Control unit and configuration tag for milk analysis equipment

Abstract

Control unit (240) and configuration tag (125) of a milk analysis device (120), said milk analysis device comprising a first wireless communication means (310) for communicating with a memory means (330) of said configuration tag (125). Said configuration tag (125) is adapted to said milk analysis device (120) and comprises a reference symbol (115) of a milk extraction device (110) with which said milk analysis device (120) is intended to cooperate. Said communication is made through a second wireless communication means (320) comprised in said configuration tag (125). Said control unit (340) is configured to retrieve, through said first wireless communication means (310), from said memory means (330) of said configuration tag (125), configuration data of said milk extraction device (110) with which said milk analysis device (120) is intended to cooperate, for example a network location reference, like an IP address, and to configure said control unit (340) based on the retrieved configuration data of said milk extraction device (110).

Description

TECHNICAL FIELD

[0001] The present document discloses a control unit of a milk analysis device and a configuration tag suitable for use with the milk analysis device. More specifically, it is presented herein a control unit of a milk analysis device comprising a first wireless communication means for communicating with a memory means of a configuration tag, the configuration tag being suitable for use with the milk analysis device and comprising a reference symbol of a milk extraction device with which the milk analysis device is intended to work in cooperation, wherein the communication is performed through a second wireless communication means comprised in the configuration tag. BACKGROUND

[0002] For example, in an animal farm it is important to keep the animals healthy to increase milk / meat production and / or to monitor when an animal is in heat and / or pregnant. In order to successfully fertilize an animal, it is important to inseminate the animal at the optimal moment. If the animal is not successfully fertilized, the milk production will be affected.

[0003] Several biomarker measurements can be performed on the animals, such as for example measuring the level of progesterone, LDH (lactate dehydrogenase), BHB (beta-hydroxybutyric acid) and urea. From this important information can be derived about for example heat detection and / or pregnancy of an individual animal (based on the measured progesterone level), as well as information about mastitis (based on LDH) and ketosis (based on BHB). Furthermore, the energy balance of the animal can be estimated (based on urea).

[0004] Thereby, the farmer is provided with important information about the status of each individual animal. However, performing and analyzing biomarker measurements of all individual animals in the farm, for example by smearing milk samples on prepared dry sticks, and analyzing these samples is very time consuming for the farmer, who can have to deal with various other important issues. It also puts a high demand on the management skills of the farmer to distinguish between the biomarker measurement results of different animals; to keep track of when biomarker measurements should be repeated for each animal and when to change the biomarker measurement unit; maintenance of the biomarker testing equipment and the high demand on cleanliness to prevent biomarker measurement results of a first animal from being contaminated with biological material of another animal.

[0005] A milk analysis device can be arranged to cooperate with a milk extraction device for regularly analyzing milk samples of an animal, for example during or around a milking session. The milk analysis device can extract a milk sample and provide it on a milk analysis unit, such as a dry stick / sidestream stick / sidestream test strip or similar. The milk is usually diluted with a diluent, which can also be used to flush the tubing between test sessions. The diluent can be provided in a liquid container.

[0006] The milk analysis units are held in a cassette, for example on a strip in a cassette as disclosed in document WO 2018236271. Thus, by forwarding one milk analysis unit at a time, it is easy for the farm to manage the milk analysis units. One milk analysis unit is typically used for each test sample. The cassette can comprise a large number of milk analysis units, but when all milk analysis units are used up, a new cassette with milk analysis units has to be changed.

[0007] The farm can comprise a plurality of milk extraction devices, such as milking robot, each of which is equipped with a separate milk analysis equipment.

[0008] There is a need to find a solution to help the farmer to configure the corresponding milk analysis equipment to work in synergy with the associated milk extraction device. SUMMARY

[0009] It is therefore an object of the present invention to solve at least some of the above-mentioned problems and to facilitate the farmer to measure biomarker values of milk samples of animals.

[0010] A biomarker or biological marker generally refers to a measurable indicator of a certain biological state or condition of the animal. The biomarker value measurement can be related to the pregnancy / reproduction of the animal, the health of the animal and / or the quality of the milk of the animal.

[0011] According to a first aspect of the invention, the object is achieved by a control unit of a milk analysis equipment in an agricultural environment. The milk analysis equipment comprises a first wireless communication device for communicating with a memory device of a configuration tag adapted for the milk analysis equipment. The configuration tag comprises a reference symbol of a milk extraction device with which the milk analysis equipment is intended to work in synergy. The reference symbol is a visual marker, such as for example an integer, a letter, a geometric shape, a color, a string of letters, etc., which corresponds to an intended milk analysis equipment. The communication is made through a second wireless communication device comprised in the configuration tag. The control unit is configured to retrieve, through the first wireless communication device, from the memory device of the configuration tag, configuration data of the milk extraction device with which the milk analysis equipment is intended to operate in synergy. Furthermore, the control unit is configured to configure the control unit based on the retrieved configuration data of the milk extraction device.

[0012] Thereby, by pre-storing and keeping the configuration data of the milk extraction device in the memory device of the configuration tag, the configuration process of the farmer is simplified to apply the configuration tag pre-configured with the configuration data of the relevant milk extraction device to the milk analysis equipment.

[0013] Thereby the farmer's costs, maintenance and work intensity associated with the management of the milk analysis equipment are minimized or at least reduced.

[0014] In a first possible implementation of the control unit according to the first aspect, wherein the retrieved configuration data comprises a reference indicator corresponding to the reference symbol of the configuration tag. The reference indicator is a number corresponding to the externally applied reference symbol of the configuration tag, which is stored in the memory device of the configuration tag. The control unit can be configured to check whether the retrieved reference indicator corresponds to the milk extraction device that is currently working in cooperation with the milk analysis equipment. The control unit can further be configured to deactivate the first wireless communication device when the reference indicator corresponds to the milk extraction device or to reconfigure the control unit to work in cooperation with the milk extraction device indicated by the retrieved reference indicator.

[0015] The control unit can thereby check whether the configuration tag has been exchanged and reconfigure when detecting that a new configuration tag has been applied to the milk analysis equipment.

[0016] In a second possible implementation of the control unit according to the first aspect or according to the first implementation thereof, the retrieved configuration data can comprise a network location reference to the milk extraction device.

[0017] The control unit can then obtain the relevant network location reference of the milk extraction device without any additional intervention or manual input by the farmer. Time is thereby saved and the risk of misprinted network location references is omitted.

[0018] In a third possible implementation of the control unit according to the first aspect or according to any of the previously disclosed implementations thereof, the retrieved configuration data can comprise a network location reference to a data resource from which additional configuration data related to the milk extraction device can be retrieved.

[0019] The control unit can thereby obtain additional information of the milk extraction device from a data resource without any additional intervention or manual input by the farmer. Time is thereby saved and the risk of misprinted network location references of the data resource is omitted.

[0020] In a fourth possible implementation of the control unit according to the first aspect or according to any previous disclosed implementation thereof, the control unit can be further configured to temporarily reactivate the first wireless communication means at predetermined time intervals; and / or deactivate the first wireless communication means when the configuration data has been retrieved from the memory means of the configuration tag.

[0021] By deactivating the wireless communication means when they are not needed and activating them for a short time only when information exchange between the control unit and the configuration tag is needed, energy can be saved. Furthermore, signal interference with other nearby means capable of wireless signal conduction is eliminated or at least reduced.

[0022] According to a second aspect of the present application, the object is achieved by a configuration tag. The configuration tag is adapted for a milk analysis device. The configuration tag comprises a memory means which in turn comprises a reference symbol corresponding to a milk extraction device with which the milk analysis device is intended to work in cooperation. Furthermore, the configuration tag comprises second wireless communication means configured to communicate with a control unit of the milk analysis device via first wireless communication means of the milk analysis device. The memory means is configured to provide the configuration data of the milk extraction device intended to work in cooperation with the milk analysis device to the control unit of the milk analysis device via the second wireless communication means.

[0023] Hereby, by pre-storing and keeping the configuration data of the milk extraction device in the memory means of the configuration tag, the farmer's configuration process is simplified to applying the configuration tag pre-configured with the configuration data of the relevant milk extraction device to the milk analysis device.

[0024] Hereby, the costs, maintenance and work intensity associated with the management of the milk analysis device by the farmer is minimized or at least reduced.

[0025] In a first possible implementation of the configuration tag according to the second aspect, the memory means can be further configured to provide a reference indicator corresponding to the reference symbol of the configuration tag to the control unit of the milk analysis device via the second wireless communication means.

[0026] The configuration tag can hereby provide the pre-stored reference indicator of the configuration tag to the control unit of the milk analysis device which corresponds to the external reference symbol of the configuration tag. The farmer can thus configure / reconfigure the control unit of the milk analysis device with minimum effort by selecting and applying a configuration tag having a reference symbol corresponding to the relevant milk extraction device.

[0027] In a third possible implementation of the configuration tag according to the second aspect or any possible implementation thereof, the memory device can be configured to provide configuration data comprising a network location reference to a data resource from which additional configuration data related to the milk extraction device can be retrieved.

[0028] The related network location reference of the milk extraction device can then be provided without any additional intervention or manual input by the farmer. Time is thereby saved and the risk of the network location reference being misprinted is omitted.

[0029] In a third possible implementation of the configuration tag according to the second aspect or any possible implementation thereof, the memory device can be configured to provide configuration data comprising a network location reference to a data resource from which additional configuration data related to the milk extraction device can be retrieved.

[0030] The related network location reference of the milk extraction device can then be provided without any additional intervention or manual input by the farmer. Time is thereby saved and the risk of the network location reference being misprinted is omitted.

[0031] According to a third aspect of the present invention, the object is achieved by a system in an agricultural environment. The system comprises a control unit according to the first aspect or any possible implementation thereof. Further, the system comprises a configuration tag according to the second aspect or any possible implementation thereof. In addition, the system comprises a milk analysis device comprising a first wireless communication device for communicating with a memory device of the configuration tag via a second wireless communication device comprised in the configuration tag. The system comprises a milk extraction device operating in cooperation with the milk analysis device.

[0032] Hereby, the configuration process of the farmer is simplified to applying the configuration tag pre-configured with configuration data of the related milk extraction device to the milk analysis device by pre-storing and holding the configuration data of the milk extraction device in the memory device of the configuration tag.

[0033] Hereby, the costs, maintenance and work intensity associated with the management of the milk analysis device by the farmer is minimized or at least reduced.

[0034] Other advantages and additional novel features will be apparent from the following detailed description. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

[0035] Embodiments of the present invention will now be described in more detail with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0036] Figure 1An example of a device for measuring biomarker values of an animal milk sample is shown.

[0037] Figure 2A A cartridge inserted into a milk analysis apparatus according to an embodiment is shown.

[0038] Figure 2B A portion of a strip comprising a dry stick according to an embodiment is shown.

[0039] Figure 3A A configuration tag and a milk analysis apparatus according to an embodiment are shown.

[0040] Figure 3B A configuration tag and a milk analysis apparatus according to an embodiment are shown. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0041] Embodiments of the invention described herein are defined as control units and configuration tags, which can be put into practice in the embodiments described below. These embodiments may, however, be exemplified and implemented in many different forms and are not limited to the examples set forth herein; rather, providing illustrative examples of these embodiments enables the disclosure to be thorough and complete.

[0042] Other objects and features can become apparent from the following detailed description considered in conjunction with the accompanying drawings. It is to be understood, however, that the drawings are designed solely for purposes of illustration and not as a definition of the limits of the embodiments disclosed herein, for which reference is to be made to the appended claims. Further, the drawings are not necessarily drawn to scale and, unless otherwise indicated, they are merely intended to conceptually illustrate the structures and procedures described herein.

[0043] Figure 1 A scenario with a system 10 for analyzing milk of an animal 100, which can be comprised in a herd of dairy cows at a dairy farm, is shown.

[0044] The "animal" can be any type of domesticated female milk-producing and / or meat-producing mammal, such as a cow, a goat, a sheep, a horse, a camel, a primate, a dairy cow, a donkey, a yak, etc.

[0045] Milk of the animal 100 can be extracted by a milk extraction device or milking apparatus 110, such as e.g. a milking robot or other milking device, and provided to the milk analysis apparatus 120.

[0046] In some embodiments, the milk analysis apparatus 120 can be associated with the milk extraction device 110 and can even be releasably insertable into said milk extraction device. Thus, there can be an interface between the milk extraction device 110 and the milk analysis apparatus 120 for providing milk and possibly power from the milk extraction device 110 to the milk analysis apparatus 120.

[0047] The milk analysis device 120 comprises various electronics and devices, such as a camera, one or several pumps, a tube element for attachment to the interface of the milk extraction apparatus 110, a motor, a communication unit, etc.

[0048] The cartridge 130 can be removably inserted into the milk analysis device 120. The cartridge 130 can comprise a strip or similar with corresponding devices of milk analysis units, such as dry sticks / side flow sticks / side flow test strips or similar. When a milk sample is applied to a milk analysis unit, the milk analysis unit is configured to indicate a biomarker value of the milk sample of the animal 100, for example indicating progesterone in the milk sample by a side flow test.

[0049] In some embodiments, the cartridge 130 can be configured to be removably inserted into the milk analysis device 120 and secured in place by fastening means such as a snap lock, a magnet, a screw, etc., and a door of the milk analysis device 120 can be closed to enclose the cartridge 130 within the milk analysis device 120, thereby further securing the cartridge 130 in place. Thus, when all milk analysis units are used up, it is easy for the farmer to replace the cartridge 130, which is well protected from the harsh environment in the agricultural environment.

[0050] Furthermore, a liquid container 135 can be inserted or associated, i.e. physically connected to, the milk analysis device 120. The liquid container 135 can comprise a diluent, which can be used to dilute the extracted milk, and additionally or alternatively, to flush the tubing, needle, pump, etc. of the milk analysis device 120.

[0051] The tubing, needle, pump, etc. can be held in a dosing module. Thus, the tubing, needle and pump can be replaced at once.

[0052] Thereby, a milk sample of the animal 100 can be extracted from the animal 100 by the milk extraction apparatus 110 and provided to one of the milk analysis units on the strip of the cartridge 130 by the milk analysis device 120. The milk analysis unit can react to the presence and / or amount of one or several biomarkers, for example by changing color or intensity of color. A camera in the milk analysis device 120 can capture an image through an opening of the cartridge 130. The captured image of the milk analysis unit can then be analyzed by a control unit, and based on the intensity of the color, it can be determined from therefrom the presence and / or amount of the biomarker in the milk sample.

[0053] In different embodiments, the measured biomarker can be, for example, progesterone, glycoprotein, estrogen and / or gonadotropin-releasing hormone, or any other similar biomarker related to the reproduction or health of the animal 100.

[0054] Progesterone is a hormone that regulates over 100 physiological functions in animals 100. Progesterone can prepare the uterus for pregnancy, maintain pregnancy if fertilization occurs, and suppress the signs of estrus and ovulation in animals 100 during pregnancy. For example, progesterone levels can increase at the beginning of pregnancy and remain at a high level throughout pregnancy in animals 100. Progesterone levels in milk samples can be used to monitor pregnancy, estrous cycles (heat detection), and / or postpartum ovarian activity. For these reasons, it is interesting for a farmer to detect and track progesterone levels in animals 100 on the farm.

[0055] However, in some embodiments, the measured biomarker can comprise LDH (lactate dehydrogenase), BHB (beta-hydroxybutyric acid), urea, and / or somatic cell count; or other biomarkers related to the status of animals 100. In some embodiments, multiple of the above listed biomarkers can be measured. Alternatively, in some embodiments, the farmer can order a cartridge 130 comprising a specific milk analysis unit configured to measure a biomarker or a set of biomarkers selected by the farmer; and / or a different cartridge 130 comprising milk analysis units, e.g. on a tape, configured to measure different biomarkers or sets of biomarkers during different time periods of the year.

[0056] Hence, the milk analysis device 120 comprises several modules, like cartridges 130, dosing modules, and / or liquid containers 135, which will be replaced with new respective modules at specific time intervals, which can occur at different times for different modules.

[0057] When a milk analysis unit has been used up, the cartridge 130 with the milk analysis unit will be replaced. However, the number of milk analysis units used will depend on how often sampling is performed, how many milk analysis units are used per animal 100, and / or how many defective milk analysis units there are in the cartridge 130. For example, if the farmer is mainly interested in timed insemination of animals 100, samples can be taken from a specific animal 100 only around or just before the moment in time when estrus of that animal 100 is predicted. Animals 100, like cows and heifers, typically enter a heat period or estrus period every 17 to 24 days (on average 21 days), why the next estrus can be roughly predicted from the knowledge of the time point of the last estrus.

[0058] Another farmer can want to take milk samples in every milking event, e.g. in order to investigate the health status of specific animals 100. In addition, different cartridges 130 can comprise different numbers of milk analysis units. The time period between replacements of cartridges 130, dosing modules, and / or liquid containers 135 for different milk analysis devices 120 can thereby be different.

[0059] The dosing module comprises one or several pumps, such as a hose pump and a tube element for attachment to the milk extraction device 110. The one or several pumps can be configured to act on the tube element to propel a milk sample from the milk extraction device 110 through the tube element to the needle. The milk sample can then be diluted in the mixing chamber of the needle (or possibly in a separate mixing chamber, then provided to the needle) with diluent from the liquid container 135, and the diluted milk sample can then be applied from the needle to the milk analysis unit of the cartridge 130.

[0060] The various modules, i.e. the dosing module, the liquid container 135 and / or the cartridge 130, can comprise fastening means, e.g. in the form of a snap-fit arrangement, magnetic elements, threaded joints, etc., arranged to attach the respective module to the milk analysis apparatus 120.

[0061] The modular structure of the provided solution has several advantages. By keeping the device modular in the form of a dosing module, a liquid container 135 and a cartridge 130, it can be attached to the milk extraction device 110 of the farm; the cost, maintenance and work intensity for the farmer can be minimized or at least reduced. Furthermore, by separating consumable material, such as the milk analysis unit / measuring stick of the cartridge 130, from the easily-worn elements, such as the pumps of the dosing module, as well as the electronics and instruments of the milk analysis apparatus; the cartridge 130 can be continuously replaced with another replacement cartridge, e.g. by a courier service or a post office subscription.

[0062] On the other hand, the milk analysis apparatus 120 can be separated from the milk extraction device 110 and the dosing module / liquid container 135 / cartridge 130 in case of malfunction and be sent to a workshop for troubleshooting, repair, maintenance, etc.

[0063] At the same time, the same replacement milk analysis apparatus 120 can be provided to the farm, enabling continuous biomarker measurements at the farm, and furthermore, the old dosing module / liquid container 135 / cartridge 130 can be applied to the apparatus when the apparatus of the milk analysis apparatus 120 malfunctions.

[0064] Furthermore, the described device can be operated by the farmer without the need for a specially trained technician to visit the farm. Instead, the farmer can send the malfunctioning module to a workshop; or just replace it.

[0065] By keeping the diluent, the milk analysis unit and the tubing in separate modules, respectively, they can be protected from any possible influence of the farm environment.

[0066] However, a problem arises when the farm comprises a large number of milk extraction devices 110, for the farmer it can become a problem to keep track of which milk analysis apparatus 120 to configure and use for the different milk extraction devices 110.

[0067] For example, in some farms, the milk extraction device 110 can be more numerous than the milk analysis apparatus 120, and the milk analysis apparatus 120 can be changed between different milk extraction devices 110.

[0068] To this end, a configuration tag 125 is introduced, comprising a memory device in which configuration data is stored, said memory device corresponding to a milk extraction device 110 and / or a reference indicator of a milk extraction device 110. The configuration tag 125 can also comprise an external reference symbol 115 of a milk extraction device 110, said milk analysis apparatus 120 being intended to work in synergy with said milk extraction device.

[0069] Thus, it is easy for a farmer to configure the milk analysis apparatus 120 and to keep track of the combination milk analysis apparatus 120 / milk extraction device 110.

[0070] Figure 1 And Figure 2A A general overview of the environment in which the milk extraction device 110, the milk analysis apparatus 120, the cartridge 130, the liquid container 135 and the dosing module according to the solution provided are intended to operate is depicted without further elaboration in order for the reader to have a general idea. The details of the band can be studied in Figure 2B The sublimated example of the band is shown. Figure 3A Particular aspects of the solution provided are shown, while Figure 3B The details of the disclosed solution are presented.

[0071] Figure 2A And 2B Scenarios illustrating the milk analysis apparatus 120, the cartridge 130, the liquid container 135 and the dosing module interacting with each other and with the milk extraction device 110 according to embodiments are shown.

[0072] The milk analysis apparatus 120 can comprise electronics and devices, such as for example a camera, a tube element for attachment to the milk extraction device 110, a motor, a communication unit, etc., for determining biological characteristic values of a milk sample received from the animal 100. In some embodiments, one or several pumps and conduits are comprised in the dosing module. The pump is configured to act on the tube element to propel the milk sample from the milk extraction device 110 through the tube element to reach a needle; or a mixing chamber of the needle. The mixing chamber can alternatively be external to the needle. The tube element is configured to receive a milk sample of the animal 100 through the milk extraction device 110 and to provide the milk sample to the needle, i.e. the needle comprised in the dosing module.

[0073] In the illustrated embodiment, the dosing module can include a needle for applying the milk sample through an opening in the cartridge 130 to the milk analysis units 260a, 260b, 260c on the tape 250 in the cartridge 130. In one embodiment, the camera can then align the needle with the milk analysis units 260a, 260b, 260c on the tape 250 in the cartridge 130. The milk analysis units 260a, 260b, 260c can not necessarily remain on the tape 250, but other similar solutions can be applied in which the milk analysis units 260a, 260b, 260c can remain on another similar substrate.

[0074] The cartridge 130 can include a known number of milk analysis units 260a, 260b, 260c, such as 400 or 500, etc.

[0075] The milk analysis units 260a, 260b, 260c can for example include individually sealed lateral flow sticks. The lateral flow sticks can be arranged to indicate a biomarker in the milk sample of the animal 100 when a lateral flow test is performed. The lateral flow sticks can include a sample pad with antibody-treated gold particles that disperse into the milk sample when applied to the sample pad, and an absorbent pad for receiving a capillary flow of the milk sample from the sample pad. The absorbent pad in turn can include a test line treated with a biomarker reference that binds the antibody-treated gold particles of the milk sample, thereby causing the test line to change color when exposed to milk including a biomarker level below a threshold limit. The absorbent pad can also include a control line treated with an antibody reference that binds the antibody-treated gold particles of the milk sample regardless of the progesterone level in the milk, thereby causing the control line to change color when exposed to milk including the antibody-treated gold particles.

[0076] The dosing module can also include a liquid evacuator or drain that can collect liquid that has been output through the needle. In some embodiments, when only milk is included, the liquid can be returned to the milk line / milk extraction device 110. In other embodiments, when milk has been mixed with a diluent, the liquid can be conveyed away from the cartridge 130 so as not to soak or contaminate other unused milk analysis units 260a, 260b, 260c of the tape 250 on the cartridge 130.

[0077] The camera can capture images of the milk analysis units 260a, 260b, 260c of the tape 250 through the opening, and based on these images, the cartridge-external motor can adjust the tape 250 to position new milk analysis units 260a, 260b, 260c relative to the needle on which new tests are performed.

[0078] The milk analysis device 120 can further comprise a communication means that can communicate with an output unit, a database, a farmer's communication device, etc. through a wired or wireless communication interface.

[0079] The control unit can be configured to determine biomarker values of the milk sample of the animal 100 based on an analysis of images captured by the camera. In some embodiments, the control unit can be comprised in the milk analysis device 120; or external to the milk analysis device 120.

[0080] The database can store measured biometric values of the animal 100 in association with an identity reference of the animal 100 and / or a timestamp of the measurement. Other measurements and / or data related to the animal 100 can also be stored in the database, such as milk production, e.g. measured by a milk flow meter, activity, breed, parity, ruminating, milking, resting, feed intake, energy balance, days in milk, milk yield, age and possibly other similar animal status related parameters.

[0081] When a deviation exceeding a first threshold is detected between the result of the biomarker measurement and the corresponding reference value, an alert can be output to the farmer or other responsible person. The alert can comprise e.g. visual information, audio information, haptic signals or a combination thereof, thereby encouraging the farmer to further investigate the cause of the detected deviation of the result. In some embodiments, where multiple persons work with the herd, the alert can be broadcasted to multiple farmers and their respective associated output units.

[0082] Figure 3A The milk analysis device 120 is shown in cooperation with the milk pipeline / milk extraction device 110. A configuration tag 125 is applied to the milk analysis device 120. The configuration tag 125 comprises a reference symbol 115 of the milk extraction device 110. The reference symbol 115 is a visual marker, such as e.g. an integer, a letter, a geometric shape, a color, a string of letters, etc.

[0083] When the farmer wants to use a certain milk analysis device 120 on a specific milk extraction device 110, he / she can select the configuration tag 125 having an external reference symbol 115 corresponding to the visual marker of the milk extraction device 110.

[0084] A set of visual markers (e.g. integers, letters, geometric shapes, colors, strings of letters, etc.) corresponding to the visual markers on the reference symbol 115 of the configuration tag 125 is provided to the farmer. The farmer can then apply one visual marker on each milk extraction device 110 and thereby impregnate it, e.g. impregnate it with "1", red, "A", etc. Thus, when mounted to a specific milk extraction device 110, the farmer is reminded about which configuration tag 125 to apply to the milk analysis apparatus 120, thereby reducing the risk of confusion.

[0085] Figure 3B The milk analysis apparatus 120 and the configuration tag 125 are shown.

[0086] The milk analysis apparatus 120 comprises a first wireless communication device 310. The first wireless communication device 310 is configured to wirelessly communicate with a second wireless communication device 320 comprised in the configuration tag 125. The wireless communication between the devices 310, 320 can be performed by, e.g., near field communication (NFC) communication, Bluetooth, radio frequency identification (RFID), or other similar short-range wireless communication.

[0087] The milk analysis apparatus 120 can further comprise or be associated with a control unit 340, while the configuration tag 125 can comprise a memory device 330 for storing data. The control unit 340 can optionally be located outside the milk analysis apparatus 120, but still in communication contact with the first wireless communication device 310.

[0088] The control unit 340 of the milk analysis apparatus 120 can thereby obtain information from the configuration tag 125, which information is stored in the memory device 330 of the configuration tag 125.

[0089] The control unit 340 of the milk analysis apparatus 120 is thus configured to retrieve, by means of the first wireless communication device 310, configuration data of a milk extraction device 110 intended to operate in cooperation with the milk analysis apparatus 120 from the memory device 330 of the configuration tag 125. The control unit 340 is further configured to configure the control unit 340 based on the retrieved configuration data of the milk extraction device 110.

[0090] The control unit 340 can further be configured to store the obtained information of the configuration tag 125, such as the reference indicator, in a local memory device 350. Thereby, the control unit 340 can monitor and detect that the configuration tag 125 has been replaced by another configuration tag 125 dedicated to another milk extraction device 110, which triggers a reconfiguration.

[0091] This fundamentally facilitates the installation and configuration of the milk analysis device 120 in relation to the milk extraction apparatus 110. It also becomes very easy for the farmer to reconfigure the milk analysis device 120 and use it on another milk extraction apparatus 110, simply by changing the configuration tag 125 of the milk analysis device 120, wherein the memory device 330 of the configuration tag 125 is preconfigured with an index number or other similar reference to the relevant milk extraction apparatus 110, corresponding to the external reference symbol 115 of the configuration tag 125; and / or the IP address of the milk extraction apparatus 110.

[0092] The milk analysis device 120 can have a dedicated position where the configuration tag 125 will be fixed during installation, so that the communication devices 310, 320 can wirelessly communicate with each other. This can be fastened by means of an adhesive backing layer on the configuration tag 125; or alternatively, by means of a band, magnetic fastener, snap lock, screw, etc. The dedicated position can be indicated by means of a marker, descriptive text, banner, outline of a graphic shape similar to the shape of the configuration tag 125, etc.

[0093] In the event of replacement of the milk analysis device 120, the configuration tag 125 can be detached and applied to the dedicated position of the replacement milk analysis device 120. Hereby, the configuration of the milk analysis device 120 is fundamentally simplified, which is time- and labour-saving for the farmer.

[0094] The retrieved configuration data comprises a reference indicator corresponding to the reference symbol 115 of the configuration tag 125. The reference indicator is a number corresponding to the number of the external reference symbol 115 of the configuration tag 125. Thus, when the external reference symbol 115 is "1", the reference indicator is the integer "1", etc. The reference indicator is stored in the memory device 330 of the configuration tag 125 when the configuration tag 125 is produced, so that it is determined that the reference indicator corresponds to the external reference symbol 115 of the configuration tag 125.

[0095] The control unit 340 can be configured to check whether the retrieved reference indicator corresponds to the milk extraction apparatus 110 that is currently cooperating with the milk analysis device 120. Thus, the control unit 340 can use the currently retrieved reference indicator of the configuration tag 125, which is stored in the memory device 330 of the configuration tag 125, to extract the reference indicator previously stored in the local memory device 350.

[0096] When the previously stored reference indicator is different from the reference indicator of the configuration tag 125, it means that the configuration tag 125 has been replaced and thus also that the farmer wants to associate the milk analysis device 120 with another milk extraction arrangement 110. Therefore, a reconfiguration has to be performed. The control unit 340 can then be reconfigured to work in cooperation with the milk extraction arrangement 110 as indicated by the retrieved reference indicator of the configuration tag 125.

[0097] In the opposite case, i.e. when the previously stored reference indicator is the same as the reference indicator of the configuration tag 125, it means that the same configuration tag 125 as the last time is used, or alternatively, a similar configuration tag 125 with the same external reference symbol 115 and reference indicator in the memory device 330. No new configuration is needed. The control unit 340 can then be configured to deactivate the first wireless communication device 310 when the reference indicator corresponds to the milk extraction arrangement 110 according to the reference indicator previously stored in the memory device 350.

[0098] The control unit 340 can check whether the configuration tag 125 has changed at predetermined or configurable time intervals, or alternatively at a moment just before the milk analysis device 120 is about to perform a test session.

[0099] Thereby, no uncertainty is introduced regarding which milk analysis device 120 is associated with which milk extraction arrangement 110.

[0100] The retrieved configuration data can comprise a network location reference to the milk extraction arrangement 110, such as an IP address.

[0101] In yet further embodiments, the retrieved configuration data can comprise a network location reference to a data resource 350 from which additional configuration data related to the milk extraction arrangement 110 can be retrieved. For example, information about the reference to the milk extraction arrangement 110 and / or the IP address of the milk extraction arrangement 110 can be retrieved from a database or from a device with another IP address.

[0102] The control unit 340 can also be configured to temporarily reactivate the first wireless communication device 310 at predetermined time intervals and / or to deactivate the first wireless communication device 310 when configuration data has been retrieved from the memory device 330 of the configuration tag 125.

[0103] Thereby, the wireless communication devices 310, 320 can be kept active for as short time periods as possible. Transmission interference to other wireless communication devices in the vicinity is thereby avoided or at least reduced. Furthermore, energy is also saved.

[0104] Upon delivery of the milk analysis device 120, the farmer can be provided with a set of configuration tags 125, each pre-configured with configuration data for the milk extraction arrangement 110.

[0105] Thereby, the work of the agricultural manager / farmer is further facilitated.

[0106] Figure 1 Figure 2A Figure 2B Figure 3A and / or Figure 3B Embodiments shown in the above-mentioned documents or parts thereof can advantageously be combined with each other to obtain additional benefits.

[0107] The terminology used in the description of the embodiments as shown in the drawings is not intended to limit the described control unit 340, configuration tag 125, dosing module, liquid container 135, cartridge 130, milk analysis device 120 and / or system 10. Various changes, substitutions and / or alterations can be made without departing from the embodiments of the invention as defined by the appended claims.

[0108] 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" is to be interpreted as the mathematical OR, i.e. inclusive disjunction; unless otherwise indicated, it is not to be interpreted as the mathematical XOR (XOR). Furthermore, unless otherwise indicated, the singular forms "a", "an" and "the" are to be construed as "at least one", it being also possible that more than one of the same entity can be present. It will be further understood that the terms "includes", "comprises", "including" and / or "comprising", specifies the presence of stated features, actions, integers, steps, operations, elements, and / or components but does not preclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, actions, integers, steps, operations, elements, components, and / or groups thereof. A single unit, such as for example a processor, can fulfill the functions of several items recited in the claims. The mere fact that certain measures or features are recited in mutually different dependent claims, in different combinations of claims, or in conjunction with different embodiments does not indicate that a combination of these measures or features cannot be used to advantage. A computer program can be stored / distributed on a suitable medium, such as an optical storage medium or a solid-state storage medium 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 telecommunication systems.​​​

Claims

1. A control unit (340) for a milk analysis device (120), the milk analysis device including a first wireless communication device (310) configured to communicate with a memory device (330) of a configuration tag (125) applied to the milk analysis device (120), the configuration tag (125) having a reference symbol (115) corresponding to a visual identifier of a milk extraction device (110) associated with the configuration tag, the milk analysis device (120) intended to work in conjunction with the milk extraction device (110), wherein the communication is performed via a second wireless communication device (320) included in the configuration tag (125); wherein the control unit (340) is configured to: Configuration data of the milk extraction device (110) intended to operate in conjunction with the milk analysis device (120) is retrieved from the memory device (330) of the configuration tag (125) via the first wireless communication device (310), wherein the retrieved configuration data includes a reference indicator corresponding to the reference symbol (115) of the configuration tag (125); Check whether the retrieved reference indicator corresponds to the milk extraction device (110) that is currently working in conjunction with the milk analysis device (120); as well as The first wireless communication device (310) is deactivated when the reference indicator corresponds to the milk extraction device (110).

2. The control unit (340) according to claim 1, wherein the retrieved configuration data includes a network location reference for the milk extraction device (110).

3. The control unit (340) according to claim 1, wherein the retrieved configuration data includes a network location reference for a data resource (350), from which additional configuration data related to the milk extraction device (110) can be retrieved.

4. A control unit (340) for a milk analysis device (120), the milk analysis device including a first wireless communication device (310) configured to communicate with a memory device (330) of a configuration tag (125) applied to the milk analysis device (120), the configuration tag (125) having a reference symbol (115) corresponding to a visual identifier of a milk extraction device (110) associated with the configuration tag, the milk analysis device (120) intended to work in conjunction with the milk extraction device (110), wherein the communication is performed via a second wireless communication device (320) included in the configuration tag (125); wherein the control unit (340) is configured to: The first wireless communication device (310) is temporarily activated at predetermined time intervals; Configuration data of the milk extraction device (110) intended to operate in conjunction with the milk analysis device (120) is retrieved from the memory device (330) of the configuration tag (125) via the first wireless communication device (310), wherein the retrieved configuration data includes a reference indicator corresponding to the reference symbol (115) of the configuration tag (125); and After the configuration data has been retrieved, the first wireless communication device (310) is deactivated.

5. A system (10) comprising: A milk analysis device (120), the milk analysis device including a first wireless communication device (310), the milk analysis device further including a control unit (340) according to any one of claims 1 to 4; and A milk extraction device (110) that operates in conjunction with a milk analysis device (120); A configuration tag (125) is applied to the milk analysis device (120), the configuration tag (125) including a memory device (330) including a reference symbol (115) corresponding to a milk extraction device (110) intended to operate in conjunction with the milk analysis device (120), and a second wireless communication device (320) configured to communicate with a control unit (340) of the milk analysis device (120) via a first wireless communication device (310) of the milk analysis device (120); wherein the memory device (330) is configured to provide configuration data of the milk extraction device (110) intended to operate in conjunction with the milk analysis device (120) to the control unit (340) of the milk analysis device (120) via the second wireless communication device (320).

6. The system (10) according to claim 5, wherein the memory device (330) is configured to: The second wireless communication device (320) provides the control unit (340) of the milk analysis device (120) with a reference indicator corresponding to the reference symbol (115) of the configuration label (125).

7. The system (10) according to claim 6, wherein the memory device (330) is configured to: Configuration data is provided, which includes a network location reference for the milk extraction device (110).

8. The system (10) according to any one of claims 5 to 7, wherein the memory device (330) is configured to: Configuration data is provided, including a network location reference for a data resource (350), from which additional configuration data related to the milk extraction device (110) can be retrieved.

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