Did you know that because the tongue is so extremely sensitive it multiplies perceptions in this area dramatically? You might also recognize the feeling – if the human tongue finds a little hole in a tooth it gives the impression that there is huge gap. A horse's tongue works in much the same way, whilst eating it can even filter out small stones from food. In collaboration with SPRENGER, the Veterinary University in Hanover started a new project. They examined more than 70 horse's heads and used varying methods to take measurements.
The analysis of this information produced unexpected results:
• The interior volume of the mouth was less than had been previously thought.
• The palate was both smaller and very often flatter than previously imagined.
• The space left for a bit is therefore very limited. SPRENGER used this new information for the development of the new KK-Conrad-ULTRA. The aim was to improve the bits but not make them too severe.
How can the sense of touch be stimulated to obtain the desired effect?
1. As the palate is narrower than originally assumed the lozenge in the centre was shortened (no pressure on the palate).
2. The angle of the link was turned by 45°. This ensures that when the reins are pulled the rounded link rests fully on the tongue without squeezing it.
3. The tongue's sense of touch is utilized and clear instructions are given through the reins.