WO2025010007A1

WO2025010007A1 - Animal brushing arrangement

Info

Publication number: WO2025010007A1
Application number: PCT/SE2024/050628
Authority: WO
Inventors: Ivar LAGAS; Hans Van Der Poel
Original assignee: DeLaval Holding AB
Current assignee: DeLaval Holding AB
Priority date: 2023-07-05
Filing date: 2024-06-25
Publication date: 2025-01-09
Anticipated expiration: 2026-01-05
Also published as: CN121078972A

Abstract

The disclosure concerns an animal brushing arrangement (2) comprising a support part (6), a brush (8), and a suspension structure (12) for suspending the brush (8) and its electric motor (10) from the support part (6). The suspension structure (12) comprises at least a first member (14) and a second member (16), the first and second members (14, 16) each comprises a first axial end (32, 34), the first axial end (32) of the first member (14) and the first axial end (34) of the second member (16) being connected to each other at a first interface (20). At the first interface (20), the second member (16) is pivotable about a first pivot axis (26) in relation to the first member (14). The first axial ends (32, 34) of the first and second members (14, 16) are arranged facing each other such that the first pivot axis (26) extends, from the first member (14) to the second member (16), centrally through the first axial ends (32, 34) of the first and second members (14, 16). Elected for publication:

Description

Animal Brushing Arrangement

TECHNICAL FIELD

The invention relates to an animal brushing arrangement.

BACKGROUND

Animal brushing arrangements and devices of various kinds are known.

One particular kind of animal brushing arrangement includes a rotatable cylindrical brush that is mounted to a fixed support structure, such as a wall or a post. The rotatable brush is suspended hanging downwardly like a pendulum that can swing back and forth, often in more than one direction. This kind of animal brushing arrangement is devised for brushing farm animals, such as cows and horses.

Animals go voluntarily to the animal brushing arrangement for being brushed. The brushing is a way of keeping the animals clean, giving them massage and calming them down.

Further, the brushing may be a way of improving the health of the animals and to provide for an increased feeling of well-being and comfort.

One animal brushing arrangement of this kind is presented e.g. in WO 03/084316, which discloses a treatment device for livestock wherein an oblong brush is carried by a carrying means. The brush can be set in a preferably rotating motion by a drive unit. The motion is initiated by the animal coming into contact with the brush. By means of a flexible element in the carrying means, the brush is able to swivel from a vertical to a substantially horizontal orientation upon a force acting on it.

WO 2010/040631 and WO 2013/176596 disclose further developments of this kind of animal brushing arrangement. Specifically, two pivot axes extending in horizontal directions when the brushing arrangement is at rest provide for the pendulum movement of the rotatable brush.

SUMMARY

It is an object of the invention to alleviate some of the shortcomings of prior animal brushing arrangement and to provide an improved, or at least an alternative, movement pattern of an animal brushing arrangement. According to one aspect of the invention, the object is achieved by an animal brushing arrangement for attaching to a support structure. The animal brushing arrangement comprises a support part configured to be attached to the support structure, a brush, an electric motor arranged to rotate the brush about a rotational axis, and a suspension structure for suspending the brush and the electric motor from the support part. The suspension structure comprises at least a first member and a second member. The first and second members each comprises a first axial end. The first axial end of the first member and the first axial end of the second member are connected to each other at a first interface. At the first interface, the second member is pivotable about a first pivot axis in relation to the first member. The first axial ends of the first and second members are arranged facing each other such that the first pivot axis extends, from the first member to the second member, centrally through the first axial ends of the first and second members.

Since the first axial ends of the first and second members are arranged facing each other such that the first pivot axis extends, from the first member to the second member, centrally through the first axial ends of the first and second members - an alternative movement pattern of the second member in relation to the first member is provided in comparison with prior art solutions. Thereby, an improved, or at least alternative, overall movement pattern of the whole animal brushing arrangement is provided regarding the reach of the brush on an animal body and comfort for said animal during use of the animal brushing arrangement. In prior art brushing arrangements where members of a suspension structure are pivotably connected to each other at e.g. a horizontal pivot axis, which may extend in parallel with the axial ends of the members, e.g. perpendicular to the longitudinal direction of the members, the members will have a swinging movement in relation to each other. Namely, if one of members in such prior art solutions is hanging from the pivot axis and is subjected to a lateral force, the member will swing out laterally, like a pendulum, in relation to the other member. In the herein described animal brushing arrangement, the pivoting of the second member about the first pivot axis in relation to the first member will be a rotational motion of the second member with the first pivot axis extending, at least partly, through the second member.

More specifically, the second member will be able to pivot around the first pivot axis, i.e. rotate back and forth with the first pivot axis as an axis of rotation, during which said first axial ends will continue to be arranged facing each other. The animal brushing arrangement according to the above-described aspect will provide for a trajectory of the constituent members which differs from prior art solutions where the constituent members mainly swing/pivot in a flat plane in relation to each other. Thus, in corresponding brushing situations, the brush of the herein described brushing arrangement may reach an animal to be brushed in a more efficient, enhanced or at least different manner compared to prior art solutions.

Furthermore, it has been realised that in animal brushing arrangement of the prior art with one or more substantially horizontally extending pivot axes at the rotatable brush, the pivot joint or pivot joints may induce a risk of trapping or pinching animal or human body parts. By having rotational movement of the second member at the first interface, instead of a member swinging back and forth at a joint, this risk may be reduced.

The herein presented arrangement of the first interface between the first and second members of the suspension structure with the respective axial ends arranged facing each other provides for the first pivot axis to be arranged within the first and second members of the support structure. Thus, the above-described movement pattern and a possibility to design the suspension structure of the animal brushing arrangement more compactly is provided.

The herein discussed animal brushing arrangement, also referred to simply as the brushing arrangement, is arranged for brushing livestock animals, such as farm animals e.g. cows, horses, pigs, etc., utilising the rotatable brush. For use by the animals, the animal brushing arrangement is attached to the support structure such that the brush is suspended hanging downwardly.

The animal brushing arrangement may be arranged indoors in a barn or sty wherein the animals can move about and go to the animal brushing arrangement for being brushed by the brush as it is rotated by the electric motor. Alternatively, the brushing arrangement may be arranged outdoors e.g., in connection with a pasture where the animals are held.

The support structure may be any fixed structure sufficiently strong to carry the animal brushing arrangement. The support structure may be a wall or a post.

The suspension structure extends between the brush and the support part that is attachable to the support structure. The suspension structure, due to it comprising at least two members that are pivotable in relation to each other about at least one pivot axis, permits the brush to be positioned at different angles and in different spatial positions. An animal thus, may manipulate the brush by pushing against it with varying force and in different directions for the brush to reach different body parts of the relevant animal. Herein, the term interface relates to a portion of the suspension structure where two different members of the suspension structure are arranged adjacent to each other. In connection with an interface, the two adjacent members are pivotably connected to each other.

A member of the suspension structure may have at least one axial end. The axial end may be arranged at an interface between the relevant member and an adjacent member.

An axial end of a member is the end of an axial extension of the member at said end. The axial end may comprise a surface, which extends over at least part of the axial end. In other words, the axial end may be an end of the member in the longitudinal direction of the member which applies at the relevant end.

The brush may be connected to, or may form part of, a member of the suspension structure closest to the brush. Put differently, the brush may be connected to, or may form part of, the member of the suspension structure most distal from the support part.

In use of the animal brushing arrangement, the brush is rotated by the electric motor. Herein, the brush therefore, may alternatively be referred to as the rotatable brush. Accordingly, an electric power supply in the form of mains power or a battery has to be connected to the electric motor.

In a known manner, a built-in sensor for sensing the presence of an animal engaging with the brush and a control arrangement may be utilised for starting the electric motor to rotate the brush.

The electric motor may be arranged partially or entirely within the brush, such as within a central cavity of the brush. A transmission may be arranged between the electric motor and the brush.

A rest position is defined as a position, at which the brushing arrangement orients itself with the rotatable brush suspended from its suspension structure when no external force (other than gravity) acts on the brushing arrangement. In at least one rest position of the brushing arrangement when no animal is being brushed by the brushing arrangement, the brush may be hanging with its rotational axis extending substantially vertically. The brushing arrangement may have further rest positions, in which the brush may be hanging with its rotational axis inclined. According to embodiments, the first pivot axis may extend in a longitudinal direction of the first member at the first interface. In this manner, the above discussed arrangement may be formed where the first axial ends of the first and second members being arranged facing each other and the first pivot axis extending, from the first member to the second member, centrally through said first axial ends.

According to embodiments, the suspension structure may comprise a third member being connected to the second member at a second interface. The third member may be pivotable about a second pivot axis in relation to the second member. In this manner, a motion range of the brush may be increased. Namely, the third member pivotable about the second pivot axis provides a further degree of freedom in the suspension structure, which in turn manifests in a greater range of motion of the rotatable brush in comparison with a suspension structure comprising only the first pivot axis.

According to embodiments, the first pivot axis and the second pivot axis may be arranged at an inner angle to each other, the inner angle being within a range of 91 - 179 degrees, preferably within a range of 100 - 150 degrees, or even more preferably within a range of 110 - 130 degrees. In this manner, a non-orthogonal relation between the first and second pivot axes may be provided. This, in turn provides for the first, second, and third members to pivot in relation to each other in a way that allows the rotatable brush to reach an animal being brushed in an efficient manner.

More specifically, the defined inner angle ranges between the first and second pivot axes, provide for a trajectory of the third member to form at least part of a conical shape instead of pivoting in a flat plane, which is the case when the first and second pivot axes extend orthogonally to each other. Thus, in corresponding brushing situations, the brush will reach an animal to be brushed with its rotational axis in a more vertically extending direction than when the pivot axes extend orthogonally. One practical implication this may have, is that the brush of the brushing arrangement may reach and brush animals of different heights in a better way than when the pivot axes extend orthogonally to each other. Moreover, the brush being possible to be positioned with its rotational axis having such more vertically extending direction means that a larger portion of lateral body portions of an animal may be reached by the brush.

Further, in this manner, when the first pivot axis is arranged substantially vertically, the second pivot axis will extend at an angle to the horizontal plane. Thus, in comparison with a horizontally extending second pivot axis, a lesser force will be required by the animal for pushing the brush in a lateral direction. This may be particularly advantageous when the brush is heavy e.g., due to electric motor being positioned at least partially within the brush.

According to embodiments, the second member may have a second axial end at the second interface. The third member may have a first axial end at the second interface. The second axial end of the second member and the first axial end of the third member may be connected to each other at the second interface and may be arranged facing each other such that the second pivot axis extends, from the second member to the third member, centrally through the second axial end of the second member and centrally through the first axial end of the third member. In this manner, the pivoting of the third member about the second pivot axis in relation to the second member will be a rotational motion of the third member with the second pivot axis extending, at least partly, through the third member. The third member will be able to pivot around the second pivot axis, i.e. rotate back and forth with the second pivot axis as an axis of rotation, in contrast to the swinging movements of prior art solutions. Thus, the movement pattern of the third member in relation to the second member may correspond to the movement pattern of the second member in relation to the first member. Consequently, corresponding benefits and characteristics, as those described above with regard to the rotational motion of the second member, may apply for the rotational motion of the third member.

According to embodiments, the brush may be connected to, or may form part of, the third member. In this manner, the rotational axis of the brush may extend along a defined direction in relation to the third member. Accordingly, forces applied to the brush by an animal may be directly translated to the third member and affect its pivotal position in relation to the second member.

The brush is rotatable about its rotational axis in relation to the third member. For instance, the electric motor configured to rotate the brush may be connected to the third member such that the electric motor can rotate the brush. According to some embodiments, a stator of the electric motor may be integrated in or connected to the third member and the brush may be connected to or form part of a rotor of the electric motor. In such embodiments, the rotor may be arranged at least partially around the stator.

According to embodiments, the first pivot axis may extend along a substantially vertical extension when the animal brushing arrangement is attached to the support structure and is in a rest position. According to embodiments, the first pivot axis and the rotational axis may be arranged in parallel and off-centre from each other when the animal brushing arrangement is attached to the support structure and is in a rest position. In this manner, the brush may be arranged laterally displaced from the first pivot axis.

This may provide for the brush to reach an animal being brushed laterally of at least a portion of the suspension structure, such as laterally of the first pivot axis. Thus, a moment arm is provided for pivoting of the second member about the first pivot axis in relation to the first member as an animal push against the brush. The moment arm provides leverage and accordingly, pivoting about the first pivot axis is facilitated.

Moreover, while the off-centre arrangement of the first pivot axis and the rotational axis provides a moment arm facilitating pivoting about the first pivot axis, the off-centre arrangement also limits a pivoting movement about the first pivot axis caused by the rotation of the brush about its rotational axis. Namely, the rotation of the brush causes the brush to engage with the animal being brushed. This engagement initiates a torque, which affects pivotal motion about the first pivot axis. The off-centre arrangement of the first pivot axis and the rotational axis limits the effect of this torque since the off-centre arrangement causes a lateral displacement of the third member and the brush as they pivot about the first pivot axis. Eventually, the lateral displacement of the third member and the brush may cause the torque to be neutralised by the moment arm between the brush and the first pivot axis and pivotal movement may stop.

Further, if the first pivot axis and the rotational axis would be aligned, the torque of the electric motor and/or the moment of inertia of the brush, as it rotates, would be transmitted to the second member and could pivot the second member in relation to the first member about the first pivot axis. The off-centre arrangement of the first pivot axis and the rotational axis at least mitigates this effect of the electric motor torque and/or the moment of inertia of the brush.

The arrangement with the first pivot axis extending substantially vertically in the rest position, and of the first and second pivot axes with the inner angle therebetween within one of the above defined ranges may provide for this off-centre arrangement between the first pivot axis and the rotational axis of the brush.

According to embodiments, the first pivot axis, the second pivot axis, and the rotational axis may extend in a common substantially vertical plane when the animal brushing arrangement is attached to the support structure and is in a rest position. In this manner, a configuration of the first and second pivot axes and the rotational axis may be provided, which provides for an animal to apply a force to the brush, which force engages laterally of each of the first pivot axis and of the second pivot axis.

Thus, there is provided a moment arm for pivoting of the second member in relation to the first member as well as a moment arm for pivoting the third member in relation to the second member, as an animal pushes against the brush. Accordingly, pivoting about the first and second pivot axes is facilitated.

The configuration with the first pivot axis extending substantially vertically in the rest position, and of the first and second pivot axes with the inner angle therebetween within one of the above defined ranges may provide for the arrangement of the first and second pivot axes in the common plane together with the rotational axis of the brush.

According to embodiments, the first member may have a second axial end at the support part and the first member, at its second axial end, may be connected to the support part. In this manner, the suspension structure, via the first member, may be connected to the support part.

According to embodiments, the first member, at its second axial end, may be pivotable about a third pivot axis in relation to the support part. In this manner, the first member, and accordingly, the entire suspension structure may be pivotably connected to the support part.

For instance, the third pivot axis may extend substantially horizontally when the brushing arrangement is attached to the support structure.

According to embodiments, the first pivot axis and the third pivot axis may extend in a common plane.

According to embodiments, the first member may have an elongated extension between the support part and the second member. In this manner, the second member, the first pivot axis, and the brush may be arranged at a distance from the third pivot axis, the support part, and the support structure. Thereby, collisions between the support structure and the brush may be avoided, facilitating a more free swinging of the brush. According to embodiments, the first interface may comprise at least one bearing. In this manner, at least one of the first and second members may be journaled for the second member to be pivotable about the first pivot axis in relation to the first member.

The bearing may comprise one or more of a plain bearing, a ball bearing, or a roller bearing.

Also, other interfaces between members of the suspension structure and/or the support part, such as the second interface, may comprise at least one bearing.

According to embodiments, the support structure may comprise a limiting mechanism arranged to limit the extent of pivotal movement of the second member in relation to the first member about the first pivot axis. In this manner, full circumferential rotations of the second member about the first pivot axis may be prevented.

Namely, the limiting mechanism will provide two pivotal end positions for the pivoting of the second member in relation to the first member.

For instance, the limiting mechanism may prevent that the rotation of the brush e.g., as an animal is brushed, leads to the second member rotating full circumferential rotations about the first pivot axis. Thus, a controlled movement range of the second member in relation to the first member may be provided and accordingly, also a controlled movement of the brushing arrangement.

According to embodiments, the support structure may comprise a damping mechanism arranged to induce resistance in a pivotal movement of the second member in relation to the first member about the first pivot axis. In this manner, free pivoting of the second member in relation to the first member may be prevented. Accordingly, a force applied to the brush may cause pivoting about one or more other pivot axes, such as about the second pivot axis, to take at least partial precedence over the pivoting of the second member about the first pivot axis. This may promote certain movements between the members of the suspension structure and/or the support part as an animal applies a force to the brush.

Also, the resistance induced by the damping mechanism may prevent, or at least reduce the risk of uncontrolled, pivoting of the second member about the first pivot axis caused by the torque of the electric motor and/or the moment of inertia of the brush, as it rotates. According to embodiments, seen along the first pivot axis, the first axial end of the first member and the first axial end of the second member may have substantially the same radial extension from the first pivot axis. In this manner, an even transition between the first and second members may be provided in the suspension structure. For instance, an axial edge at one of the first axial ends of the first or second members may be prevented.

Similarly, according to embodiments, seen along the second pivot axis, the second axial end of the second member and the first axial end of the third member may have substantially the same radial extension from the second pivot axis. In this manner, an even transition between the second and third members may be provided in the suspension structure. For instance, an axial edge at one of the second axial end of the second member and the first axial end of the third member may be prevented.

According to embodiments, the first and second members may have a substantially tubular form. In this manner, the first pivot axis may be provided, at least partly, within the tubular form of the first and second members. Thus, the first pivot axis may be arranged, at least partly, protected within the first and second members.

For instance, the tubular form may have a round cross section.

According to embodiments, the first member may have a bent shape. In this manner, when attached to the support structure, the second member may be arranged at a level below the support part. Thus, the suspension structure may be configured for the brush to be suspended below the support part.

Further features of, and advantages with, the invention will become apparent when studying the appended claims and the following detailed description.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

Various aspects and/or embodiments of the invention, including its particular features and advantages, will be readily understood from the example embodiments discussed in the following detailed description and the accompanying drawings, in which:

Fig. 1 schematically illustrates an animal brushing arrangement according to embodiments, Figs. 2a - 2c schematically illustrate cross sections of interfaces between pairs of members and an axial view of a member of an animal brushing arrangement,

Fig. 3 schematically illustrates portions of an animal brushing arrangement, Figs. 4a - 4c schematically illustrate an animal brushing arrangement in three different operational positions, and

Figs. 5a and 5b schematically illustrate cross sectional portions of an animal brushing arrangement.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Aspects and/or embodiments of the invention will now be described more fully. Like numbers refer to like elements throughout. Well-known functions or constructions will not necessarily be described in detail for brevity and/or clarity.

Fig. 1 schematically illustrates an animal brushing arrangement 2 according to embodiments in a side view.

The animal brushing arrangement 2 is arranged for being attached to a support structure 4. The animal brushing arrangement 2 comprises a support part 6, which is configured to be attached to the support structure 4. For instance, the support part 6 may be provided with through holes, through which bolts or pins extend for securing the support part 6 to the support structure 4. Alternatively, or additionally, the support part 6 may be e.g., clamped, strapped, hooked, welded, riveted, glued, or chemically connected to the support structure 4.

The support structure 4 may be any fixed structure sufficiently strong to hold up the animal brushing arrangement 2 when animals push against a brush 8 thereof for being brushed. The support structure 4 may form part of a wall or a post of a larger construction such as a building, a roofing structure, or an enclosure. Alternatively, the support structure 4 may be a dedicated support structure devised for supporting the brushing arrangement 2 at a suitable height in an area where animals are held.

The brushing arrangement 2 further comprises the brush 8 and an electric motor 10 arranged to rotate the brush 8 about a rotational axis 11. Electric motors arranged to rotate the rotatable brush 8 of an animal brushing arrangement are known in the art. Therefore, the electric motor 10 is only schematically indicated in Fig. 1.

As indicated in Fig. 1 , the electric motor 10 may be arranged within the brush 8. A rotor of the electric motor 10 may be connected to the brush 10 or the rotor may form part of the brush 8. The rotor may be connected to the brush 8 via a transmission. Further, the brushing arrangement 2 comprises a suspension structure 12 for suspending the brush 8 and the electric motor 10 from the support part 6.

The suspension structure 12 extends from the support part 6 to the brush 8. The suspension structure 12 comprises at least a first member 14 and a second member 16. In the illustrated embodiments, the suspension structure 12 comprises a third member 18.

Each of the members 14, 16, 18 is connected to an adjacent member of the members 14, 16, 18 at a respective interface 20, 22. Also, the first member 14, which is closest to the support part 6 may be connect to the support part 6 at an interface 24. See further below for a discussion of the respective interfaces 20, 22, 24.

At each interface 20, 22, 24 there is arranged a pivot axis 26, 28, 30 such that the members 14, 16, 18 are pivotable around the pivot axis in relation to each other and in relation to the support part 6, respectively.

Generally, at an interface 20, 22 between two members 14, 16, 18, a pivot axis 26, 28, 30 extends along an extension of, i.e. in the longitudinal direction of, at least one of the members 14, 16, 18 at the relevant interface 20, 22. This is distinctly different from prior art animal brushing arrangements having a pivot axis between two connected members where the pivot axis extends perpendicularly to an extension of at least one of the relevant members.

In all, the suspension structure 12, due to it comprising the members 14, 16, 18 that are pivotably connected to each other, permits an animal pushing against the brush 8 with varying force and in varying directions, to displace the brush 8 at different angles and in various spatial positions in order to reach different animal body parts.

As discussed in more detail below with reference to Figs. 2a - 2c, at an interface 20, 22 between two adjacent members 14, 16, 18 each of the members 14, 16, 18 has an axial end facing the respective adjacent member 14, 16, 18.

Figs. 2a - 2c schematically illustrate cross sections of interfaces between two members of the suspension structure 12, as well as an axial view of a member, of the brushing arrangement 2 discussed above with reference to Fig. 1. The cross sections of Figs. 2a and 2b extend along a pivot axis at the respective interface and the axial view of Fig. 2c inter alia shows an axial end of one of the members. Fig. 2a shows the first member 14 and the second member 16 being connected to each other at a first interface 20. At the first interface 20, the second member 16 is pivotable about a first pivot axis 26 in relation to the first member 14. At the first interface 20, each of the first and second members 14, 16 has a first axial end 32, 34 which are arranged facing each other such that the first pivot axis 26 extends, from the first member 14 to the second member 16, centrally through said first axial ends 32, 34 of the first and second members 14, 16.

Since the first axial ends 32, 34 are arranged facing each other with the first pivot axis 26 extending centrally through said first axial ends 32, 34 of the first and second members 14, 16, the second member 16 is configured to move in a rotational motion in relation to the first member 14 while the axial ends 32, 34 stay arranged facing each other. Thus, the second member 16 can rotate back and forth with the first pivot axis 26 extending, at least partly, through the second member and which first pivot axis 26 acts as an axis of rotation. Thereby, the herein described movement pattern of the second member 16 in relation to the first member 14 is achieved, which is distinctly different from the swinging movement commonly employed in prior art solutions.

The first axial ends 32, 34 of the first and second members 14, 16 may be arranged in abutment with each other. Alternatively, as indicated in Fig. 2a, the first axial ends 32, 34 of the first and second members 14, 16 may be arranged at a distance from each other.

Optionally, a seal 40 may be provided between the first axial ends 32, 34 of the first and second members 14, 16. In Fig. 2a a labyrinth seal 40 is schematically illustrated. Other kinds of seals that permit relative rotation between the first and second members 14, 16 may alternatively be used.

Fig. 2b shows the second member 16 and the third member 18 of the suspension structure.

The second member 16 has a second axial end 42 and the third member 18 has a first axial end 46 at a second interface 22. The second axial end 42 of the second member 16 and the first axial end 46 of the third member 18 are connected to each other at said second interface 22. The third member 18 is pivotable about a second pivot axis 28 in relation to the second member 16.

At the second interface 22, the second axial end 42 of the second member 16 and the first axial end 46 of the third member 18 are arranged facing each other such that the second pivot axis 28 extends, from the second member 16 to the third member 18, centrally through the second axial end 42 of the second member 16 and centrally through the first axial end 46 of the third member 18.

Again, similarly to the discussion above of the first interface 20, the second axial end 42 of the second member 16 and the first axial end 46 of the third member 18 being arranged facing each other such that the second pivot axis 28 extends, from the second member 16 to the third member 18, centrally through the second axial end 42 of the second member 16 and centrally through the first axial end 46 of the third member 18 provides for a rotational motion of the third member 18 in relation to the second member 16. Thus, a rotational motion of the third member corresponding to the above-described rotational motion of the second member 16 in relation to the first member 14 is provided.

Similarly to the first interface 20, as discussed above, the respective axial ends 42, 46 of the second and third members 16, 18 may be arranged in abutment with each other or at a distance from each other. Optionally, a seal 48 may be provided between the second axial end 42 of the second member 16 and the first axial end 46 of the third member 18.

For illustrative purposes of all axial ends of members 14, 16, 18 discussed herein, Fig. 2c shows a perspective view of the first interface 20 with the second member removed and, thus, shows the first axial end 32 of the first member 14.. As shown with a wavy pattern in Fig. 2c, an axial end 32 of a member 14 may comprise a surface, which extends over at least part of the axial end 32. Accordingly, the axial end 32 may form an axial end surface of the relevant member 14.

Referring to Fig. 2a, the first interface 20 comprises at least one bearing 50, such as one or more ball bearings, roller bearings, or plain bearings. The at least one bearing 50 may be arranged at or in proximity to the first axial end 32 of the first member 14. Alternatively, the at least one bearing 50 may be arranged at or in proximity to the first axial end 34 of the second member 16. A further option may be for bearings to be arranged at the first axial ends 32, 34 of both the first and second member 14, 16.

An axle 52 may extend between the first and second members 14, 16 and may be journaled by the at least one bearing 50. The first pivot axis 26 may, thus, be provided by the axle 52 which, as shown in the figure, extends from the first member 14 to the second member 16 centrally through the first axial ends 32, 34 of the first and second members 14, 16. Referring to Fig. 2b, the second interface 22 comprises at least one bearing 54, such as one or more ball bearings, roller bearings, or plain bearings. The at least one bearing 54 may be arranged at or in proximity to the second axial end 42 of the second member 16.

Alternatively, the at least one bearing 54 may be arranged at or in proximity to the first axial end 46 of the third member 18. A further option may be for bearings to be arranged at the second axial end 42 of the second member 16 and at the first axial end 46 of the third member 18.

An axle 56 may extend between the second and third members 16, 18 and may be journaled by the at least one bearing 54. The second pivot axis 28 may, thus, be provided by the axle 56 which, as shown in the figure, extends from the second member 16 to the third member 18 centrally through the second axial end 42 of the second member 16 and centrally through the first axial end 46 of the third member 18.

Referring to Fig. 2a, seen along the first pivot axis 26, the first axial end 32 of the first member 14 and the first axial end 34 of the second member 16 have substantially the same radial extension from the first pivot axis 26, i.e substantially the same extension perpendicularly to the first pivot axis 26. Thus, a smooth transition between the first and second members 14, 16 is provided.

Referring to Fig. 2b, seen along the second pivot axis 28, the second axial end 42 of the second member 16 and the first axial end 46 of the third member 18 have substantially the same radial extension from the second pivot axis 28, i.e. substantially the same extension perpendicularly to the second pivot axis 28. Thus, a smooth transition between the second and third members 16, 18 is provided.

As can be seen in Figs. 2a - 2c, the first and second members 14, 16 have a substantially tubular form. Similarly, also the third member 18 has a tubular form.

The tubular form has a closed structure, at least in a direction perpendicularly, or radially, to an extension of the relevant member 14, 16, 18.

Thus, the first pivot axis 26 may be arranged, at least partly, protected within the first and second members 14, 16 and the second pivot axis 28 may be arranged, at least partly, protected within the second and third members 16, 18 by the tubular form of the first, second and third members 14, 16, 18. An example of a tubular form is one that has a round hollow cross section.

Fig. 3 schematically illustrates portions of the animal brushing arrangement 2 of Figs. 1 - 2c in a side view. Accordingly, in the following reference is also made to the discussion above related to Figs. 1 - 2c.

The first pivot axis 26 of the first interface 20 and the second pivot axis 28 of the second interface 22 are arranged at an inner angle a to each other. The inner angle a may be within a range of 91 - 179 degrees, preferably within a range of 100 - 150 degrees, or more preferably within a range of 110 - 130 degrees.

More specifically, the first and second axes 26, 28 extend in substantially the same plane. The inner angle a is defined between the first and second pivot axes 26, 28, where they meet extending from the first and second interfaces 20, 22.

In the illustrated embodiments, the inner angle a is approximately 120 degrees.

The inner angle a being within the range of 91 - 179 degrees, preferably within a range of 100 - 150 degrees, or more preferably within a range of 110 - 130 degrees entail that there is provided a non-orthogonal relation between the first and second pivot axes 26, 28.

Thus, the first, second, and third members 14, 16, 18 will pivot in relation to each other in a manner that allows the rotatable brush 8 to brush an animal in an efficient manner. As discussed below with reference to Figs. 4a and 4b, the rotational axis 11 of the brush 8 will have less inclination in certain brushing situations than in a brushing arrangement with horizontally and/or orthogonally extending pivot axes.

The first pivot axis 26 extends along a substantially vertical extension when the animal brushing arrangement 2 is attached to the support structure and is in a rest position.

Accordingly, the second and third members 16, 18 as well as the brush 8 are arranged to pivot about the first pivot axis 26 without the pivoting causing a difference in distance between the brush 8 and the first axial end 32 of the first member 14.

This, in combination with one of the above discussed ranges of the inner angle a, means that the second pivot axis 28 is devised for providing inter alia lateral positional changes of the third member 18 and the brush 8 in relation to the first member 14. This may provide for an increased reach of the brush 8 on an animal being brushed in the brushing arrangement 2.

Herein, the term substantially vertically, or horizontally, means a direction extending within 10 degrees of the vertical and horizontal direction, respectively.

The rotational axis 11 is arranged at an obtuse angle p to the second pivot axis 28. The obtuse angle may be within a range of 91 - 179 degrees, preferably within a range of 100 - 150 degrees, or more preferably within a range of 110 - 130 degrees.

According to some embodiments, such as in the illustrated embodiments, in a rest position of the brushing arrangement 2 with the rotational axis 11 of the brush 8 extending vertically, the first pivot axis 26 and the rotational axis 11 may extend in parallel. Accordingly, when in the rest position, the inner angle a between the first and second pivot axes 26, 28 and the obtuse angle p between the rotational axis 11 and the second pivot axis 28 form alternate angles. In such embodiments, the above discussed ranges of the inner angle a between the first and second pivot axes 26, 28 of 91 - 179 degrees, 100 - 150 degrees, and 110 - 130 degrees may correspond to the above discussed ranges of the obtuse angle p between the rotational axis 11 and the second pivot axis 28 of 91 - 179 degrees, 100 - 150 degrees, and 110 - 130 degrees, respectively.

The herein mentioned rest position of the brushing arrangement 2 with it attached to the support structure wherein the rotational axis 11 of the brush extends substantially vertically, relates to at least one rest position of the brushing arrangement 2. This at least one rest position, in which the rotational axis 11 of the brush 8 extends substantially vertically, may be a position wherein the suspension structure 12 is positioned such that the brush 8 is positioned with its rotational axis 11 extending in a common vertical plane with the third pivot axis 30 i.e. , in a common vertical plane with the third pivot axis 30 at the third interface 24 between the first member 14 and the support part 6. In Fig. 3, this common vertical plane is the plane of the figure.

The brushing arrangement 2 may have further rest positions for different rotational positions of the second member 16 around the first pivot axis 26, in which further rest positions the brush 8 may be hanging with its rotational axis 11 inclined in relation to the vertical direction, see further below with reference to Fig. 4a. Accordingly, in the at least one rest position, in the absence of a force being applied to the brush 8, the brush 8 has a substantially vertical orientation. That is, in the at least one rest position, the rotational axis 11 of the brush 8 extends substantially vertically. On the other hand, when a force is applied to the brush 8, typically by an animal, the suspension structure 12 with its members 14, 16, 18 permits a pivoting of the brush 8 to a substantially horizontal orientation. That is, the brush 8 can be pivoted such that its rotational axis 11 extends substantially horizontally.

Herein, the term substantially horizontally means a direction extending within 5 degrees of the horizontal direction.

When the animal brushing arrangement 2 is attached to the support structure: i) the third pivot axis 30 extends substantially horizontally, ii) the first pivot axis 26 extends at an angle y to the third pivot axis 30 and in a common plane with the third pivot axis 30, and iii) the second pivot axis 28 has a directional component extending perpendicularly to the first pivot axis 26. These three features apply irrespective of whether the brushing arrangement 2 is in a rest position or not.

The second pivot axis 28 having a directional component extending perpendicularly to the first pivot axis 26 entails that, when having the first pivot axis 26 as a reference, the second pivot axis 28 has a directional component extending perpendicularly to the first pivot axis 26. The second pivot axis 28 may also have a directional component extending in parallel with the first pivot axis 26. For explanatory purpose, in Fig. 3, the directional component of the second pivot axis 28 extending perpendicularly to the first pivot axis 26 is indicated with an arrow marked Per and the directional component of the second pivot axis 28 extending in parallel with the second pivot axis 28 is indicated with an arrow marked Par. Furthermore, as shown in Fig. 3, the arrow marked Par points in a longitudinal direction of the first member 14 at the first interface 20, meaning that the first pivot axis 26 extends in said longitudinal direction of the first member 14 at the first interface 20. In the illustrated embodiment, the first pivot axis 26 also extends in the longitudinal direction of the second member 16 that applies at the first interface 20.

The angle y between the third and first pivot axes 30, 26 may be any suitable angle e.g., within a range of 70 - 150 degrees.

According to embodiments, such as the illustrate embodiments, the third pivot axis 30 may extend at a substantially perpendicular angle y to the first pivot axis 26. Herein, the term substantially perpendicular means a direction extending within 5 degrees of a perpendicular angle.

The first pivot axis 26 and the rotational axis 11 of the brush 8 are arranged in parallel and off-centre from each other when the animal brushing arrangement 2 is attached to the support structure and is in a rest position.

Accordingly, the brush 8 is arranged laterally displaced in relation to the first pivot axis 26. This provides a moment arm for pivoting of the second member 16 in relation to the first member 14 as an animal pushes against the brush 8. Thus, pivoting about the first pivot axis 26 is facilitated.

Thus, the rotational axis 11 of the brush 8 may be arranged laterally displaced from the first pivot axis 26.

Also, the off-centre arrangement of the first pivot axis 26 and the rotational axis 11 limits pivoting about the first pivot axis 26. Namely, as the rotating brush 8 engages with an animal being brushed, the third and second members 18, 16 are subjected to a torque, which affects pivotal motion about the first pivot axis 26. This torque is partly desirable for displacing the brush 8 to reach different parts of the animal body but uncontrolled and/or excessive pivoting about the first pivot axis 26 may not be desirable. As the torque causes pivoting about the first pivot axis 26, the moment arm provided by the off-centre arrangement of the first pivot axis 26 and the rotational axis 11 may eventually balance the torque and thus, stop pivoting about the first pivot axis 26.

Furthermore, if the first pivot axis 26 and the rotational axis 11 would be aligned, the torque of the electric motor and/or the moment of inertia of the brush 8, would be transmitted to the second member 16 and could pivot the second member 16 in relation to the first member 14 about the first pivot axis 26. The off-centre arrangement of the first pivot axis 26 and the rotational axis 11 eliminates, or at least reduces this problem.

The off-centre arrangement between the first pivot axis 26 and the rotational axis 11 may be a consequence of the above discussed inner angle a between the first and second pivot axes 26, 28 being within one of the above mentioned ranges. The first pivot axis 26, the second pivot axis 28, and the rotational axis 11 of the brush 8 extend in a common substantially vertical plane when the animal brushing arrangement 2 is attached to the support structure and is in a rest position.

Accordingly, as an animal pushes against the brush 8, it produces a force that is applied laterally of both the first pivot axis 26 and of the second pivot axis 28. Thus, a moment arm for pivoting of the second member 16, in a rotational motion as previously described, in relation to the first member 14 and a moment arm for pivoting the third member 18, in a corresponding rotational motion, in relation to the second member 16 are provided for facilitating for displacing the brush 8 in relation to the first and second members 14, 16.

At an end opposite to its first axial end 32, the first member 14 has a second axial end 58 at the support part 6. At its second axial end 58, the first member 14 is connected to the support part 6.

Further, at its second axial end 58, the first member 14 is pivotable about the third pivot axis 30 in relation to the support part 6.

For instance, the third pivot axis 30 extends substantially horizontally when the brushing arrangement is attached to the support structure.

The first pivot axis 26 and the third pivot axis 30 extend in a common plane. In Fig. 3, this common plane is the plane of the figure. However, since both the first and third pivot axes 26, 30 are linked to the first member 14, irrespective of a pivotal position of the first member 14 about the third pivot axis 30, the first pivot axis 26 and the third pivot axis 30 extend in a common plane.

The first member 14 has an elongated extension between the support part 6 and the second member 16. Thus, the second member 16 and the first pivot axis 26 are arranged at a distance from the third pivot axis 30, from the support part 6, and from the support structure 4, see Fig. 1.

The brush 8 is connected to, or forms part of, the third member 18. Thus, when an animal pushes against the brush 8, the force applied by the animal directly causes the third member 18 to pivot, in a rotational motion as previously described, in relation to the second member 16 about the second pivot axis 28. The first member 14 has a bent shape, see also Fig. 1. Thus, the second member 16, the third member 18, and the brush 18 may be suspended downwardly of the support part 6 when the brushing arrangement 2 is attached to the support structure 4, see also Fig. 1.

Figs. 4a - 4c schematically illustrate the previously discussed animal brushing arrangement 2 in three different operational positions. In the figures, the animal brushing arrangement 2 is shown in the same side view, towards a support structure, to which the support part 6 is attached. Cross sections of bodies of animals 60, 60’ are schematically shown.

In Fig. 4a, the brushing arrangement 2 is shown in a rest position when no animal is pushing against the brush 8. An animal 60 is shown about to push against the brush 8 as indicated by a broad arrow. The rest position shown in Fig. 4a is different than the rest position shown in Figs. 1 and 3.

In Fig. 4b, the animal 60 has pushed against the brush 8 and pivoted the brush 8 about at least one of the first, second, and third pivot axes 26, 28, 30 at the first, second, and third interfaces 20, 22, 24 between the first, second, and third members 14, 16, 18 of the suspension structure 12 and the support part 6, respectively.

In Fig. 4c, an animal 60’ of greater height than the animal 60 in Figs. 4a and 4b has pushed against the brush 8 and pivoted the brush 8 about at least two of the first, second, and third pivot axes 26, 28, 30 at the first, second, and third interfaces 20, 22, 24 between the first, second, and third members 14, 16, 18 of the suspension structure 12 and the support part 6, respectively.

The brushing arrangement 2 is attached with its support part 6 to the support structure at a height that is suitable for providing good brushing reach for an average height animal of the animals being brushed.

For a prior art animal brushing arrangement with its suspension structure comprising members pivotable about three horizontally extending pivot axes, in similar brushing situations, the rotational axis of the rotatable brush will have different inclinations depending on the height of the animal being brushed. This means that the brush of such prior art animal brushing arrangements will reach a greater portion of the body of an average height animal than of a lower height animal or a greater height animal. Particularly, lateral sides of the animal bodies of lower than average or higher than average height animals are reached to a lesser degree. In the present animal brushing arrangement 2, the rotational axis 11 of the brush 8 is able to be positioned at similar inclinations in similar brushing situations of animals of different heights. This means that the brush 8 will have approximately the same reach over lower height animals and greater height animals as over animals of average height. Also, in corresponding brushing situations, the brush 8 of the present brushing arrangement 2 may reach an animal to be brushed with the rotational axis 11 in a more vertically extending direction than in prior art brushing arrangements with the pivot axes extend orthogonally. Accordingly, the present brush 8 being possible to be positioned with its rotational axis 11 in a comparatively more vertically position may mean that a larger portion of lateral body portions of an animal may be brushed. Thus, an efficient brushing of the animals of a group of animals is provided.

Accordingly, as discussed herein, the brushing arrangement 2, and specifically its suspension structure 12 is configured for efficiently brushing animals 60, 60’ of different heights. One or more, in combination, of the following above discussed features provides for this efficient brushing of animals 60, 60’ of different heights:

- The first pivot axis 26 and the rotational axis 11 of the brush 8 being arranged in parallel and off-centre from each other when the animal brushing arrangement 2 is attached to the support structure and is in a rest position. In this case the rest position is any rest position, such as one of the rest positions that are illustrated in Figs. 1, 3, and 4a.

- The inner angle a between the first and second pivot axes 26, 28 being within the range of 91 - 179 degrees, preferably within a range of 100 - 150 degrees, or more preferably within a range of 110 - 130 degrees.

- The first pivot axis 26, the second pivot axis 28, and the rotational axis 11 of the brush 8 extending in a common substantially vertical plane when the animal brushing arrangement 2 is attached to the support structure and is in a rest position. In this case the rest position is any rest position, such as one of the rest positions that are illustrated in Figs. 1, 3, and 4a.

- The rotational axis 11 of the brush 8 being arranged at an obtuse angle to the first pivot axis 26.

- The collection of the following three characteristics when the animal brushing arrangement 2 is attached to the support structure: i) the third pivot axis 30 extending substantially horizontally, ii) the first pivot axis 26 extending at an angle y to the third pivot axis 30 and in a common plane with the third pivot axis 30, and iii) the second pivot axis 28 having a directional component extending perpendicularly to the first pivot axis 26. Figs. 4b and 4c illustrate how animals 60, 60’ with a height difference AH push against the brush 8 to reach the same inclination of the rotational axis 11 of the brush 8. The same inclination is reached with corresponding same body portions P of the different height animals 60, 60’ contacting the brush 8 at the same distance D from the top of the brush 8.

With the Fig. 4a position of the brush 8 and the suspension structure 12 as reference, in Fig. 4b, the lower height animal 60 has pushed against the brush 8 such that the first member 14 has pivoted about the third pivot axis 30. Again, with the Fig. 4a position of the brush 8 and the suspension structure 12 as reference, in Fig. 4c, the greater height animal 60’ has pushed against the brush 8 such that the first member 14 has pivoted about the third pivot axis 30, the second member 16 has pivoted, in the rotational motion as described herein, about the first pivot axis 26, and the third member 18 has pivoted, in a corresponding rotational motion, about the second pivot axis 28.

By pushing in different directions against the brush 8, the brush 8 will be pivoted to different inclinations and to different spatial positions. Thus, an animal 60, 60’ can control which portions of its body are being brushed.

Moreover, as the animal 60, 60’ pushes against the brush 8, in a known manner, the electric motor is automatically started to rotate the brush 8 about its rotational axis 11. The rotation of the brush 8 will cause the brush 8 to travel along the body of the animal 60, 60’. The distance and direction travelled by the brush 8 depends on the position of the animal 60, 60’ in relation to the brush 8 as well as the inclination and spatial position of the brush 8. Animals 60, 60’ learn to use this travelling of the brush 8 for it to reach different parts of the animal body: Also, animals 60, 60’ learn to change their position in relation to the brush 8 to control the travelling of the brush 8.

Figs. 5a and 5b schematically illustrate cross sectional portions of the animal brushing arrangement 2 discussed above with reference to Figs. 1 - 4c. Accordingly, in the following reference is also made to Figs. 1 - 4c.

In Fig. 5a, a portion of the first interface 20 between the first and second members 14, 16 is shown.

The suspension structure 12 comprises a limiting mechanism 62 arranged to limit the extent of pivotal movement of the second member 16 in relation to the first member 14 about the first pivot axis 26, see also e.g. Fig. 1. The limiting mechanism 62 provides two pivotal end positions 64, 66 for the pivoting of the second member 16 in relation to the first member 14. The pivotal end positions 64, 66 may be arranged at 180 degrees from each other, as indicated by the broad full line in Fig. 5a. According to alternative embodiments, the pivotal end positions may provide arranged at up to 360 degrees from each other, as indicated by the broad full and broken lines in Fig. 5a.

The limiting mechanism 62 may be provided by a circumferential slot 68 extending in body of the first and/or second member 14, 16 at its respective axial end e.g., as indicated by the full line in Fig. 5a. The other or both of the first and second members 14, 16 may be provided with a protrusion 70, which extends into the slot or slots 68. At the pivotal end positions 64, 66, the protrusion 70 abuts against the body of the first and/or second member 14, 16 to thus, limit the extent of movement in the circumferential direction about the first pivot axis 26 of the second member 16 in relation to the first member 14.

The limiting mechanism 62 prevents that the rotation of the brush 8, as an animal is brushed, leads to the second member 16 rotating full circumferential rotations about the first pivot axis 26. Moreover, the limiting mechanism 62 may prevent that the above discussed electric motor torque and moment of inertia of the brush 8 causing full rotations of the second member 16 about the first pivot axis 26.

The suspension structure 12 may comprises a further limiting mechanism arranged to limit the extent of movement in a circumferential direction about the second pivot axis 28 of the third member 18 in relation to the second member 16. The further limiting mechanism may be of the same or similar kind as the limiting mechanism 62.

In Fig. 5b, a portion of the first interface 20 between the first and second members 14, 16 is shown.

The suspension structure 12 comprises a damping mechanism 72 arranged to induce resistance in a pivotal movement of the second member 16 in relation to the first member 14 about the first pivot axis 26, see also e.g. Fig. 1.

The damping mechanism 72 thus, prevents free pivoting of the second member 16 in relation to the first member 14. Put differently, in order to pivot the second member 16 about the first pivot axis 26, the force that causes the pivoting has to overcome the resistance induced by the damping mechanism 72. This means that, when a force is applied to the brush 8, pivoting of the third member 18 about the second pivot axis 28 and/or the first member 14 pivoting about the third pivot axis 30, may take at least partial precedence over the pivoting of the second member 16 about the first pivot axis 26. This may promote certain movements of the brush 8 and between the members 14, 16, 18 and/or between the suspension structure 12 and the support part 6, as an animal applies a force to the brush 8.

The damping mechanism 72 may comprise an elastic member 74, such as a rubber member. The elastic member 72 is fixedly connected at the first axial end 32, 34 of one of the first or second members 14, 16 and abuts against the first axial end 32, 34 of the other of the first and second members 14, 16.

The suspension structure 12 may comprises a further damping mechanism arranged to induce resistance in a pivotal movement of the third member 18 in relation to the second member 16 about the second pivot axis 28. The further damping mechanism may be of the same or similar kind as the damping mechanism 72.

According to alternative embodiments, the limiting mechanism 62 and the damping mechanism 72 may be provided by a common mechanism. For instance, a torsional spring arranged at the first interface 20 may induce resistance in the pivotal movement of the second member 16 in relation to the first member 14 about the first pivot axis 26. Moreover, as the torsional spring is tensioned, eventually, it will limit the extent of pivotal movement of the second member 16 in relation to the first member 14 about the first pivot axis 26.

It is to be understood that the foregoing is illustrative of various example embodiments and that the invention is defined only by the appended claims. A person skilled in the art will realize that the example embodiments may be modified, and that different features of the example embodiments may be combined to create embodiments other than those described herein, without departing from the scope of the invention, as defined by the appended claims.

Claims

1. An animal brushing arrangement (2) for attaching to a support structure (4), the animal brushing arrangement (2) comprising a support part (6) configured to be attached to the support structure (4), a brush (8), an electric motor (10) arranged to rotate the brush (8) about a rotational axis (11), and a suspension structure (12) for suspending the brush (8) and the electric motor

(10) from the support part (6), wherein the suspension structure (12) comprises at least a first member (14) and a second member (16), the first and second members (14, 16) each comprises a first axial end (32, 34), the first axial end (32) of the first member (14) and the first axial end (34) of the second member (16) being connected to each other at a first interface (20), and wherein at the first interface (20), the second member (16) is pivotable about a first pivot axis (26) in relation to the first member (14), wherein the first axial ends (32, 34) of the first and second members (14, 16) are arranged facing each other such that the first pivot axis (26) extends, from the first member (14) to the second member (16), centrally through the first axial ends (32, 34) of the first and second members (14, 16).

2. The animal brushing arrangement (2) according to claim 1, wherein the first pivot axis (26) extends in a longitudinal direction of the first member (14) at the first interface (20).

3. The animal brushing arrangement (2) according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the suspension structure (12) comprises a third member (18) being connected to the second member (16) at a second interface (22), and wherein the third member (18) is pivotable about a second pivot axis (28) in relation to the second member (16).

4. The animal brushing arrangement (2) according to claim 3, wherein the first pivot axis (26) and the second pivot axis (28) are arranged at an inner angle (a) to each other, the inner angle (a) being within a range of 91 - 179 degrees, preferably within a range of 100 - 150 degrees, or even more preferably within a range of 110 - 130 degrees.

5. The animal brushing arrangement (2) according to claim 3 or 4, wherein the second member (16) comprises a second axial end (42) at the second interface (22), wherein the third member (18) comprises a first axial end (46) at the second interface

(22), wherein the second axial end (42) of the second member (16) and the first axial end (46) of the third member (18) are connected to each other at the second interface (22)and are arranged facing each other such that the second pivot axis (28) extends, from the second member (16) to the third member (18), centrally through the second axial end (42) of the second member (16) and centrally through the first axial end (46) of the third member (18).

6. The animal brushing arrangement (2) according to any one of claims 3 - 5, wherein the brush (8) is connected to, or forms part of, the third member (18).

7. The animal brushing arrangement (2) according to any one of claims 3 - 6, wherein the first pivot axis (26) extends along a substantially vertical extension when the animal brushing arrangement (2) is attached to the support structure (4) and is in a rest position.

8. The animal brushing arrangement (2) according to any one of claims 3 - 7, wherein the first pivot axis (26) and the rotational axis (11) are arranged in parallel and off-centre from each other when the animal brushing arrangement (2) is attached to the support structure (4) and is in a rest position.

9. The animal brushing arrangement (2) according to any one of claims 3 - 8, wherein the first pivot axis (26), the second pivot axis (28), and the rotational axis (11) extend in a common substantially vertical plane when the animal brushing arrangement (2) is attached to the support structure (4) and is in a rest position.

10. The animal brushing arrangement (2) according to any one of claims 2 - 9, wherein the first member (14) has a second axial end (58) at the support part (6), and wherein the first member (14) at its second axial end (58) is connected to the support part (6).

11. The animal brushing arrangement (2) according to claim 10, wherein the first member (14) at its second axial end (58) is pivotable about a third pivot axis (30) in relation to the support part (6).

12. The animal brushing arrangement (2) according to claim 11, wherein the first pivot axis (26) and the third pivot axis (30) extend in a common plane.

13. The animal brushing arrangement (2) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the first member (14) has an elongated extension between the support part (6) and the second member (16).

14. The animal brushing arrangement (2) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the rotational axis (11) of the brush (8) is arranged laterally displaced from the first pivot axis (26).

15. The animal brushing arrangement (2) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the first interface (20) comprises at least one bearing (50).

16. The animal brushing arrangement (2) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the support structure (4) comprises a limiting mechanism (62) arranged to limit the extent of pivotal movement of the second member (16) in relation to the first member (14) about the first pivot axis (26).

17. The animal brushing arrangement (2) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the support structure (4) comprises a damping mechanism (72) arranged to induce resistance in a pivotal movement of the second member (16) in relation to the first member (14) about the first pivot axis (26).

18. The animal brushing arrangement (2) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the first and second members (14, 16) have a substantially tubular form.

19. The animal brushing arrangement (2) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the first member (14) has a bent shape.