Automatic control and monitoring system for milking parlour

摘要

Each cow (A) is placed in a stall, with its head in a feeding trough (15) controlled by a computer (13). Another computer (14) controls and monitors the milking process. The cow is recognised by both computers by means of responders (17, 18) on a collar (16). A robot arm guides cleaning mechanisms around the teats of the cow (A) and then another arm attaches the four suction cups (6). Negative pressure is then applied to start the milking process. The flow from each teat is monitored and the negative pressure released when the flow drops below a preset level. Each cup can be remotely removed from the udder by electromagnetic actuators.