Milking system comprising a milk sampler

Abstract

A milking system (100) is designed to extract milk from an animal (101). The system (100) includes several components for efficient milk sampling and biomarker detection. It is characterized by a feed cassette (140) holding multiple vials (150), at least one of which is prepared for biomarker detection. During milking, a milk sampler (300) transfers some milk into the selected vial (150). The system also has an animal identification device (116) for identifying the animal (101) and an information tagging device (370) for tagging the vials with relevant details. A controller (120) is connected to the identification device (116), the milk sampler (300), and the information tagging device (370). The system identifies the animal, determines whether biomarker detection is required, and, if necessary, signals the milk sampler to transfer milk into the appropriate vial and signals the information tagging device to tag the vial with the animal's identity. The system streamlines the process of collecting and analyzing milk samples.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This document discloses a milking system that includes a milk sampler for generating milk samples according to the appended claims. Background Technology

[0002] On farms, it is sometimes desirable to analyze milk samples from specific animals. This could be to investigate whether an animal is pregnant or in estrus; or to determine if it has mastitis, ketosis, abnormal urea levels, or some other disease or condition that may affect milk yield and / or quality; or to measure parameters that reflect milk quality itself, such as the percentages of fat, protein, lactose, etc.

[0003] Several biomarkers can be measured in animals, such as the levels of progesterone, LDH (lactate dehydrogenase), BHB (β-hydroxybutyrate), and urea. This provides important information about, for example, estrus detection and / or pregnancy in individual animals (based on measured progesterone levels), as well as mastitis (based on LDH) and ketosis (based on BHB). Furthermore, the animal's energy balance can be estimated (based on urea).

[0004] By calculating the somatic cell count (SCC) of a portion of the milk sample, it is possible to estimate whether the animal is infected.

[0005] Regular monitoring of SCC (Self-Concentration Calibration) can be crucial for farmers to ensure the health of their herds and the quality of the milk produced. Sometimes, through milk processors that purchase milk, low SCC can offer payment bonuses (and / or high SCC can offer payment reductions) to incentivize and promote high milk quality on farms.

[0006] A common method for milk sampling based on existing technology is for farmers to notice deviations in milk yield and / or animal behavior, then manually extract samples in vials, which can then be sent to a laboratory for evaluation.

[0007] This method has several drawbacks. The manual method can lead to confusion between vials and animals. Inadequate or incorrect labeling of vials may render them useless or lead to incorrect conclusions about the animal's health or other conditions, such as estrus or pregnancy. Furthermore, manual handling of vials may pose a risk of contaminating milk samples when farms cannot support laboratory hygiene standards.

[0008] It is desirable that the milk sample is free of dirt or other unwanted particulate contamination, as this may affect the analytical results.

[0009] It is also desirable to automate the sampling / testing process as much as possible, thereby avoiding or preferably eliminating potential sources of failure during mixing and human-machine interaction, thus saving farmers' work. It must also be ensured that, under no circumstances should the liquids / chemicals used by the milk analysis instruments reach the milk pipeline.

[0010] Through further research and development, we hope to develop a concept for preparing milk samples for analysis. Summary of the Invention

[0011] Therefore, the objective of this invention is to solve at least some of the problems mentioned above and to facilitate the preparation of milk samples for milk sample analysis.

[0012] According to a first aspect of the invention, this objective is achieved by a milking system for extracting milk from animals during the milking process. The milking system, which may be specifically embodied as a milking robot, a fixed milking parlor, or a rotating milking parlor, includes a milk sampler.

[0013] The milk sampler includes a cartridge configured to hold multiple vials, at least one of which is prepared with reagents for biomarker detection. The milk sampler also includes an information labeling device configured to label the vials with information. The milk sampler is arranged to transfer a subset of milk extracted from an animal into one of the vials in the cartridge. The information labeling device is configured to use information labeling to label the vial into which the subset of milk has been transferred.

[0014] The milking system also includes: an animal identification device configured to identify animals; and a controller.

[0015] The controller is configured to identify the animal from which milk is to be extracted by the milking system via an animal identification device. Furthermore, the controller is configured to determine whether biomarker testing should be performed on the milk sample from the identified animal. If so, the controller is configured to determine what type of biomarker testing should be performed on the milk sample. Additionally, the controller is configured to generate a signal and provide it to a milk sampler to transfer a subset of the milk extracted from the animal to a vial containing reagents prepared for biomarker testing. The controller is further configured to generate a signal and provide it to an information tagging device to tag the vial containing the transferred subset of milk with information including the animal's identification.

[0016] The solution offers several advantages, including improved efficiency in the milking process and enhanced monitoring of health status, estrus, pregnancy, and parameters reflecting milk quality. Furthermore, it simplifies and reduces the workload for milk workers.

[0017] The ability to automatically transfer a subset of milk to vials prepared with reagents for biomarker detection enables early identification of pregnancy or estrus. Additionally, or alternatively, health problems such as infections or metabolic disorders can be detected at an early stage. This proactive health management can improve animal welfare and reduce veterinary costs.

[0018] Another advantage of the described solution is that the kit can consist of vials prepared according to the farmer's requirements and needs for biomarker testing. By preparing vials with dried swabs or other reagents for biomarker detection, the testing is easily managed by the farmer. He / she does not need to store and handle dried swabs. Therefore, the farmer himself / herself can check and analyze the prepared vials, which provides immediate feedback and minimizes costs. Furthermore, the risk of contamination of milk samples is lower when reagents for biomarker detection are prepared.

[0019] Alternatively, test results can be determined directly and automatically within the dairy equipment, thus freeing farmers from even more work.

[0020] Targeted tests can be automatically triggered based on the individual animal's needs and / or health status—a process known as dynamic testing. This precise animal condition monitoring ensures that farmers obtain relevant and specific health / condition data for each animal.

[0021] Animal identification ensures that milk samples and subsequent health / condition data are correctly attributed to the corresponding animals. This enhances the reliability of the health / condition monitoring process.

[0022] The information tagging device labels each vial with relevant data, such as the animal's identity. This traceability is crucial for maintaining accurate health / condition records and tracking milk quality and health over time. It also improves the reliability of testing by eliminating, or at least fundamentally reducing, the risk of, for example, mistakenly mixing vials together.

[0023] By routinely checking biomarkers, this system helps maintain high milk quality standards, which are crucial for consumer safety and marketability of dairy products. Regular biomarker analysis allows for early detection of health problems, estrus, or pregnancy, enabling timely intervention, potentially reducing the impact of disease and improving overall herd health, as well as increasing milk quality and yield. Automated milk sampling reduces required labor / working time. This automation allows farm workers to focus on other critical tasks.

[0024] In summary, this advanced milking system streamlines milk sampling and integrates health / condition monitoring directly into the workflow, providing a comprehensive approach to dairy farm management. This technological integration improves efficiency, testing reliability, animal welfare, milk quality, milk yield, and farm profitability.

[0025] Optionally, the milking system may include a memory device communicatively connected to the controller. The memory device may include information relating to the position of the corresponding vials within the cassette. Furthermore, the memory device may include information relating to reagent preparation for the corresponding vials in the cassette.

[0026] The controller can be configured to select which vial to use for biomarker detection based on information from the memory device. Additionally, signals provided to the milk sampler may include location information that enables the milk sampler to transfer a subset of milk extracted from the animal to the selected vial containing reagents prepared for biomarker detection.

[0027] Optionally, the memory device may include information related to the status information of the corresponding vial in the cassette. Furthermore, the controller may be configured to update the status information of the selected vial from "unused" to "used" when the milk sampler has delivered milk.

[0028] By continuously tracking the status of the vials (whether used or unused) and their position within the container, the reliability of milk sample testing is enhanced, preventing misuse and confusion of vials.

[0029] Optionally, the different vials in the kit can be prepared with different reagents for biomarker detection.

[0030] By preparing different vials with different reagents for the detection of different biomarkers, flexibility is achieved, enabling the milk sampler to perform different types of tests. Farmers can also customize the composition of reagents for the detection of different kinds of biomarkers.

[0031] Optionally, the controller can be configured to determine the amount of milk to be transferred to the vial based on the biomarker detection to be performed, and instruct the milk sampler accordingly.

[0032] By adjusting, that is, minimizing or at least reducing the amount of milk required for the corresponding milk sample type, milk waste is minimized.

[0033] Optionally, the milk sampler may include a pump configured to transfer a defined amount of milk into a vial.

[0034] Optionally, biomarker detection may include progesterone, somatic cell count, haptoglobin, β-hydroxybutyrate (BHB), urea, and / or lactate dehydrogenase (LDH).

[0035] Optionally, the vial may contain a dry swab prepared using reagents for biomarker detection.

[0036] Dry swabs provide a convenient, cost-effective, and rapid means of testing milk samples.

[0037] Optionally, the vial may include a near field communication (NFC) tag, and the information tagging device may be configured to write information including the animal's identity into the NFC tag.

[0038] The advantages of NFC tags are that information can be easily read from and written to the NFC tag on the bottle. Due to the very limited access distance, the information is ensured to be relevant to the tagged bottle. The information provided is not affected by factors such as discoloration or dirt on the bottle's exterior.

[0039] Optionally, the information tagging device may include a printer configured to write information, including the animal's identity, directly onto the vial or onto a label that can be attached to the vial.

[0040] The advantage of printed information (when it includes letters / numbers) is that it is easy for humans to read, thus reducing the risk of confusion with vials.

[0041] Optionally, in addition to the animal's identity, the information written by the information tagging device may also include the time when the milk sample was made and / or how the vial was handled after the milk sample was made, for example, the vial may be sent to a veterinarian or an external laboratory.

[0042] By labeling vials with more relevant information for use in biomarker testing, test results will be more reliable. For example, the same animal (for the same biomarker) can be tested on several occasions. By labeling them with the time of testing, the most relevant (i.e., most recent) test can be selected. Alternatively, trends over time can be extracted from the data and provided to farmers.

[0043] Optionally, the controller can be configured to determine whether biomarker detection should be performed based on the deviation between the obtained animal-related measurements and reference values, and if so, to determine what type of biomarker detection should be performed on the milk sample of the identified animal. The obtained measurements may include real-time measurements and / or historical measurements.

[0044] Deviation from a defined normal reference is generally a reliable indicator of animal health / condition affecting milk quality / yield. By triggering milk samples and testing the milk for relevant biomarker detection, animal health status, estrus detection, and / or pregnancy checks can be confirmed at an early stage, and appropriate measures can be taken, for example, to enhance animal recovery.

[0045] Optionally, the animal-related measurements obtained can be correlated with the animal's milk production.

[0046] In dairy farms, milk production is of paramount importance. By detecting deviations from the expected milk production of specific animals and analyzing abnormal biomarkers, appropriate measures can be initiated at an early stage to restore animal health, thereby also restoring milk production to the expected quantity and quality.

[0047] Optionally, the animal-related measurements obtained may involve measurements of the conductivity of the extracted milk, the color of the extracted milk, etc.

[0048] Optionally, the animal-related measurements obtained may involve animal movement data and / or food consumption data.

[0049] Some early signs of certain medical conditions in mammals include lethargy, recumbency, and low / no feed intake. By testing animals that exhibit these signs in the early stages, appropriate interventions can be initiated earlier. The animal's recovery period, and the resulting temporary decrease in milk production, can be minimized.

[0050] Optionally, the controller can be configured to, based on an animal biological model (involving lactation and / or reproductive cycles), determine whether biomarker detection should be performed, and if so, determine what type of biomarker should be detected in the milk sample of the identified animal.

[0051] The lactation and reproductive cycles of an animal are relatively stable and reproducible for that specific animal. By establishing a biological model of the animal and triggering events such as progesterone testing when estrus is predicted, the optimal time window for conception can be identified and confirmed.

[0052] Optionally, the controller can be configured to determine whether biomarker testing should be performed based on manual input from farmers, and if so, to determine what type of biomarker testing should be performed on the milk samples of the identified animals.

[0053] Farmers may expect to examine certain biomarkers based on their personal observations of animal behavior and / or animal production.

[0054] Optionally, the milk sampler can be integrated into / with the milking system. The feed hopper can be configured to be removably inserted into the milk sampler.

[0055] Therefore, farmers can quickly replace the feed cassettes with new ones when all vials have been used. Feed cassettes with used / refilled vials can be provided to the laboratory for analysis. Alternatively, milk sample analysis can be performed on the farm, i.e., on-site. In any case, immediate feed cassette replacement ensures that all milk samples can be analyzed as triggered by the system.

[0056] Optionally, the milking system may include one or more automated milking robots, with a milk sampler integrated therein. When the milking system includes several automated milking robots, each or at least one automated milking robot may have an integrated milk sampler.

[0057] By integrating a milk sampler with an automated milking robot, milk samples from selected animals can be dispensed during routine milking.

[0058] Optionally, the milking system may include an NFC tag reader communicatively connected to the controller, wherein the NFC tag reader is configured to read NFC tags on the feed cassette. The controller may be configured to perform biomarker detection based on information read from the NFC tags on the feed cassette, including the expiration date of the biomarker detection reagent for the vials in the feed cassette, the quality marking of the reagent, the location of the corresponding vial within the feed cassette, and / or the reagent preparation of the corresponding vial in the feed cassette.

[0059] Thanks to the NFC tags on the feed pods, the pods can be checked instantly and quickly; for example, information about expiration dates, biomarker testing reagents, and / or reagent quality can be matched with farmers' requirements.

[0060] According to a second aspect of the invention, this objective is achieved by a cartridge configured to hold a plurality of vials. At least one of the vials is prepared with reagents for biomarker detection. The cartridge is configured to be removably inserted into a milking system according to any one of the preceding claims.

[0061] Therefore, farmers can quickly replace the feed cassettes with new ones when all vials have been used. Feed cassettes with used / refilled vials can be provided to the laboratory for analysis. Alternatively, milk samples can be analyzed on the farm. In any case, immediate feed cassette replacement ensures that all milk samples can be analyzed as triggered by the system.

[0062] Optionally, the feed cassette may include an NFC tag that will be read by an NFC tag reader of the milking system according to an optional embodiment of the first aspect. The NFC tag may include the expiration date of the biomarker testing reagent for the vial in the feed cassette, the quality mark of the reagent, the location of the corresponding vial within the feed cassette, and / or the reagent preparation status of the corresponding vial in the feed cassette.

[0063] Thanks to the NFC tags on the feed pods, the pods can be checked instantly and quickly; for example, information about expiration dates, biomarker testing reagents, and / or reagent quality can be matched with farmers' requirements.

[0064] Optionally, the container may include at least one transparent section, thereby enabling visual inspection of the vials held in the container without having to open it.

[0065] Therefore, farmers can immediately check whether the vials in the feed cassette are unused or used; and / or estimate how many have been used, and calculate when it might be time to replace the cassette. In some cases, farmers can also immediately interpret the results of biomarker testing in one or more milk samples without breaking the cassette seal and exposing the vials to potential contamination risks, which could lead to inaccurate biomarker test results.

[0066] Other advantages and additional novel features will become apparent in the following detailed description. Attached Figure Description

[0067] Embodiments of the present invention will now be described in further detail with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0068] Figure 1A An example of a milking system according to an embodiment of the present invention is shown.

[0069] Figure 1B An example of a milking system according to an embodiment of the present invention is shown.

[0070] Figure 2 An example of a container comprising a vial according to an embodiment of the present invention is shown.

[0071] Figure 3A An example of a milk sampler according to an embodiment of the present invention is shown.

[0072] Figure 3B An example of a milk sampler according to an embodiment of the present invention is shown.

[0073] Figure 4 An example of a vial with a dry stick according to an embodiment of the present invention is shown.

[0074] Figure 5 An example of farmer communication according to an embodiment of the present invention is illustrated. Detailed Implementation

[0075] The embodiments of the invention described herein are defined as milking systems and feed hoppers, which can be put into practice in the embodiments described below. However, these embodiments can be exemplified and implemented in many different forms and are not limited to the examples set forth herein; rather, these illustrative examples of embodiments are provided to make this disclosure thorough and complete.

[0076] Other objects and features may become apparent from the following detailed description taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings. However, it should be understood that the drawings are for illustrative purposes only and are not intended to limit the embodiments disclosed herein, for which reference may be made to the appended claims. Furthermore, unless otherwise illustrated, the drawings are not necessarily drawn to scale and are merely conceptual illustrations of the structures and procedures described herein.

[0077] Figure 1A An example is shown of a milking system 100 for extracting milk from an animal 101.

[0078] Animal 101 can be dairy animals and can be included in the animal herds used in the dairy industry for farms.

[0079] Milking system 100 may advantageously (but not necessarily) include automated milking facilities (such as milking robots), rotary milking parlors, or similar devices. Milking system 100 may also be used in a milking parlor during manual milking.

[0080] "Animal" can be any type of domesticated female mammal, such as, for example, cow, goat, sheep, camel, horse, dairy cow, donkey, yak, etc.

[0081] In the illustrated embodiment, the milking system 100 includes a milking robot 115 located in an enclosed compartment 110 on the farm. An animal 101 can be identified by an animal identification device 116 upon approaching a selection gate 118 and can be allowed to enter the enclosed compartment 110.

[0082] Milking robot 115 may include robotic arm 117 for placing milking equipment / milking cup 111 on the teat of animal 101 and initiating milk extraction. The extracted milk can then be transferred to milk tank 114. Milk flow rate per unit time can be continuously measured by milk flow meter 112 arranged on milk line 113. Milk line 113 transfers milk extracted from animal 101 via milking cups 111a, 111b, 111c, and 111d to milk tank 114. When milk samples are to be extracted from a specific animal, the milk sample is transferred from milk line 113 to milk sampler 300 during the milking process to quantitatively feed it into a dedicated vial in the feed hopper of milk sampler 300. Milk samples from a specific animal can be extracted from milk line 113 for udder milking or quarter milking, and will not be described further here.

[0083] Other milk-related parameters besides milk flow or milk yield can also be measured or optionally measured for analysis, such as milk conductivity (compared to a threshold), milk color difference (compared to a reference milk color), and detection of blood in the milk.

[0084] Milk-related parameters can be measured using appropriate sensors. Therefore, these parameters can be measured in real time during milking, i.e., during the milking process of the animals on the farm. The measured values ​​can be compared to reference values, and excess values ​​can trigger milk sample extraction.

[0085] In different implementations, milk-related parameters, such as milk flow rate, can be measured over the entire udder of animal 101, or milk-related parameters can be measured individually for each teat, a process known as quarter-milking. The measurement of milk flow rate or other milk-related parameters in a conventional or quarter-milking system will not be further described here. However, the examples presented and discussed subsequently focus on quarter-milking.

[0086] Animal identification device 116 can identify animal 101, for example, by identifying a tag carried by animal 101 that emits wireless signals, such as an RFID tag or Bluetooth tag with a unique code associated with animal 101.

[0087] Tag may be attached to one or both ears of animal 101, placed in a necklace around the neck of animal 101, under the skin of animal 101's head, around the horns of animal 101, in the headdress of animal 101, or in other similar devices.

[0088] The tag may include an identification unit for the animal, i.e., a transponder that includes an identity reference for the animal 101. The tag may transmit a wireless signal that can be received by the animal identifier 116, which may include a suitable transceiver.

[0089] However, the animal identification device 116 may include a camera, and the animal 101 can be identified by image recognition combined with other differences in size and body structure, since animals (e.g., cows) typically have unique color markings on their hides. Additionally, or alternatively, the identification number is encoded on a label or directly in a graphic code on the animal 101's hide, such as a barcode, European Item Number (EAN) code, data matrix, or Quick Response (QR) code. Any other convenient identification method may be used in some embodiments.

[0090] Animal identification device 116 can be communicatively connected to controller 120. Controller 120 may include a digital computer or processing circuitry that controls one or more electrical systems or subsystems of the farm based on information read, for example, from animal identification device 116 and other sensors on the farm. Controller 120 is communicatively connected to memory device 130 or a database.

[0091] Memory device 130 may include a physical device for storing data or programs (i.e., sequences of instructions) on a temporary or permanent basis. According to some embodiments, memory device 130 may include an integrated circuit comprising silicon-based transistors. Memory device 130 may include, for example, a memory card, flash memory, USB memory, hard disk, or another similar volatile or non-volatile memory cell for storing data, such as, for example, ROM (Read-Only Memory), PROM (Programmable Read-Only Memory), EPROM (Erasable PROM), EEPROM (Electrically Erasable PROM), etc., as described in various embodiments.

[0092] Various components of the milking system 100, such as the milk sampler 300, animal identification device 116, milking robot 115, milk flow meter 112, and possible time measuring devices, can be connected to the controller 120 via wired or wireless communication devices.

[0093] When the controller 120 successfully identifies animal 101 based on the information from animal identification device 116, it can check whether animal 101 has a valid milking permit. The milking permit of animal 101 can be stored in memory device 130 in association with an identity reference of animal 101.

[0094] If animal 101 has valid milking permission, controller 120 can send an open command to selection gate 118, thereby allowing animal 101 to enter enclosed compartment 110.

[0095] The milking cup 111 of the milking robot 115 can then be attached to the teat of the animal 101 using the robotic arm 117, see [link to relevant documentation]. Figure 1B .

[0096] The memory device 130 can be configured to store acquired measurement results related to animal 101. For example, the acquired measurement results may include milk flow rate in the form of milk flow rate and / or milk yield of animal 101 during a milking process, milking process time, milking process lifetime, measurement time interval between two consecutive milking processes, conductivity, color difference, etc. The acquired measurement results can then be stored in association with an identity reference for animal 101.

[0097] The controller 120 can analyze the obtained measurement results related to animal 101. If the deviation between the obtained measurement result and the expected / reference value exceeds a threshold, biomarker detection can be triggered.

[0098] Expected / reference values ​​can be predetermined, such as based on the animal's race / breed, or on the average of the farm's population, or a subset thereof. Alternatively, expected / reference values ​​can be set based on historical values ​​of measurements of individual animals 101 or a group of animals. Therefore, expected / reference values ​​can be updated over time.

[0099] Measurement results can be obtained from a sensor and / or milk flow meter 112 located at the milk line 113 (or possibly at some other suitable location where the extracted milk can be measured by the sensor / milk flow meter 112), which can measure in real time and provide the measurement results to the controller 120.

[0100] The controller 120 can then analyze the obtained measurement results by comparing them in real time with expected / reference values. Test samples can then be triggered and executed for animal 101 during the same milking process. The advantage is that immediate indication of the considered biomarkers is possible. Alternatively, a trigger can be set to divide milk samples from animal 101 during the next milking process.

[0101] Alternatively, the obtained measurement results can be stored in the memory device 130. The controller 120 can then analyze the stored measurement results and, based on this, trigger a milk sample for the next milking process.

[0102] For example, if milk production is below a reference yield (which can be calculated, for example, based on the average milk production during the most recent milking process), it can be concluded that a milk sample will be taken from animal 101 during a subsequent milking process, as animal 101 may have mastitis. The extracted milk can then be transferred to vials prepared with reagents for testing LDH.

[0103] In some implementations, controller 120 may acquire and analyze additional data related to animal 101 and trigger sampling for biomarker detection targeting a specific animal 101. Some examples may be that the passive / rare movement / lying down and / or low feed consumption of animal 101 may indicate infection, which may trigger appropriate testing.

[0104] Animal 101’s movement patterns, typical estrus movement patterns (i.e., increased / restless movement, attempts to ride other animals, standing on their backs, being able to stand with their tails in the air, spending less time than usual grazing, etc.) can trigger a progesterone test.

[0105] Progesterone is a hormone that regulates several physiological functions in animals. It prepares the uterus for pregnancy, maintains pregnancy in the event of fertilization, and prevents animals from exhibiting signs of persistent estrus and ovulation during pregnancy. For example, progesterone levels can rise at the onset of pregnancy and remain high throughout the entire pregnancy. Progesterone levels in milk samples can be used to monitor pregnancy, estrous cycles (estrus detection), and / or postpartum ovarian activity. For these reasons, it is of interest to farmers to detect and track progesterone levels in their farm animals.

[0106] The obtained measurements may be movement data and / or food consumption data. Movement data and / or food consumption data may be collected, for example, by trackers associated with each animal 101 and / or by cameras at the farm in conjunction with appropriate software for analyzing movement data and / or food consumption data. The controller 120 can then analyze the obtained measurements by comparing them with expected / reference values. Based on the deviation between the obtained measurements and the expected / reference values, a milk sample may be triggered, for example, for the next milking process of animal 101.

[0107] However, milk sampling of animal 101 may also be triggered based on a biological model of animal 101 involving the lactation cycle and / or reproductive cycle. In some embodiments, milk sampling may be performed periodically at regular, configurable time intervals, such as every 10 milking cycles.

[0108] Some examples of milk sampling triggered by biological models could be estrus / pregnancy testing near a predicted timeframe for estrus. BHB-based ketosis testing could be performed at regular time intervals during the initial phase of the lactation cycle.

[0109] Alternatively, milk sampling may be manually triggered by a farmer or veterinarian for a specific animal 101 (based on visual observation or milk data analysis performed by him / her). In other embodiments, milk sampling of animal 101 may be triggered by the results of previously conducted tests, indicating the need for further health monitoring.

[0110] The replaceable cartridge 140 may include multiple vials 150. Some vials 150 in the cartridge 140 may be prepared with reagents for biomarker detection, such as, for example, dry swabs. In some embodiments, different vials 150 may be prepared with reagents for the detection of different biomarkers. In other embodiments, all vials 150 may be prepared with the same reagents / for the detection of the same biomarker.

[0111] Some vials 150 in the feed box 140 may not be prepared with reagents; that is, they may be intended for collecting milk samples and then analyzing the milk samples in the laboratory using reagents (or in another way).

[0112] In some embodiments, vial 150 may include information about reagent / biomarker testing, reagent expiration date, and other similar information. In some embodiments, the information may be printed, for example, on a label on vial 150. Alternatively, vial 150 may include a near-field communication (NFC) tag 155.

[0113] Properly labeling each individual vial 150 both before and after applying the milk sample eliminates or at least fundamentally reduces the risk of mislabeling / confusing vials.

[0114] Figure 3A and Figure 3B Examples of the milk sampler 300 are illustrated with two different views.

[0115] The milk sampler 300 and its feed hopper 140 may be integrated into a milking system 100, such as milking equipment / milking robot 115. However, the milk sampler 300 may be releasably attached to the milking equipment / milking robot 115. Thus, in the event of a future malfunction or the need for repair, the milk sampler 300 can be disassembled and sent to a maintenance technician for repair. A replacement milk sampler 300 may be used during repairs.

[0116] The feed container 140 can then be releasably attached to the milk sampler 300, allowing the farmer to easily attach / remove the feed container 140, preferably without the use of any specific tools. In different embodiments, the feed container 140 can be secured in the correct position by, for example, bolt joints, pins, snap fasteners, magnets, hook fasteners, etc.

[0117] Kit 140 may include a predetermined number of vials 150. At least one vial 150 in kit 140 is prepared with reagents for biomarker detection; possibly all vials 150. In some embodiments, different vials 150 may be prepared with different reagents. In other embodiments, all (or substantially all, or at least most) vials 150 may be prepared with the same reagents.

[0118] The configuration of vials 150 in feed box 140, i.e., the number of vials 150 containing different reagents, can be adapted to the requirements of the farm / the expectations of farmers and / or veterinarians.

[0119] Position information defining the location of the vial 150 containing the corresponding reagent within the container 140 can be maintained and stored in the memory device 130. This position information may include, for example, coordinates in a coordinate system. Thus, the extracted milk sample can be applied to the vial 150 containing the desired reagent.

[0120] The memory device 130 may also include information related to the status of the corresponding vial 150 in the cartridge 140, i.e., whether it is used or unused. When an unused vial 150 is used, the information about its status can be continuously updated.

[0121] The memory device 130 may also include the last use date of the vial / reagent (which may be different for different reagents).

[0122] The controller 120 and the memory device 130 can be communicatively connected via a wired or wireless communication interface. The controller 120 can obtain expected / reference values ​​associated with the identity reference of the animal 101 from the memory device 130. Measurement results obtained from the milk flow meter 112 or other relevant sensors can be compared by the controller 120 with the expected / reference values. If the measurement result exceeds the expected / reference value, the controller 120 can initiate the extraction of a milk sample from the animal 101 for delivery to the vial 150. The measurement values ​​can also be provided to the memory device 130 for storage, associated with the identity reference and time reference of the animal 101.

[0123] The container 140 can be labeled with relevant information about the vials 150, such as the quantity of vials 150, the size of the vials 150, the type of reagent in the corresponding vials 150, the expiration date, the quality mark of the reagent, and the position of the corresponding vials 150 within the container 140. Labels may include visual identifiers such as text, barcodes, QR codes, etc., and / or NFC tags 360, to be read by the NFC tag reader 350 of the milking system 100 or the milk sampler 300.

[0124] The cartridge 140 may have an asymmetrical, fail-safe design, making it impossible to install the cartridge 140 incorrectly, in the opposite direction, or upside down. In some embodiments, the cartridge 140 may be a closed box. Furthermore, in some embodiments, the cartridge 140 may include at least one transparent section, thereby enabling visual inspection of the vials 150 held within the cartridge 140 without needing to open the cartridge 140.

[0125] In some embodiments, the feed cassette 140 may include an open box, thereby providing easy access to the vials 150. In other embodiments, the feed cassette 140 may be inserted into a separate box of the milking system 100 (e.g., a milking robot). In some embodiments, this separate box of the milking system 100 may be at least partially transparent. For example, the top cover may be transparent, allowing the farmer to easily see, for example, how many unused vials 150 remain in the feed cassette 140 before replacement is required.

[0126] Therefore, farmers can see how much of vial 150 has been used / remaining unused without opening container 140 (which could contaminate vial 150). In cases where reagents include dry sticks or reagents that change color during biomarker detection, farmers can visually determine the test results.

[0127] In some implementations, a camera, which may be arranged in the milking system, preferably in the milk sampler, can examine the reagent in vial 150 and forward its image to controller 120, wherein appropriate software can detect the presence of biomarkers based on the acquired image.

[0128] In different implementations, including the cassette 140 Figures 3A to 3B The milk sampler 300 may include various parts to extract a milk sample from the animal 101 via a generated and provided signal when triggered by the controller 120. The milk sampler 300 then transfers a portion of the extracted milk into a designated vial 150 during the milking process.

[0129] Milk samples can be extracted at any time during the milking process to ensure that the samples represent the milk produced by animal 101 at that time. The extracted milk samples can be transferred via a milk sample tube to the injection section 380 of the milk sampler 300 through a milk supply regulator 320 (pump or possibly valve). The injection section 380 may include an injection needle 385, which can deliver the milk sample to vial 150.

[0130] The milk sample tube, and other tubing of the possible milk sampler 300 and / or system 100, may include a flexible hose, which may be made of, for example, plastic (e.g., nylon, polyurethane, polyethylene, polyvinyl chloride (PVC)); or synthetic or natural rubber or made thereof. The milk sample tube may have a substantially circular cross-section. The inner diameter of the milk sample tube may be, for example, between 1 mm and 5 mm (non-limiting example).

[0131] To prevent any impurities (such as dirt, hair, bedding / feed flakes and other particles) from being transferred to injection section 380 and vial 150 in the extracted milk, the milk sample tubes can be filtered to prevent impurities from entering vial 150, which could affect the test results.

[0132] Furthermore, in some embodiments, the milk sample tube can pass through a bubble detector 330, or in other embodiments, through other similar sensors. The bubble detector 330 can be connected to the controller 120. This confirms that the milk sample has successfully passed through the bubble detector 330. Based on ultrasonic detection using the bubble detector, air bubbles can be detected in the milk sample tube. Thus, liquid passage / monitoring can be achieved in a non-invasive and contamination-free manner.

[0133] In various embodiments, the milk supply regulator 320 may include a valve or a pump. In different embodiments, the pump may be, for example, a peristaltic pump, a hose pump, a roller pump, a tubular pump, or a similar device, configured to act on a milk sample tube to transfer a milk sample to the injection section 380. The milk supply regulator 320 may be connected to the controller 120.

[0134] In some implementations, the milk supply regulator 320 or pump can transfer varying amounts of milk according to instructions received from the controller 120, based on the biomarker detection to be performed. Thus, a minimum amount of milk is transferred from the milk production, thereby minimizing milk production loss due to milk sample issues, while still ensuring sufficient milk in the milk sample for each corresponding reagent to successfully perform the biomarker detection.

[0135] The milk sampler 300 may also include a mechanism for enabling the injection needle 385 of the injection segment 380 to apply a milk sample to a dedicated / intended vial 150. This mechanism allows the injection segment 380 and the injection needle 385 to move relative to the vial 150 of the cartridge 140. In some embodiments, this mechanism allows the cartridge 140 and / or the vial 150 to move relative to the injection segment 380 and the injection needle 385, such as... Figures 3A to 3B exemplified.

[0136] The material box 140 can be held in the tray holder 355, which can then be attached to the linear drive 310, see [link / reference]. Figure 3A The feed box 140 can be releasably attached to the pallet holder 355, allowing farmers to easily attach / remove the feed box 140, preferably without the use of any specific tools. In different embodiments, the feed box 140 can be secured in the correct position by, for example, bolt joints, pins, snap fasteners, magnets, hook fasteners, etc.

[0137] The linear actuator 310 may include an actuator or motor (e.g., an electric motor) and a screw mechanism comprising a threaded screw that works with a nut, wherein the mechanism converts the rotational motion of the motor into linear motion along the threaded screw. As the screw rotates, the nut attached to the tray holder 355 moves along the thread, thereby producing substantially horizontal linear motion. This allows adjustment of the cartridge 140 and vial 150 relative to the injection section 380 and injection needle 385.

[0138] Alternatively, a linear drive or similar mechanism is configured to move the injection section 380 substantially horizontally. This allows the injection section to be adjusted relative to the cartridge 140 and the vial 150.

[0139] In addition, the injection segment 380 can be embedded in a corresponding linear actuator 340 for vertical movement of the injection segment 380 and the injection needle 385 toward the dedicated vial 150 to apply the milk sample into the vial 150.

[0140] The milking system 100 and / or milk sampler 300 may also include an NFC tag reader 350 communicatively connected to the controller 120.

[0141] The NFC tag reader 350 can be configured to read information from the NFC tag 360 of the cartridge 140, and may also write information to it. The controller 120 can thus be enabled to perform biomarker detection based on information read from the NFC tag 360, which may include, for example, the expiration date of reagents for biomarker detection in vials 150 of the cartridge 140, the quality markings of the reagents, the location of the corresponding vial 150 within the cartridge 140, and / or the reagent preparation status of the corresponding vial 150 in the cartridge 140. In other words, the controller may be able to select vials in the cartridge based on information on the NFC tag 360.

[0142] Milking system 100 may include an information tagging device 370 configured to tag vials 150 with information. If vials 150 include an NFC tag 155, the information tagging device 370 may be configured to write information including the identity of the animal 101 into the NFC tag 155 of the vial 150. Other information may also be written by the information tagging device 370 into the NFC tag 155, such as, for example, the time when the milk sample was made, and / or how the vial 150 was handled after the milk sample was made.

[0143] The information tagging device 370 can also be configured to read information from the NFC tag 155 of the vial 150, such as which reagent / biomarker detection the vial 150 is intended for, the expiration date of the reagent, and the amount of milk required for the milk sample.

[0144] In other embodiments, the information tagging device 370 may include a printer configured to write information, including the identity of the animal 101, directly onto the vial 150, or to write a label that can be attached to the vial 150. The printer may print human-readable letters and / or numbers; alternatively, codes such as barcodes, QR codes, or the like.

[0145] The information tagging device 370 can be connected to the controller 120, and the tag is triggered by the controller via generated and provided signals.

[0146] By labeling vials 150 with a unique animal identification, it is ensured that the milk sample in vial 150 is associated with the correct animal 101 (i.e., the animal 101 from which the milk sample was taken). Additionally, other information can be provided to vials 150, such as the date / time of the milk sample, farm identification, milk sampler identification, information about the type of biomarker to be tested, and the desired laboratory.

[0147] In some implementations, the information tagging device 370 may also be configured to tag the feed box with information relating to the identity of the animal in each vial stored in the feed box 140.

[0148] Figure 4 An example is shown: vial 150 and syringe 385, the syringe penetrating the protective layer of vial 150 to deliver a milk sample to vial 150. Therefore, the milk sample is unlikely to be contaminated. Vial 150 includes a reagent in the form of a dry swab 410, which is prepared into vial 150 before delivering the milk sample. The reagent is prepared for biomarker detection of a specific biomarker.

[0149] Dry strip 410 may also be referred to as a "dry test strip," "test strip," or similar expression. Dry strip 410 is a diagnostic tool that can be used to detect and measure specific biomarkers in milk samples.

[0150] The dry stick 410 can be made of an absorbent material such as paper or a synthetic polymer. This material is designed to draw in milk samples via a capillary wick. One or more test zones are embedded within the dry stick 410. These zones contain dry reagents specific to the biomarker being tested. The reagents are chemicals or biomolecules (such as antibodies or enzymes) that specifically react with the biomarker of interest.

[0151] The dry bar 410 may include control indicators to verify the functionality of the test. These indicators confirm that the milk sample is properly absorbed and that the reagent reacts correctly.

[0152] Therefore, a small amount of milk sample can be applied to vial 150 via injection needle 385. The dry reagent 410 absorbs the milk via capillary action and moves it to the test area of ​​the dry reagent 410. In the test area, the milk sample reacts with the dry reagent. This reaction can be designed to produce a color change or visual marking.

[0153] Dry bar technology is known in the prior art, so it will not be described in further detail in this article.

[0154] Test results can be read visually by farmers or others (by detecting color changes, line appearances, or symbols), or by using a camera in conjunction with appropriate software. The presence, absence, or intensity of visual changes indicates the presence and possible concentration of biomarkers in the milk sample.

[0155] The use of dry sticks 410 has several advantages. For example, they provide results quickly. Dry sticks 410 are also easy to use and handle, can be stored for a considerable period of time, and are associated with relatively low cost.

[0156] However, other types of reagents can be applied in other implementations. For example, for somatic cell counting, fluorescent dyes / stains can be applied to chromosome cells to achieve / promote cell counting (under a microscope or the like). Some non-limiting examples of stains include trypan blue, methylene blue, pyronin γ-methyl green, propidium iodide, and safranin.

[0157] Somatic cell count (SCC) can be performed by staining the cell nuclei of a milk mixture with a fluorescent dye / staining agent. SCC is a measure of the number of somatic cells (primarily white blood cells and possibly epithelial cells) present in a milk sample. SCC is commonly used as an indicator of milk quality and animal health. High SCC is often associated with mastitis, an inflammation of the mammary glands usually caused by infection.

[0158] Due to the staining by fluorescent dyes / staining agents, the somatic cells in the milk sample can then be counted, for example, manually by counting the number of stained cells, or by taking a photograph and analyzing the image using an image detection computer program. Another possibility is electronic counting, where the milk sample is stained with a dye and then passed through a flow chamber. As the stained cells pass through a laser beam, they scatter light and fluoresce, making it possible to count the stained cells.

[0159] Once the SCC is determined, the result can be compared to a threshold (e.g., 200,000 cells / ml). In some countries, there are legal limits on SCC in milk intended for human consumption (>400,000 cells / ml in the European Union (EU)) because high counts can affect milk quality, shelf life, and suitability for certain processed products such as cheese.

[0160] The California Mastitis Test (CMT) reagent can be used to detect mastitis. The reagent may include a soap solution that reacts with DNA and proteins in milk, causing gel formation in the presence of elevated somatic cell counts.

[0161] Urea can be detected using pH indicators because urease breaks down urea, and the resulting pH change can be indicated by pH-sensitive dyes.

[0162] Pregnancy-associated glycoprotein reagents may include monoclonal / polyclonal antibodies, which can be used for early pregnancy detection in animals 101 from which milk samples have been extracted.

[0163] Figure 5 The illustration schematically depicts a scenario where a milk sample from a specific animal 101 has been provided to vial 150. In some implementations, for example, when a farmer has triggered testing of animal 101, controller 120 may send a message to the farmer (e.g., to a mobile device such as a mobile phone) confirming that animal 101 has been tested and inviting the farmer to check vial 150 to obtain the results of the biomarker detection.

[0164] Because of this direct information given to the farmer, he / she can collect vials containing milk samples almost immediately after receiving the information. Therefore, the milk samples are unlikely to be contaminated.

[0165] In other implementations, analysis can be performed, and the test results can be output to farmers.

[0166] Information can be provided via wired or wireless communication interfaces. In some implementations, such wireless communication interfaces may include or be inspired by wireless communication technologies, such as Wi-Fi, Wireless Local Area Network (WLAN), Ultra Mobile Broadband (UMB), Bluetooth (BT), to name just a few possible examples of wireless communication. Alternatively, radio access technologies may be applied, such as, for example, 5G wireless systems; 4G wireless systems; 3G wireless systems, etc.

[0167] The terminology used in the description of the embodiments illustrated in the accompanying drawings is not intended to limit the described distribution unit 110. Various changes, substitutions, and / or modifications may be made without departing from the embodiments of the invention as defined in the appended claims.

[0168] As used herein, the term “and / or” includes any and all combinations of one or more of the associated listed items. As used herein, the term “or” should be interpreted as mathematical OR, i.e., as inclusive disjunction, rather than as mathematical exclusive OR (XOR), unless otherwise expressly stated. Additionally, the singular forms “a,” “an,” and “the” should be interpreted as “at least one,” and thus may also include multiple entities of the same kind, unless otherwise expressly stated. It will be further understood that the terms “comprising,” “including,” specify the presence of the stated features, actions, integers, steps, operations, elements, and / or components, but do not exclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, actions, integers, steps, operations, elements, components, and / or combinations thereof. A single unit, such as, for example, a processor, can perform the functions of several items recited in the claims. The fact that certain measures or features are recited in mutually different dependent claims, illustrated in different drawings, or discussed in conjunction with different embodiments does not mean that combinations of these measures or features cannot be advantageously used. Computer programs can be stored / distributed on suitable media such as optical storage media or solid-state media supplied together with or as part of other hardware, but can also be distributed in other forms such as via the Internet or other wired or wireless communication systems.

Claims

1. A milking system (100) for extracting milk from an animal (101) during a milking process, wherein the milking system (100) comprises: Milk sampler (300), the milk sampler further comprising A reagent box (140) is configured to hold a plurality of vials (150), wherein at least one vial (150) is prepared with reagents for biomarker detection; An information tagging device (370) is configured to tag vials (150) with information; wherein the milk sampler (300) is arranged to transfer a subset of the milk extracted from the animal (101) to one of the vials (150) in the feed cassette (140); and the information tagging device (370) is configured to tag the subset of milk that has been transferred to the vial (150) with the information. An animal identification device (116) is configured to identify the animal (101). Controller (120), the controller is configured to: The animal (101) from which milk is to be extracted by the milking system (100) is identified via the animal identification device (116); Determine whether biomarker testing should be performed on milk samples from the identified animal (101); and if yes: Determine which type of biomarker to perform on the milk sample; A signal is generated and provided to the milk sampler (300) so that the subset of milk extracted from the animal (101) is transferred to the vial (150) prepared with the reagent for detection of the determined type of biomarker; A signal is generated and provided to the information tagging device (370) to tag the subset of milk that has been transferred to the vial (150) with information including the identity of the animal (101).

2. The milking system (100) according to claim 1, wherein the milking system comprises A memory device (130) connected to the controller (120), wherein the memory device (130) includes information related to: The position of the corresponding vial (150) within the container (140), The reagent preparation of the corresponding vials (150) in the kit (140), and The controller (120) is configured to select which vial (150) to use for biomarker detection based on the information in the memory device (130); and the signal provided to the milk sampler (300) includes location information for enabling the milk sampler (300) to transfer the subset of milk extracted from the animal (101) to the selected vial (150) containing the reagents prepared for biomarker detection.

3. The milking system (100) according to claim 2, wherein the memory device (130) includes information relating to the status information of the corresponding vial (150) in the feed hopper (140); and wherein the controller (120) is configured to update the status information of the selected vial (150) from "unused" to "used" when the milk sampler (300) has provided milk.

4. The milking system (100) according to any one of claims 2 to 3, wherein the different vials (150) in the feed hopper (140) are prepared with different reagents for biomarker detection.

5. The milking system (100) according to claim 4, wherein the controller (120) is configured to determine the amount of milk to be transferred to the vial (150) based on the biomarker detection to be performed, and accordingly instruct the milk sampler (300).

6. The milking system (100) according to claim 5, wherein the milk sampler (300) includes a pump configured to transfer a determined amount of milk into the vial (150).

7. The milking system (100) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the biomarker to be detected includes any one of progesterone, somatic cell count, haptoglobin, β-hydroxybutyrate "BHB", urea and / or lactate dehydrogenase "LDH".

8. The milking system (100) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the vial (150) comprises a dry stick (410) prepared with the reagent for biomarker detection.

9. The milking system (100) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the vial (150) includes a near field communication "NFC" tag (155), and the information tagging device (370) is configured to write the information including the identity of the animal (101) into the NFC tag (155).

10. The milking system (100) according to any one of claims 1 to 9, wherein the information tagging device (370) includes a printer configured to write the information including the identity of the animal (101) directly onto the vial (150) or to write a label that can be attached to the vial (150).

11. The milking system (100) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the information written by the information marking device (370) includes, in addition to the identity of the animal (101), the time of making the milk sample, and / or how the vial (150) was handled after the milk sample was made.

12. The milking system (100) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the controller (120) is configured to determine whether to perform biomarker testing based on the deviation between the obtained measurement results related to the animal (101) and a reference value, and if so, to determine what type of biomarker testing to be performed on the milk sample of the identified animal (101); wherein the obtained measurement results involve real-time measurement results and / or historical measurement results.

13. The milking system (100) according to claim 12, wherein the measurements obtained in relation to the animal (101) are related to the milk production of the animal (101).

14. The milking system (100) of claim 12, wherein the measurements obtained in relation to the animal (101) involve movement data and / or food consumption data of the animal (101).

15. The milking system (100) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the controller (120) is configured to determine, based on a biological model of the animal (101), whether biomarker detection is to be performed, and, if so, to determine what type of biomarker to be performed on a milk sample of the identified animal (101), the biological model relating to the lactation cycle and / or reproductive cycle.

16. The milking system (100) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the controller (120) is configured to determine whether to perform biomarker testing based on manual input from the farmer, and if so, to determine what type of biomarker testing to be performed on the milk sample of the identified animal (101).

17. The milking system (100) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the milk sampler (300) is integrated with the milking system (100); and wherein the feed hopper (140) is configured to be removably inserted into the milk sampler (300).

18. The milking system (100) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the milking system (100) comprises one or more automated milking robots, and the milk sampler (300) is integrated in the automated milking robot.

19. The milking system (100) according to any one of the preceding claims, the milking system comprising an NFC tag reader (350) communicatively connected to the controller (120), wherein the NFC tag reader (350) is configured to read an NFC tag (360) of the feed cassette (140); and wherein the controller (120) is configured to perform the biomarker detection based on information read from the NFC tag (360) of the feed cassette (140), the information including the expiration date of the reagent for biomarker detection in the vial (150) of the feed cassette (140), the quality mark of the reagent, the position of the corresponding vial (150) within the feed cassette (140) and / or the reagent preparation of the corresponding vial (150) of the feed cassette (140).

20. A feed cassette (140) configured to hold a plurality of vials (150), wherein at least one vial (150) is prepared with reagents for biomarker detection; wherein the feed cassette (140) is configured to be removably inserted into a milking system (100) according to any one of the preceding claims.

21. The feed cassette (140) according to claim 20, wherein the feed cassette includes an NFC tag (360) which will be read by an NFC tag reader (350) of the milking system (100) according to claim 19; the NFC tag (360) includes the expiration date of the reagent for biomarker detection in the vial (150) of the feed cassette (140), the quality mark of the reagent, the position of the corresponding vial (150) in the feed cassette (140) and / or the reagent preparation of the corresponding vial (150) of the feed cassette (140).

22. The cartridge (140) according to any one of claims 20 to 21, wherein the cartridge (140) includes at least one transparent section, thereby enabling visual inspection of the vials (150) held in the cartridge (140) without opening the cartridge (140).

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