Equipment to increase efficiency in milking dairy animals

Abstract

Inlet valve (150) for a milking cup (200) for controlled inlet of air and / or gas into a milk drainage area of ​​the milking cup, with a valve body (151) with a controllable flow channel (151A) which opens onto a sealing surface (151E), an elastic membrane (152) which can be subjected to pressure prevailing in a pulsation chamber of the milking cup (200) on a first side (152C) and has a sealing element (152A) as a component of the membrane (152) on a second side (152B), which is formed as a unit with the membrane (152) and which in a first position closes the flow channel (151A) by bearing against the sealing surface (151E), wherein the membrane (152) and the sealing element (152A) are manufactured as a single-piece product, and a spring element (154) which is coupled to the elastic membrane (152) to pre-tension it towards the sealing surface (151E), so that in a second position of the sealing body (152A) the flow channel (151A) is open.

Description

[0001] The present invention relates generally to the field of milking technology and in particular to the area of ​​the actual milking process, wherein milk is extracted from a teat via a milking cup by means of a milking system.

[0002] Dairy cows are predominantly milked using automated or at least semi-automated milking systems. These systems generally consist of a vacuum pump that generates the operating vacuum, a milk line that carries milk from several milking stalls, and usually several milking units. The milking units typically have a number of teat cups appropriate to the specific animal species. These cups are attached to the animal's teats and adhere to them due to the operating vacuum created by the pump.

[0003] Depending on the milking strategy used, milk extraction is carried out with or without stimulation of the animal, typically involving a pulsating flow of milk from the teat. This means the milking cup is equipped with a flexible teat cup insert, which is inserted into a teat cup sleeve and mechanically stabilized by the sleeve. The insert is also connected to the necessary fittings for draining the extracted milk. The flexible teat cup insert forms a pulsation chamber with the outer wall of the teat cup sleeve, which is alternately subjected to pressure and vacuum. When the pulsation chamber is pressurized, for example, to atmospheric pressure, the teat cup insert folds inward. During this phase, the flexible teat cup is pressed much more firmly against the teat, usually resulting in the closure of the teat canal and thus interrupting the flow of milk from the teat.Simultaneously, this folding of the teat cup creates a massaging effect on the teat. Conversely, when the pulsation chamber is subjected to negative pressure, the elastic teat cup unfolds due to its inherent elasticity and the lack of or very low pressure differential between the outer wall and the interior of the teat cup, thus relieving the lateral pressure on the teat canal. This allows for essentially unimpeded milk flow due to the existing operating negative pressure. The frequency and corresponding durations of these phases are generally adjustable based on animal-specific characteristics and can range from 40 to 70 pulses per minute in larger dairy animals and up to 120 or more in smaller dairy animals, such as sheep and goats.

[0004] Although this milking technique has generally proven successful, certain factors must still be considered. For example, at the beginning of the teat cup folding phase, also known as the relief phase, a massaging effect is achieved on the teat, interrupting the milk flow. This causes the milk already present in the milk tube to form a kind of milk plug, which must then be drained through the milk line. However, during the drainage of this milk plug, the negative pressure above it—that is, between the teat and the plug—can increase due to the plug's initial movement and the resulting increase in volume. This reduces the pressure difference between the suction-based operating negative pressure in the milk line and the increasing negative pressure between the teat and the milk plug, thus hindering the milk's drainage.Furthermore, the increase in negative pressure on the teat during the actual release phase is also disadvantageous, as it experiences a massaging effect but is simultaneously subjected to greater stress due to the increased negative pressure. When switching to the suckling phase, i.e., when the teat cup folds away, the previously formed milk plug can potentially be accelerated back towards the teat, leading to an undesirable, highly turbulent flow or even wetting of the teat. This means that the milk's ability to drain is generally reduced due to the small pressure difference after the milk plug is formed, and furthermore, the pulsating nature of milking can result in very turbulent flow conditions.

[0005] Therefore, to ensure satisfactory milk drainage, the operating vacuum is often increased accordingly; that is, a greater pressure differential is created between the atmosphere and the pressure in the milk duct system to force sufficient milk drainage under all circumstances. However, the higher vacuum can potentially have adverse effects on the teat due to the increased pressure and can also contribute to greater turbulence, although the desired level of milk extraction can generally be achieved. Other strategies additionally or alternatively attempt to introduce air into the milk duct at appropriate points to counteract the reduction in pressure differential during the expulsion of a milk plug.Therefore, air inlet openings are provided at appropriate locations to allow a continuous supply of outside air, thus reducing the occurrence of large pressure differences during milk removal. However, this measure represents a compromise between the generally increased power required of the vacuum pump, which must compensate for the introduction of the additional air to maintain a desired average operating vacuum, and the goal of keeping the pressure difference between the pressure under the teat and the rest of the milk line as low as possible, particularly during the release phase.

[0006] In other systems, a periodic, i.e., controlled, air intake is implemented, synchronized with the pulsation, so that air is specifically introduced during the phase of milk plug drainage. This prevents an increase in negative pressure under the teat or even creates a slight pressure increase, so that the resulting pressure difference between the beginning of the milk plug and the milk duct promotes efficient milk flow and also essentially prevents the milk plug from accelerating back towards the teat at the start of the next suckling phase.Because air is only introduced during a specific phase, it's possible to introduce a larger volume of air within a short time interval. However, on average, no more air, or possibly even less, is introduced into the entire milk duct system compared to continuous air intake, so the additional power required by the vacuum pump remains minimal. For this purpose, so-called air inlet valves are used. While they perform the desired function in principle, they have a complex design.

[0007] Another problem associated with milk flow and the introduction of additional air into the milk is the fact that, generally, the quality of the milk can be adversely affected when it comes into contact with air. Without limiting the present application to a mere theory, it is nevertheless assumed that, in particular, contact between air and more or less turbulently flowing milk, or even "frothy" milk in the milk line—as can be caused, for example, by extremely turbulent flow conditions—leads to an interaction with the free fatty acids in the milk, thereby increasing their oxidation.It is assumed that this interaction of the air with the free fatty acids or other components of the milk, in particular, favored by a large surface area of ​​the turbulently flowing or "foamed" milk, leads at least to a significant impairment of the milk's taste, so that, for example, certain dairy products suffer significant losses in quality.

[0008] Another important factor for milk quality is the mechanical "damage" to the milk, particularly during the process of transferring it from the teat into a milk container, as well as during temporary storage and transport to the dairy. It is assumed that the mechanical interaction of milk components, such as fat droplets, with the components involved in the milk transfer leads to the premature release of enzymes, which then alters the milk's properties in a way that is undesirable at this stage of milk production.

[0009] The publication DE 25 23 465 A1 describes a vacuum relief valve in a milking cup, wherein the vacuum relief valve is connected to the vacuum area by a line running outside the cup sleeve.

[0010] The publication EP 0 131 646 B1 describes an air inlet valve which, controlled by negative pressure, introduces air into the milk drainage chamber of a milking cup or a milk collection piece, with the connecting line provided for this purpose opening into the valve seat surface.

[0011] Document WO 2008 / 031 818 A1 describes an arrangement of teat rubber and milk hose, wherein the milk hose is curved and a flow channel for outside air is provided in the curve, so that the incoming air and the milk to be discharged have the same flow direction.

[0012] In view of the situation described above, it is therefore an object of the present invention to provide means which can generally contribute to an increase in the efficiency of milk drainage from the teat to a milk line, in order to at least mitigate one of the aforementioned disadvantages, and at the same time achieve a high degree of compatibility with animal health.

[0013] According to the invention, this problem is solved by the arrangements whose features are specified in claims 1, 10 and 18. Further advantageous embodiments are described in the dependent claims.

[0014] According to one aspect of the present invention, the aforementioned problem is solved by an inlet valve for a milking cup for the controlled inlet of air and / or gas into a milk drainage area of ​​the milking cup according to claim 1. The inlet valve comprises, among other things, a valve body with a controllable flow channel that opens onto a sealing surface. The valve further comprises an elastic diaphragm that, on a first side, can be subjected to pressure prevailing in a pulsation chamber of the milking cup and, on a second side, has a sealing element formed as a unit with the diaphragm, which, in a first position, closes the flow channel by bearing against the sealing surface. The inlet valve further comprises a spring element that is coupled to the elastic diaphragm in order to pre-tension it towards the sealing surface, so that, in a second position of the sealing element, the flow channel is open.

[0015] The inlet valve according to the invention allows a controlled inlet of air and / or gas and is connected to the pulsation chamber of the milking cup for this purpose. The connection is made via an elastic diaphragm, which on the one hand can absorb the pressure prevailing in the pulsation chamber and on the other hand can press a sealing element, provided as a unit with the diaphragm, against a sealing surface. In particular, the design with a diaphragm and sealing element as a unit leads to extremely reliable operation, since the reduction in the number of components, especially for the mechanism for sealing the flow channel, significantly reduces the probability of a malfunction.This ensures a reliable and controlled supply of air and / or gas, as, unlike conventional air inlet valves, the error rate during milking is significantly reduced. Such errors can otherwise lead to a long-unnoticed reduction in efficiency or even a significant obstruction of milk flow in conventional inlet valves. Furthermore, the integrated design of the diaphragm and sealing element offers a significant advantage in manufacturing, resulting in substantial cost reductions and consistently high quality compared to arrangements with multiple components between the diaphragm and sealing element.

[0016] In particular, the elastic membrane and the sealing element, which is assembled as a single unit, are made of the same material. This further simplifies the entire manufacturing process and also reduces manufacturing tolerances between the individual membrane components, since, for example, a manufacturing process can be carried out using a single mold, thus achieving high reproducibility and low manufacturing deviations even with high production volumes. In particularly advantageous embodiments, not only is the same material used, but the membrane and sealing element are manufactured as a single, i.e., integral, component.

[0017] In a further advantageous embodiment, the valve body has a connection in flow communication with the flow channel for connecting a line to the air and / or gas inlet in the milking cup, and the connection element has a locking element for securing the line. This embodiment thus provides an efficient way to attach the line to the valve body in a simple and reliable manner, making unintentional removal of the line from the valve body virtually impossible. This increases operational reliability, as even under frequent mechanical stresses, such as those occurring in daily milking operations, a reliable connection between the valve body and the gas inlet line is ensured.In conjunction with the previously described increased operational reliability due to reduced component tolerances and lower susceptibility to errors, an even higher level of reliability and thus consistent quality in milk drainage is achieved.

[0018] In another embodiment, a complementary locking element is provided on the pipe, which can be detachably engaged with the locking element of the connection. This means that reliable locking of the pipe to the valve body can be achieved through simple design measures on both the valve body and pipe sides, eliminating the need for further measures or the manufacture of additional components. In other words, reliable locking is achieved by the locking elements, which can be formed with high structural accuracy and uniformity during the manufacturing process of the respective component.

[0019] In a further advantageous embodiment, the line is designed such that an air and / or gas outlet point can be positioned in an area with low milk exposure. In this embodiment, the position of the outlet point is determined by design measures, i.e., by the geometry and / or dimensions, in such a way that, on the one hand, the advantageous effects of pressure regulation during milk drainage are achieved to the greatest extent possible, for example, by introducing ambient air in a controlled manner into a milk drainage area and at a point that ensures a desired high pressure gradient for the removal of the milk plug. On the other hand, however, any potential negative influence of the line and the gas transported within it is minimized by providing a location with reduced milk exposure as the outlet point. This involves an area or...A low milk exposure zone can be understood as a location where, during the operation of a milking cup, particularly during active milking (i.e., when the milking cup is attached to the cow's teat), but also in situations where the milking cup is removed from the teat but remains connected to the milk hose at an angle, containing residual milk that has not yet been removed, a more favorable operating behavior results. The low milk exposure zone therefore represents a location where the probability of "direct" air and / or gas being blown into turbulent or even calmly flowing milk is reduced.In both situations, areas can be identified in the milk drainage area and / or in the part of a milk tube adjacent to the milking cup where milk is present with a significantly lower concentration and / or frequency than in the remaining areas of the milk drainage area or the milk tube.

[0020] In the present design variant, constructive measures ensure that the air and / or gas release occurs in an area with minimal milk exposure. This allows the air and / or gas to be effectively introduced during active milking, for example, at the beginning of the release phase. This creates a brief reduction in negative pressure across the milk plug, enabling its efficient removal, as previously explained. Furthermore, direct contact with the milk flow is largely avoided, thus minimizing adverse effects such as milk foaming.A further advantage is that positioning the hose in an area with low milk exposure also ensures that, in other situations—such as when the milking cup is tilted after being removed from the teat, and especially when the milk hose is connected to the milking cup at an angle—any milk remaining in the hose collects preferentially at the lowest point, which lies outside this area. Therefore, by selecting a position in an area with low milk exposure, contact with the air and / or gas outlet of the hose is minimized in these situations as well, thus preventing residual milk from entering the hose and ultimately reducing the risk of the inlet valve becoming contaminated.When using the inlet valve in conjunction with a milking cup that has an angled connection for the milk hose, a position in an area with low milk exposure can be selected such that the outlet point of the line connected to the inlet valve is positioned at least outside the longitudinal portion of the milk drainage area of ​​the milking cup and thus is not directly in the direction of the flow of the milk. In particular, in some embodiments, the air and / or gas outlet point of the line extends at least 5 mm or more into the angled connection, or in other embodiments, it projects beyond the connection nozzle of the milking cup.Preferably, at least the air and / or gas outlet point of the line is located off-center and is offset upwards with respect to the cross-section of the connection to the milk hose connection, so that in the case of a milk flow that does not fill the entire cross-section, there is a high probability that the air and / or gas outlet point is not in contact with the milk flow.

[0021] In a further advantageous embodiment, a force transmission element is provided between the spring element and the elastic membrane. This force transmission element is a component that enables reliable mechanical coupling between the spring element and the membrane while preventing direct contact between the spring element and the membrane. In this way, the force transmission element can be designed to be adapted to the dimensions and characteristics of the spring element on the one hand, and to ensure reliable and gentle contact with the elastic membrane on the other. Preferably, the force transmission element and / or the elastic membrane include a centering element.This design ensures the correct positioning of the force transmission element without requiring any attention to its correct orientation during assembly or disassembly of the inlet valve. Centering can be achieved, for example, by a pin on the force transmission element and a complementary recess in the diaphragm, or by a reverse design in which the diaphragm has a pin and a complementary recess in the force transmission element.

[0022] In a further embodiment, a self-positioning cover is provided, which can be locked onto the valve body by means of a snap-fit ​​mechanism. The cover, which protects the integrity of the components inside the valve body, is designed to achieve rapid yet reliable mechanical locking. The self-positioning feature of the cover ensures that minimal effort is required, particularly during assembly or reassembly, for example, after a cleaning inspection. This allows for the straightforward installation of at least the inlet valve, even in situations requiring short-notice, unplanned inspection and, if necessary, cleaning.

[0023] In another embodiment, a sieve is provided on the valve body opposite the cover. This sieve is made of an elastic material in such a way that it also achieves the necessary sealing effect when the inlet valve is connected to a cleaning system. That is, the circumferential area is designed as a sealing surface.

[0024] In an advantageous embodiment, the number of individual components of the inlet valve, when it is in its operational state, is seven or fewer, excluding the air and / or gas inlet line. This means that the inlet valve according to the invention significantly reduces the total number of components required compared to conventional inlet valves. As a result of the smaller number of components and the associated reduction in overall manufacturing tolerances, consistent performance is achieved. This significantly increases operational reliability and also offers the possibility of considerably reducing overall manufacturing costs.

[0025] According to a further aspect of the present invention, the aforementioned problem is solved by a milking cup according to claim 10, which has a first connection area that is in flow communication with a milk drainage area or serves to receive and guide the milk drainage area, for example, if the milking cup has additional means for connection with a flexible teat holder and the first connection area merely provides an opening in the milking cup sleeve and optionally a mechanical guide for a milk tube or an extended section of the elastic teat holder. Furthermore, a second connection area is provided which, when the elastic teat holder is installed in the milking cup and ready for operation, is in flow communication with the pulsation chamber formed between an outer surface of the teat holder and a wall of the milking cup.The milking cup according to the invention further comprises a first opening for receiving an inlet valve, as described above or as described in more detail below. Furthermore, a second opening is provided for introducing an inlet line or a line for an air and / or gas flow controlled by the inlet valve.

[0026] The milking cup according to this aspect of the present invention is therefore a milking cup equipped with the inlet valve described herein, resulting in the aforementioned advantages with regard to controlled air and / or gas inlet, particularly increased operational reliability, reduced acquisition costs, and improved milk quality. This is especially true when the inlet valve according to the invention is operated together with an inlet line or a line connecting the inlet valve to the milk outlet, the outlet of which can be suitably positioned. In a particularly advantageous embodiment, the air and / or gas outlet of the inlet line is positioned in an area with low milk exposure. The resulting operating characteristics and advantages have already been explained.

[0027] In one variant, the first connection point is angled and extends from the wall, and the inlet line is designed so that the air and / or gas outlet point of the inlet line is located either within or outside the angled connection of the milking cup. This means that in this variant with an angled connection for a milk hose, the positioning of the air and / or gas outlet point is achieved in such a way as to ensure minimal milk exposure by placing the air and / or gas outlet point at least within or beyond the angled connection.

[0028] Preferably, the inlet pipe is positioned in the angled connection such that the air and / or gas outlet point is offset upwards and off-center with respect to the cross-section of the angled connection. As previously explained, this ensures that direct contact with milk is avoided as much as possible in many operating situations, so that, on average, the air and / or gas outlet point positioned in this way is located in an area with low milk exposure. The resulting advantages regarding the ingress of air and / or gas into the milk stream and the behavior in the event of backflow, particularly when the milking cup is tilted, have already been explained in connection with the inlet valve.

[0029] In another embodiment, the air and / or gas outlet point of the inlet line is designed to restrict the ingress of liquid. This reduces the likelihood of milk entering the system during periods of potential contact, thereby also reducing the risk of milk entering the inlet valve. This significantly increases the operational reliability of the inlet valve. The restriction of liquid ingress can be achieved using suitable means such as a lip seal, a spring-loaded valve, or similar devices. In advantageous embodiments, a portion of the line is designed to reduce the flow velocity of the exiting air or gas.This minimizes the mechanical impact on the milk, thus reducing the negative effects associated with mechanical stress on the milk, as described in the introduction. It also reduces the tendency for foaming.

[0030] In a further advantageous embodiment, the first connection area is arranged longitudinally along the milking cup, and the inlet line is angled so that a portion of the inlet line runs in the direction of flow. In this embodiment, the milk is essentially drawn from at least the first connection into the milk hose in the direction of flow or longitudinal direction of the milking cup, and the inlet line is angled so that at least a portion of it runs in the direction of flow. This positions the air and / or gas outlet point so that the air and / or gas exits in the direction of milk flow. This significantly reduces undesirable turbulence in the milk flow.Furthermore, in advantageous versions, the portion of the inlet pipe exposed to the milk flow is shaped to optimize flow, thus avoiding unnecessary interference with the milk flow and ensuring that air and / or gas exit in the direction of flow of a largely non-turbulent milk stream. This also achieves the beneficial effect of increasing the pressure differential between the outgoing milk plug and the operating vacuum, while reducing the influence of air and / or gas on individual milk droplets, i.e., "frothy" areas of the milk.

[0031] In a further advantageous embodiment, a closable maintenance opening is provided, which is connected to the milk drainage area. This maintenance opening allows for quick and easy inspection and, if necessary, cleaning of at least part of the milk drainage area, as foreign matter often accumulates there, preventing efficient milk drainage. For example, if a milking cup falls off, or in other situations where the operating vacuum is already present at the milking cup—i.e., where at least the suction effect of a vacuum pump is present—foreign substances are drawn in, which ultimately tend to accumulate in areas of increased flow resistance within the milk drainage area. These areas are now easily and quickly accessible, making it possible to remove foreign matter, particularly during operation.Advantageously, the lockable maintenance opening is designed so that it can be opened and closed without tools. This eliminates the time-consuming assembly and disassembly of the milking cup, particularly when milking small ruminants with short milking times.

[0032] According to a further aspect of the present invention, the aforementioned problem is solved by a milk drainage device according to claim 18, which is designed for coupling the flow to a teat of a dairy animal. The milk drainage device has, inter alia, a milk drainage area and an inlet line specified in claim 18, which serves to introduce an air and / or gas flow and is provided with an air and / or gas outlet point that is positioned or positionable in the milk drainage area in a region of low milk exposure.

[0033] As previously explained, introducing air and / or gas into the milk drainage system improves the efficiency of milk removal. In this embodiment, the inlet pipe is designed such that, as previously explained, the air and / or gas exits in an area with low milk exposure. That is, the air and / or gas does not enter the milk drainage system directly in the milk stream itself, but rather in a "calmed" zone, thus minimizing direct contact between the air and / or gas and individual milk droplets. Furthermore, direct contact between the outlet of the inlet pipe and the milk is also minimized, thereby generally preventing milk from entering the inlet pipe.

[0034] In an advantageous embodiment, an inlet valve is provided for the controlled introduction of air and / or gas into the milk drainage area and is connected to the inlet line. This means that, in addition to the previously described advantages of an air and / or gas inlet, the combination with the inlet valve results in a controlled air and / or gas inlet, thus further increasing the beneficial effect on milk drainage, since relatively large quantities of air and / or gas can be introduced temporarily, while at the same time keeping the overall impact on the required increase in the vacuum pump's power consumption as small as possible.

[0035] In one variant, the inlet valve is located in an opening of a milking cup sleeve, which is connected to a pulsation chamber. In this variant, the milk drainage device is designed as a milking cup or is part of the milking cup, for example, in the form of an elastic teat holder. This means that the inlet valve is controlled based on the pressure conditions in the pulsation chamber, allowing for a distinction between the suction phase and the release phase.

[0036] In a further advantageous embodiment, the inlet valve is an inlet valve according to the invention as previously described.

[0037] In one variant, if the milk drainage device is designed as a milking cup or is part of a milking cup, a connection for attaching a milk hose is led out of the wall as an angled connection, and the inlet line is positioned so that the air and / or gas outlet point of the inlet line is located in the area of ​​the angled connection or outside the milking cup. As explained previously, this ensures the lowest possible milk exposure at the air and / or gas outlet point.

[0038] The air and / or gas outlet point can be positioned off-center, upwards, with respect to the cross-section of the angled connection. This means that, particularly when the milk line is not completely full, the air and / or gas outlet point may be located in an area with low milk exposure due to the effect of gravity. In this context, the term "above" is to be understood as an absolute term, with the earth as the reference point.

[0039] In further embodiments, the air and / or gas outlet point of the inlet line is designed to restrict the inflow of liquid. This means that design features are used to prevent backflow of liquid towards the inlet of the inlet line, where a controllable inlet valve may be located. This restriction can be achieved using suitable means such as a lip seal, a spring-loaded valve, or similar devices. In advantageous embodiments, a portion of the line, including the outlet point, is designed to reduce the flow velocity of the exiting air or gas.This minimizes the mechanical impact on the milk, thus reducing the negative effects associated with mechanical stress on the milk, as described in the introduction. It also reduces the tendency for foaming.

[0040] In other versions, the milk drainage system is designed as a milking cup or is part of a milking cup. In this version, a connection for attaching a milk hose is designed as a longitudinal connection along the milking cup, and the inlet line is angled so that part of it runs in the direction of milk flow. Thus, the introduction of air and / or gas occurs at least in the direction of milk flow. This prevents excessive foaming caused by the introduction of air and / or gas and also effectively suppresses milk from entering the inlet line.

[0041] The milk drainage device according to the invention, when designed as a milking cup or as part of a milking cup, advantageously has a closable maintenance opening that connects to the milk drainage area. This variant also offers the advantages of quick and efficient inspection and maintenance of the milk drainage area, particularly if the closable maintenance opening can be opened and closed without tools.

[0042] In further embodiments, the milk drainage device is designed as an elastic component, for example as an elastic teat holder, i.e., teat rubber, and / or as an elastic drainage line, which can be used in conjunction with a milking cup sleeve or a milking cup, and thereby provides the aforementioned advantages in milk drainage due to the efficient introduction of air and / or gas into the area with low milk exposure, regardless of the design of the cup sleeve or milking cup used.

[0043] Further advantageous embodiments are evident from the dependent claims and are also more clearly shown in the following detailed description, which is given in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, in which: Fig. 1a is a perspective elevation view of an inlet valve according to an embodiment of the present invention, Fig. 1b is a perspective view of a pipe or inlet pipe that serves to introduce air and / or gas into a milk drainage area of ​​a milking cup, Fig. 2a shows a perspective view of a milking cup in which, according to an embodiment of the present invention, an inlet valve according to the invention is provided for controlled air and / or gas inlet, Fig. 2b shows a cross-sectional view of the milking cup, Fig. 3a shows a perspective view of a milk drainage device, which in the variant shown is designed as a milking cup or is part of a milking cup, in which an inlet line for air and / or gas inlet into a milk drainage area is provided, wherein the outlet point of the inlet line is positioned or positionable in an area with low milk exposure, Fig. 3b a sectional view of the milk drainage device in the form of a milking cup made of Fig. 3a shows and Fig. 3c an enlarged view of part of the section view from Fig. 3b is.

[0044] With reference to the drawings, embodiments of the invention will now be described in greater detail.

[0045] Fig. Figure 1a shows a perspective elevation view of an inlet valve 150 according to an aspect of the present invention, which is suitable to significantly alleviate the problem of efficient milk drainage by implementing the principle of controlled air and / or gas inlet in conjunction with a valve arrangement that enables high operational reliability, lower manufacturing costs, improved cleaning capability and longer service life in conjunction with increased milk quality.

[0046] The inlet valve 150 comprises a valve body 151, which is made of a suitable material and has a flow channel 151A that can be opened and closed in a controllable manner. The flow channel 151A opens into a sealing surface 151E, which, except for the opening of the channel 151A, is designed and shaped similarly to a surface 151D opposite it. With regard to the surfaces 151E and 151D, they can have any size and shape, as long as a sealing element is ensured to close the flow channel 151A.

[0047] The valve 150 further comprises an elastic diaphragm 152, which is connected on one side 152C to a pulsation chamber of a milking cup and has a sealing element 152A on the other side 152B. The sealing element 152A has appropriately shaped surfaces to close the flow channel 151A and, if necessary, to reopen it, particularly in conjunction with the sealing surface 151E. The sealing element 152A is an integral part of the diaphragm 152 and, in some embodiments, is made of the same material. In another embodiment, the diaphragm 152 and the sealing element 152A are formed as a single component. Due to its inherent elasticity, the sealing element 152A can be fitted into the valve body 151 and thus also serves as a fastening element that reliably positions and holds the diaphragm 152 within the valve body 151.Furthermore, due to the special shape of the sealing body 152A and the adapted surfaces 151D and 151E, precise positioning of the sealing body 152A is guaranteed.

[0048] The valve 150 further comprises a force transmission element 153, which is in mechanical contact with the diaphragm 152 and is connected on the opposite side to a spring element 154, so that the spring element 154 can pre-tension the diaphragm 152 and thus the sealing body 152A via the force transmission element 153, such that the flow channel 151A is opened without any further additional forces on the sealing body 152A, so that a gas source connected to the interior of the valve body 151, for example, the outside air, is connected via the flow channel 151A to a line which is to be attached to a connection 151B by means of a locking element 151C, as shown below in conjunction with Fig. 1b is explained.

[0049] In one embodiment, the force transmission element 153 is designed such that a centering element 153A is provided, which, when the connecting element 153 is coupled to the diaphragm 152, ensures precise centering or positioning. In the illustrated embodiment, the centering element 153A is designed as a pin that can engage in a complementary recess in the diaphragm 152 (not shown), thus automatically ensuring correct positioning between the element 153 and the diaphragm 152. The spring element 153A and a corresponding complementary element in the diaphragm 152 can have any shape, as long as the centering effect is achieved. Preferably, the size of the force transmission element 153 is determined to match the size, i.e., the diameter, of the spring element 154, which in the illustrated embodiment is provided as a coil spring.A corresponding groove can be provided for this purpose, which, for example, accommodates the spring 154. It should be noted that the spring element 154 can also be provided in the form of other elements which, due to their elastic action, enable the membrane 152 to be pre-tensioned with the required force. In the case of a coil spring, the force required for pre-tensioning can be easily determined by the geometry and / or type of material, and so on, so that the required pre-tensioning force is adjustable and adaptable to the existing conditions.

[0050] The valve 150 further comprises a cover 155, which is provided with corresponding projections 155A. These projections, in conjunction with corresponding locking openings 151F formed on the valve body 151, enable the valve body 151 to be closed by snapping the cover into place. They also allow the cover 155 to be removed by turning, optionally with a suitable tool. In particular, the valve 150 can be assembled by simply pressing the cover 155 into place, while unintentional opening of the valve 150 is impossible and requires a deliberate disassembly process. This ensures high reliability during the operation of the valve 150.

[0051] Furthermore, a sealing element 156, for example an O-ring, is provided which engages with a corresponding groove 151G of the valve body 151.

[0052] If required, a filter element 157 can be attached to the valve body 151 to suppress the ingress of foreign bodies, for example when drawing in outside air.

[0053] The valve 150, when assembled and mounted on a milking cup, is designed such that the sealing element 156 ensures a gas-tight seal of the milking cup, which has a suitable opening in its sleeve to accommodate the valve body 151. The gas-permeable cover 155, which has, for example, corresponding bores, connects the side 152C of the diaphragm 152 to the pulsation chamber of the milking cup. Thus, under nearly identical pressure conditions between the outside atmosphere and the pulsation chamber, the preload exerted by the spring element 154, which is transmitted via the force transmission element 153 to the diaphragm 152 and finally to the sealing body 152A, causes its sealing surface to lift away from the sealing surface 151E, thereby opening the flow channel 152A.This establishes a connection between the interior of the valve body 151, which is separated from the pulsation chamber by the diaphragm 151, and the flow channel 151A. The interior of the valve body 151 can be connected to a suitable gas source, such as ambient air, thus creating a flow path from the gas source into the flow channel 151A.

[0054] Fig. Figure 1b shows a perspective view of a line or inlet line 158, which can be connected to the flow channel 151A. For this purpose, a connection 151B of the valve body 151 (see Fig. 1a) Suitable dimensions to accommodate, for example, a conductor section 158B. In a preferred embodiment, a locking element 158A is provided on the conductor section 158B, which ensures that the conductor 158 is reliably held at the terminal 151B. For this purpose, for example, a complementary locking element 151C (see Fig. 1a) provided on the valve body 151, which, in conjunction with the locking element 158A of the line 158, ensures a rapid yet reliable connection between the two components. For example, the locking element 158A is provided as a suitably shaped elastic projection, while the locking element 151C of the valve body 151 is designed as a corresponding opening.

[0055] The inlet line or line 158 further comprises a second line section 158C, which may have a different diameter compared to line section 158B, for example, to reduce the flow velocity of the air and / or gas within it. Line section 158C is designed to allow air and / or gas to exit at a desired position in the milk drainage area of ​​a milking cup while minimizing mechanical stress on the milk.

[0056] As follows in connection with the Fig. As explained in more detail in Section 3, in particularly advantageous embodiments, the line 158 has a design that allows air and / or gas to exit the line 158 in an area with low milk exposure, thus providing the aforementioned advantages in addition to the air and / or gas inlet controlled by the inlet valve. A backflow prevention effect can be achieved by suitable means on the line section 158C, such as a lip seal, a spring valve, or the like.

[0057] Fig. Figure 2a shows a perspective view of a milking cup 200 according to a further aspect of the present invention, in which the inlet valve 150 is used to mitigate the previously described problem of milk drainage. As shown, the milking cup 200 comprises a cup sleeve 210, the shape and dimensions of which are adapted to the specific requirements of the milking process under consideration. For example, the cup sleeve 210 is designed to be suitable for milking small dairy animals, such as sheep or goats, and the like. In other embodiments, the cup sleeve 210 is designed to be suitable for cows or other relatively large dairy animals. The cup sleeve 210 has a suitable opening 216, which is designed to accommodate the inlet valve 150.Furthermore, a first connection area 213, shown here as a connection for receiving a milk hose, is provided, which in the illustrated embodiment is in flow communication with a milk drainage area. In other variants, the first connection area is designed as an opening for receiving and guiding a milk hose or a conduit element. A milk drainage area is generally understood to be an area of ​​the milking cup 200 that is subjected to an operating vacuum and in which milk is present, at least locally, during milking. For example, the connection 213 is in flow communication with a corresponding nozzle (in . Fig. 2b), which in turn is in flow connection with the interior of an elastic teat holder 290, which is attached to the sleeve 210 accordingly and represents the “interface” between the milking system and the teat of the animal.

[0058] A second connection area 212 is provided so that it can be connected to a pulsation line. As further shown, a protective cap 214 is provided, which protects areas of the milking cup 200 and in particular the line of the inlet valve 150, as detailed below. Fig. 2b is shown. Furthermore, a lockable maintenance opening 215 is provided on the underside of the milking cup 200.

[0059] Fig. Figure 2b shows a cross-sectional view of the milking cup 200, revealing that the second connection 212 is connected to a pulsation chamber 220 formed by the outer surface of the elastic teat cup 290 and a wall of the cup sleeve 210. This means that by creating different pressure conditions in the pulsation chamber 220, the shape of the teat cup 290 can be influenced to achieve the pulsating milking described in the introductory section. That is, when the operating negative pressure is present inside the teat cup 290, when it is "sealed at the top" by the teat of the animal being milked, the operating negative pressure can be generated in the pulsation chamber 220 to achieve the pulsating milking described in the introductory section. Fig. The teat receptacle 290 in the shape shown in Figure 2b is produced because the pressure conditions inside the receptacle 290 and in the pulsation chamber 220 are almost identical, and the inherent elasticity of the receptacle 290 ensures the unfolded shape shown. If, on the other hand, the negative pressure in the pulsation chamber 220 is reduced, or if a pressure equal to the external pressure or an overpressure is created, a difference arises between the interior of the teat receptacle 290 and the pulsation chamber 220, resulting in deformation, which is also referred to here as folding. In this way, the milk flow from the animal's teat is at least inhibited by the folding, and the desired pulsating effect is achieved through massage.

[0060] The inlet valve 150 according to the invention is connected to the pulsation chamber 220, so that the conditions prevailing therein are also present on the rear side 152C of the diaphragm 152. When there is negative pressure in the pulsation chamber 220, the diaphragm is drawn inwards against the force of the spring element 154, thus closing the flow channel 151A ( Fig. 1a), so that milk flows through the interior of the teat receptacle 290 into a nozzle connected to the receptacle 290 and finally enters a milk tube (not shown) at the connection 213. If, on the other hand, milk outflow from the teat is substantially interrupted by the folding of the receptacle 290, since the pressure now prevailing in the pulsation chamber 220 forces the folding of the receptacle 290, there is no suction effect on the diaphragm of the valve 150, and the self-elasticity and, in particular, the preload of the spring element 154 ( Fig. 1a) The flow channel 151A is opened, allowing outside air to be introduced into the milk drainage area via the flow channel. Therefore, during this phase, the negative pressure in the milk drainage area, which would otherwise increase above a forming milk plug, is reduced. This creates a greater pressure differential for milk drainage, as previously explained. That is, the absolute pressure under the teat, i.e., above the milk plug, is increased by the air inlet, thus reducing the negative pressure. Consequently, the milk plug can drain more efficiently due to the operating negative pressure on the side of the milk plug facing away from the teat. The amount of outside air supplied can be efficiently adjusted through design measures, such as the size of the flow channel. After another pressure change in the pulsation chamber 220, the flow channel of valve 150 is reliably closed again.As previously explained, the inlet valve 150's design according to the invention results in a high degree of operational reliability, thus consistently improving milk discharge conditions and enhancing milk efficiency and quality. It should be noted that, if required, a gas source can also be connected to the inlet valve 150, allowing the introduction of a gas other than air or in addition to ambient air.

[0061] As further shown, the maintenance opening 215 is provided, which preferably can be opened and closed without tools and allows access to the milk drainage area, for example at the intersection between the milk drainage in the longitudinal direction of the milking cup 200 and the angled connection 213, so that foreign bodies accumulating there can be easily removed even during the milking process by briefly opening the maintenance opening 215.

[0062] In an advantageous embodiment, the connection 213 is designed such that a reliable fit of the milk hose is achieved when a milk hose is connected, for example by providing an outer diameter 213B that increases outwards, so that a reliable fit is ensured even when tensile forces occur on a milk hose coupled to the connection 213.

[0063] As further shown, the protective element 214, for example in the form of a protective cap, is designed in particular to protect the milking cup on the underside from impacts and also to ensure that the line 158 is largely protected from external influences. This ensures increased reliability in conjunction with the connection of the line 158 locked to the valve 150.

[0064] Fig. Figure 3a shows a perspective view of a milk drainage device, which here is provided in the form of a milking cup according to embodiments of the present invention. The milk drainage device in the form of a milking cup 300 comprises a cup sleeve 310, an elastic teat receptacle 390, a first connection area 313 in the form of a connector, and a second connection area in the form of a connector 312. The cup sleeve 310, the first connector or connection area 313, and the second connector or connection area 312 are subject to essentially the same aspects as previously explained for the corresponding components of the milking cup 200. Furthermore, a maintenance opening 315 is provided in conjunction with a protective cap 314, and the same criteria apply to these components as previously explained in connection with the milking cup 200.Furthermore, in this embodiment at least one inlet line 158, which corresponds approximately to the line 158 described in connection with the inlet valve 150, is provided to introduce air and / or gas continuously or periodically.

[0065] Fig. Figure 3b shows a sectional view of the milking cup 300. As shown, the first connection 313, which is angled to the longitudinal direction of the milking cup 300, is connected to the teat receptacle 390 via a corresponding connecting piece. In the illustrated embodiment, an inlet valve is also provided, which is connected, for example, to a pulsation chamber 320, which has already been described in a similar manner in connection with the milking cup 200 as pulsation chamber 220.

[0066] In other embodiments, an inlet valve is not provided, and the line 158 is connected to the outside air or another gas source, for example, via suitable openings, filters, and the like. The line 158 is designed such that a line section 158D is provided, which forms an air and / or gas outlet point 158E located in an area with reduced milk exposure. In the illustrated embodiment, the positioning in an area with low milk exposure is achieved by the fact that the line section 158D of the line 158 is designed to extend at least into the connection 313 and, in an advantageous embodiment, project beyond the connection 313.In this way, the outlet point 158E is located in an area where the milk flow is already calm, so that it can be assumed that significant turbulence is no longer present near the outlet point 158E, and thus direct contact with individual milk droplets is greatly reduced. In the illustrated embodiment, the arrangement of the outlet point 158E in the area of ​​low milk exposure is further achieved by positioning the outlet point 158E, and optionally also a more or less large part of the line section 158D, off-center and offset upwards with respect to the cross-section of the connection 313.

[0067] In the illustration shown, the milking cup 300 is in a substantially vertical position, with the teat receptacle 390 connected to a teat. As the milk flows out, it will therefore remain mainly in the lower part of the connection 313 due to gravity, unless the milk flow is so high that the entire cross-section of the connection 313 is filled with milk. Since the milk thus flows in the connection 313 and therefore also in the milk hose to be connected to the connection 313 (not shown), the outlet point 158E is located outside the actual milk flow, so that at least the inlet of air and / or gas does not cause the milk to foam. On the other hand, the inlet point 158E also inhibits the penetration of milk into the inlet point due to its position in the area of ​​low milk exposure.Since direct contact between outlet 158E and the milk flow is prevented in many operating phases, direct contact with the milk is also only highly probable. In particular, the positioning of outlet 158E significantly suppresses contact with milk in situations where, for example, the milking cup 300 is tilted approximately 30-60° to the right relative to the depicted vertical position, which can occur, for instance, after the milking cup 300 has been removed from the teat. Even in this position of the milking cup, the residual milk from a milk drainage area 325 essentially collects near the lowest point 325A, so that outlet 158E is essentially not wetted by residual milk that could otherwise flow back in the line 158 and eventually exit the milking cup 300.

[0068] In an advantageous embodiment, the line 158 is connected to an inlet valve via the outlet point 158E, which is located in an area with low milk exposure. This allows for the controlled introduction of air and / or gas, enabling the periodic introduction of air and / or gas to achieve the advantages previously described in connection with periodic air inlet. Furthermore, the appropriate positioning of the outlet point 158E virtually eliminates any influence on the direct flow of the milk, which could contribute to turbulence and foaming. At the same time, contamination of the inlet valve by, for example, backflowing milk remains minimal.

[0069] It should be noted that the outlet point 158E can be designed structurally in such a way as to generally create an effect that inhibits the inflow of liquid into line 158. For example, appropriate means, such as elastic lips, etc., can be provided at the outlet point 158E that allow the escape of air and / or gas, but offer a significantly increased flow resistance to any liquid flowing into the outlet point. Other measures, such as changing the cross-sectional shape and / or size of the outlet point 158E, and the like, can also be used to inhibit the backflow of liquid.The exit velocity of air and / or gas can also be suitably reduced by increasing the cross-section of at least section 158D and / or by other suitable means which, in advantageous variants, simultaneously prevent backflow of liquid.

[0070] In a particularly advantageous embodiment, the inlet line 158 is provided in conjunction with the inlet valve 150 according to the invention, which has been described above, so that a significant improvement is achieved here due to the synergistic effects of the individual components.

[0071] Furthermore, with regard to connection 313, maintenance opening 315, protective cap 314, and the like, the same criteria apply as previously explained in connection with milking cup 200.

[0072] It should be noted that in embodiments not shown, the connection 313 can run essentially in the longitudinal direction of the milking cup 300, so that in a vertical position, the milk flows almost vertically from the teat receptacle 390. In these embodiments, the inlet line 158 is designed such that at least the line section 158D is angled so that it runs in the direction of flow, so that the exit of air and / or gas from the line 158, and thus the entry into the milk hose or the milk drainage area 325, occurs in the direction of milk flow, thereby minimizing any negative impact on the flow behavior of the milk. That is, even in this design of a milking cup, i.e., where the connection 313 is a straight continuation of the teat receptacle 390, the air or gas inlet can occur without significantly disrupting the milk flow.According to the invention, the conduit section 158D is designed such that it extends at least 5 mm and in other embodiments more than 10 mm, and in further embodiments more than 20 mm in the direction of flow, i.e. in . Fig. 3b in the vertical direction. The same distances also apply to the horizontally oriented conductor section 158D, which, as already mentioned, in advantageous embodiments also extends beyond the connection 313.

[0073] Fig. Figure 3c shows an enlarged detail view illustrating the off-center positioning of the conductor section 158D, indicated by the distance 313A from the lower inner wall of the terminal 313. As previously described, this positioning of the conductor section 158D, and thus the positioning of the exit point 158E (see Fig.3b) It is ensured that, with this angled arrangement of the connection 313, the outlet point 158E is located in an area with low milk exposure. That is, at least part of the line section 158D runs within the milk drainage area 325 inside the connection 313 in the position shown, so that, even though the line section 158D ends in the connection 313 and thus the outlet point 158E is located inside the connection 313, positioning in an area with low milk exposure is guaranteed.

[0074] In further advantageous embodiments, the milk drainage device is provided, for example, as an elastic component, such as the elastic teat holder 390, which optionally includes suitable elastic hose elements to ensure the flow connection between the teat of a dairy animal and a milk line. The milk drainage device can be designed in the form of a milking cup, such as the milking cup 300, or can be a component of such a milking cup, so that the preceding explanations apply equally to the case in which the milk drainage device is provided as an elastic component, such as a teat holder or teat liner 390.In this case, the inlet line 158 is designed such that the air and / or gas outlet point 158E can be located in a suitable section of tubing in the area of ​​low milk exposure, thus achieving the aforementioned advantages. In this case, the milk drainage device, which shall also be designated here by reference numeral 300, can be combined with any milking cup or can be a component of such a milking cup. It is only required that the milk drainage device can be appropriately inserted into a suitable milking cup sleeve or appropriately connected to the milking cup, for example, if the milk drainage device 300 is provided in the form of a milk tubing section.For example, the inlet line 158 is arranged on a flexible teat holder and / or a milk hose section such that, on the one hand, ambient air and / or a desired gas can be fed into the inlet line 158, and on the other hand, at least the line section 158D is routed and dimensioned so that the outlet point 158E is positioned in the zone with low milk exposure. For this purpose, a suitable support (not shown) may be required to position and fix the inlet line 158 appropriately, thus ensuring precise positioning of the line section 158D and therefore of the outlet point 158E. In further embodiments, the inlet line 158 can be combined with an air inlet valve, which is positioned at a suitable location to allow periodic air and / or gas intake, as described previously.This allows for a high degree of flexibility in the design and positioning of the milk drainage device.

[0075] In general, the means specified herein make it possible to increase the efficiency of milking and also to improve the quality of the milk.

Claims

[1] Inlet valve (150) for a milking cup (200) for controlled inlet of air and / or gas into a milk drainage area of ​​the milking cup, with a valve body (151) with a controllable flow channel (151A) which opens onto a sealing surface (151E), an elastic membrane (152) which can be subjected to pressure prevailing in a pulsation chamber of the milking cup (200) on a first side (152C) and has a sealing element (152A) as a component of the membrane (152) on a second side (152B), which is formed as a unit with the membrane (152) and which in a first position closes the flow channel (151A) by bearing against the sealing surface (151E), wherein the membrane (152) and the sealing element (152A) are manufactured as a single-piece product, and a spring element (154) which is coupled to the elastic membrane (152) to pre-tension it towards the sealing surface (151E), so that in a second position of the sealing body (152A) the flow channel (151A) is open. [2] Inlet valve (150) according to the preceding claim, wherein a connection (151B) in flow connection with the flow channel (151A) is provided on the valve body (151) for connecting a line (158) for the air and / or gas inlet into the milking cup (200), and a locking element (151C) for locking the line (158) is formed on the connection (151B). [3] Inlet valve (150) according to the preceding claim, wherein a complementary locking element (158A) is provided on the line (158) which can be detachably engaged with the locking element (151C) of the connection (151B). [4] Inlet valve (150) according to the preceding claim, wherein the complementary locking element (158A) and the locking element (151C) can be engaged by snap-action. [5] Inlet valve (150) according to one of claims 2 to 4, wherein the line (158) is designed such that an air and / or gas outlet point of the line can be positioned in an area with low milk exposure. [6] Inlet valve (150) according to one of the preceding claims, which further comprises a force transmission element (153) between the spring element (154) and the elastic diaphragm (152). [7] Inlet valve (150) according to the preceding claim, wherein the force transmission element (153) and / or the elastic diaphragm (152) comprise a centering element (153A). [8] Inlet valve (150) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein a self-positioning cover (155) is provided which can be locked to the valve body (151) by means of a snap-action mechanism. [9] Inlet valve (150) according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the number of individual components in the operational state of the inlet valve, excluding the line (158) to the air and / or gas inlet, is seven or less. [10] Milking cup (200) with a first opening (216) for receiving an inlet valve (150) according to one of claims 1 to 9, a second opening for introducing an inlet line (158) for an air and / or gas flow controlled by the inlet valve (150), a first connection area (213) which serves to connect the flow to a milk drainage area or to receive or guide the milk drainage area, and a second connection area (212) which, when the elastic teat holder (290) is installed in the milking cup (200) in operational readiness, is in flow communication with the pulsation space (220) formed between an outer surface of the teat holder (290) and a wall of the milking cup (200). [11] Milking cup (200) according to the preceding claim, wherein the air and / or gas outlet point of the inlet line (158) is positioned in an area with low milk exposure. [12] Milking cup (200) according to the preceding claim, wherein the first connection area (213) is led out of the wall as an angled connection and the inlet line (158) is provided such that the air and / or gas outlet point of the inlet line (158) is located in the area of ​​the angled connection (213) or outside the connection (213) of the milking cup (200). [13] Milking cup (200) according to the preceding claim, wherein the inlet line (158) is positioned in the connection (213) such that the air and / or gas outlet point is off-center upwards with respect to the cross-section of the first connection (213). [14] Milking cup (200) according to one of claims 11 to 13, wherein the air and / or gas outlet point of the inlet line (158) is designed to have an inhibiting effect on the entry of liquid. [15] Milking cup (200) according to claim 11, wherein the first connection area (213) is provided as a longitudinally designed connection of the milking cup (200) and the inlet line (158) is angled, so that a part (158B) of the inlet line runs in the direction of flow. [16] Milking cup (200) according to one of claims 10 to 15, wherein a lockable maintenance opening (215) is provided which is connected to the milk drainage area. [17] Milking cup (200) according to the preceding claim, wherein the lockable maintenance opening (215) is designed to be opened and closed without tools. [18] Milk drainage device (300) designed for flow coupling to a teat of a dairy animal and provided as a milking cup (300) with a milking cup sleeve (310), with a milk drainage area, and an inlet line (158) for introducing an air and / or gas flow with an air and / or gas outlet point which is or can be positioned in the milk discharge area in an area of ​​low milk exposure, wherein the inlet line (158) has a line section (158D) which extends at least 5 mm in the direction of milk flow, wherein a connection (313) of the milking cup sleeve (310) for connection to a milk hose is led out of a wall of the milking cup sleeve as an angled connection and the inlet line (158) is provided such that the air and / or gas outlet point of the inlet line (158) is located in the area of ​​the angled connection (313) or outside the milking cup (300). [19] Milk drainage device (300) according to claim 18, which is provided with an inlet valve (150) for the controlled inlet of air and / or gas into the milk drainage area and is connected to the inlet line (158). [20] Milk drainage device (300) according to the preceding claim, wherein the inlet valve (150) is arranged in an opening (216) of a milk cup sleeve (210, 310) of the milk drainage device (300) which is connected to a pulsation chamber (320). [21] Milk drainage device (300) according to claim 20, wherein the inlet valve (150) is the inlet valve according to any one of claims 1 to 9. [22] Milk drainage device (300) according to claim 18, wherein the inlet line (158) is positioned in the connection (313) such that the air and / or gas outlet point is offset off-center upwards with respect to the cross-section of the angled connection. [23] Milk drainage device (300) according to one of claims 18 to 22, wherein the air and / or gas outlet point of the inlet line (158) is designed to have an inhibiting effect on the entry of liquid. [24] Milk drainage device (300) according to one of claims 18 to 23, wherein a lockable maintenance opening (215, 315) is provided which is connected to the milk drainage area. [25] Milk drainage device (300) according to claim 18, comprising an elastic teat receptacle (390) lining the milking cup sleeve (310).

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