and to exchange data. For example, data that characterize the animal can be written to a memory and read from there again. For this purpose, a transponder can also be provided. The antenna of the radio interface can be arranged in the housing and on the electronic circuit, be completely embedded in the material of the housing or be arranged on the outside of the housing, wherein an externally located on the surface arrangement of the antenna has the advantage, especially if this as a round antenna is executed, that thus a better direction-independent transmission quality is achieved.

Via the receiver, a so-called "wake-up" function of the animal brand is achievable, ie it is possible that the transmission function of the electronic circuit for transmitting data is only activated when data is actually being sent or received The energy consumption of the animal mark can be reduced, whereby the intervals between the charging cycles or the exchange of the energy supply can be extended.The "awakening", ie the activation, of the electronic switching of the animal mark can take place via commands, which are transmitted from a transmitting and / or receiving station for the Data exchange or data acquisition are transmitted. With the help of the infrared sensor, the temperature can be measured continuously or as needed via the surface temperature of the animal. Anomalies suggest a disease. For example, it can be provided that the electronic circuit automatically sends an alarm via the radio interface when the temperature reaches a certain target value. area leaves. In particular, this type of measurement of surface temperature is beneficial in animals that can not perspire, for example in pigs. It can be concluded by an appropriate correlation of the surface temperature on the body temperature of the animal, which conclusions, eg on the stress behavior, diseases, etc., can be drawn. In addition, tasks and / or messages can be generated in a temperature change in the entire animal system comprehensive system, such as a data acquisition and / or data output and / or data sending device, such as a computer or a telephone, in particular a mobile phone, eg as SMS or e-mail and, if necessary, deliver these tasks to a pet owner or his coworker, either automatically or manually, so that he can take the necessary steps. For example, this is advantageous in births or to monitor the birth process, diseases, system errors or errors in the area of the animal brand, when exceeding a predefinable limit temperature, etc. The vibration motor can be used to locate a particular animal of the herd. For this purpose, the relevant vibration motor is activated, for example via radio. The animal awakens by the vibrations or at least shows a conspicuous behavior that identifies it or

whereby the animal can be found. This can be advantageous if the identifier of the animal is not visible to the pet owner.

However, the vibration motor can also be used when the animal lies, for example, on the transmitter, ie the animal mark, whereby the data transmission would not take place or with significantly lower quality in order to cause the animal to a change in position, at least in the area of the animal mark , Furthermore, the vibration motor can be used, for example, to distribute alpha animals from the feeding site, so that the other animals can also get to the feeding point. As is well known, alpha animals behave differently (more ruthlessly) than nonalphaites. In general, the vibration motor can thus be used to counteract the blocking of animals by alpha animals. Light emitting diodes can also be activated when searching for a specific animal. In the twilight, darkness and in the stable, these light-emitting diodes are easy to recognize, which is why a particular animal sought can easily and quickly be found. Advantageously, the animal is not disturbed and is not woken up when it sleeps. The lighting diode (s) may also be used for identification if the animal's identification is not visible to the pet owner.

Both the vibration motor and the light-emitting diode (s) have the advantage that for identifying or locating an animal other animals (neighboring animals) are not disturbed and that the identification or finding in a herd is possible without the pet owner must go to the herd.

The compass and position sensor and a GPS receiver are used in a conventional manner for locating an animal. The motion sensor and the acceleration sensor are used to detect movements of the animal. These sensors can also be used to activate the overall system or animal brand, i. their electronic circuit, in particular the chip, are used, or is thus the above-mentioned "wake-up" - function realized, especially if a lower threshold is awarded, from which the system is "woken up" so that the system does not every little movement is activated. For example, it can also monitor when an animal sleeps and when it is awake. Furthermore, the data of the motion sensor and the acceleration sensor can also be used in a conventional manner for the location, the location can also be done with the known methods that use the signal transit time and / or signal strength of an animal brand.

The microcontroller is finally used to control the addressed units. This evaluates, for example, a command received via radio and then forwards it to the relevant unit. For example, it activates the vibration motor when it receives a command to do so.

Advantageously, the electronic circuit also includes a power generator which converts the kinetic energy of the animal into electrical energy. In this way, for example, the battery can be saved, or it can be at least delayed a change of the same.

The animal brand can be switched off and on via the reed contact, so that at the animal brand no additional key is required, which may be unintentionally from the Animal or a neighboring animal is actuated. It can thus the functionality of the animal brand can be improved by conditional misuse is avoided.

Advantageous embodiments and further developments of the invention will become apparent from the dependent claims and from the description in conjunction with the figures of the drawing.

It is advantageous if the at least one resilient element contracts the housing and the housing counterpart such that the body part is always exposed to a pressure, in particular substantially the same pressure, regardless of its thickness. The body parts to which an animal tag is attached may vary considerably from animal to animal or from species to species. For example, the ears of cattle have completely different characteristics than, for example, pigs, sheep, deer or elephants. In order to enable a proper function of the animal mark independently of the anatomical properties of the respective ear, for example, a pressure is always exerted on it. For this purpose, resilient elements are provided in the animal brand, which constantly hold the housing and the housing counterpart to train. It thus possible to adjust the ear tag of the ear thickness of an animal. In addition, the advantage is achieved that by pressing the animal mark on the body part, ie in particular the ear of an animal, the antenna of the ear at least over a long period of time remains in position at least approximately unchanged.

It is also advantageous if the housing and the housing counterpart are connected to one another with the aid of a screw cap, bayonet closure, snap closure or a clamping connection. The connection of the two parts can thus be made quickly, which is why the application of the animal brand according to the invention is rationally possible. In particular, in a screw connection, the distance between the housing and the housing counterpart can also be set very finely and adjusted to the body part (ear) of the animal to which the animal mark is attached. Therefore, the animal brand can be adjusted so that it neither pushes nor is too loose. The resilient element can be provided for example via the thread itself by this is at least partially bendable, and evades from a certain pressure or a certain tensile force. It is particularly advantageous if the connection between the housing and the housing counterpart is configured such that it is released in the event of excessive tensile load at which damage to the body part is to be expected. In this way it can be prevented that the animal is injured when it gets stuck with the animal brand somewhere, that eg in the execution of the animal mark as an ear tag tears the ear.

In this connection, it is advantageous to have an animal mark with a component which, under normal tensile load, in which no damage to the body part is to be expected, effects a positive connection between housing and housing counterpart, the component being prepared for deformation in the event of excessive tensile load , in such a way that then no positive connection exists anymore. In this variant of the invention housing and housing counterpart are connected to each other by means of a positive connection, so for example with a snap connection, a screw or with a bayonet closure. However, at least one part involved in this positive connection is designed to be so soft or yielding that the connection between the housing and the housing counterpart is released in the event of a tensile load in which damage to the body part to which the animal mark is attached can be expected. For example, claws of a

Snap connection should be dimensioned so or be designed with respect to the material or the material composition that they withstand a normal tensile load, but at a too high tensile load give or break.

It is also advantageous if between housing and housing counterpart a frictional connection is provided and a frictional force between the housing and the housing counterpart is dimensioned such that it is smaller than the force occurring in an excessive tensile load. In this variant of the invention, no positive but a frictional connection is provided. For example, it can be exploited for the wedge effect by a cone-shaped part of the housing counterpart is inserted into a matching recess of the housing or vice versa. Advantageously, the frictional force, that is, the wedge angle, here dimensioned so that the compound is released at excessive tensile load again to prevent injury to the animal. To achieve the frictional connection, it is also possible that at least a part of the surface of at least part of the parts to be joined in the region of the connection formation with a friction-increasing coating, which may optionally comprise friction particles is provided. It is also favorable if the housing and / or the housing counterpart consist of a combination of hard and soft components. In this way, the components mentioned can be well adapted to their mechanical function. For example, the housing may be made of a material that is inherently hard in order to better protect the electronic circuit contained therein. The claws for a snap connection, however, can be made of a soft material, so that they yield when overloaded without being destroyed. Likewise, the housing counterpart may consist of a combination of soft and hard materials. For example, a pin for piercing a body part of the animal may be made at least partially of a hard material, resilient plates which contract the housing and the housing counterpart, or the remaining parts of the housing counterpart, for example a locating plate, made of a soft material ,

In a further favorable variant of the invention, the housing consists of a first hard / soft material and the housing counterpart of a soft / hard material. In this way, the respective part can consist of a single material. For example, the housing may be made of a hard material to optimally protect the electronic circuit contained therein. The case counterpart, on the other hand, is made of a soft material to pull the case and the case counterpart together. If necessary, in this case, a corresponding hole must be punched into the body part of the animal before the application of the animal mark. It is also conceivable that the housing is made of a soft material, which is not disturbing for the animal. For this, the housing counterpart is made of a hard material, for example, to allow piercing of a body part of the animal.

As materials for the housing and the housing counterpart are advantageously all kinds of plastics in question. In these, the elasticity can be adjusted particularly well. In addition, it is possible to produce the housing from a plastic which is permeable to infrared light, in particular in the NIR and / or MIR range (near and middle infrared range), at least partially in the region of an IR sensor of the animal brand, whereby infrared temperature is measured for the temperature measurement on expensive IR-transparent windows made of quartz or sapphire crystal, which can be used of course in the invention, can be dispensed with. Of course, these parts can also be made of metal, for example, aluminum, brass or the like, in particular a tip of the housing counterpart, or of fiber-reinforced plastics. For fiber reinforcement, for example, glass fibers, carbon fibers, synthetic fibers, mineral fibers, etc., may be used, of course taking into account the avoidance of a carcinogenic effect of the fibers, that is, for example, no asbestos fibers are used or fibers are respirable due to their brevity.

It is also advantageous if the housing counterpart has slots and / or recesses and / or openings for ventilation of the body part. This is another way to ventilate the skin of the animal to which the animal tag is attached. In addition, a spring elasticity of the housing counterpart can be better adjusted or obtained via these slots and or recesses and / or openings.

It is also favorable if the housing or the housing counterpart has a pin for piercing the body part. In this way, the animal brand can be applied particularly easily, since an additional punching of the body part on which the animal brand is to be attached, can be omitted.

It is advantageous in this context if the pin is at least partially made of a metal or a fiber-reinforced, in particular glass fiber reinforced, plastic. Thus, the pin is relatively rigid and deforms when attaching the animal brand is not or only insignificantly, making the application of the animal brand is simplified.

It is also advantageous if the connecting element is formed by the pin or includes this since this is thus arranged in the center of gravity or in the axis through the center of gravity of the housing and / or the housing counterpart. The pen represents more or less a rotation axis of the animal mark. Since this is arranged in the present variant of the invention but essentially in the center of gravity or in the axis through the center of gravity, the animal brand has no tendency to rotate in a particular direction. It therefore essentially retains its once-occupied position. The pen can thus fulfill two functions, whereby the construction of the animal brand can be simplified. It should be mentioned in this context that the housing counterpart can consist of a plastic or of several different plastics.

The housing or the housing counterpart comprise at least one chamber for receiving the active substance. In this variant of the invention, the active substance or the active ingredients are simply filled into one or more chambers or containers and discharged from there. This drug delivery can be done continuously or, for example, electronically controlled by the chamber is connected to the drug, for example with a miniature valve or with a miniature pump. Advantageously, the active ingredients in this variant of the invention, if necessary, can also be refilled.

It is also favorable if at least parts of the housing or of the housing counterpart are coated with the at least one active substance and / or this active substance is embedded in the material of the housing or of the housing counterpart. In this variant of the invention, special chambers for the active ingredients can be omitted, whereby the production of the animal mark can be simplified.

It is particularly advantageous if the compostable material is provided with an incinerable or at least with a water / sweat-resistant layer. So that the housing or the housing counterpart does not already rage on the animal, the compostable material can be provided with a non-rotatable or at least with a water / sweat-resistant layer. In this way, it remains stable until it is broken, for example, because it falls to the ground and is crushed by the animal. Also, a tool for disassembling the animal tag may be configured to break the housing or housing counterpart upon disassembly so as to initiate the rotting of the subject part.

It is also advantageous if the electronic circuit from the housing or housing counterpart is removable. In this variant of the invention, the electronic circuit can be removed from the housing, so that the individual components, for example in a repair, are more accessible. Instead of a repair, it is also easy to install a new (possibly improved) electronic circuit in the housing. Advantageously, this is done directly on the animal, without dismantling the animal brand. The process runs completely painless for the animal. It can thus be at least partially used for another animal again the animal brand.

It is also favorable if an energy store, in particular a battery or an accumulator, is removably arranged in the housing. In this way, the battery can be easily replaced when it is empty, and it must not be disposed of entire animal brand therefore.

The above embodiments and further developments of the invention can be combined in any manner.

For a better understanding of the invention, this will be explained in more detail with reference to the following figures.

Each shows in a schematically simplified representation:

1 shows an exemplary animal mark in an exploded view obliquely from above;

FIG. 2 shows the animal mark from FIG. 1 in an exploded view obliquely from below; FIG.

Fig. 3, the animal stamp from Figures 1 and 2 in a Dreiseiten- or

-Sectional view;

4 shows the electronic circuit contained in the animal mark in a detail view obliquely from above;

5 shows the electronic circuit of Figure 4 in a detail view obliquely from below.

6 shows a variant of an animal mark in an exploded view obliquely from above;

7 shows the animal mark of Figure 6 in an exploded view obliquely from below. Fig. 8, the animal stamp of Figures 1 and 2 in a Dreiseiten- or sectional view.

By way of introduction, it should be noted that in the differently described embodiments, the same parts are provided with the same reference numerals or the same component names, wherein the disclosures contained in the entire description can be mutatis mutandis to the same parts with the same reference numerals or component names. Also, the location information chosen in the description, such as top, bottom, side, etc. related to the immediately described and illustrated figure and are to be transferred to the new situation mutatis mutandis when a change in position.

The embodiments show possible embodiments of an animal brand, it being noted at this point that the invention is not limited to the specifically illustrated embodiments thereof, but rather various combinations of the individual embodiments are possible with each other and this possibility of variation due to the teaching of technical action by objective invention in the skill of those skilled in this technical field. So are all embodiments that are possible by combinations of individual details of the illustrated and described embodiment variant, within the scope of the scope of protection includes.

1 shows an animal brand 1, here in the form of an ear tag, for application to an animal, comprising a housing 2, an electronic circuit 3 arranged in the housing 2 and a housing counterpart 4 which can be connected to the housing 2 in such a way a body part of the animal between the housing 2 and housing counterpart 4 is clamped. The housing 2 comprises a housing lower part 5, a housing upper part 6, as well as a battery cover 7 or consists of these components. In the lower housing part 5, the electronic circuit 3 is arranged, in particular by means of screws 8 attached. Furthermore, a battery 9 for supplying the electronic circuit 3 is arranged in the housing 2. About the battery cover 7, which is preferably secured by means of a screw 10 on the lower housing part 5, the battery 9 remains accessible even if the lower housing part 5 and the upper housing part 6 are permanently connected to each other, for example by gluing or welding , in particular laser or ultrasonic welding. The battery 9 or generally the energy storage, so for example a battery, may be associated with a so-called "energy harvesting unit", with the electric current from ambient sources, such as temperature differences or vibrations, is generated and can be introduced into the energy storage it is possible for a battery of the animal mark 1 to be automatically charged when the animal is in the feeding station.

Alternatively, the lower housing part 5 and the upper housing part 6 can also be screwed together or connected to each other by means of a bayonet catch or snap closure. In order to protect the interior of the housing 2 against moisture and dirt can be provided under the battery cover 7 and / or between the lower housing part 5 and the housing upper part 6, a seal. This seal is preferably made in two-component injection molding with one of the parts of the housing 2.

Although in Fig. 1, the battery cover 7 is shown on the upper side of the housing upper part 6, within the scope of the invention is also possible to arrange this side of the housing 2 or on the body part of the animal facing the bottom of the housing 2, the latter variant also has the advantage that the battery cover 7 is better protected against accidental opening. Furthermore, there is the possibility that the battery cover 7 may also be otherwise connected to the part of the housing 2 carrying it, e.g. with a snap closure. Furthermore, the battery cover can also be hinged to the housing 2 via a hinge, in particular a film hinge. The battery compartment may be formed as a separate chamber, so be structurally separated from the electronic circuit 3 via at least one partition, so that the battery, i. In general, the energy storage device can be exchanged without contaminating the animal brand 1, in particular the electronic circuit 3. This is important insofar as the change often takes place in a stable, and stalls naturally have a certain amount of pollution.

In the present example, the housing counterpart 4 comprises an at least approximately plate-shaped element with a plurality of resilient segments 11 (here three segments) and in the center of which is a pin 12 for piercing the body part of the animal (an ear in this example) to which the animal tag 1 is to be attached. The pin 12 is thus at least approximately in the center of gravity or in the axis through the center of gravity of the housing counterpart 4 and the housing 2 and therefore can not cut a slot in one direction in the ear due to gravity when moving the ear. In addition, slits 13 or generally recesses or openings for ventilating the body part are arranged between the segments 11. It is not absolutely necessary for the slots to be formed as apertures, as shown, but they may also be formed in the form of grooves on the surface facing the housing 2, that is to say on the surface facing the ear, of the housing counterpart 4. which extend into the lateral end faces of the housing counterpart 4, so as to establish the connection with the ambient atmosphere.

The at least approximately platelet-shaped element is not flat in the preferred embodiment, so that it exerts low pressure after application to the body part by connecting the housing counterpart 4 with the housing 2 on the body part. For this purpose, the segments 11 may be arranged inclined in the direction of the tip or the pin 12. There is also the possibility that, alternatively or additionally, at least in an edge region, a preferably bead-shaped elevation is arranged on the surface facing the pin, that is to say the surface facing the body part of the animal, in order in this way likewise to have a To achieve preload. In this case, the segments 11 may also be formed planar.

As already mentioned, there may be three different number of segments 11 on the housing counterpart 4, for example two, four, five, six, etc.

Fig. 2 shows the animal mark 1 as in Fig. 1 in an exploded view, but now from diagonally below. Good to see here is that the lower housing part 5 on the ear facing outer surface nubs 14 may have. These serve for the ventilation of the body part on which the animal mark 1 is mounted. Alternatively or additionally, ribs or grooves or in general a surface structuring may be provided. In Fig. 2 are still a viewing window 15 and claws 16 can be seen. The claws 16 or in general the fastening elements, such as tongue-shaped extensions, which coincide with the deposition on the head of the pin 12. act are in a recess, in particular a bore, the housing lower part 5, wherein this recess is also preferably formed in the axis by the center of gravity or in the center of gravity of the housing 2. FIG. 3 also shows the animal mark 1 according to FIGS. 1 and 2 in a three-side view or in a sectional view.

The function of the animal mark 1 shown in Figures 1 to 3 is now as follows: When applying the animal mark 1 to an animal, the pin 12 is inserted into an already punched hole in the ear, for which purpose a corresponding pliers can be used, as this is known in principle in the field of animal stamps from the prior art, or the pin 12 itself serves to make the hole. The pin 12 or at least its tip may be made of a metal, e.g. Steel, in particular a nickel-free alloy, or a fiber-reinforced, in particular glass fiber reinforced, plastic, e.g. PTFE, be made. The pin 12 is further inserted into the recess described above in the housing base 5 and there snaps into the claws 16 and generally in fastening or connecting elements, so that the housing 2 and the housing counterpart 4 are now permanently connected to each other. The resilient segments 11 now press against the body part of the animal and pull together the housing 2 and the housing counterpart 4 such that the housing 2 and the housing counterpart 4 abut the ear.

Advantageously, the ear or the body part, regardless of its thickness always a pressure, in particular substantially the same pressure, exposed, so that an optimal contact of the animal brand 1 is given to the body part.

In order that the animal can not be injured when it gets stuck with the animal mark 1 somewhere, the connection between the housing 2 and the housing counterpart 4 in an advantageous variant of the invention is designed such that it causes excessive tensile stress, in which damage to the ear is expected to be solved automatically. For this purpose, the claws 16 or generally the fastening or connecting elements are at least partially elastic and cause normal tensile load between the housing 2 and housing counterpart 4, so to expect a tensile load in the no damage to the ear is, in particular a positive connection between the housing 2 and the housing counterpart 4, ie between the claws 16 and the pin 12. In excessive tensile load enter the claws 16 and the fastening or connecting elements but after, that is they snap outward or break off and thus release the connection between the housing 2 and housing counterpart 4 again. The term "excessive tensile load" is to be understood in this context as meaning that this load may be different depending on the species and the location of the animal mark 1 affixed to the animal, and therefore variable between species, so that an indication of value is not makes sense, especially since the skilled person can determine without any problems due to objective teaching, from which tensile load a risk of injury is given.

These fastening or connecting elements are thus preferably at least partially elastic or yielding or spring-back. If these fastening or connecting elements consist of a material which is different from the rest of the housing 2, in particular plastic, such as e.g. Polyethylene, in particular HDPE, are manufactured, it is possible to produce these, for example, together with the lower housing part 5 by means of two-component injection molding.

Preferably, the fastening or connecting elements act in the manner of a barb. In addition to the claw-shaped or tongue-shaped design, these fastening or connecting elements can also be designed in the form of a detent in order to achieve a better adaptation to different thicknesses of the body part on which the animal tag 1 is arranged. The pin 12 is preferably, as is apparent from FIGS. 1 and 2, provided in the region below the at least approximately tapering head with at least one offset, which cooperates with the fastening or connecting elements.

Instead of the snap closure between the housing 2 and the housing counterpart 4, for example, a screw cap or a bayonet closure may be provided. In particular, with the help of a screw, the distance between the housing 2 and housing counterpart 4 can be adjusted very sensitively. The animal brand 1 can be better adapted to different thickness body parts, so for example ears, so they Although it rests on the body part but does not press or exert excessive pressure on the body part and is annoying for the animal. For example, the threads of a screw can also be made of an elastic material, such that they give way to excessive tensile load and the connection between the housing 1 and housing counterpart 4 is released again.

Alternatively, between housing 2 and housing counterpart 4, a frictional connection may be provided. For example, the pin 12 may be tapered at least over part of its longitudinal extent, ie not only in the region of the tip, and may be plugged into an equally conical hole in the housing base 5. Advantageously, the cone angle and thus a frictional force between the housing 2 and housing counterpart 4 is dimensioned so that it is smaller than the force that occurs at an excessive tensile load. In this way, the animal can again be protected from injury. There is also the possibility, as already stated above, that the surface of the pin 12 and / or the recess for receiving the pin 12 in the housing 2 can be provided with a friction-increasing, in particular polymer-based, coating, e.g. with a polyurethane-based coating, which coating may also contain frictional particles, e.g. Hard particles of carbides or oxides may contain.

In the present example, the housing 2 and the housing counterpart 4 consist of a combination of hard and soft components. The housing base 5 is made of a substantially hard material with soft molded claws 16. Alternatively, the entire housing base 5 may be made of a soft material, so as to allow a better adaptation to the body part of the animal, and by a relatively hard housing upper part 6 are supported, in which case it is advantageous if the housing upper part 6 surrounds the housing lower part 5 at least approximately completely laterally. The housing counterpart 4 may in turn consist of a relatively hard pin 12 and relatively soft segments 11, for example of an injection-molded plastic. It is also conceivable that the housing 2 entirely made of a hard material and the housing counterpart 4 in its entirety, but preferably with the exception of the tip of the pin 12, consists of a soft material. For example, then claws 16 and the fastening or connecting elements may be provided at the head of the pin 12, which in the lower housing part. 5 engage and give way when excessive tensile load. It is also conceivable, however, the reverse case, namely that the housing 2 consists of a soft and the housing counterpart 4 made of a hard material. In this variant, the housing 2 can adapt well to the ear of the animal, so that the ear tag 1 is not disturbing for this.

In an advantageous variant of the invention, the housing 2 and / or the housing counterpart 4 comprises means for receiving at least one active substance. For example, as stated above, the active ingredient may be antibacterial, thus accelerating wound healing. An antiallergic active substance may also be provided in order to improve the compatibility of the ear tag 1. Finally, a fragrance may be provided as an active ingredient, in particular a bittering agent. This prevents the animal from trying to remove the animal mark 1 with its mouth. This is particularly important if the animal brand 1 is not attached to the ear but at a location accessible to the animal. This is also important if another animal tries to deduct the animal mark 1. It is also possible to provide combinations of active ingredients.

Preferably, the at least one active ingredient is selected from a group comprising antibacterial agents, e.g. Silver ions, chlorhexidine, etc., antiallergic agents, e.g. Lichen acids, in particular from Iceland moss, antiviral agents, such as e.g. Polyacrylic acids, polymethacrylic acids, fragrances, e.g. diverse ethereal

Oils, bitter substances, such as Bitrex ^® , flavorings, therapeutic agents, prophylactic agents, anti-inflammatory agents, such as flavonoids, licorice, tannins. It should be noted that the examples given are not restrictive of the invention.

These agents can be stored in a chamber of the housing 2 or the housing counterpart 4 (not shown) and, for example, continuously dispensed. It is also conceivable that the active ingredients are delivered electronically controlled. In a further variant of the invention, parts of the housing 2 or the housing counterpart 4 are coated with an active substance. It is also conceivable that the active substance is embedded in the material of the housing 2 or the housing counterpart 4. In a further advantageous variant, the housing 2 and / or the housing counterpart 4 made of compostable material, in particular compostable plastic. When handling the animal brand 1, it can easily happen that especially the relatively small and lightweight housing counterpart 4 falls to the ground. For reasons of hygiene, however, the housing counterpart 4 can no longer be used. Advantageously, this can remain lying on the ground where it rotted according to the invention. In particular, a veterinarian who applies the animal tag 1 is not endangered by having to pick up the housing counterpart 4, as is the case in the prior art, and possibly being injured by the animal. Also, the housing counterpart 4 can be crushed by the animal, which would further complicate the cancellation.

So that the housing 2 or the housing counterpart 4 does not rotting on the animal, the compostable material can be provided with an eradicable or at least with a water / sweat-resistant layer. In this way, it remains stable until the end of use of the animal brand 1, or until it is broken, for example, because it falls to the ground and is crushed by the animal.

Figures 4 and 5 show a variant of the electronic circuit 3 of the animal brand 1 in detail. This comprises a reed contact 17, a radio interface 18 with antenna 19, an infrared sensor 20, a vibration motor 21, two light-emitting diodes 22, 23, a compass and position sensor 24, a motion sensor 25, an acceleration sensor 26 and a microcontroller 27 Alternatively or additionally, the electronic circuit may additionally comprise a GPS receiver, a transponder and a power generator, whereby in each case more than one of the named components may also be present in the animal tag 1. Furthermore, the electronic circuit can comprise at least one receiver and / or at least one light sensor with which it can be detected, in particular, whether the animal is lying on the animal mark 1 or not.

The function of the electronic circuit 3 is now as follows:

With the help of the reed contact 17, the electronic circuit 3 can be switched on and off. Advantageously, such an external switch can be saved. The radio interface 18 with the antenna 19 serves to control the electronic circuit 3 relate to to activate certain functions and to exchange data. For example, data that characterize the animal can be written to a memory and read from there again. For this purpose, a transponder can also be provided.

With the help of the at least one infrared sensor 20, which is directed through the viewing window 16 on the body part, in particular the ear, of the animal, and which may be connected to an optical waveguide or a silicon lens, can continuously or if necessary, the surface temperature of the Animal are measured. Anomalies suggest a disease. For example, it can be provided that the electronic circuit 3 automatically sends an alarm via the radio interface 18 when the temperature leaves a specific target range. The sensor head of the infrared sensor 20 is preferably directed to the body part, in particular can also rest flush against the body part or be only slightly spaced, for example, with a maximum distance of 3 mm. In this connection, it is advantageous if the housing 2 is externally provided, at least in the region of the infrared sensor 20, with a dirt-repellent or easily cleanable surface or coating, for example with a PTFE coating, in order to be able to measure the infrared radiation. Sensor 20 is not affected by a dirty surface. The vibration motor 21 may be driven when searching a particular animal of a herd. For this purpose, the relevant vibration motor 21 is activated via radio. The animal is awakened by the vibrations, showing a conspicuous behavior that identifies it. For the same purpose, two light-emitting diodes 22, 23 or lighting means may be provided, or a different number, which can also be activated when a particular animal is searched. Although the animal does not scare, in the twilight, darkness and in the stable, these light-emitting diodes 22, 23 but good to recognize why a certain animal can be found easily and quickly. Advantageously located on both sides of the housing 2 each have a light emitting diode 22, 23, so that the light can be seen from any direction or the animal brand 1 both outside or lying inside, so for example on the outside or on the inside of an ear, alternatively can be attached. The internal attachment, that is the attachment to the ear and between the ear and the head, has the advantage that the animal's mark 1 is difficult to reach for the animal, so that the attachment and support to the ear with greater security can. It is also possible for at least one optical waveguide to conduct the light through the ear or onto or into the housing counterpart 4. For example, the light guide may be arranged in the pin 12. The vibration motor 21 can also be used to scare off certain animals, such as alpha animals or dominant animals, from certain areas, eg the feeding site, in particular automatically after a certain period of time, whereby the automatic system can also recognize how often these animals within a certain period of time, eg 24 hours, in these areas, eg the feeding site.

For the two light emitting diodes 22, 23 and the lighting means, the housing 2 has two viewing windows (not shown), through which the emitted light can escape from the housing 2. In the case of an internal attachment of the animal brand 1, as stated above, at least one of the bulbs should have a luminosity that is so large that the body part, so for example, the ear, "transilluminated" is.

The light emitting diodes 22, 23 can emit white or colored light. In order to achieve a dullness in white light, it is possible that the translucent or transparent part of the housing 2, which is associated with the LEDs 22, 23, colored.

Furthermore, there is the possibility that a plurality of light-emitting diodes 22, 23 of different color characteristics are arranged in the animal mark 1, so that it is possible that when an alarm occurs, for example when the animal has an excessive temperature, a signal light, e.g. red, is emitted, in particular automatically. In the event that the animal behaves normally and no disease or other, especially an alarm-triggering, condition occurs, e.g. be emitted white or green light, if necessary only when prompted by the livestock owner, which light then serves only to locate the animal. Of course, the specified colors are to be understood as exemplary only.

The compass and position sensor 24 and a GPS receiver are used to locate an animal. The location or localization takes place in a manner known per se, for example by means of the "time difference of arrival" method known from the prior art Methods known from the prior art, reference is made to the relevant literature.

The motion sensor 25 and / or the acceleration sensor 26 are for detecting movements of the animal. For example, it is possible to monitor when an animal sleeps and when it is awake. Furthermore, the data of the motion sensor 25 and the acceleration sensor 26 can also be used in a manner known per se for locating the animal. Furthermore, the data obtained via at least one of these two sensors can also be used to generate tasks that are preferably automatically sent to the livestock owner or his employees, for example via SMS or e-mail. In addition, at least one of these sensors can be used to evaluate the data of the temperature measurement with higher accuracy by taking into account whether an animal is in motion or standing still. With the animal brand 1, it is also possible to detect certain periods of time in which the animal is at a certain point in the measuring area, for example at the watering place or the feeding site, in order to determine the drinking time or the feeding time.

The microcontroller 27 is used to control the addressed units. For example, it evaluates a command received via radio and forwards it to the relevant unit. For example, it activates at least one of the LEDs 22, 23 when it receives a command to do so. For this purpose, a corresponding program can also be stored in the microcontroller 27. A software update, for example via remote maintenance, is also carried out via the microcontroller 27, or the software can be adapted in the animal tag 1, so that the animal tag 1 does not have to be removed for this purpose.

Advantageously, the electronic circuit 3 may also include a power generator which converts the kinetic energy of the animal into electrical energy. In this way, for example, the battery 9 or a battery can be saved, or it can at least a change of the same or the external recharging of the same be delayed.

In the presented variant of the invention, it was assumed that separate viewing windows are provided for the infrared sensor 20 as well as the light emitting diodes 22, 23. These but save when the animal brand 1, ie the housing 2, in particular that part of the housing 2, which rests against the animal, so for example the housing base 5, and / or the housing counterpart 4, at least partially, preferably to Wholly, from an at least partially, preferably entirely, transparent material or IR radiation, in particular in the wavelength range between 5.5 μπι and 14 μπι permeable material, in particular a plastic exists.

From this plastic we manufacture the entire base housing or always the part - which rests on the ear. As an insert zb. Quartz glass window or sapphire window comes too expensive.

For reading data, an RFID tag may further be arranged in the housing 2 and / or in the housing counterpart 4. The RFID tag can also be arranged in a, in particular mobile, terminal or recognition device. Generally, it is within the scope of the invention, the possibility that, after the housing 2 may be obviously executed, if necessary, at least individual of the sensor modules or the components of the animal brand 1 are arranged interchangeable.

It is also advantageous if the ear tag has an identifier, in particular a laser inscription, e.g. in the form of letters and / or numbers or in the form of a barcode.

In general, the laser inscription can be made in different colors and / or shapes.

The communication with a terminal or recognition device is preferably bidirectional.

Of course, the animal brand 1 can also monitor whether the animal, for example, eats enough or moves sufficiently. If the values deviate from a desired range, as already mentioned, an alarm or an indication of this can take place.

The displayed information itself can either be stored in the animal brand 1 itself and retrieved when needed via the radio interface 18. It is also conceivable that in the animal brand 1 only an identification (name or number) of the animal is stored and the information to be displayed is obtained on the basis of this identification from a remote database or also from a database stored in the mobile terminal. It is also conceivable for this purpose that the animal brand 1 has a GSM interface. However, mixed variants are also possible, that is, for example, basic information is stored in a database or in the mobile terminal and retrieved from there, and that data to be updated, for example the surface temperature of the animal, are sent by the animal brand and combined with the basic information.

The display of the data can be done on a screen. On the other hand, it is also possible that the information about voice output are available or printed by a printer. Again, mixed forms are possible. It is also possible to project the data by means of a beamer on different surfaces, so for example on the back of an animal or a wall, such as a stable wall. It is also advantageous if a binoculars or a night-vision device is provided as a mobile terminal. Especially at long distances and at night the identification of an animal is particularly difficult. At this point, the advantage of the invention is particularly apparent. In order to be able to take into account variations in the ambient temperature, and thus to obtain more accurate measurements, it is possible that a second infrared sensor is used in addition to the infrared sensor 20 for measuring the surface temperature of the animal, so as to the temperature of the facing away from the animal housing part measure up. Temperature changes from the environment can be detected with the second infrared sensor. In addition, the outside temperature or ambient temperature can thus also be provided as parameters for a ventilation computer for ventilating a stable. The region of the housing 2 in which this second infrared sensor is arranged is preferably not transparent to the infrared radiation and may consist of a HDPE, for example. Furthermore, the animal brand 1 may still have at least one sensor for gas detection, eg for NH ₃ , S0 ₂ or C0 ₂ . This also valuable data for the ventilation of a stable building can be obtained. Normally, gas or temperature loggers are installed in the barn above the animals (usually on the ceiling). With the inventive training The animal brand 1, this data can be obtained directly from the animals and is especially there no installation necessary. By locating the animals or the transmitter to the position is also known. FIGS. 6 to 8 show a variant of the animal brand 1 in different views. This comprises in turn consists of the housing 2 and the housing counterpart 4. The housing 2 comprises or consists of the lower housing part 5, the housing upper part 6, wherein in the closed state of the housing 2, the electronic circuit 4 surrounded so that it is protected from environmental influences. The electronic circuit 4 is preferably arranged on a circuit board as in the preceding embodiment variant. Below the electronic circuit 4 and above the housing lower part 5 in this embodiment, the battery 9 is arranged, which can also be replaced by another energy source, as described above, that is, for example, an energy harvesting unit or an accumulator.

In general, it should be noted that in order to avoid repetition to non-deviating components and to the connection methods of the components of the animal brand 1 of this embodiment, reference is made to the comments on the embodiment of the animal brand 1 of FIGS. 1 to 5.

The electronic circuit 4 has in particular the infrared sensor 20 for measuring the surface temperature of the animal on an underside 28 of the board, which faces the housing lower part 5, an infrared sensor 28 for measuring the animal's mark 1 acting on the outside temperature on a top 30 of the board, which faces the housing upper part 6, the antenna 19, also at the top 30, a radio chip 31 at the top 30, at least one gas sensor 32 at the top 30 for measuring at least one of the gases NH ₃ , S0 _second or C0 ₂ , the at least one microcontroller 27 on the upper side 30, and at least one light-emitting diode 22, in particular on the upper side 30, on. The housing upper part 6 is made of a material that is not permeable to infrared radiation, in particular a plastic, so that the outside temperature applied to the housing 2 can be measured. The housing lower part 5, however, is preferably entirely made of a permeable to infrared radiation material, in particular a plastic.

The pin 12 is arranged in this embodiment of the animal brand 1 on the housing base 5, in particular integrally connected thereto, so not on the housing counterpart 4 as in the above-described embodiment of the animal brand 1. The pin 12 may be made of the plastic of the housing Lower part 5 be made at least partially, as well as from a permeable to infrared radiation material, although this is not mandatory. In particular, the tip of the pin 12 may also be made of metal or a fiber reinforced plastic, as described above.

With the animal brand 1 according to the invention, it is possible to record and / or recognize movement patterns of animals. From this data, conclusions can be drawn on various patterns of behavior, for example how long an animal moves and how long it stands or lies. However, these data can also be used to diagnose illnesses or births or to determine the beginning of labor, and can thus, in particular automatic, notifications from the system or the animal brand 1 to the livestock owner be discontinued. Owing to the possibility of measuring the outside temperature with respect to the animal mark 1, a temperature image of a room can be created without requiring a permanent installation of sensors, since the animals carry the animal mark 1 in different areas of the house. Once a new area is reached, the location of the animal's mark 1 and the temperature at that location can be determined. It can thus be deduced in the room on drafts and / or an unpleasant for the animal climate, and, if the data are provided to a ventilation system for the stable, automatically the necessary corrections to restore the desired indoor climate are initiated. This can also be applied to smaller room units, such as stable boxes. The creation of a temperature image is not limited only to the stable, but can also be carried out outdoors, although there are no opportunities to influence the climate, the animal, however, are spent from this area, for example, using the vibration motor 21st All data from one or more animal brand (s) 1 can be evaluated, managed and coordinated on a central computing system.

It is also possible to use the data to automate feeding systems, such as automatically refilling the feeding station based on the number of animals and the feeding duration.

Of course, the entire system with the animal brand 1 or the animal brands 1 diverse animal husbandry systems animal husbandry, such as a climate computer or a climate system, include a feeding computer or a feeding system.

For the sake of order, it should finally be pointed out that in order to better understand the structure of the animal stamp 1, these or their components have been shown partly unevenly and / or enlarged and / or reduced in size.

Above all, the individual embodiments shown in the figures can form the subject of independent solutions according to the invention.

Furthermore, it should be noted that, although in the foregoing description, the invention based on preferred embodiments of feature combinations of

Tiermarke 1 described, in the context of the invention, other feature combinations are possible, as shown in the independent claims, and that these feature combinations can form independent inventions.

REFERENCE NUMBERS

1 animal stamp

2 housings

3 electronic circuit

4 housing counterpart

5 housing lower part

6 housing upper part

7 battery cover

8 screw

9 battery

10 screw

11 resilient segment

12 pen

13 slot

14 pimples

15 viewing window

16 claws

17 Reed contact

18 radio interface

19 antenna

20 infrared sensor

21 vibration motor

22 LED

23 LED

24 compass and position sensor

25 motion sensor

26 acceleration sensor

27 microcontroller

28 bottom

29 infrared sensor

30 top

31 radio chip

32 gas sensor

Claims

Patent claims

1. animal tag (1), in particular ear tag, for application to an animal (29), comprising:

- A housing (2) with an electronic circuit (3) and a receptacle for a

Housing counterpart (4),

a housing counterpart (4) connectable to the housing (2) such that a body part of the animal (29) comes to rest between the housing (2) and at least part of the housing counterpart (4),

characterized in that

the housing (2) and / or the housing counterpart (4) comprises at least one connecting element, in particular an at least partially elastically yielding or resilient element (11, 16), which comprises the housing (2) and the housing counterpart (4) taking into account the thickness of the body part such that the housing (2) and the housing counterpart (4) in each case at least partially rest against the body part and / or

the connecting element is arranged at least approximately in the center of gravity or in the axis through the center of gravity of the housing (2) and / or of the housing counterpart (4).

2. animal tag (1) according to claim 1, characterized in that the at least one resilient element (11, 16), the housing (2) and the housing counterpart (4) contracts such that the body part regardless of its thickness always a pressure , in particular substantially the same pressure is exposed.

3. animal tag (1) according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that the housing (2) and the housing counterpart (4) by means of a screw cap, bayonet, snap closure (12, 16) or a clamping connection are interconnected.

4. animal tag (1) according to one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that the connection between the housing (2) and the housing counterpart (4) is designed such that they can be expected in case of excessive tensile load, in which damage to the body part is, is solved.

5. animal tag (1) according to claim 4, characterized in that a component (16), which is expected under normal tensile load, in which no damage to the body part, a positive connection between the housing (2) and housing counterpart (4) is prepared for deformation under excessive tensile load, such that then no more form fit is present.

6. animal tag (1) according to claim 4, characterized in that between the housing (2) and housing counterpart (4) a frictional connection is provided and a frictional force between the housing (2) and housing counterpart (4) is dimensioned such that it is smaller than an excessive tensile load.

7. animal tag (1) according to one of claims 1 to 6, characterized in that the housing (2) and / or the housing counterpart (4) consists of a combination of hard and soft components.

8. animal tag (1) according to one of claims 1 to 6, characterized in that the housing (2) consists of a first hard / soft material and the housing counterpart (4) made of a soft / hard material.

9. animal tag (1), in particular an ear tag, for application to an animal (29), comprising:

a housing (2) with a receptacle for a housing counterpart and in particular with an electronic circuit (3) and (4),

a housing counterpart (4) which is connectable to the housing (2) such that a body part of the animal (29) comes to lie, in particular behind, between the housing (2) and at least part of the housing counterpart (4) one of claims 1 to 8, characterized in that the housing (2) and / or the housing counterpart (4) is structured on the body part facing the outer surface, in particular knobs (15) and / or ribs.

10. animal tag (1) according to one of claims 1 to 9, characterized in that the housing counterpart (4) has slots (13) and / or recesses and / or openings for ventilation of the body part.

11. animal tag (1) according to one of claims 1 to 10, characterized in that the connecting element is formed by a pin (12) or comprises this.

12. animal tag (1) according to one of claims 1 to 11, characterized in that the housing (2) or the housing counterpart (4) has the pin (12) and this is designed to pierce the body part.

13. animal tag (1) according to claim 11 or 12, characterized in that the pin (12) is at least partially made of metal or a fiber-reinforced, in particular glass fiber reinforced, plastic.

14. animal tag (1), in particular ear tag, for application to an animal (29), comprising:

- A housing (2) with a receptacle for a housing counterpart (4) and in particular with an electronic circuit (3) and (4),

in particular according to one of claims 1 to 13, characterized in that the housing (2) and / or the housing counterpart (4) has at least one active substance.

15. animal tag (1) according to claim 14, characterized in that the housing (2) or the housing counterpart (4) comprises at least one chamber for receiving the active ingredient.

16. animal tag (1) according to claim 14 or 15, characterized in that at least parts of the housing (2) and / or the housing counterpart (4) are coated with the at least one active ingredient and / or this active ingredient in the material of the housing (2) and / or the housing counterpart (4) is embedded.

17. animal mark (1) according to any one of claims 14 to 16, characterized in that the at least one active ingredient is selected from a group comprising antibacterial agents, antiallergic agents, antiviral agents, fragrances, bitter substances, flavors, therapeutic agents, prophylactic agents, anti-inflammatory agents.

18. Animal mark (1), in particular ear tag, for application to an animal (29), comprising:

a housing (2) with a receptacle for a housing counterpart (4) and in particular with an electronic circuit (3) and (4),

in particular according to one of claims 1 to 17, characterized in that the housing (2) and / or the housing counterpart (4) at least partially made of at least partially transparent material.

19. Animal mark (1), in particular ear tag, for application to an animal (29), comprising:

in particular according to one of claims 1 to 18, characterized in that the housing (2) and / or the housing counterpart (4) made of compostable material, in particular compostable plastic.

20. animal tag (1) according to claim 19, characterized in that the compostable material is provided with a non-rotatable or at least with a water / sweat-resistant layer.

21. Animal mark (1), in particular ear tag, for application to an animal (29), comprising:

a housing (2) with a receptacle for a housing counterpart (4) and in particular with an electronic circuit (3) and (4), a housing counterpart (4) connectable to the housing (2) such that a body part of the animal (29) comes to rest between the housing (2) and at least part of the housing counterpart (4),

in particular according to one of claims 1 to 20, characterized in that the housing (2) is constructed in several parts and at least two parts (5, 6) are welded together by means of ultrasound or laser.

22. Animal stamp (1), in particular ear tag, for application to an animal (29), comprising:

in particular according to one of claims 1 to 21, characterized in that the housing (2) is constructed in several parts and at least two parts (5, 6) are interconnected by means of a screw cap, bayonet closure or snap closure.

23. animal tag (1) according to one of claims 1 to 22, characterized in that the electronic circuit (3) from the housing (2) or housing counterpart (4) is removable.

24. animal tag (1) according to any one of claims 1 or 23, characterized in that in the housing (2) an energy storage device, in particular a battery (9) or an accumulator, is removably arranged.

25. Animal mark (1), in particular ear tag, for application to an animal (29), comprising:

a housing (2) with an electronic circuit (3) and (4) and with a receptacle for a housing counterpart (4),

a housing counterpart (4) connectable to the housing (2) such that a body part of the animal (29) comes to rest between the housing (2) and at least part of the housing counterpart (4), in particular according to one of claims 1 to 24, characterized in that the electronic circuit (3) comprises one or more of the following components:

a reed contact (17) with which the animal mark can be switched on and / or off,

a radio interface (18),

a transponder,

an antenna (19) of the radio interface (18),

at least one infrared sensor (20),

a vibration motor (21),

at least one receiver,

at least one light sensor,

at least one light source, in particular at least one light-emitting diode (22, 23), a compass (24),

a position sensor,

a motion sensor (25),

an acceleration sensor (26),

Means for locating, in particular a GPS receiver,

a microcontroller (27),

a power generator

at least one gas sensor (32).