Portioning device for creating liquid portions with a predefined amount, and liquid-amount measurement system having such a portioning device

Abstract

In different aspects, the present invention relates to a portioning device (20) for creating liquid portions with a predefined amount, and to a liquid-amount measurement system having such a portioning device. According to exemplary embodiments herein, a portioning device for creating liquid portions with a predefined amount is provided, comprising an accumulation chamber (23) for accumulating liquid portions, wherein the accumulation chamber has a chamber inlet (25b), which is designed to supply the accumulation chamber with liquid by way of a liquid stream fed to the portioning device, an outlet (29), which is designed to output the liquid portions by way of the portioning device and to apply a negative pressure, a first connecting channel (31) with a first end (31a) and a second end (31b), wherein the first end is connected to the accumulation chamber and the second end communicates with the outlet of the portioning device, a second connecting channel (33) with a third end (33a) and a fourth end (33b), wherein the third end is connected to the accumulation chamber and the fourth end communicates with the outlet of the portioning device, and a valve (35) which, depending on a fill level of a liquid in the accumulation chamber, is designed to selectively close the first connecting channel. The valve has an open position, in which a pressure difference applied to the portioning device by means of the outlet and chamber inlet is able to be applied to the accumulation chamber only by the first connecting channel and the second connecting channel, and a closed position, in which the pressure difference applied to the portioning device is able to be applied to the accumulation chamber only by the second connecting channel.

Description

[0001] Portioning device for producing liquid portions with a predetermined quantity and liquid quantity measuring system with such a portioning device

[0002] The present invention relates to a portioning device for producing liquid portions of a predetermined amount and to a liquid quantity measuring system comprising such a portioning device. In particular, the present invention relates to a milk plug generating device for connection to a milk claw and a pressure source for applying a pressure difference across the portioning device in a milking system. Furthermore, the present invention also relates in particular to a milk quantity measuring system for use in a milking system, in particular to a milk quantity measuring system for mobile measurement of milk quantities in a milking system.

[0003] In a wide range of systems involving the transport of liquids, quantity measurements and / or the taking of representative and, above all, unadulterated samples are a fundamental task that must be carried out with the greatest possible precision and care, especially for liquids in the food sector, such as milking systems and / or milk transport systems. The taking of representative and, above all, unadulterated samples represents a quality control measure, while quantity measurements are a means of performance testing.

[0004] Milk is a natural product and naturally contains germs in its raw and especially untreated form, known as raw milk. In addition to determining the fat content of raw milk, the germ count is therefore a characteristic for determining the quality of milk. For example, in Germany, milk is classified into commercial classes according to the Milk Quality Ordinance, which defines criteria for classification such as the total germ count, the protein and fat content, the freezing point and the detection of possible inhibitors, such as antibiotics, which hinder the further processing of the milk into yogurt or cheese. For example, the total germ count is an indicator of operational hygiene and animal health. Furthermore, deviations in the freezing point of milk can be used to detect dilution with water. It is therefore generally desirable to obtain milk samples in the most representative and simple way possible.

[0005] In addition to monitoring milk quality, milk yield testing is also important, as it provides the basis for animal-friendly, ecological, and economical livestock farming. One could even go so far as to consider milk yield testing an indispensable feature of successful herd management, regardless of whether the herds are cattle, goats, or sheep. During milk yield testing, representative milk samples are taken from each individual animal several times a year. Subsequent analysis of the milk samples is intended to reliably determine the fat, protein, urea, cell count, and lactose content of the milk samples. During representative milk sampling, milk yield is also determined to provide an indicator for determining the yield of a herd and individual animals. Accurate yield determination is of utmost importance for animal valuation.

[0006] The results of a milk yield test are, as already mentioned, an important basis for determining and maintaining animal-friendly and economical husbandry of a herd, as they also indicate, for example, whether and how the herd or individual animals are being fed in an animal-friendly and economical manner. This represents both a means of monitoring husbandry and a basis for targeted herd planning and management. In addition, the results of milk yield tests also provide valuable feedback on milkability, milking routine, and attitudes towards milking technology. This means that the results of the milk yield test also allow for an assessment of breeding values ​​and thus targeted mating of individual animals according to their strengths and weaknesses, thus enabling the achievement of individual breeding goals.Regardless of the background of the milk yield test, the collection of representative samples and / or data under controlled conditions is important for meaningful test results, especially in the interest of a milk producer.

[0007] Currently, various techniques exist for measuring milk flow to determine the milk yield of individual animals, such as continuous measurement. Milk flow can be measured during a milking process using stagnation height measurement or partial split measurement. Documents EP 3155897 B1, EP 3329767 A1, and EP 349477 A1 represent known devices in this regard.

[0008] However, known continuous measurements require complex measuring technology and are subject to high internal flow losses. For example, a significant drop in milking vacuum occurs during the measurement process using the partial split method, and measurement accuracy can typically depend heavily on the precise suspension of measuring devices and their positioning within the milking system. In another alternative group of milk flow measurements, measurements are performed, for example, using a portion-by-portion measurement, in which milked milk is portioned into predetermined milk volume portions in the milking system in order to determine the milk flow based on the milk volume portions. For example, DE 102016 121 795 A1 provides a measuring system with a tipping bucket, while EP 0657022 B1 describes an electronic cup weighing system.Furthermore, single-room or two-room systems with an electronic valve control are known from the documents DE 10 2004 010789 B4 and US 2003 / 0075110 A1, which are used for measuring milk flow in the context of portion-wise measurements.

[0009] However, existing measuring systems based on the basic principle of portion-by-portion measurement have the disadvantage of large construction volumes and problematic cleaning after use. Furthermore, these devices usually depend on precise leveling and are unsuitable for mobile use. Furthermore, existing devices are characterized by high power consumption and often employ complex and vibration-sensitive measuring technology.

[0010] In view of the state of the art described above, the object is to provide a portioning device that is as simple and compact as possible (preferably well-suited for mobile use), preferably insensitive to inclination, preferably exhibits low flow resistance, and is cost-effective. In applications relating to a milking system, the object is to provide a milk plug generating device that is as simple and compact as possible (preferably well-suited for mobile use), preferably insensitive to inclination, preferably exhibits low flow resistance, and is cost-effective.

[0011] In some aspects of the present invention, portioning devices for producing liquid portions of predetermined quantities are therefore proposed as a solution, which can be used, for example, in special applications as milk plug producing devices for connection to a milk claw and a pressure source for applying a pressure difference across the portioning device in a milking system. Furthermore, in other aspects of the present invention, a liquid quantity measuring system with such a portioning device is proposed, for example in the form of a milk quantity measuring system for use in a milking system. In the following text, the term "liquid" is therefore understood to mean any liquid that is to be portioned into liquid portions of predetermined quantities. In illustrative examples herein, the liquid is milk, in particular milk from or in a milking system.The term "milk" is not to be interpreted as restrictive in the following, although in food production, the term "milk" primarily refers to cow's milk. In general, the term "milk" in the following text should also be understood to include milk produced by other domesticated and farmed animals and used as food by humans, such as the milk of cows, sheep, and goats.

[0012] In a first aspect of the present invention, a portioning device for producing liquid portions of a predetermined amount is provided. In a specific illustrative and non-limiting example herein, the portioning device is a milk plug producing device for connection to a milk claw and a pressure source for applying a pressure difference across the portioning device in a milking system. In illustrative examples, the pressure source can be provided for applying an overpressure on the inlet side to the portioning device and / or a negative pressure on the outlet side to the portioning device, e.g., by means of a negative pressure source or vacuum source coupled to the outlet side.

[0013] In illustrative embodiments of the first aspect, the portioning device comprises a collection chamber for collecting liquid portions, wherein the collection chamber has a chamber inlet designed to supply the collection chamber with liquid through a liquid flow supplied to the portioning device. Furthermore, the portioning device comprises an outlet designed to dispense the liquid portions through the portioning device and to apply a negative pressure, a first connecting channel with a first end and a second end, and a second connecting channel with a third end and a fourth end. Furthermore, the portioning device comprises a valve, preferably a de-energized and automatically switchable valve, wherein the valve is designed to selectively close the first connecting channel depending on a fill level of a liquid in the collection chamber.The first end of the first connecting channel is connected to the accumulation chamber, and the second end is in communication with the outlet of the portioning device. Furthermore, the third end of the second connecting channel is connected to the accumulation chamber, and the fourth end of the second connecting channel is in communication with the outlet of the portioning device. The valve has an open position and a closed position. The third end is continuously connected to the accumulation chamber, and the fourth end is continuously connected to the outlet. “Continuously communicating” means that a continuous connection exists at all times; in particular, the third end and the fourth end are constantly connected to the outlet.

[0014] In some illustrative examples herein, the first end may be temporarily communicatively connected to the accumulation chamber, while the second end is continuously communicatively connected to the outlet. Alternatively, both the first end and the second end may be continuously communicatively connected to the outlet.

[0015] In illustrative embodiments, the valve is designed in such a way that it can be switched without current and automatically, so that the valve can be actuated independently of an energy source and thus has no energy consumption.

[0016] The valve is designed such that a pressure difference applied to the portioning device via the outlet and chamber inlet can be applied to the accumulation chamber in the open position of the valve only through the first connecting channel and the second connecting channel, while the pressure difference in the closed position of the valve can be applied to the accumulation chamber only through the second connecting channel. In some illustrative examples, in the open position, a negative pressure applied to the portioning device through the outlet can be applied to the accumulation chamber only through the first connecting channel and the second connecting channel, while the pressure in the closed position can be applied to the accumulation chamber only through the second connecting channel.In some other illustrative examples, in the open position, a pressure applied to the portioning device through the chamber inlet can only be applied to the outlet through the first connecting channel and the second connecting channel, while in the closed position, the pressure can only be applied to the outlet through the second connecting channel.

[0017] In other words, the function of the valve is to ensure that, during operation of the portioning device, in which a negative pressure is applied to the portioning device at the outlet of the portioning device and / or a pressure is applied to the accumulation chamber via the chamber inlet, the negative pressure and / or pressure is applied to the accumulation chamber or outlet via the first connecting channel as well as the second connecting channel in the open position of the valve, while the negative pressure and / or pressure is applied to the accumulation chamber or outlet via the second connecting channel in the closed position of the valve only. For example, during operation of the portioning device, negative pressure or pressure is transmitted only via the second connecting channel in the portioning device in the closed position of the valve.Thus, the first connecting channel functions as a bypass relative to the second connecting channel only when the valve is in the open position, while in the closed position, the accumulation chamber communicates with the accumulation chamber only through the second connecting channel. Thus, when the valve is in the closed position, a volume of liquid that has accumulated in the accumulation chamber during operation of the portioning device can be discharged from the accumulation chamber through the second connecting channel only through the second connecting channel by means of a pressure difference between the chamber inlet and the outlet and discharged at the outlet through the portioning device.

[0018] The volume of dispensed liquid can be specified in the collection chamber by the relative arrangement of the first and second connecting channels, in particular the first and third openings in the collection chamber, minus a residual volume of the amount of liquid remaining in the collection chamber when the valve transitions from the closed position to the open position. For example, a desired volume of the amount of liquid to be dispensed can also be set or changed by synchronized switching between the closed and open positions of the valve.For example, a user-triggered change from the closed position to the open position can interrupt the transport of liquid from the collection chamber to the outlet, even though liquid could still be transported to the outlet through the second connecting channel when the valve is in the closed position, so that a quantity of liquid is dispensed from the portioning device that is less than the predetermined quantity of liquid. On the other hand, in an operating mode of the portioning device in which a volume flow of liquid supplied to the collection chamber is set such that at any given time a volume flow at the chamber inlet is greater than a volume flow at the outlet, it is also possible to dispense liquid portions at the outlet with a quantity that is greater than the predetermined quantity of dispensed liquid portions.

[0019] In the specific illustrative and non-limiting example of a milk plug generating device, the milk plug generating device produces compact and homogeneous milk portions as milk plugs, which are reproducible in homogeneity and quantity over a wide range of milk flows, in particular up to high milk flows. This allows, for example, the maintenance of a vacuum at the udder that is as constant as possible compared to known milking systems, i.e., fluctuations in the vacuum at the udder of less than 20% fluctuation range can be achieved. This results from the fact that in conventional milking systems, plugs are usually formed by milk plugs forming in hose sections with siphon-like bends, with plugs of different sizes being produced due to the randomly occurring radii of curvature at the siphon-like bends.This cannot be prevented because hose bends are unavoidable. However, these plugs ultimately also transport the mixture of air and milked milk within the milking system, with plugs being accelerated and transported by the vacuum in the system and the pressure difference across the plug in the milking system hoses. The problem that arises again and again here is that milk plugs that have formed collapse, for example when transport air pierces the milk plug and the pierced plug falls back into a siphon-like bend closest upstream. Plugs that fall back can cause milk to foam too much in the hose, thus impairing the quality of the milk. Furthermore, the irregular plugs result in fluctuations in the vacuum on the udder, which are too strong and endanger udder health.Given this background, the inventor recognized that these problems can be solved by forming compact and homogeneous milk portions as milk plugs, which are reproducible in terms of homogeneity and quantity. Furthermore, the generation of compact and homogeneous milk portions as milk plugs offers the possibility of reliable milk quantity measurement. In the simplest embodiment of a milk quantity measurement with the milk plug generation device, a very precise milk quantity measurement can be determined from the outset by counting or detecting the milk plugs, and a milk quantity profile can be recorded over a period of time, for example, a milking period, for example by detecting the frequency of milk plugs.Furthermore, compact and homogeneous milk plugs allow for the separation of representative milk samples, advantageously even with small sample quantities, since the milk plugs generated in the milk plug generation device experience greater acceleration than naturally occurring milk plugs. This results from the fact that in the milk plug generation device according to the present application, a higher pressure difference is generated when the valve is closed than in the case of plugs that naturally accumulate in siphon-like bends. This is because the transport air applied to the inlet side leads to an increase in pressure on the inlet side when the valve is closed, thereby achieving a higher pressure difference than in the case of plugs that naturally accumulate in siphon-like bends.This higher pressure difference leads to a higher acceleration of the milk plugs generated in the milk plug generation device compared to the plugs that naturally accumulate in siphon-like bends. This, in turn, allows the use of smaller sample tubes, as the higher acceleration comparatively suppresses clogging of smaller sample tubes. Although these advantages are described with regard to the specific application to a milk plug generation device, they also apply to general plug generation devices.

[0020] In some illustrative examples herein, the valve can be controlled based on the fill level. During operation of the portioning device, the valve position is controlled based on the fill level, so that the valve remains open as long as the liquid level in the collection chamber remains below a predetermined fill level. Upon reaching or exceeding the predetermined fill level, the valve is actuated so that it changes to the closed position and the first connecting channel no longer communicates between the collection chamber and the outlet.The amount of liquid accumulated in the accumulation chamber is transported out of the accumulation chamber through the second connecting channel by a pressure difference between the chamber inlet and outlet, until the third end of the second connecting channel is no longer immersed in liquid and / or a fill level is detected that reaches or falls below a predetermined minimum fill level. For example, a negative pressure present at the outlet of the portioning device is thus applied to the accumulation chamber through the second connecting channel, or a pressure present at the chamber inlet is transferred to the outlet.

[0021] In illustrative examples herein, the predetermined volume can be determined by the product of a base area of ​​the accumulation chamber and a height difference between the third opening and a fill level above the height of the third opening at which the valve switches from its open position to its closed position (i.e., the accumulation chamber no longer communicates continuously with the outlet through the first connecting channel). Thus, a portioning device, easily controlled by the valve, with a defined volume of liquid portions to be dispensed can be provided, wherein the portioning device can be designed compactly and a sharp drop in a negative pressure present at the outlet of the portioning device is prevented.The portioning device can be provided in a cost-effective manner due to the few components and compact design and allows a mobile design that is easy to couple to various systems in which a portioned liquid dispensing has to take place, in particular in milking systems between a milk claw and a pressure source for applying a pressure difference across the portioning device in order to produce milk plugs with predetermined volumes, wherein an overpressure can be applied to the inlet side of the portioning device and / or a negative pressure can be applied to the outlet side of the portioning device by the pressure source, for example by means of a negative pressure reservoir or vacuum pump coupled to the outlet side and / or a pressure reservoir with positive pressure coupled to the input side.

[0022] In exemplary embodiments of the first aspect, the accumulation chamber has a bottom surface, and the first end of the first connecting channel and the third end of the second connecting channel are arranged at different heights relative to the bottom surface in the accumulation chamber. For example, the first connecting channel can be arranged at least partially in the accumulation chamber such that a section of the first connecting channel arranged in the accumulation chamber extends away from the bottom surface starting from the first end of the first connecting channel. Furthermore, a partial section of the second connecting channel, which is arranged entirely within the accumulation chamber, can extend away from the bottom surface starting from the third end, wherein the third end is arranged closer to the bottom surface than the first end.In this case, on the one hand, a volume of a liquid portion that is produced by the portioning device is determined by a base area of ​​the collection chamber corresponding to an area of ​​the bottom surface that is covered with liquid in the collection chamber when the collection chamber is filled, and a height difference between the first end and the third end relative to the bottom surface. Due to the spacing between the third end and the bottom surface, a residual liquid remains in the collection chamber, which may enable the collection chamber to be completely emptied via an outlet connection arranged in the bottom surface between the collection chamber and the outlet. Care must be taken to ensure that the outflow rate through the emptying channel between the collection chamber and the outlet of the portioning device is lower than the filling rate.Rate of increase of liquid when filling the portioning device (in particular a rate of change in fill level when filling the portioning device). In other words, a volume flow at the chamber inlet is dependent on a volume in the accumulation chamber, which is determined by a fill level of liquid in the accumulation chamber at which the valve is switched to the closed position, such that the volume flow at the chamber inlet is greater than a maximum volume flow at the outlet. This means that a supply flow of liquid for supplying the accumulation chamber with liquid (or volume flow at the chamber inlet) is set or selected such that the accumulation chamber fills as the liquid level in the accumulation chamber rises, despite the outlet flow when the accumulation chamber is supplied with liquid.Suitable volume flows can be set by adjusting a pressure difference between the chamber inlet and outlet.

[0023] In alternative exemplary embodiments of the first aspect, the second connecting channel can be arranged outside the accumulation chamber. The third end of the second connecting channel can be formed at least partially on or in the bottom surface of the accumulation chamber, wherein in this case a height of the fourth end of the second connecting channel outside the accumulation chamber relative to the bottom surface is greater than a fill level of liquid within the accumulation chamber at which the valve switches to the closed position. This prevents liquid from overflowing through the second connecting channel into the outlet before the valve switches to the closed position. In specific illustrative examples herein, the second connecting channel is U-shaped orsiphon-shaped and has a subsequent rising section which arranges the fourth end in a sufficient height relationship to the floor surface of the accumulation chamber outside the accumulation chamber.

[0024] In some illustrative embodiments of the first aspect, a trigger mechanism that switches the valve from the open position to the closed position can be triggered electrically, wherein a fill level sensor is formed within the accumulation chamber and, at a predetermined fill level, a sensor signal is output to the valve, which then switches from the open position to the closed position. In this case, the valve can be switched from the closed position to the open position after a sufficient time, or when a minimum fill level in the accumulation chamber is undershot, a further switching signal can be output to the valve, which causes the valve to switch to the open position. Alternatively, if the volume flow at the chamber inlet is known, a fill level sensor in the accumulation chamber can be dispensed with, and the valve can switch between the open position and the closed position in a time-controlled manner at a frequency dependent on the volume flow.

[0025] As an alternative to an electrically switchable valve, the valve's trigger mechanism can be purely mechanical, as described in more detail below, enabling a purely mechanically self-operated valve and thus a purely mechanically self-operated portioning device. This allows for the provision of a mobile portioning device that does not require a power source to supply the portioning device with power during operation.

[0026] In some illustrative embodiments of the first aspect, the third end and the fourth end are continuously communicatively connected to the outlet.

[0027] In some illustrative embodiments herein, the valve may comprise a float arranged in the collection chamber such that the fill level of liquid in the collection chamber can be detected by the float at least at a fill level at which the valve switches to the closed position, or in the vicinity thereof (depending on the freedom of movement of the float). The valve is controllable by the float or, during operation of the portioning device, the valve is controlled by the float, wherein, depending on the arrangement of the float, a preferably mechanical change in the valve position is triggered depending on the fill level of a liquid in the collection chamber during operation of the portioning device. The float is suitably designed to have a desired suspension or floating property in the liquid.For example, the external shape of the float and / or the material of the float are selected to achieve the desired floating or floating properties in the liquid. For example, the float can be designed as a hollow body filled with a suitable filling material to achieve the desired floating or floating properties in the liquid, or as a solid body made of a specific material to achieve the desired floating or floating properties in the liquid.

[0028] In a specific illustrative example, the floating body can be, for example, a spherical body that changes its height in the accumulation chamber depending on the fill level. At a predetermined first height corresponding to a first fill level, the valve closes in the closed position and, when the fill level falls below the first fill level, the valve opens in the open position. The spherical body can be formed as a solid body made of a material that floats or levitates in the liquid, or it can be provided as a hollow body with a suitable filling.

[0029] Furthermore, the valve can further comprise a valve cage which is formed and arranged in the collection chamber, such that a valve path is set by the valve cage. By means of the valve cage, a movement of the float or of a valve body which the valve can comprise in addition to the float and which, as a closing body, closes the valve when the float reaches a predetermined fill level of liquid in the collection chamber during operation of the portioning device, can be permitted substantially parallel to a fill level change direction of a liquid surface when the collection chamber is filled with liquid (substantially comprising both a valve path which is parallel to the fill level change direction or perpendicular to an averaged liquid surface orThe valve can be oriented relative to the liquid level of a liquid in the accumulation chamber and can also be inclined at an angle to it, for example, within an angular range of + / - 45° around the direction of the level change. The valve has a valve seat designed so that the float or a valve body operated by the float seals the first connecting channel upon reaching the valve seat, thus closing the valve. The valve seat is arranged at one end of the valve path.

[0030] For example, the valve cage or valve path can be formed outside the first connecting channel, wherein the valve seat is formed at the first end of the first connecting channel. Alternatively, the valve cage or valve path can be formed in the first connecting channel, wherein in the section of the first connecting channel that encompasses the valve path, the first connecting channel has a larger cross-sectional area perpendicular to the valve path than a cross-sectional area of ​​the valve path. In this case, a valve seat of the valve is formed at the end of the valve path, wherein the first connecting channel narrows at the valve seat, so that the valve body in the valve cage seals the first connecting channel upon reaching the valve seat, thus closing the valve.

[0031] Furthermore, the second connecting channel can have an inner diameter that is selected to be sufficiently large depending on a flow resistance of the second connecting channel, so that a positive pressure difference (pressure drop in the collection chamber and thus also an acceleration force for a liquid portion and also its length) is generated, which accelerates the liquid portion along the second connecting channel. In this case, a decreasing inner diameter of the second connecting channel leads to an increasing localization of the liquid portion, but also to a greater pressure drop in the negative pressure that is applied to the collection chamber through the outlet during operation of the portioning device. In some of the examples described above, the float can be designed to cause the valve to close in the closed state depending on a predetermined fill level of a liquid in a collection chamber.Alternatively, as described above, the valve may additionally comprise a valve body or closing body, wherein the closing body is mechanically coupled to the float, so that the closing body is displaced along a valve path by the float and, depending on the fill level of a liquid in the collection chamber, leads to the closing body being applied to a valve seat and thus to the valve being closed. The float is sufficiently dimensioned and designed to provide sufficient buoyancy in the liquid, which is sufficient to cause the closing body in the valve to rise as the liquid level in the collection chamber rises.Alternatively, a pivoting lever mechanism can be implemented, whereby a rising liquid level in the collection chamber during operation of the portioning device leads to a change in the position of the float, which acts on the pivoting lever device in such a way that a closing body is applied to a valve seat by the pivoting lever device in the valve, thus moving the valve into a closed position. For example, the float can be arranged outside the valve cage and rigidly connected to the closing body by means of a linkage (in particular at least one rod).

[0032] In specific and non-limiting examples herein, the closing body can be arranged as a spherical body in a cylindrical valve cage within the accumulation chamber, with the floating body being arranged outside the valve cage. Alternatively, the floating body and the closing body can each be arranged as spherical bodies in a cylindrical valve cage in the accumulation chamber, wherein buoyancy of the floating body causes buoyancy of the closing body in the valve cage substantially along the direction of fill level change of a liquid accumulating in the accumulation chamber during operation, and the closing body rests against the valve seat upon reaching a predetermined fill level in the accumulation chamber.

[0033] In other specific and non-limiting examples herein, the closure body may be arranged as a spherical body in a portion of the first connecting channel that extends at least partially within the accumulation chamber or that is arranged outside the accumulation chamber and in communication with the accumulation chamber. A communicating connection between the portion of the first connecting channel that is located outside the accumulation chamber and the accumulation chamber is located at a height level in the accumulation chamber relative to a floor of the accumulation chamber that is below the fill level at which the valve is switched to the closed position.In some examples herein, the floating body can be arranged outside the first connecting channel and rigidly connected to the closing body by means of a rod assembly through an opening between the first connecting channel and the accumulation chamber, wherein buoyancy of the floating body in the accumulation chamber causes buoyancy of the closing body in the first connecting channel to bring the closing body into contact with the valve seat in the closed position of the valve. In other examples herein, the floating body and the closing body can both be arranged in the first connecting channel such that buoyancy of the floating body causes buoyancy of the closing body to bring the closing body into contact with the valve seat in the closed position of the valve.If the float simultaneously fulfils the function of the closing body and thus a separate closing body is dispensed with, in these examples the float can be arranged inside or outside the first connecting channel in order to rest against the valve seat in the closed position of the valve due to the buoyancy in the liquid acting on the float when the fill level at which the valve switches to the closed position is reached.

[0034] According to the first aspect of the invention, illustrative embodiments are disclosed in which the first end of the first connecting channel is designed as a valve seat for receiving the floating body in the closed position of the valve. The valve comprises the floating body, which simultaneously fulfills the function of a closing body or valve body in the valve. In alternative embodiments, the first end of the first connecting channel can be designed as a valve seat for a closing body, which is movable by the floating body depending on the fill level of a liquid in the collection chamber and, in the closed position of the valve, determines the closed position of the valve by bearing against the first end.

[0035] In some illustrative embodiments of the first aspect, the first connecting channel may be formed as a control tube connecting the accumulation chamber to the outlet, wherein the first end is arranged at or in the accumulation chamber and the second end is arranged at or in the outlet or in an outlet chamber that discharges liquid portions through the outlet. In some exemplary embodiments herein, the control tube may be partially arranged in the accumulation chamber, wherein the first end is formed within the accumulation chamber and the second end is formed outside the accumulation chamber. Alternatively, the control tube may be arranged entirely outside the accumulation chamber, but wherein the first end is formed as an opening formed in a chamber wall of the accumulation chamber, which opening communicates with the control tube.Alternatively, the first connecting channel may be formed by a labyrinth-shaped channel in a housing of the portioning device, wherein the labyrinth-shaped channel is defined as a chamber in the housing by internal partition walls.

[0036] As an alternative to a control tube, the first connecting channel in a housing of the portioning device in which the accumulation chamber is formed can be formed by at least one connecting chamber between the accumulation chamber and the outlet, so that the first connecting channel and the accumulation chamber in the housing provide a labyrinth structure defined by partition walls.

[0037] In some illustrative embodiments of the first aspect, the second connecting channel may be formed by a connecting tube connecting the accumulation chamber to the outlet, wherein the third end is arranged at or in the accumulation chamber and the fourth end is arranged at or in the outlet or in an outlet chamber that discharges liquid portions through the outlet. In some exemplary embodiments herein, the connecting tube may be partially arranged in the accumulation chamber, wherein the third end is formed within the accumulation chamber and the fourth end is formed outside the accumulation chamber. Alternatively, the connecting tube may be arranged entirely outside the accumulation chamber, but wherein the third end is formed as an opening formed in a chamber wall of the accumulation chamber, which opening communicates with the control tube.

[0038] As an alternative to a connecting pipe, the second connecting channel in a housing of the portioning device in which the accumulation chamber is formed can be formed by at least one connecting chamber between the accumulation chamber and the outlet, so that the second connecting channel and the accumulation chamber in the housing provide a labyrinth structure defined by partition walls.

[0039] In some embodiments of the first aspect, in which the first connecting channel is formed by a control tube, the second connecting channel may be formed by a connecting tube connecting the accumulation chamber to the outlet, wherein the third end is arranged on or in the accumulation chamber and the fourth end is arranged in or at the outlet, the connecting tube and the control tube are each spaced apart in the accumulation chamber from a bottom surface of the accumulation chamber, wherein the connecting tube and the control tube are each formed with at least one riser section extending away from the bottom surface, and wherein the first end is arranged at a higher level relative to the bottom surface in the accumulation chamber than the third end.Here, a volume of a liquid portion is determined by the bottom surface covered by the liquid in the accumulation chamber and a height difference between the level of the first end relative to the bottom surface and a level at which the valve is moved to the closed position.

[0040] In some exemplary embodiments herein, the control tube can have a riser section at the third end, which is configured such that liquid automatically rises in the riser section upon entering the riser section. The riser section of the control tube can be merely smaller than or equal to a minimum cross-section of the second connecting channel, so that liquid rising in the control tube, and in particular in the riser section of the control tube, is caused by a negative pressure present at the first connecting channel during operation of the portioning device when liquid reaches the first end.As soon as liquid reaches the control tube during operation of the portioning device and rises within it, a pressure difference builds up between the chamber inlet and outlet, leading to increasing liquid penetration into the first connecting channel and increasing liquid rise in the riser section. As soon as the pressure difference between the chamber inlet and outlet is sufficiently high that the liquid in the accumulation chamber is accelerated into the second connecting channel to the outlet, the liquid is transported from the accumulation chamber to the outlet through the second connecting channel, whereupon the pressure difference decreases and liquid flows back from the first connecting channel into the accumulation chamber.Accordingly, a residual amount remains in the accumulation chamber, and a new cycle begins, since after fluid flows out of the first connecting channel, it once again provides a communicating connection between the chamber inlet and outlet. The control tube section is sufficiently long so that the length of the control tube section is greater than the maximum length of a liquid column that forms in the riser section. In this way, a valve mechanism can be easily implemented without additional valve bodies, such as a blocking body.

[0041] In some illustrative examples herein, the valve in the riser pipe section can be designed as a check valve that is moved from the open position to the closed position by liquid rising in the riser pipe section. This prevents liquid from reaching the outlet through the control tube and only pumps liquid out to the outlet through the second connecting channel. For example, the check valve can have a disc-shaped check body that is lifted by liquid rising in the riser pipe and, when the fill level is sufficient, reaches the check valve so that the check body is pressed against a valve seat of the check valve. Alternatively, instead of the disc-shaped check body, a ball, a mushroom-shaped check body, or a check body in the form of a spherical cap can be provided.Although a shut-off valve with a blocking body is more complex than the design described above with only a control tube with a riser pipe section, a shut-off valve with a blocking body allows a relatively short riser pipe section and precise portioning of liquid quantities through a defined switching between the open and closed positions of the valve.

[0042] In some other illustrative examples herein, the control tube may have a constriction or nozzle in the riser section, where the flow resistance increases abruptly, thereby achieving a valve effect. For example, the constriction may be provided by a constriction in the riser section. Here, the constriction or nozzle achieves an abrupt change in flow resistance, thus enabling a relatively short riser section and precise portioning of liquid quantities through a defined switching between the open and closed positions of the valve.

[0043] In some illustrative embodiments of the first aspect, the first connecting channel may be provided as a control tube, as described above, while the second connecting channel to the accumulation chamber is provided by a labyrinth structure in the housing, as described above. In other illustrative embodiments of the first aspect, the second connecting channel may be provided as a connecting tube, as described above, while the first connecting channel to the accumulation chamber is provided by a labyrinth structure in the housing, as described above. In yet other illustrative embodiments, the first connecting channel, the second connecting channel, and the accumulation chamber may be provided as a labyrinth structure in the housing.

[0044] In the illustrative embodiments of the first aspect, in which the valve is controlled by a float, the first connecting channel can be formed by a control tube that connects the accumulation chamber to the outlet. The first end can be arranged on or in the accumulation chamber, and the second end can be arranged on or in the outlet or in an outlet chamber that discharges liquid portions through the outlet. Furthermore, the second connecting channel is formed by a connecting tube that connects the accumulation chamber to the outlet, the third end being formed in a bottom surface of the accumulation chamber as an opening in the bottom surface, and the fourth end being arranged in or on the outlet.The connecting pipe comprises a riser section such that the fourth end is arranged at a higher level relative to the bottom surface than the first end, and the portioning device further comprises a valve seat element arranged at the third end for receiving the float or the closing body in an open position of the valve and configured such that the accumulation chamber permanently communicates with the outlet through the connecting pipe. The third end provides an opening in the bottom, and the fourth end is higher than the first end to prevent liquid from overflowing before the valve is switched to the closed position. In particular, the third end arranged in the bottom surface can enable complete emptying of the accumulation chamber.

[0045] In advantageous embodiments herein, the valve seat element can be designed as a ring arranged on support feet and arranged on the base surface, so that the ring is arranged substantially concentrically with the opening in the base surface. This ensures in a simple manner that the second connecting channel is open regardless of the state of the valve.

[0046] In a further advantageous embodiment, the support feet can be designed at least partially as radial webs with curvatures along the radial direction azimuthally around the opening in the base surface. This allows a smooth flow of a liquid flowing through the opening to be achieved at the opening, in particular, foaming of milk can be avoided when used in a milking system.

[0047] In a further advantageous embodiment, a conical baffle plate arrangement can be formed around the control tube, which is arranged between the bottom surface and the chamber inlet. The baffle plate arrangement can achieve a calming of the volume flow from the chamber inlet into the accumulation chamber. In illustrative examples, the baffle plate can be designed as a sieve.

[0048] In a further advantageous embodiment, the portioning device can further comprise a constriction arranged between the inlet and the baffle plate arrangement. This can further achieve a calming of a liquid flowing into the collection chamber. In some exemplary embodiments of the portioning device according to the first aspect, an inlet of the portioning device can be provided in a separate inlet chamber, which continuously communicates with the collection chamber via the chamber inlet. The volume of the inlet chamber can be less than or equal to the volume defined between the third end and the fill level at which the valve switches to the closed position. The inlet chamber can be separated from the collection chamber by partition walls in a housing or by a separate chamber outside a housing in which the collection chamber is formed.

[0049] In advantageous embodiments, the third end and the first end can be arranged substantially opposite one another and spaced apart by a valve path for the float and / or the closing element between the valve seat at the first end and the valve seat element at the third end. For example, the float and the closing element can be in loose mechanical contact with one another such that the closing element is moved to the valve seat by the float rising or floating in the liquid in the valve, wherein the closing element is not rigidly connected to the float. In other examples, the float and the closing element can be rigidly mechanically connected to one another, for example directly attached to one another or indirectly via a connecting element, for example via at least one rod.This allows the position at which the valve seat in the closed position to be farther from the liquid level at which the valve switches from the open to the closed position than if the float and closing element were implemented as a single valve body. This can prevent foam or mist from entering the first connecting channel.

[0050] In a further advantageous embodiment herein, the portioning device may further comprise a cage arrangement arranged in the accumulation chamber between the first end and the third end and defining the valve path.

[0051] In further illustrative embodiments of the first aspect, a gas sensor can be arranged in the collection chamber to detect a gas content in a liquid that accumulates in the collection chamber during operation of the portioning device. In further illustrative embodiments of the first aspect, a liquid sensor can be arranged in the second connecting channel or at the outlet, detecting the liquid transported through the second connecting channel. This allows a length and, accordingly, with a known cross-sectional area, a volume of a liquid portion to be detected at the liquid sensor.

[0052] In further illustrative embodiments of the first aspect, the valve may further comprise a locking mechanism configured to lock the valve in the open position, in which the first connecting channel communicates with the collection chamber and the outlet or maintains a communicating connection between the collection chamber and the outlet via the first connecting channel. This is particularly advantageous in a cleaning mode in which the portioning device is to be rinsed with a cleaning agent, wherein the adjustment mechanism ensures that the first connecting channel and the second connecting channel are open and passable for receiving cleaning agent during the rinsing process.

[0053] In exemplary embodiments herein, the portioning device may further comprise a cleaning agent reservoir and a cleaning tube with a connection for coupling to a cleaning reservoir. Upon activation of the locking mechanism, a connection between the collection chamber and the cleaning tube or the cleaning agent reservoir can be activated or coupled to introduce cleaning agent into the collection chamber. The cleaning agent can be introduced under pressure to rinse the portioning device.

[0054] In exemplary embodiments herein, the portioning device can be configured to carry out a cleaning operation as follows. To clean the portioning device, a cleaning agent can be introduced into the portioning device in a cleaning mode of the cleaning operation, for example, by connecting or coupling the chamber inlet to a cleaning agent reservoir. Pressure can be applied to the cleaning agent reservoir (or the cleaning reservoir can be pressurized, and by opening a communicating connection between the cleaning agent reservoir and the collection chamber, cleaning agent can be forced under pressure into the portioning device) and / or a negative pressure is applied to the outlet 9 of the portioning device 1.In some illustrative examples, the outlet of the portioning device can be connectable or coupled, for example, to a drain or sump for cleaning agents. Alternatively, the outlet can be connected to a vacuum side of a pump, the pressure side of which is connected to the cleaning agent reservoir, in order to cyclically or periodically pump cleaning agent from the cleaning agent reservoir into the portioning device for flushing the portioning device. In other words, flushing of the portioning device can be performed through a closed cleaning agent flushing circuit or through an open cleaning agent flushing circuit.

[0055] In some illustrative embodiments, the cleaning mode can comprise a sequence of rinsing steps for rinsing the portioning device. In some specific examples herein, the accumulation chamber can comprise a fill level sensor or a fill level sensor is provided within the accumulation chamber. Based on the fill level sensor, the valve can be controlled to hold the valve permanently in an open position in a first rinsing step of the rinsing mode, whereby the first and second connecting channels are thereby available for rinsing in the first rinsing step. Additionally or alternatively, the valve can be held in the closed position in a further second rinsing step, such that only the second connecting channel is rinsed in the second rinsing step.In this way, for example, sequences of the first rinsing step and the second rinsing step can be performed alternately, in which only the second connecting channel is rinsed and in which the first and second connecting channels are rinsed simultaneously. In further illustrative examples herein, in the first rinsing step, in which the first and second connecting channels are rinsed simultaneously, a first cleaning agent can be used for rinsing, while in the second rinsing step, in which only the second connecting channel is rinsed, a second cleaning agent that is different from the first cleaning agent is used for rinsing. In specific non-limiting examples herein, the second cleaning agent can be a soap-free cleaning agent, for example a water-based cleaning agent, such as water without added detergent (e.g., distilled water, drinking water, etc.).

[0056] In illustrative embodiments, the cleaning operation can be continued with a flow mode. In flow mode, the portioning device can be connected to a pressure reservoir in order to apply compressed air or at least one gas (e.g., at least one inert gas) to the portioning device via the chamber inlet, such that compressed air or the at least one gas flows through the portioning device. Additionally or alternatively, a negative pressure reservoir can be connected or coupled to the outlet, such that air or at least one gas flows through the collection chamber, which flows into the collection chamber through the chamber inlet due to the negative pressure applied to the outlet. A liquid can be added to the air or the at least one gas to generate mist, for example, by means of an atomizer introduced into the flow upstream of the portioning device.

[0057] In illustrative examples herein, the flow mode can be performed after completion of the cleaning mode, such that a flow through the portioning device with air or an inert gas, for example nitrogen, or an antibacterial and / or antiviral and / or fungicidal mist is performed after the last rinsing step of the cleaning mode. A sequence can be used in which only the second connecting channel is flowed through by a gas or mist while the valve is held in the closed position, followed by a sequence in which the first and second connecting channels are flowed through by a gas or mist while the valve is held in the open position.For example, flow may first be carried out through only the second connecting channel, followed by flow through the first and second connecting channels, wherein the valve is first held in the closed position and then the valve is held in the open position. For example, a sequence of flow steps may be carried out in which at least one flow step with mist is followed by at least one flow step with a gas. For example, an alternating sequence (ending with at least one flow step with gas) or a partial sequence of flow steps with mist followed by a partial sequence with a flow step with gas, and optional repetitions thereof, may be carried out.

[0058] In further illustrative embodiments herein, a further cleaning mode for removing components that were introduced into the portioning device in the flow-through mode can be carried out on top of the flow mode, wherein the cleaning mode can be carried out in accordance with the previous cleaning mode.

[0059] In further illustrative embodiments herein, a further flow mode may be subsequently performed during the cleaning operation. Any number of alternations necessary for cleaning and / or disinfection may be performed during the cleaning operation.

[0060] The cleaning operation may end with a flow mode which acts as a drying mode and is finally carried out with at least one flow-through step with air or an inert gas.

[0061] In illustrative examples, at least one additional sensor can be arranged in the accumulation chamber, for example at least one humidity sensor designed to detect a moisture content in the accumulation chamber. For example, based on the at least one humidity sensor, it can be detected whether a moisture content in the accumulation chamber exceeds a first threshold value, so that the portioning device can be assessed as "moist", or falls below a second threshold value, so that the portioning device can be assessed as "dry" if an output of the at least one moisture sensor is proportional to the moisture content in the portioning device and the first threshold value is greater than the second threshold value. Thus, based on the at least one moisture sensor, it can be detected whether an end of the flow sequence has been reached.

[0062] In illustrative examples herein, a plurality of humidity sensors may be disposed in the accumulation chamber.Accordingly, based on the output of individual humidity sensors, it can be determined whether the accumulation chamber is humid (if all humidity sensors exceed the first threshold) or dry (if all humidity sensors fall below the second threshold) and whether one of the connecting channels is humid (if only the humidity sensor(s) assigned to or closest to the connecting channel exceeds the first threshold) or dry (if only the humidity sensor(s) assigned to or closest to the connecting channels fall below the second threshold) and whether both connecting channels are humid (if only the humidity sensors assigned to or closest to the connecting channels exceed the first threshold) or dry (if only the humidity sensor(s) assigned to or closest to the connecting channel fall below the second threshold).It is also possible to arrange at least one humidity sensor in at least one connecting channel. Based on the output of the humidity sensors, a decision can be made as to whether at least one further flow sequence with the valve in the open and / or closed positions is to be carried out. In illustrative examples, the valve can be actuated independently of sensors arranged in the accumulation chamber, for example, electronically by triggering an actuation signal by a user of the portioning device independently of sensor outputs or by manually actuating the valve by the user of the portioning device.

[0063] In further illustrative embodiments of the first aspect, the portioning device can further comprise a separation channel that branches off from and is formed by the second connecting channel between the collection chamber and the outlet. Furthermore, the separation channel can have a separation channel end outside the second connecting channel that is designed to connect to a sample collection container and is further designed to supply a portion of a liquid quantity transported in the second connecting channel, separated by the separation channel from the second connecting channel, through the separation channel end to a sample collection container arranged at the separation channel end. In illustrative examples, a size of the separated portion can range from 0.5% to 3% of a liquid portion.For example, the split-off portion is essentially determined by an area ratio of internal cross-sections of the second connecting channel at the point where the split-off channel projects into the second connecting channel and the split-off channel itself. For example, in a riser pipe with a diameter of 16 mm as the section of the second connecting channel at which the split-off channel projects into the second connecting channel and an effective cross-section of the split-off channel of approximately 1.6 mm (or more up to, for example, approximately at most 2.8 mm), a split-off portion of approximately 1% (or more up to approximately at most 0.3%) results. Alternatively, the split-off channel can project into an outlet chamber.

[0064] The separation channel described above can be designed with very small dimensions for the separation of samples with very small sample volumes, since the liquid portions generated in the portioning device experience strong acceleration, so that cutting out very small sample volumes works very well with a separation channel with small dimensions, especially a small inner diameter. Although separation channels with small dimensions, especially a small inner diameter, have high flow resistance, the portioning device generates liquid portions with comparatively strong acceleration, which prevents clogging of the separation channel.The strong acceleration results from the generation of a comparatively high pressure difference between the inlet and outlet sides of the dosing device when the valve closes. This is because, at the moment the valve closes, the pressure difference is abruptly applied dynamically to the liquid portion in the collection chamber. This creates a beneficial acceleration of the accumulated liquid portion. For example, rapid discharge of sample volumes of up to 230 ml is possible at a liquid portion frequency of 1.6 Hz.

[0065] In advantageous embodiments of the separation channel, the separation channel is (i) as short as possible and / or (ii) directed as far as possible against the flow direction of liquid portions flowing in the connecting channel and / or (iii) as straight as possible. The term "as far as possible" can be interpreted with a certain degree of imprecision.

[0066] For (i), this means that the length of the separation channel advantageously lies in a range between 0 and 14 diameters of the connecting channel at the point where the separation channel opens into the connecting channel. A length of “0” means that the separation channel is formed as an opening in the wall of the connecting channel, whereas with a length of 14 diameters the separation channel projects towards the centre of the connecting channel. A preferred length of the separation channel lies in the range from approximately 14 to 1 / 3 of the diameter of the connecting channel, as this avoids, on the one hand, the piercing of a liquid portion transported in the connecting channel and, on the other hand, the separation of a sample near the wall of the connecting channel, where the flow on the wall of the channel is detrimental to taking the most homogeneous sample possible. The length is preferably approximately 1 / 3 of the diameter of the connecting channel.

[0067] For (ii), the separation channel is oriented at an angle between 90° and 0° to the wall of the connecting channel at the point where the separation channel protrudes into the connecting channel, and / or to a flow direction in the connecting channel at the point where the separation channel protrudes into the connecting channel, wherein an end of the separation channel protruding into the connecting channel is arranged closer to the first end of the connecting channel than a point where the separation channel is in mechanical contact with the wall of the connecting channel. Advantageous inclinations of the separation channel are in the range of 0° to 60°, preferably 0° to 30°. A very advantageous orientation is at approximately 30° to the wall.

[0068] For (iii), the separation channel is formed essentially without any bend or curvature. For example, a connecting channel, such as a piece of tubing, may be located between the separation channel and the sample collection container, wherein an inner diameter of the connecting channel is larger than an inner diameter of the separation channel at one or more bends or curvatures of the connecting channel.

[0069] In advantageous embodiments of the portioning device, it can further comprise a separation collection chamber arranged on the portioning device in fluid communication with the separation channel, wherein the separation chamber is designed for connection to the sample collection container. For example, the separation channel can be designed as a separation tube with a diameter smaller than a diameter of the second connecting channel on the separation channel. The separation tube can protrude from the second connecting channel into the separation collection chamber, for example at an inclination in a range of 10° to 80°, 20° to 70°, or 30° to 60° relative to a flow direction of a fluid flowing through the second connecting channel.

[0070] In more advantageous embodiments herein, the cleavage collection chamber can be connected via a sample channel to a sample collection container connection, which can be at least temporarily connected to the sample collection container. The sample channel has a sample receiving opening that is communicatively connected to the cleavage collection chamber and a sample outlet opening that is arranged at the sample collection container connection. Thus, a connecting lock can be provided through the cleavage chamber for easy coupling and uncoupling of the sample collection container.

[0071] In further advantageous embodiments herein, the cleavage channel can have a cleavage channel end arranged in the cleavage collection chamber, which can be designed for selective fluid connection of the cleavage channel to the sample receiving opening, such that a sample quantity cleaved by the cleavage channel can be selectively supplied to the sample receiving opening and the cleavage collection chamber. For example, the cleavage channel end can be provided by a flexible piece of tubing, such that the cleavage channel end in the cleavage collection chamber can be displaced between at least two positions, wherein only one position of the cleavage channel end in the cleavage collection chamber provides a fluid connection between the cleavage channel and the sample receiving opening, wherein in at least one other position, a sample quantity cleaved by the cleavage channel is supplied to a section of the cleavage collection chamber that has no fluid connection to the sample receiving opening.This allows for the controlled or desired separation of a sample amount of a fluid flowing in the second connecting channel. As an alternative to the flexible tubing, the separation channel can have a hinged end section at the end of the separation channel that can be pivoted and moved within the separation collection chamber. Instead of the separation channel being designed as a mechanically flexible tube or hose at the end of the separation channel, which is attached to a rigid tubular section of the separation channel and allows for spatial displacement of the separation channel end within the separation collection chamber.

[0072] In even further advantageous embodiments herein, the separation channel end in the separation collection chamber can be displaced between at least two positions by a mechanical and / or pneumatic and / or magnetic displacement mechanism. For example, a mechanically operated switching mechanism can be provided for displacing the separation channel end in the separation collection chamber. Additionally or alternatively, a magnetically operated switching mechanism can be provided for displacing the separation channel end in the separation collection chamber. Here, for example, an electromagnet can be controlled for selective displacement, or a permanent magnet can be mechanically displaced.

[0073] In further advantageous embodiments of the portioning device, the split collection chamber can be connected to the second connecting channel via a split collection chamber outlet channel, which provides a fluid connection to the second connecting channel at the bottom of the split collection chamber. This provides a milk flow circuit that allows for flushing of the split collection chamber when no sample splitting occurs.

[0074] In more advantageous embodiments herein, the separation collection chamber outlet channel can have a separation collection chamber outlet tube projecting into the second connecting channel, the outlet opening of which in the second connecting channel is beveled such that the outlet opening in the second connecting channel is open downstream relative to a flow direction of a fluid flowing in the second connecting channel. In the case of the second connecting channel designed as a riser pipe, the bevel of the outlet opening in the second connecting channel can be directed upwards. In other words, the outlet opening of the separation collection chamber outlet tube in the second connecting channel can be beveled such that an opening plane in which the outlet opening is formed is inclined at an angle of less than 90° to a flow direction of a fluid flowing in the second connecting channel.The bevel creates a slight suction effect in the venting chamber outlet tube due to the Venturi effect caused by a fluid flow in the second connecting channel. This slight suction effect during the discharge is intended to ensure that the inflow, which is under slight pressure due to the plug separation mechanism, does not accumulate in the venting chamber, thus ensuring a perfectly even circulation.

[0075] In further advantageous embodiments of the portioning device, the waste collection chamber can be provided by a waste collection device that is permanently attached to the second connecting channel. Alternatively, the waste collection chamber can be provided by a waste collection device that is detachably and sealed on the second connecting channel.

[0076] In further advantageous embodiments of the portioning device, the waste collection device can further comprise an overflow container. This prevents waste of overflowing sample quantities. For example, the overflow container can be connected to the second connecting channel via an additional connecting line downstream of the waste collection channel via a Venturi nozzle element arranged in the second connecting channel. This allows a quantity collected in the overflow container to be fed back into the second connecting channel.

[0077] In an advantageous embodiment herein, the portioning device can further comprise a sample collection container arranged at the split-off channel end, wherein the sample collection container comprises a pressure equalization channel communicating with the environment of the portioning device, which has a nozzle at its end exposed to the environment, which is sealed from the environment by a pressure equalization membrane, wherein the pressure equalization membrane is designed to seal the nozzle against the ingress of liquid and / or dirt particles from the environment, while exchanging gases with the environment. Here, the pressure equalization channel can be formed by a tube extending from the nozzle to an end of the tube arranged near a bottom of the sample container. The tube is removably arranged on the sample collection container and sealed with an O-ring seal at an inlet opening on the sample collection container.Since the tube is susceptible to contamination, it can be removed for cleaning. The pressure equalization channel allows any liquid collected in the sample container to be mixed by rising air bubbles.

[0078] In further advantageous embodiments herein, the portioning device may further comprise a ventilation channel formed downstream of the splitting channel between the second end and the outlet and enabling a pressure-equalizing connection between the sampling container arranged at the end of the splitting channel and the outlet.

[0079] In a further advantageous embodiment, the splitting channel can be formed by a splitting tube which can be pivoted into the second connecting channel by setting a predetermined angle to at least one side wall of the second connecting channel.

[0080] According to further examples herein, the splitting tube may be arranged in the second connecting channel so that it forms a cross-sectional area of ​​an inlet opening of the splitting tube at an angle other than 90° to the at least one side wall in the splitting tube.

[0081] In further illustrative embodiments of the first aspect, the portioning device may further comprise a housing in which the accumulation chamber and a separate outlet chamber are formed, wherein the accumulation chamber and the outlet chamber are connected, depending on a position of the valve, at least by the second connecting channel and at most by the first connecting channel and the second connecting channel. The outlet, the second end, and the fourth end are formed on or in the outlet chamber.

[0082] In a second aspect, a liquid quantity measuring system is provided. In illustrative embodiments of the second aspect, the liquid quantity measuring system comprises the portioning device according to the first aspect and a sensor designed to detect a liquid or a pneumatically operated counter. In addition or alternatively to the sensor, the portioning device can comprise a differential pressure sensor arrangement designed to detect a pressure difference in the portioning device. The sensor can be arranged in the collection chamber or downstream of the collection chamber for detecting liquid portions. In the case of a differential pressure sensor arrangement, the portioning device can have an inlet designed to supply the portioning device with liquid by a liquid stream supplied to the portioning device.The differential pressure sensor arrangement can comprise a first pressure sensor arranged in or on the inlet for detecting a first pressure occurring at or in the inlet, a second pressure sensor arranged in the accumulation chamber for detecting a second pressure occurring in the accumulation chamber, and / or a third pressure sensor arranged in or on the outlet for detecting a third pressure occurring at or in the outlet. In further illustrative embodiments of the second aspect, the liquid quantity measuring system can further comprise a processor connected to the sensor and / or the differential pressure sensor arrangement.

[0083] With reference to the accompanying figures, various illustrative embodiments of the above-described aspects of the present invention will now be described in more detail.

[0084] Fig. 1 schematically shows a cross-sectional view of a portioning device according to further illustrative embodiments of the present invention.

[0085] Fig. 2 schematically shows a quantity measuring system in a cross-sectional view according to further illustrative embodiments of the present invention.

[0086] Fig. 3 shows schematically a perspective view of a valve seat element.

[0087] Fig. 4 schematically shows a splitting mechanism in a cross-sectional view according to some illustrative embodiments of the invention.

[0088] Fig. 5 schematically shows an arrangement for mixing samples in a sample container according to some illustrative embodiments of the present invention.

[0089] Fig. 6 shows schematic diagrams in which a pressure difference, a flow, an air flow and a triggering of a valve are plotted against time.

[0090] Fig. 7 shows diagrams corresponding to Fig. 6 in the case of valve bouncing.

[0091] Fig. 8 schematically shows a quantity measuring system in a cross-sectional view according to further illustrative embodiments of the present invention.

[0092] Fig. 9 schematically shows a plan view of the liquid quantity measuring system of Fig. 8 according to the direction indicated with reference to the line aa in Fig. 8. Fig. 10a schematically shows a sectional view of a valve body according to various illustrative embodiments of the invention.

[0093] Fig. 10b schematically shows a sectional view of a valve body according to further illustrative embodiments of the present invention.

[0094] Fig. 11 shows schematic diagrams in which a “slurping” is shown.

[0095] Fig. 12 schematically shows a side view of a splitting device according to some embodiments.

[0096] Fig. 12a schematically shows an enlarged view of a part of the splitting device according to the embodiments in Fig. 12.

[0097] Fig. 13 shows schematically a top view of the splitting device according to the embodiments in Fig. 12.

[0098] Fig. 14 shows schematically a side view of a splitting device according to some other embodiments.

[0099] Fig. 15 shows schematically a top view of the splitting device according to the embodiments in Fig. 14.

[0100] Fig. 16 shows schematically a side view of a splitting device according to some other embodiments.

[0101] Fig. 17 shows schematically a side view of a splitting device according to some other embodiments.

[0102] With reference to Fig. 1, a portioning device for generating liquid portions with a predetermined amount will now be described according to some illustrative embodiments. The portioning device described below can also be provided as a basis for a liquid quantity measuring system comprising such a portioning device. Fig. 1 schematically shows, in a cross-sectional view, a portioning device 20 for generating liquid portions with a predetermined amount. In some illustrative examples herein, the portioning device 20 can represent a milk plug generating device that is used for connection to a milk claw (not shown) and a pressure source (not shown) for applying a pressure difference across the portioning device in a milking system (not shown), for example as described above.However, this does not represent a limitation of the present invention and the portioning device can also be used in other systems for producing liquid portions in which the liquid portions are to be provided with a high degree of accuracy in a predetermined amount.

[0103] As shown in Fig. 1, the portioning device 20 comprises a collection chamber 23 for collecting liquid portions, wherein the collection chamber 23 has a chamber inlet 25b towards a connection 25 of the portioning device 20 between a connection chamber 25a of the connection 25 and the collection chamber 23, which is designed to supply the collection chamber 23 with liquid by a liquid flow supplied to the portioning device 20 via the connection 25 (shown in Fig. 1 by an arrow 27a entering the connection 25). In the collection chamber 23 of the portioning device 20, a liquid is illustrated by a liquid level 24, which fills the collection chamber 23 to a level corresponding to the liquid level 24 in the collection chamber 23.

[0104] In illustrative examples, and as shown in Fig. 1, the chamber inlet 25b may be formed as an opening in a wall of the accumulation chamber 23 toward the port 25, which communicates with the accumulation chamber 23 via the port chamber 25a. Generally, the chamber inlet 25b represents a communicating connection between the port 25 and the accumulation chamber 23, which is arranged between the accumulation chamber 23 and the port chamber 25.

[0105] According to illustrative embodiments, the connection 25 of the portioning device 20 can be designed such that a supply line (not shown) or a liquid reservoir (not shown) can be connected directly or indirectly to the connection 25, for example by means of a hose (not shown), pipe (not shown), or the like. For example, a liquid can be actively supplied to the collection chamber 23 via the connection 25 and correspondingly via the chamber inlet 25b by a feed pump (not shown) connected to the connection side of the portioning device 20, either continuously or in pulsed operation.

[0106] The portioning device 20 further comprises an outlet 29 which is designed to dispense liquid portions dispensed by the portioning device 20. The outlet 29 is connected via the collection chamber 23 to the chamber inlet 25b and the connection 25, so that the collection chamber 23 is arranged in the flow direction of the portioning device between the inlet 25 and the chamber inlet 25b on an inlet side of the portioning device 20 and the outlet 29 on an outlet side of the portioning device 20. The terms “inlet side” and “outlet side” are not necessarily shown as designating an actual structural side of the portioning device 20, but should generally be understood functionally as a location assigned to the connection 25 and a location assigned to the outlet 29, which are quite adjacent and, contrary to the illustration in Fig.1 may not necessarily be arranged opposite each other on the portioning device 20.

[0107] According to illustrative embodiments, the outlet 29 can be designed for connection to a reservoir (not shown), for example a container for collecting liquid portions, or a connecting element (not shown) to the reservoir (not shown), for example a hose, pipe or the like. In some examples, the outlet 29 can serve to apply a negative pressure to the portioning device 20 on the output side. For example, the outlet 29 can be connected directly or indirectly to a negative pressure side of a pump (not shown). Thus, a negative pressure can be applied to the portioning device 20 via the outlet 29, wherein the negative pressure can be provided in addition to or alternatively to a feed pump (not shown) which is connected to the pressure side of the portioning device 20 via the input side.

[0108] During operation of the portioning device 20, liquid portions are dispensed through the outlet 29, as illustrated by an arrow 27b on the outlet 29.

[0109] Although in illustrative embodiments of the portioning device 20, during operation of the portioning device 20, a negative pressure is applied to the portioning device 20 via the outlet 29, this does not represent a limitation of the present description and, equivalently, only a positive pressure can be applied to the portioning device 20 by a feed pump (not shown) connected to the port 25 (and thus to the chamber inlet 25b), whereby a continuous or pulsed liquid flow, which is shown by arrow 27a in Fig. 1, is introduced under pressure to the accumulation chamber 23.Here, applying pressure and / or negative pressure to the portioning device 20 means that a pressure difference is generated between the chamber inlet 25b and the outlet 29, in particular a pressure difference between the chamber inlet 25b and the outlet 29 can be detected at least partially during operation of the portioning device 20, for example via a pressure difference sensor (not shown) between the chamber inlet 25b and / or the connection chamber 25a and the outlet 29. The term "pressure difference" is to be understood here as a difference Ap between a pressure p1 detected in the connection 25 or in the connection chamber 25a and / or at the chamber inlet 25 and a pressure p2 detected in the outlet 29 (in particular Ap = p1 - p2, where p1 - p2 > 0).

[0110] In embodiments in which a negative pressure is applied to the outlet 29 without applying an overpressure to the chamber inlet 25, the chamber inlet 25 can be connected to the environment by means of a nozzle 25c, which is formed, for example, in the connection chamber 25a and represents a connection to the environment. The nozzle 25c can thus achieve pressure equalization between the inlet chamber 25a and the chamber inlet 25b and the environment, so that the inlet chamber 25a is maintained at ambient pressure and a slightly reduced negative pressure is created in the inlet chamber 25a. Thus, during operation of the portioning device 20, the pressure difference p1 - p2 is adjusted solely by a negative pressure p2 at the outlet 29, wherein p2 < p1 is measured at least partially during operation of the portioning device 20 between a discharge of two successive liquid portions through the outlet 29.

[0111] In illustrative examples, a permanent inlet for ambient air can be provided through the nozzle 25c. For example, a pressure equalization flow of 5 to 20 liters per minute of ambient air can be provided through the nozzle 25c. This is advantageous in applications in which the portioning device 20 is used in a milking system, since the nozzle 25c ensures independence from a conventional inlet for transport air at the milking claw (not shown). This air inlet bore typically has a diameter of 0.7 to 1.0 mm and can be blocked relatively easily by dirt particles in daily practice. The outlet 29 can be connected in a communicating manner to an outlet chamber 29a. Furthermore, the outlet 29 can be designed as an outlet connection piece and have a connection chamber 29b which is connected in a communicating manner to the outlet chamber 29a.The outlet chamber 29a may be separated from the accumulation chamber 23 in the portioning device by wall sections 26, so that the accumulation chamber 23 and the outlet chamber 29a are provided as separate chambers in the portioning device 20.

[0112] In some illustrative embodiments and as shown in Fig. 1, the portioning device 20 may comprise a housing 22. In the housing 22, the accumulation chamber 23 and the outlet chamber 29a may be formed as separate chambers. For example, the accumulation chamber 23 and the outlet chamber 29a are provided as separated chambers in the housing 22 by at least the partition wall 26 in the housing 22. However, this does not represent a limitation of the present invention, and the outlet chamber 29a may alternatively be formed together with the connection chamber 29b as a single chamber formed in the outlet 29; in particular, the outlet chamber 29a and the connection chamber 29b may be integrally formed as a single chamber (i.e., the outlet 29 is directly separated from the accumulation chamber 23 via at least one partition wall).

[0113] With further reference to Fig. 1, a connecting channel 31 is formed between the accumulation chamber 23 and the outlet 29, which temporarily enables communication between the accumulation chamber 23 and the outlet 29. With reference to the description of the first aspect of the present invention above, the connecting channel 31 provides a "first connecting channel."

[0114] As shown in Fig. 1, the connecting channel 31 has a first end 31a that is at least temporarily communicatively connected to the accumulation chamber 23, and the connecting channel 31 further has a second end 31b that is communicatively connected to the outlet 29 of the portioning device 20. The first end 31a of the connecting channel 31 corresponds to the "first end" of the "first connecting channel" described above with reference to the first aspect of the invention, and the second end 31b of the connecting channel 31 corresponds to the "second end" of the "first connecting channel" described above with reference to the first aspect of the invention. In illustrative examples herein, the second end 31b can be communicatively connected to the outlet 29 via the outlet chamber 29a. However, this does not constitute a limitation of the present invention, and the connecting channel 31 can be directly connected to the connection chamber 29b. The connecting channel 31 can, as shown in Fig.1, be provided as an element on the housing 22, which is provided outside the housing 22, in particular outside the accumulation chamber 23 and the outlet chamber 29a on the portioning device 20. With regard to the illustration in Fig. 1, the connecting channel 31 can be arranged on the accumulation chamber 23 and next to the outlet chamber 29a (if the housing 22 comprises the accumulation chamber 23 and the outlet chamber 29a) or only on the accumulation chamber 23 and next to the outlet chamber 29a (if the housing 22 only comprises the accumulation chamber 23 and the outlet chamber 29a is arranged on the housing 22).

[0115] However, this does not represent a limitation of the present invention, and the connecting channel 31 can be formed at least partially into at least one of the accumulation chamber 23 and the outlet chamber 29a, or the connecting channel 31 can be formed through an opening in at least one partition wall 26 within the housing 22 between the accumulation chamber 23 and the outlet chamber 29a. In this case, the connecting channel 31 would be formed through an opening in the partition wall 26 with opposite openings to the accumulation chamber 23 on one side and the outlet chamber 29a on the opposite side of the opening in the partition wall 26.

[0116] With further reference to Fig. 1, in addition to the connecting channel 31, a connecting channel 33 is provided in the portioning device 20, wherein the connecting channel 33 represents a "second connecting channel" according to the first aspect of the invention described above. The connecting channel 33 has a first end 33a arranged in the accumulation chamber 23, such that the connecting channel 33 partially projects into the accumulation chamber 23. Furthermore, the connecting channel 33 has a second end 33b opposite the first end 33a along an extension of the connecting channel 33, which second end 33b is communicatively connected to the outlet 29 of the portioning device 20.The end 33a of the connecting channel 33 corresponds to the "third end" of the "second connecting channel" described above with reference to the first aspect of the invention, and the end 33b of the connecting channel 33 corresponds to the "fourth end" of the "second connecting channel" described above with reference to the first aspect of the invention. For example, the end 33b of the connecting channel 33 can be arranged in the outlet chamber 29a, so that the connecting channel 33 extends at least partially into the outlet chamber 29a.However, this does not represent a limitation of the present invention, and the end 33b of the connecting channel 33 can be arranged within the connection chamber 29b in the outlet 29, further ensuring that the connection chamber 29b communicates with the end 31b of the connecting channel 31, or the end 33b of the connecting channel 33 can be designed in the form of an opening in the partition wall 26 between the collection chamber 23 and the outlet chamber 29a. In this case, however, an end 33b of the connecting channel 33 arranged at least within the outlet chamber 29a, with the connecting channel 33 extending at least partially into the outlet chamber 29a or even partially into the connection chamber 29b, ensures that at most a minimal backflow of a quantity of liquid transported in the connecting channel 33 into the collection chamber 23 occurs.

[0117] In illustrative embodiments, and as shown with regard to Fig. 1, the portioning device 20 comprises a housing 22 in which the accumulation chamber 23 and the outlet chamber 29a are formed and separated from each other by at least one partition wall 26 in the housing 22. As described above, the only communicating connection between the accumulation chamber 23 and the outlet chamber 29a is through the connecting channel 33, which is arranged within the housing 22, in particular is arranged entirely within the housing 22. The connecting channel 33 can, as shown in Fig. 1, be formed by a connecting tube that runs partially within the accumulation chamber 23 and partially extends into the outlet chamber 29a.However, this does not represent a limitation and, as described above, the connecting pipe of the connecting channel 33 can simply be arranged entirely within the collection chamber 23 and end at the at least one partition 26 arranged between the collection chamber 23 and the outlet chamber 29a. In this case, the connecting pipe of the connecting channel 33 ends at the at least one partition 26 such that an opening in the at least one partition 26 is arranged with one end of the connecting pipe 33 opposite the end 33a of the connecting channel 33. Preferably, the connecting pipe running in the collection chamber 23 is designed as a riser pipe, as shown in Fig. 1 by a riser pipe section 33c. According to the illustration in Fig. 1, the connecting pipe 33 can further be curved in sections in the outlet chamber 29a, as shown by the curved section 33d in Fig. 1.The portioning device 20 further provides a valve function 35, wherein a valve is provided during operation of the portioning device 20 to selectively close the connecting channel 31 during operation of the portioning device 20 depending on a fill level of a liquid in the collection chamber 23. The valve function 35 is provided by the connecting channel 31, which is in the form of a control tube that is at least partially arranged and configured as a riser tube in the portioning device 20. In the present application, the term "riser tube" generally refers to a tube through which liquid rises.The connecting channel 31 can be formed at least partially by the riser pipe, wherein the riser pipe is partially arranged in the collection chamber 23 corresponding to a riser pipe section 31c, in particular starting at the end 31a and is designed as a substantially vertical riser pipe ("vertical" here refers to a direction in the portioning device that corresponds to a direction oriented perpendicular to a liquid level of a liquid resting in the collection chamber 23 or is defined thereby). The riser pipe further extends as a substantially vertical riser pipe corresponding to a riser pipe section 31d into the outlet chamber 29a, which has a riser pipe chamber section 29c for receiving the riser pipe section 31d, through which the outlet chamber 29a is formed in the vertical direction to receive the riser pipe section 31d.

[0118] According to the embodiment shown in Fig. 1, the connecting channel 31 may consist solely of the riser pipe sections 31c and 31d extending between the ends 31a and 31b. However, this is not a limitation, and a curved section may adjoin the riser pipe section 31d.

[0119] In illustrative embodiments, and as shown in Fig. 1, the connecting channel 31 and the connecting channel 33 are arranged in the accumulation chamber 23 such that the end 31a of the connecting channel 31 and the end 33a of the connecting channel 33 are each spaced apart in the accumulation chamber 23 from a bottom surface 23b of the accumulation chamber 23, wherein at least in the accumulation chamber 23, the connecting channel 31 and the connecting channel 33 are each formed with at least one riser section extending away from the bottom surface 23b (cf. riser sections 31c and 33c in Fig. 1). The end 31a is arranged at a higher level in the accumulation chamber 23 than the end 33a relative to the bottom surface 23b.Here, a volume of a liquid portion is determined by the bottom surface 23b covered by the liquid in the accumulation chamber 23 and a height difference between the level of the end 31a relative to the bottom surface 23b and a level at which liquid reaches the end 31a of the riser section 31c and blocks a gas-communicating connection through the connecting channel 31, corresponding to a valve being moved into the closed position (in particular, the valve function 35 is realized).

[0120] In some exemplary embodiments herein, the riser pipe section 31c can be designed such that a liquid entering the riser pipe section 31c through the end 31a automatically rises in the riser pipe section 31c upon entering the riser pipe section 31c. In this case, the riser pipe section 31c can only be smaller than or equal to a minimum cross section of the second connecting channel 33 (at least a minimum cross section of the riser pipe section 33c), so that a rise of liquid in the connecting channel 31 and in particular in the riser pipe section 31c is prevented by a

[0121] Portioning device 20 at the connecting channel 31 is applied (ie as soon as liquid reaches the end 31a). As soon as liquid is in operation of the

[0122] When the portioning device 20 reaches the end 31a of the connecting channel 31, the liquid can also rise in the riser pipe section 31c, since the connecting channel 33 is blocked by liquid for gas flow due to the lower height of the end 33a relative to the bottom surface 23b (in particular, liquid has already risen in the riser pipe section 33c of the connecting channel 33 corresponding to the liquid level 24 due to the lower height of the end 33a relative to the bottom surface 23b).Due to the blockage of the connecting channels 31 and 33 by the liquid present in the riser sections 31c and 33c, a pressure difference builds up between the chamber inlet 25b and the outlet 29, which leads to an increasing penetration of liquid into the first connecting channel (since the riser section 31c has a smaller diameter along its entire length than the riser section 33c), which leads to an increasing rise of liquid in the riser section 31c. As soon as the pressure difference between the chamber inlet 25b and the outlet 29 is sufficiently high (ie, sufficiently high that the liquid in the riser section 33c is accelerated toward the outlet 29), the liquid is transported from the accumulation chamber 23 to the outlet 29 through the connecting channel 33 until the end 33a is no longer in contact with liquid (whereupon the pressure difference decreases and liquid flows back from the connecting channel 31 into the accumulation chamber 23, whereby the connecting channel 31 establishes a pressure equalization between the outlet chamber 29a and the accumulation chamber 23). However, a residual amount of liquid remains in the accumulation chamber 23 due to the returning liquid and the liquid level 24 being below the level of the end 33a with respect to the bottom surface 23b.A new cycle can now begin during operation of the portioning device 20, since after the liquid has flowed out of the connecting channel 31, this again provides a communicating connection between the chamber inlet 25b and the outlet 29, so that the valve function 35 realizes an automatically cyclically operating valve during operation of the portioning device 20.

[0123] With further reference to Fig. 1, the riser section 31d is sufficiently long such that a length of the riser section 31d is greater than a maximum length of a liquid column formed in the riser section 31d. In this way, a valve mechanism can be easily implemented without additional valve body structural features, such as a permanent blocking body in the valve.

[0124] As an alternative to the valve function 35, a valve function 35' can be implemented in the portioning device 20, as described with further reference to Fig. 1. For this purpose, Fig. 1 shows a connecting channel 31' which is used instead of the connecting channel 31 in Fig. 1; in particular, the connecting channel 31 in Fig. 1 is to be regarded as replaced by the connecting channel 3T.

[0125] The connecting channel 3T differs from the connecting channel 31 in that a constriction or nozzle 31'c is formed in the connecting channel 31', which is designed as a riser pipe. The nozzle 31'c provides the valve function 35' in that, when liquid rises in the connecting channel 31 during operation of the portioning device 20, a flow resistance for the rising liquid increases, thereby achieving a valve effect. Instead of the nozzle 31'c, a constriction can also be formed in the connecting channel 31', which is designed as a riser pipe. This constriction, corresponding to the nozzle 31'c, achieves an abrupt change in the flow resistance corresponding to an increase in the flow resistance.Compared to the valve function 35, the valve function 35' allows a design of the connecting channel 31 in which a relatively short riser pipe section, instead of the riser pipe section 31d of the connecting channel 31 (the section of the riser pipe that runs in the outlet chamber 29a), is sufficient to implement the valve function 35'. The abrupt and strong increase in flow resistance achieved by means of the nozzle 31'c or constriction enables precise portioning of liquid quantities through a defined switching between the open and closed positions of the valve. Furthermore, at least one additional sensor element (not shown) can be provided in the collection chamber 23, by means of which measurement parameters within the collection chamber 23 can be determined, such as fill level and / or humidity, etc.An additional sensor element (not shown) can, for example, be a chemical and / or electrical sensor element designed to detect foam and / or at least one component of the liquid in the collection chamber 23. In this case, the additional sensor element (not shown) can, for example, trigger a check valve (not shown) additionally arranged at the chamber inlet 25b, which is designed to block the chamber inlet, and / or a check valve (not shown) additionally arranged at the outlet 29, which is designed to block the chamber inlet. This additional blocking function at the chamber inlet 25b and / or outlet 29 can, for example, be used in a cleaning process of the portioning device 20 and / or to terminate the milking process, as described further below.

[0126] With reference to Fig. 1, a cleaning operation of the portioning device 20 will now be described. To clean the portioning device 20, a cleaning agent is introduced into the portioning device 20. For example, in a cleaning mode of the cleaning operation, the chamber inlet 25b is connected to a cleaning agent reservoir (not shown). Furthermore, pressure is applied to the cleaning reservoir (or the cleaning reservoir is pressurized) and / or a negative pressure is applied to the outlet 29 of the portioning device 20. The outlet 29 can, for example, be connected to a drain or a sump for cleaning agents (not shown).Alternatively, the outlet 29 may be connected to a vacuum side of a pump (not shown), the pressure side of which is connected to the detergent reservoir (not shown) to cyclically pump detergent from the detergent reservoir (not shown) into the portioning device 20 for flushing the portioning device 20. In other words, a flush of the portioning device may be performed through a closed detergent flush circuit or through an open detergent flush circuit.

[0127] In some illustrative embodiments, the cleaning mode may comprise a sequence of rinsing steps of the portioning device 20, wherein in a first rinsing step, a first cleaning agent is used for rinsing, while in a second rinsing step, a second cleaning agent different from the first cleaning agent is used for rinsing, etc. In specific non-limiting examples herein, a soap-free, water-based cleaning agent, for example, water without added cleaning agent, may be used for rinsing as the second cleaning agent.

[0128] In a further mode (flow mode) of cleaning operation, the portioning device 20 can be connected to a compressed air reservoir, with compressed air being applied via the chamber inlet 25b to flow compressed air through the portioning device 20. Compressed air can thus be flowed through the portioning device 20 as a drying mode after the cleaning mode to dry the portioning device.

[0129] The above description of the cleaning operation is not limiting and, in general, the cleaning operation may be performed according to at least some illustrative embodiments of the description of the first aspect of the invention above.

[0130] In view of the above description of Fig. 1, it is apparent that the portioning device 20 can be designed in a compact construction, wherein a dimensioning of the portioning device 20 is determined by a desired volume of liquid portions that are to accumulate in the accumulation chamber 23.In illustrative examples, a volume of a liquid portion is determined by a base area of ​​the accumulation chamber 23 and an effective height of the valve function 35, in particular a height of the liquid level 24 in the accumulation chamber at which liquid is transported away through the connecting channel 33, less a volume based on a distance between the end 33a of the connecting channel 33 and a bottom surface 23b of the accumulation chamber 23, which means a residual liquid volume, since a transport of liquid portions from the accumulation chamber through the connecting channel 33 ends as soon as the end 33a no longer comes into contact with liquid in the accumulation chamber 23.This is apparent because, when the liquid level of a liquid in the accumulation chamber is at a fill level between a height level of the end 33a in the accumulation chamber 23 and the bottom surface 23b of the accumulation chamber 23, communication is established between the chamber inlet 25b and the outlet 29 through the accumulation chamber 23, the connecting channel 33, the outlet chamber 29a and the connecting chamber 29b, so that a negative pressure applied to the outlet 29 is transmitted through the connecting channel 33 to the chamber inlet 25b. Preferably, therefore, the end 33a is arranged at the smallest possible distance from the bottom surface 23b of the collection chamber 23, wherein the distance, however, is sufficient to allow entry of liquid into the connecting channel 33 and, in particular, to keep a flow loss of liquid flowing from the collection chamber 23 into the connecting channel 33 as low as possible.

[0131] With regard to application in milking systems, the portioning device 20 according to the embodiments in Fig. 1 offers the advantage of forming milk plugs in the milking system, wherein the milk plugs have a precisely adjusted volume. This allows for the transport of liquid and gas-foamed liquid in milking systems, since the gas-foamed liquid is transported through milk plugs in the milking system. Furthermore, milk quantity measurement can be achieved by simply counting milk plugs. Furthermore, milk flow determination is possible by determining a plug frequency.

[0132] Milk plugs are liquid portions transported through pipes in the milking system. These liquid portions represent localized sections with a specific liquid volume, where the liquid seals against the pipe walls. This creates a pressure difference upstream and downstream of a liquid portion, which can transport the liquid portion through the milking system's pipes against gravity and flow resistance. Compared to systems where mist or foam is transported, this has the advantage that very high gas velocities are not required to entrain the mist and gas, since these are transported through liquid portions.

[0133] In conventional milking systems, plugging usually occurs due to a siphon in long milk hoses. However, the bending radius of milk hoses cannot be specifically adjusted, resulting in randomly varying liquid portions. Another problem in risers is that liquid portions break apart when the velocity of liquid portions in the riser decreases. This is because they are then perforated by transport air, resulting in annular liquid portions that can no longer be transported in lines by differential pressure. Particularly with small liquid mass flows in risers with large pipe cross-sections, annular liquid portions fall back and reduce the velocity of subsequent closed liquid portions, thus impairing the dynamics of the transport of liquid portions.This phenomenon can lead to a situation where, during a milking process with small milk flows and high vertical transport, the milk in thick milk sacs only reaches the end of the sac after several attempts, such as five or ten. This undesirable dynamic leads to a deterioration in milk quality due to lipolysis, in which the shells of the fat globules are destroyed, potentially damaging the free fat.

[0134] In contrast, the portioning device 20 according to the embodiment shown in Fig. 1 represents a solution in which liquid portions can be generated with a compact, mobile device and in a desired quantity or volume with high precision. By counting the number and frequency of liquid portions, the quantity and flow of liquid transported in the system can also be easily measured.

[0135] With reference to Fig. 2, a portioning device 500 with sampling function will now be described, which can also be used, for example, as a liquid quantity measuring system.

[0136] The portioning device 500 comprises a housing 522, into which a liquid is introduced into the housing 522 through a connection 627 according to an arrow 627a. The introduced liquid can impinge on a baffle plate (not shown) arranged in the housing 522 to calm the inflowing liquid, as explained with regard to the baffle plates in the embodiments described above. For example, a baffle plate according to the embodiment described below with reference to Fig. 8 can be provided here accordingly, for example as a conical baffle plate (not shown) arranged accordingly in the housing 522.

[0137] In the housing 522, an accumulation chamber 523 is connected to the port 627, wherein a connecting channel 531 and a connecting channel 533 are partially located within the accumulation chamber 523 such that one end 531a of the connecting channel 531 and one end 533a of the connecting channel 533 are arranged in the accumulation chamber 523.

[0138] With further reference to Fig. 2, an illustrative embodiment is shown in which a portioning device 500 has a housing 522 in which only the collection chamber 523 is formed as the only chamber in the housing 522. The connecting channel 531 and the connecting channel 533 are communicatively connected to the collection chamber 523 and lead out of the housing 522. In other words, the connecting channels 531 and 533 extend at most partially into the housing 522; in particular, the connecting channel 533 ends with its end 533a in a housing base 522ab of the housing 522. The connecting channel 533 can be designed as a tubular connecting channel with a U-shaped siphon section 533c and an adjoining riser pipe section 533d.

[0139] As shown in Fig. 2, the connecting channels 531 and 533 merge outside the housing 522 and, at their junction, form an outlet chamber 529a of an outlet 529 of the portioning device 500. For example, one end 531b of the connecting channel 531 can be formed in an opening of the outlet chamber 529a, so that the outlet chamber 529a communicates with the connecting channel 531. The outlet chamber 529a can be designed as a pipe section or chamber section adjoining the connecting channel 533 outside the housing 522. Furthermore, the outlet chamber 529a can have an outlet connection 529c designed to dispense liquid portions according to an arrow 527b.

[0140] By means of a sampling container 513 (or sampling receptacle), which is arranged next to the housing 522, a sample can be taken in the connecting channel 533 through a separation channel 511, e.g., a separation tube. A mixing tube 518a is arranged in the sampling container 513 and communicates with the surroundings of the portioning device 500 via a small nozzle at the upper end. Thus, outside air can be introduced into the sampling container 513 through the mixing tube 518a during sampling in order to achieve mixing of the separated samples in the sampling container 513. The mixing tube is preferably a relatively thick tube, in particular a diameter of 10% to 30% of the diameter of the sampling container 513.The sample container 513 can be connected to the outlet 529 via a connecting channel 518b, for example, at the outlet connection 529c, so that pressure equalization is achieved between the sample container 513 and the outlet 529. The connecting channel 518b represents a ventilation channel of the sample container 513, which is formed downstream of the separation channel 511 between the end 533a of the connecting channel 533 and the outlet 529 and enables a pressure-equalizing connection between the sample container 513 connected to the separation channel 511 and the outlet 529.

[0141] For sampling, one end 511a of the separation channel 511 is arranged in the connecting channel 533, for example, in the riser pipe section 533c of the connecting channel 533. An end 511b of the separation channel 511 opposite the end 511a is arranged in the sampling container 513, so that a sample quantity separated by the separation channel 511 at the end 511a is transported through the separation channel 511 to the sampling container 513 or is supplied thereto. A closable sampling nozzle can be attached to the bottom of the sampling container 513 (not shown in Fig. 2).

[0142] The sampling container 513, which is arranged at the splitting channel end 511a, comprises, as described above, the connecting channel 518b as a pressure equalization channel communicating with the environment of the portioning device 500, which has a nozzle 518c at its end exposed to the environment. In illustrative examples herein, the nozzle 518c can be sealed from the environment by a pressure equalization membrane (not shown), wherein the pressure equalization membrane (not shown) is configured to seal the nozzle 518c against the ingress of moisture from the environment of the portioning device 500 under a gas exchange with the environment.

[0143] A valve 525 is formed in the accumulation chamber 523. The valve 525 has a valve body 525a and a closing element 525b movable within the valve 525. The closing element 525b is movable by the valve body 525a between an open position of the valve 525, in which the closing element 525b does not block the connecting channel 531, and a closed position of the valve 525, in which the closing element 525b rests against a valve seat 525c of the valve 525 at the end 531a of the connecting channel 531 and blocks the connecting channel 531. The closing element 525b can be arranged in a valve cage 525d, which defines a valve path for the closing element 525b in the valve 525. Furthermore, the valve body 525a in the valve 525 can be arranged in a valve cage 525d, which defines a valve path for the valve body 525a.

[0144] The valve cage 525d represents a structure attached to or formed on the end 531a, which, together with the valve seat 525c and the valve body 525a, defines a valve path for the closure element 525b. In other words, the valve cage 525d, the valve seat 525c, and the valve body 525a define a limited distance for the closure element 525b, which the closure element can travel between the open position of the valve 525 and the closed position of the valve 525. For example, the valve cage 525d may represent a structure that at least partially surrounds the end 531a, limits movement of the closing element 525b along a direction oriented perpendicular to a normal direction of the end 531a and essentially only allows movement of the closing element 525b along a direction that is parallel to a direction of movement of the valve body 525a in the valve 525, for example, along a height direction of the housing 522.In this case, recesses can be formed in the valve cage 525d which allow the passage of gas through the valve cage 525d to the end 531a, so that the end 531a is in communication with the outlet 529 despite the valve cage 525d, as long as the valve 525 is in the open position.

[0145] With further reference to Fig. 2, the valve cage 525d can have a locking mechanism 525f that functions to at least partially block the valve travel for the valve body 525a in the valve 525, so that the valve body 525a can at most partially control the valve travel, in particular only to the extent that the closing element 525b can no longer be moved to rest against the valve seat 525c. For example, the locking mechanism 525f can be moved by a handle 525g into a locking position, in which the valve body 525a is no longer capable of sufficiently moving the closing element 525b, so that the closing element 525b cannot be moved into the closed position of the valve 525, and into an open position, in which the valve body 525a can extend the full valve travel in the valve cage 525d.

[0146] Although the valve 525 with closing element 525b is shown and described in Fig. 2, this does not represent a limitation of these embodiments and alternatively, a valve according to embodiments may replace the valve 525 in which the valve body is designed to directly engage a valve seat of the valve.

[0147] Although no seat for the valve body 525a in the open position of the valve 525 is shown in Fig. 2, in particular no further element is shown between the valve body 525a and the opening 533a, this does not represent a limitation and an optional seat element (not shown) can, for example, be provided in the collection chamber 523 in alignment with the opening 533a corresponding to the valve seat 155d shown and described with reference to Fig. 3, so that at all times a distance is realized between the valve body 525a and the opening 533a, in particular the opening at all times a communicating connection exists between the collection chamber 523 and the connecting channel 533, in particular the siphon section 533c.

[0148] With reference to Fig. 3, according to illustrative and non-limiting embodiments, the valve seat 155d is shown in a perspective view. In illustrative examples, and as shown in Fig. 3, the valve seat 155d may, for example, have an annular seat structure 155e for optimal support of the valve body 525a, wherein the seat structure 155e is positioned by support feet 155f at a distance from the end 533a above the end 533a in the accumulation chamber 523. As a result, in the open position of the valve 535, a gap remains between the valve body 525a in the valve seat 155d, which rests on the seat structure 155e, and the end 533a, through which gap the end 533a is communicatively connected to the accumulation chamber 523. However, this does not represent a limitation and the annular seat structure 155e may alternatively be formed in the shape of a ring segment or merely optional.

[0149] In more advantageous embodiments herein, the support feet 155f can be arranged around the end 533a in an azimuthal direction around the opening of the end 533a. Each support foot 155f has a support section 155f1 on the housing bottom of the accumulation chamber 523 around the opening of the end 533a, which protrudes from the housing bottom into the accumulation chamber 523 and can support at least the seat structure 155e, and can optionally also be configured to bear against the valve body 525a. For example, each support section 155f1 can be configured at its upper end to bear against a surface portion of the valve body 525a. In addition, each support foot 155f may have a guide section 155f2 projecting beyond the opening of the end 533a or partially projecting into the opening of the end 533a, which is designed to guide a liquid flowing into the end 153a.Additionally or alternatively, the support sections 155f1 may have a curvature to further dampen the outflow of fluid as it passes through the gap into the connecting channel 533c. In other words, the valve seat 155d above the end 533a provides a rotation brake for fluid flowing through the end 533a through curved sections 155f1 that adapt to a rotating flow, since a streamlined tangential inlet into the opening provided by the end 533a is achieved under the valve seat 155d.

[0150] Although embodiments with the valve seat 155d are described with reference to a combination of Fig. 2 and Fig. 3, the valve seat 155d can be omitted. In illustrative examples, it can be accepted that the valve body 525a temporarily covers the end 533a, but is lifted off the end 533a by floating in liquid that accumulates in the accumulation chamber 523. Alternatively, the valve path can be defined as running in the accumulation chamber 523 only in alignment with the end 531a and not over the end 533a. In a further embodiment, instead of a vertical valve path (i.e., parallel to a housing wall extending between the bottom and cover of the housing 522), a valve path oriented obliquely in the accumulation chamber 523 can be formed, although a vertical valve path allows a compact design of the housing. With reference to Fig.An exemplary and non-limiting separation mechanism according to illustrative embodiments of the invention will now be described with reference to Figure 4. The separation mechanism can be used, for example, with reference to the embodiments of Figure 2, for separating sample quantities for sampling in a portioning device such as portioning device 500 in Figure 2. The separation mechanism can also be used in a corresponding portioning device used in a liquid quantity measurement system.

[0151] Fig. 4 shows a splitting device 710 as an exemplary illustrative embodiment of a splitting mechanism. The splitting device 710 comprises a splitting tube 711 as an illustrative and non-limiting example of a splitting channel. The splitting tube 711 extends partially into a connecting channel 703. In illustrative embodiments, the splitting tube 711 is inserted into a riser pipe section 703a of the connecting channel 703, so that the splitting tube 711 extends, for example, through a wall of the connecting channel 703. In this case, one end 711a of the splitting tube 711 is arranged within the connecting channel 703, so that along the end 711a orthe area of ​​the splitting tube 711 spanned by the end 711a, a sample amount of a liquid portion 703a (the arrow 703a indicates a flow direction of the liquid portion and, together with an upper level 703b of the liquid portion, represents the liquid portion located in the connecting channel 703). The splitting tube 711 can, for example, be detachably attached to the connecting channel 703, in particular can be inserted into and removed from the riser tube section 703a through an opening. After removal of the splitting tube 711, the remaining opening (not shown) can be closed by a cap, a plug, or the like. Alternatively, the splitting tube 711 can remain permanently on the connecting channel 703.

[0152] According to the illustration in Fig. 4, the splitting tube 711 is inserted into the riser tube section 703a at an inclination angle α to the riser tube section 703a, and the end 711a of the splitting tube 711 is beveled with respect to a jacket of the splitting tube 711, in particular, the end 711a is oriented at an angle other than 90° to the jacket of the splitting tube 711. As a result, the end 711a has an area that is larger than a cross-sectional area of ​​the splitting tube 711 between the end 711a and a wall of the riser tube section 703a, in particular a cross-sectional area that is oriented perpendicular to a longitudinal axis of the splitting tube 711. Furthermore, the splitting device 710 has a scale element 712 which is arranged on the splitting tube 711 at an end 711b opposite the end 711a of the splitting tube 711.The scale element 712 allows adjustment of a rotational orientation of the splitting tube 711 along the longitudinal axis 711L of the splitting tube 711, thereby defining an inclination angle ß at which the end 711a of the splitting tube 711 is inclined relative to a wall of the riser section 703a and thus also relative to a flow direction of the liquid portion 703b. By adjusting a rotational orientation of the splitting tube 711 using the scale element 712, the inclination angle ß of the end 711a in the connecting channel 703 can be varied between a minimum value and a maximum value. Furthermore, this means that due to the effective capture area of ​​the end 711a depending on the angle of inclination ß, ie, an effective area of ​​the end 711a obtained by a projection of the area of ​​the end 711a onto an effective area along a direction parallel to the side wall of the riser pipe section 703a orparallel to the flow direction of the liquid portion 703b. In other words, an effective capture area is obtained that corresponds to the product of the area of ​​the end 711a and sine ß (sin ß). According to a given density of the liquid portion 703b and a velocity of the liquid portion 703b obtained by measurement, a mass flow of the sample amount split off through the splitting tube 711 can be obtained.

[0153] With further reference to Fig. 4, the splitting tube 711 is connected at the end 711 b to a sampling line 715, which allows a splitting sample quantity to be fed to a sampling container (not shown) via a filling nozzle 717 (optionally with a tap), for example a sampling container as shown in Fig. 2. Furthermore, a

[0154] Pressure equalization line 719 is shown, which enables pressure equalization between the sampling container (not shown) and the connecting channel 703.

[0155] In illustrative examples, an area of ​​the end 711a can be less than or equal to one-third of the inner tube diameter of the riser tube section 703a. Furthermore, the splitting tube 711 is a very thin-walled tube, and the scale element 712 can allow rotation of the splitting tube 711 about the longitudinal axis 711L of the splitting tube 711 within a rotation angle range 713, for example, a rotation angle range 713 of 180° or more than 180°. In connection with splitting representative samples, it is very advantageous to reliably split off samples with an exact sample quantity. In this case, it can be advantageous to design the splitting tube, especially the part of the splitting channel that protrudes into the riser tube section 703a, with as thin-walled a design as possible and as sharp a design as possible at its lower end.For example, a splitting tube may have an inner diameter to outer diameter ratio of at least 0.7, preferably 0.8 or 0.9, more preferably in the range of 0.91 to 0.98.

[0156] In the context of reliable sampling, it can also be advantageous if the separation channel has an acute angle (especially an angle less than 90°, such as an angle in the range of 10° to 45°, preferably an angle of approximately 30°) at its end located in the riser tube. This allows a precisely defined, representative subsample to be easily cut from each discharged plug, largely unaffected by the adjacent milk flow or any possible deviation of the device's inclination from a vertical position.

[0157] An advantageous size of the subsample of 0.5% to 3% of the respective plug quantity is essentially determined by the area ratio of the internal cross sections of the riser tube and the splitting tube (e.g. riser tube iD 16mm; splitting tube iD 1.6mm => splitting quantity = 1%).

[0158] With reference to Fig. 5, an exemplary mixing mechanism for a sample collection container 715 is shown, which can be used, for example, in conjunction with the embodiments described above for Figs. 2 and 4. The sample collection container has an opening at its upper end into which a tube 817 is inserted. The tube 817 is sealed by a seal 821 in the opening of the sample container 815. The tube 817 is of sufficient length to be inserted into the sample collection container 815 as close as possible to a bottom of the sample collection container 815. A pressure equalization membrane with a nozzle 819 is arranged at the upper end of the tube, wherein the pressure equalization membrane comprises a filter element arranged between the nozzle and the tube and provides a seal against liquid and / or dirt particles, but allows air to pass through.Thus, air is sucked into the tube 817 through the nozzle 815 and the pressure equalization membrane and is discharged into the sample collection container 815 in the form of air bubbles when the sample quantity accumulates in the sample collection container 815, so that the air bubbles enable mixing of the sample quantity accumulating in the sample collection container 815 in order to prevent creaming and to keep the sample homogeneous.

[0159] Referring to Fig. 6, a graphical representation of the results of a measurement 840 performed by the inventor using a portioning device according to an embodiment of the invention is shown. A graph 842 represents a trigger signal of a liquid portion determined from a graph 844 representing a measured differential pressure between the port and outlet of a portioning device. Furthermore, graph 846 illustrates a measured air signal, and graph 848 represents a measured flow. It can be seen that the portioning device provides reproducible liquid portions with good regularity and within tolerances.

[0160] With further reference to Fig. 7, a measurement 860 is shown showing a portioning device with a valve subject to so-called "bounce." The term "bounce" refers to a condition of the valve in which it does not seal sufficiently in the closed position and refers to undesirable fluctuations in the pressure difference in the closed position. This results in unevenness, as graph 862 in Fig. 7, which represents a trigger signal, because there is no uniform time interval between two trigger signals. This is due to fluctuations in the pressure difference between the outlet and connection of a portioning device, as graph 864 shows a measured pressure difference. It can be seen that pressure fluctuations occur between trigger peaks, which the inventor refers to as "bounce."The inventor has recognized that a reliable seal of the valve in the closed state prevents bouncing and leads to better portioning, as illustrated, for example, in connection with Fig. 6 and the measurement 840 shown there. Furthermore, Fig. 7 with graph 866 represents a measured air signal, and graph 868 represents a measured flow. This shows that the air signal is less constant compared to the air signal 846, which is triggered by the bouncing.

[0161] The inventor has recognized that bouncing is not primarily caused by repeated impacts of the valve body or closing element on the valve seat in the valve, for example, caused by an unstable fluid level, but rather by a brief suction of fluid and foam through a valve that is not yet fully closed. The fluid level rises close to the valve seat and leads to the valve being almost closed, causing irregular fluid portions to be generated by the portioning device, which can be illustrated, for example, as small sips. This represents the relatively smaller peaks in the differential pressure signal of graph 864 between the trigger signal peaks, labeled graph 862 in Fig. 7.

[0162] The inventor proposes a solution or remedy for bouncing by, firstly, stabilizing the liquid level in the accumulation chamber. Furthermore, foaming of the liquid in the accumulation chamber is avoided by uniformly admitting liquid into the accumulation chamber. The valve seat is positioned as high as possible relative to the liquid level. In particular, the float and closing element are decoupled from one another, for example, by a connecting element or by separating the closing element and float into separate valve elements. Furthermore, an improved seal between the closing element or valve body and the valve seat in the valve by means of elastic sealing elements on the valve seat and / or closing element or valve body can provide a further remedy.

[0163] Fig. 8 shows schematically in a side cross-sectional view a portioning device 180 for producing liquid portions with a predetermined amount.

[0164] In specific illustrative examples herein, the portioning device 180 may represent a milk plug generating device that is used for connection to a milk claw (not shown) and a pressure source (not shown), in particular a negative pressure source or vacuum source, in a milking system (not shown), wherein a milking vacuum can be created by the pressure source (not shown). However, this does not represent a limitation of the present invention, and the portioning device may also be used in other systems for generating liquid portions in which the liquid portions are to be provided with a predetermined amount with high accuracy. In advantageous applications, the milk plug generating device may be used in a milk quantity measuring system as an illustrative example of a liquid quantity measuring system.

[0165] As shown in Fig. 8, the portioning device 180 comprises a housing chamber 183 in a housing 182, which is divided into a collection chamber 183a for collecting liquid portions and a chamber inlet chamber 183b. The chamber inlet chamber 183b communicates directly with a connection chamber 185a of a connection 185 of the portioning device 180 via an opening 185b of the housing chamber 183 between the chamber inlet chamber 183b and the connection chamber 185a of the connection 185, wherein the connection 185 represents a top-side inlet to the portioning device 180 for supplying the collection chamber 183a with liquid by a liquid stream supplied to the portioning device 180. As shown in Fig. 8, the connection 185 is shown as a horizontal inlet to the housing 183 of the portioning device 180, so that the connection 185 provides a tangential inlet to the chamber inlet chamber 183b.In Fig. 8, a supply of the portioning device 180 is illustrated by an arrow 187a, which represents a supply of liquid to the connection chamber 185a of the connection 185. Furthermore, in Fig. 8, an arrow 187b represents a liquid entering the chamber inlet chamber 183b from the connection chamber 185a.

[0166] In general, the opening 185b between the chamber inlet chamber 183b and the connection chamber 185a represents a chamber inlet that provides a communicating connection between the chamber inlet chamber 183b and the accumulation chamber 183a in the housing chamber 183 of the housing 182, wherein the chamber inlet chamber 183b is located in the housing chamber 183 above the accumulation chamber 183a. For example, the accumulation chamber 183a may be defined in a housing part 182a of the housing 182, while the chamber inlet chamber 183b may be at least partially formed in a housing cover 182b. For example, as shown in Fig. 8, the chamber inlet chamber 183b is partially formed in the housing cover 182b and partially in the housing part 182a of the housing 182. The housing cover 182b is detachably mounted on the housing part 182a by means of a seal 182c.Accordingly, the housing 182 is designed as a multi-part housing, wherein the housing cover 182b is placed on the housing part 182a and the accumulation chamber 183a complements the chamber inlet chamber 183b or the connection chamber 185a to form the housing chamber 183 and closes it on the top side.

[0167] The housing part 182a has a housing base 182ab and housing walls extending vertically therefrom. The housing base 182ab can be provided as a detachable element on the housing walls of the housing part 182a or can be formed integrally with the housing walls of the housing part 182a, as shown in Fig. 8. The housing cover 182b can be formed as a substantially plate-shaped cover element that is placed on the housing part 182a and partially closes it off at the top. "Substantially" here means that structures extending therefrom, such as the connection 185, can be attached or formed on the housing cover 182b.For example, the connector 185 on the housing cover 182b may provide a structure extending horizontally from the housing cover 182b, as shown, on the top side of the housing 182. However, this is not limiting, and the connector 185 may alternatively be provided as an upwardly extending structure. In further illustrative examples, the connector 185 may be configured as a connector piece formed integrally with the housing cover 182b, or alternatively, as a connector element mountable on the housing cover 182b.

[0168] In addition to the terminal 185, further structures extending away from the housing 182 may be formed on the housing cover 182b, as explained further below.

[0169] According to the illustration in Fig. 8, the housing 182 can be sealed as a multi-part housing 182 in the assembled state by the housing seal 182c between the housing cover 182b and the housing part 182a, which is formed as a circumferential seal, for example by a sealing ring, at a connection between the housing parts 182a and 182b.

[0170] Furthermore, the portioning device 180 comprises an outlet 189, which is designed to dispense the liquid portions through the portioning device 180 and to apply a negative pressure, as illustrated by an arrow 187c, which indicates liquid exiting through an outlet opening of the outlet 189. In some illustrative embodiments, the outlet 189 can be designed as an outlet nozzle 189b extending horizontally away from the housing cover 182b. For example, the outlet 189 can be designed as an outlet nozzle 189b integral with the housing cover 182b and extending therefrom at approximately the same height as the connection 185. This does not constitute a limitation, and alternatively, the outlet 189 can be provided as an outlet nozzle 189b mountable on the housing cover 182b.

[0171] In further alternative embodiments, which are not shown in Fig. 8, the outlet 189 can, in some illustrative embodiments, be designed as an outlet nozzle 189b running vertically to the housing cover 182b, which, for example, runs through the housing bottom 182ab and extends downwards away from the housing bottom 182ab.

[0172] With further reference to Fig. 8 and according to illustrative embodiments, the housing base 182ab can be formed with a concave or partially conical bottom surface at least in the housing chamber 183 or as a conical housing base 182ab. For example, at least one inner surface of the housing base 182ab, in particular a surface of the housing base 182ab facing the accumulation chamber 183a, is inclined at an angle other than 90° to side walls of the housing 182, which are bisected by the seal 182c, for example at an angle greater than 90° and less than 120°, 110°, or 180°.

[0173] Furthermore, the housing base 182ab can have one or more support feet (not shown) that extend downwards from the housing base 182ab and allow the portioning device 180 to be placed on the support foot(s) (not shown). In a specific illustrative example herein, a support foot can be formed by a hollow cylindrical projection on the housing base 182ab that extends downwards from the housing base 182ab (i.e., on a side of the housing base 182ab opposite the housing chamber 183) along a height direction of the portioning device (i.e., a direction along which the housing cover 182b is arranged on the housing part 182a). In a specific example, at least one support foot (not shown) can represent an extension of at least one housing wall of the housing part 182a downwards beyond the housing base 182ab.

[0174] The portioning device 180 further comprises a connecting channel 191 having an end 191a and an end 191b, wherein the end 191a is communicatively connected to or disposed within the accumulation chamber 183a, and the end 191b is communicatively connected to the outlet 189 of the portioning device 180. A connecting channel 193 of the portioning device 180 has an end 193a and an end 193b, wherein the end 193a is connected to or disposed within the accumulation chamber 193a. The end 193b is illustrated in Fig. 8 with a dashed line and represents a point of the connecting channel 193 up to which the connecting channel does not communicate with the connecting channel 191 along a flow direction oriented from the end 193a to the outlet 189 starting from the end 193a, in particular the connecting channel 193 does not come into contact with the end 191b of the connecting channel 191.This ensures that the connecting channel 193 and the connecting channel 191 are separated from each other in such a way that no liquid transported in the connecting channel 193 passes into the connecting channel 191. Furthermore, the connecting channel 193 is communicatively connected to the outlet 189 of the portioning device 180, as described in more detail below.

[0175] The connecting channel 191 corresponds to a "first connecting channel" of the first aspect of the invention described above, and the connecting channel 193 corresponds to a "second connecting channel" according to the first aspect of the invention described above. Furthermore, the end 191a of the connecting channel 191 corresponds to the "first end" of the "first connecting channel" described above with reference to the first aspect of the invention, and the end 191b of the connecting channel 191 corresponds to the "second end" of the "first connecting channel" described above with reference to the first aspect of the invention. The end 193a of the connecting channel 193 corresponds to the "third end" of the "second connecting channel" described above with reference to the first aspect of the invention, and the end 193b of the connecting channel 193 corresponds to the "fourth end" of the "second connecting channel" described above with reference to the first aspect of the invention.

[0176] In addition to the housing chamber 183, a further housing chamber is formed in the housing 182 of the portioning device 180 as an outlet chamber 189a, which is in constant communication with the outlet 185. The outlet chamber 189a is completely separated from the housing chamber 183 by at least one partition wall arranged in the housing part 182a. "Completely" here means that any liquid collected in the accumulation chamber 183a cannot enter the outlet chamber 189a unless the valve 195 is in the closed position and a pressure difference is applied between the accumulation chamber 183a and the outlet chamber 189a. The at least one partition wall can preferably be oriented parallel to the housing walls of the housing part 182a and sealed to the housing cover 182b by a seal 182e.The accumulation chamber 183a can be separated from the outlet chamber 189a in the housing 182 by the at least one partition wall and the seal 182e, so that fluid flowing into the accumulation chamber 183a through the chamber inlet 183b can accumulate in the accumulation chamber 183a without flowing back into the connection chamber 185a or, when the valve 195 is open, flowing into the outlet chamber 189a. This ensures that the outlet chamber 189a communicates with the accumulation chamber 183a only through at least one of the connecting channels 191, 193.

[0177] A wall insert 186a can be inserted into the accumulation chamber, as shown in Fig. 8. The wall insert 186a represents a wall section extending in the height and depth directions (perpendicular to the height direction and perpendicular to the paper plane in the illustration of Fig. 8) of the housing 182, partially in the housing part 182a between the housing base 182ab and the housing cover 182b, which wall section abuts the housing chamber 183 in the accumulation chamber 183a. The connecting channel 193 can, as shown in Fig. 8, be formed by a connecting pipe which opens in the accumulation chamber 183a at the housing bottom 182ab in an opening at the end 193a of the connecting channel 193 and extends from the housing bottom 182ab in the accumulation chamber 183a under the housing bottom 182ab with a U-shaped pipe section or siphon section 193c to the outlet chamber 189a and partially into the outlet chamber 189a.There, the connecting channel 193 can continue at the end of the U-shaped pipe section or siphon section 193c into a riser pipe section 193d, at the end of which a curved pipe section 193e arranged in the outlet chamber section 189b continues with the end 193b. The connecting channel 193 can be designed as a one-piece connecting pipe; however, this does not represent a limitation, and a multi-part design of the connecting pipe is also conceivable. For example, at least two of the connecting pipe sections 193c, 193d, 193e can be inserted into one another in a multi-part construction of the connecting pipe or can be formed integrally with one another or with the housing base 142ab.

[0178] The U-shaped tube section 193c is shown in Fig. 8 as being formed integrally with the housing base 182ab, however, this is not a limitation, and alternatively, the U-shaped tube section 193c may be provided as a separate component from the housing base 182ab and mounted on the housing base 182ab. Furthermore, although the connecting channel 193 is shown as being formed integrally with the outlet chamber 189a, this is not a limitation, and alternatively, the connecting channel 193 may be mountable only to the accumulation chamber 189a in the housing part 182a. For example, the end 193a of the connecting channel 193 may be provided by the physical end of the element that forms the connecting channel 193, and the outlet chamber 189a may be mountable as a separate component to the connecting channel 193.Additionally or alternatively, only the connecting channel 193 can be arranged in the housing part 182a or formed integrally therewith (provided the end 193b lies above a liquid level in the connecting channel 193 that corresponds to a liquid level in the accumulation chamber 183a at which the valve switches to the closed position). By forming the end 193a as an opening in the housing base 182ab in the housing chamber 183, complete emptying of the housing chamber 183 without any residual liquid remaining can be achieved.

[0179] A valve 195 is formed in the accumulation chamber 183, which can be designed corresponding to the valve 525 described with reference to Fig. 2. The valve 195 has a valve body 195a and a closing element 195b movable therefrom in the valve 195. The closing element 195b is movable by the valve body 195a between an open position of the valve 195, in which the closing element 195b does not block the connecting channel 191, and a closed position of the valve 195, in which the closing element 195b abuts against a valve seat 195c of the valve 195 at the end 191a of the connecting channel 191 and blocks the connecting channel 191, as described with reference to Fig. 2 with respect to the valve 525 therein (the disclosure of the valve 525 in this respect being analogously applicable to the valve 195 and is incorporated by reference in its entirety and transferred accordingly).For example, the valve seat 195c can represent a constriction in the connecting channel 191 toward the end 191a of the connecting channel 191, as shown in Fig. 8 by way of illustration (but not limitation). Alternatively, the valve seat 195c can be attached outside the connecting channel 191 from the outside to the end 191a of the connecting channel 191 and represent an element separate from the connecting channel 191 or formed integrally therewith. The closing element 195b can be arranged in a valve cage 195d, which defines a valve path for the closing element 195b in the valve 195. Furthermore, the valve body 195a in the valve 195 can be arranged in a valve cage 195e, which defines a valve path for the valve body 195a. The valve cages 195d and 195e can be designed according to the embodiments described with regard to Figs. 2 and 10a, 10b and the description of these embodiments is correspondingly applicable to the embodiments shown in Fig.8 and described with reference thereto and is incorporated herein by reference.

[0180] The valve body 195a is provided as a floating body that experiences a buoyancy force in a liquid that is greater than the sinking force (weight force minus buoyancy force) of the closing element 195b in the liquid. The valve body 195a can be configured to resemble a floating body, as described above with reference to further embodiments, so that the description of floating bodies above is incorporated in its entirety by reference.

[0181] With further reference to Fig. 8, the valve cage 195e may include a locking mechanism (not shown) that may function to at least partially block the valve path for the valve body 195a in the valve 195, so that the valve body 195a can at most partially control the valve path, for example, only control it to the extent that the closing element 195b can no longer be moved to engage the valve seat 195c. For example, the locking mechanism (not shown) can be moved by a handle (not shown, for example corresponding to a handle according to element 525g in Fig. 2) into a locking position in which the valve body 195a is no longer capable of sufficient movement of the closing element 195b, so that the closing element 195b cannot be moved into the closed position of the valve 195, and into an open position in which the valve body 195a can extend the full valve travel in the valve cage 195e.

[0182] Although the valve 195 with closing element 195b is shown and described in Fig. 8, this does not represent a limitation of these embodiments and alternatively, a valve according to embodiments may replace the valve 195 in which the valve body is designed to directly engage a valve seat of the valve.

[0183] Although no seat for the valve body 195a in the open position of the valve 195 is shown in Fig. 8, in particular no further element is shown between the valve body 195a and the opening 193a, this does not represent a limitation and an optional seat element (not shown) can, for example, be provided in the collection chamber 183 in alignment with the opening 193a corresponding to the valve seat 155d shown and described with reference to Fig. 3, so that at all times a distance is realized between the valve body 195a and the opening 193a, in particular the opening at all times a communicating connection exists between the collection chamber 183 and the connecting channel 193, in particular the siphon section 193c.

[0184] With further reference to Fig. 8, the valve 195 is designed to selectively close the connecting channel 191 depending on a fill level of a liquid in the collection chamber 183a. In other words, during operation of the portioning device 180, the valve 195 represents a shut-off valve with the valve body 195a and the closing body 195b, so that in an open position, the valve 195 applies a pressure difference applied to the portioning device 180 by means of the outlet (not shown) and connection 195 only through the connecting channel 191 and the connecting channel 193 to the housing chamber 183 and in particular to the connection chamber 183a, and in a closed position, the pressure difference applied to the portioning device 180 only through the connecting channel 193 to the housing chamber 183 and in particular to the connection chamber 183a.In the closed position of the valve 195, the closing body 195b rests against a valve seat 195c formed at the end 191a of the connecting channel 191, so that a communicating connection between the accumulation chamber 183a and the end 191b of the connecting channel 191 through the connecting channel 191 is interrupted in the closed position of the valve 195 by the closing body 195b, which rests against the valve seat 195c in a blocking manner. The valve function of the valve 195 is described in more detail below. With regard to the portioning device 180 shown in Fig. 8, as described above, the connection 185 can be provided by a connection piece 185a on the housing cover 182b, which provides access into the housing chamber 183 and offers a possibility for connection to further tubes (not shown) and / or pipes (not shown) and / or hoses (not shown) outside the housing 182.The connection 185 can thus provide the connection piece 185a formed on the housing cover 182b, so that liquid supplied to the collection chamber 183a via the connection 185 is supplied from the chamber inlet chamber 183b through the chamber inlet 185b. To calm the supplied liquid, a baffle plate 186b can be arranged in the housing chamber 183 between the chamber inlet 185b and the collection chamber 182a, by which the liquid supplied via the connection 185 is calmed in the housing chamber 183. The baffle plate 186b can be mounted as a conical plate or a conical sieve in the housing chamber 183 and surround the connecting channel 191 in the housing chamber 183 at its end 191a.For example, the baffle plate 186b can be mounted vertically between the valve seat 195c and the housing cover 182b on the connecting channel 191 and laterally between the housing cover 182b and the connecting channel 191 on the wall insert 186a as shown in Fig. 8 (alternatively, the baffle plate 186b can be attached directly to the inner wall of the housing 182). This can provide additional sealing between the connecting channel 191 and the housing cover 182b. The baffle plate 186b is oriented obliquely to the connecting channel 191 at the end 191a, preferably at an angle that the baffle plate 186b forms to the connecting channel 191 at the end 191a from the direction of the housing base 182ab, less than 90°, preferably less than 70° or less than 60°. The impact plate 186b may be formed as an elastic element or as a rigid element.As an alternative to the illustrated baffle plate 186b, the baffle plate 186b can be formed in one piece with the connecting channel 191 at the end 191a.

[0185] With further reference to Fig. 8, a riser section 191c extending into the housing chamber 183 is shown, extending through the housing cover 182b and adjacent the opening 185b into the chamber inlet chamber 183b. From the riser section 191c, the connecting channel 191 extends horizontally via a connecting channel section 191d to the end 191b of the connecting channel 191 and provides a communicating connection between the riser section 191c and the outlet chamber 189a. In some illustrative examples, the connecting channel 191 may be at least partially formed (i.e., at least by one of the riser section 191c and the horizontal connecting channel section 191d) in the housing cover 182b and removably connected to the outlet chamber 189a, which integrally adjoins the riser section 193d.However, this is not a limitation, and alternatively, the outlet chamber 189a may be formed integrally with the connecting channel 191 in the housing cover 182b and detachably connected to the riser section 193d, or the outlet chamber 189a may be formed integrally with the connecting channel 191 and the riser section 193d, and the outlet chamber 189a, the connecting channel 191, and the riser section 193d may be detachably connected to the housing cover 182b. Accordingly, the connecting channel 191 provides a communicating connection between the end 191a in the housing chamber 182b and the outlet chamber 189a.

[0186] As shown in Fig. 8, the connecting channel 191 is shown as a one-piece connecting pipe with a riser pipe section 191c at the end 191a, wherein the riser pipe section 191c is inserted into the housing cover 182b and the horizontal connecting pipe section 191d opens into the outlet chamber 189a at the end 191b. This is not a limitation, and the connecting channel 191 can alternatively be formed as a multi-piece connecting pipe, or the connecting channel 191 can be formed integrally with the housing cover 182b, in which case the housing cover 182b is formed either as a one-piece or as a multi-piece.

[0187] According to illustrative embodiments, as mentioned above, the connection 185 of the portioning device 180 can be designed such that a supply line (not shown) or a liquid reservoir (not shown) can be connected directly or indirectly to the connection 185, for example by means of a hose (not shown), pipe (not shown), or the like. For example, a liquid can be actively supplied to the collection chamber 183a via the connection 185 and correspondingly via the chamber inlet 185b by a feed pump (not shown) connected to the connection side of the portioning device 180, either continuously or in pulsed operation.

[0188] With reference to Fig. 8, the outlet 189 is designed to dispense liquid portions according to the arrow 187c, which are dispensed by the portioning device 180. The outlet 189 is communicatively connected to the connection 185 via the housing chamber 183, in particular the accumulation chamber 183a, and through at least the connecting channel 193, so that the accumulation chamber 183a is arranged in the flow direction of the portioning device 180 between the connection 185 as inlet and the housing chamber 183 on an input side of the portioning device 180 and the outlet 189 on an output side of the portioning device 180.The terms “inlet side” and “outlet side” are not necessarily shown as designating an actual structural side of the portioning device 180, but should generally be understood functionally as a location assigned to the connection 185 and a location assigned to the outlet 189, which may well be arranged adjacent to and, contrary to the illustration in Fig. 8, not necessarily opposite each other on the portioning device 180 or opposite each other on the top and bottom of the housing 182.

[0189] According to illustrative embodiments, the outlet 189 can have the outlet connection 189b with an outlet connection chamber (not shown) separate from the outlet chamber 189a and / or can be designed for connection to a reservoir (not shown), for example a container for collecting liquid portions, or a connecting element (not shown) to the reservoir (not shown), for example a hose, pipe or the like. The outlet connection 189b can extend out of the housing 182 as an outlet connection element (e.g. outlet connection nozzle) adjoining the outlet chamber 189a, for example to have a nozzle for further connection to components (not shown) that are to be arranged downstream of the portioning device 180. In some examples, the outlet (not shown) can serve to apply a negative pressure to the portioning device 180 on the output side.For example, the outlet 189 can be connected directly or indirectly to a vacuum side of a pump (not shown). Thus, a vacuum can be applied to the portioning device 180 via the outlet 189, wherein the vacuum can be provided in addition to or alternatively to a feed pump (not shown) that is connected to the pressure side of the portioning device 180 via the inlet side. Thus, during operation of the portioning device 180, liquid portions are dispensed through the outlet 189 according to the arrow 187c.

[0190] Although in illustrative embodiments of the portioning device 180, during operation of the portioning device 180, a negative pressure is applied to the portioning device 180 via the outlet 189 and the outlet chamber 189a, this does not represent a limitation of the present description and, equivalently, only a positive pressure can be applied to the portioning device 180 by a feed pump (not shown) connected to the connection 185 (and thus connected to the housing chamber 183 via the outlet chamber 189a), whereby a continuous or pulsed liquid flow, which is shown by arrow 187a in Fig. 8, is introduced under pressure into the accumulation chamber 183a.Here, applying pressure and / or negative pressure to the portioning device 180 means that a pressure difference is generated between connection 185 and outlet 189, in particular a pressure difference between housing chamber 183 and outlet 189 can be detected at least partially during operation of the portioning device 180, for example via a pressure difference sensor (not shown in Fig. 8) between the housing chamber 183 and the outlet chamber 189a. The term "pressure difference" is to be understood here as a difference Ap between a pressure p1 detected, for example, at connection 185 (e.g., in the housing chamber 183) and a pressure p2 detected in the outlet chamber 189a (in particular Ap = p1 - p2, where p1 - p2 > 0).

[0191] As further described above, the portioning device 180 provides a shut-off valve by means of the valve 195, wherein during operation of the portioning device 180, the valve 195 selectively closes the connecting channel 191 depending on a fill level of a liquid in the collection chamber 183a during operation of the portioning device 180 or the valve 195 switches between the open position and the closed position depending on the fill level, wherein the valve body 195a travels a valve path between the valve seat 195b at the end 191a and the valve body 195a in the valve cage 195c, and a valve seat 195d formed on the housing base 182ab when switching the valve 195. According to the illustration in Fig.8, the valve path is arranged in the housing chamber 183 between the end 191a and the end 193a and the valve seat 195d is arranged above the end 193a, so that the valve body 195a arranged in the open position of the valve 195 does not result in the closing element 195b blocking the end 193a.

[0192] A sample can be separated by means of a separation channel 197, which is arranged on the connecting channel 193, for example on the riser pipe section 193d, and which extends at one end into the connecting channel 193, for example, as shown in Fig. 8, into the riser pipe section 193d. A sample collection container (not shown) can be connected to the separation channel 197, as shown by the separation channel 511 in Fig. 2. The sample collection container (not shown) can be arranged in the housing 182, for example in a sample chamber 183c that is at least separate from the accumulation chamber 183a or the housing chamber 183, wherein, for example, the container 510 would be arranged in the sample chamber 183c in the illustration in Fig. 2. Reference is made to the corresponding description of Fig. 2, which is incorporated in its entirety. Furthermore, the splitting channel 197 can be designed in accordance with the configuration described with reference to Fig.4, so that the disclosure of Fig. 4 is incorporated in its entirety by reference and is applicable to the embodiments of Fig. 8. However, the above description of the separation channel 197 does not constitute a limitation, and in further embodiments, the sample chamber 183c may be omitted and the separation channel 197 may protrude from the housing 182, contrary to the illustration in Fig. 8.

[0193] As shown, the accumulation chamber 183a is separated from the outlet chamber 189a by partition walls, e.g., partition wall 186a. Referring to Fig. 8, a top sectional view taken along line aa in Fig. 8 is shown, showing a top view of the portioning device 180 along a direction indicated in Fig. 8 by arrows on line aa.

[0194] Fig. 9 shows a plan view of the portioning device 180 from Fig. 8 along line aa in Fig. 8. According to this view, a division in the housing 182 by partition walls or wall inserts is shown into the collection chamber 183a with chamber inlet 185b, the outlet chamber 189a, the collection section 183aa defined in the collection chamber 183a, and a further chamber 110 separated by a partition wall, for example the wall insert 186e. Additional components can be provided in the chamber 110, for example, a differential pressure sensor Sp, which allows detection of a differential pressure between the collection chamber 183a and the outlet chamber 189a.Additional sensor elements (not shown) and / or electronic components (not shown) for operating and / or storing and / or processing data from sensors (not shown) and / or operating components of the portioning device 180, for example, electromagnets (not shown), actuators (not shown), etc., may be provided in the chamber 110. The chamber 110 may be formed by a chamber wall 182d mountable on the housing 182, optionally with a seal on the housing (to protect components in the chamber 110 from the environment of the portioning device 180) or by walls permanently attached thereto.

[0195] A liquid sensor 136 can also be arranged in the chamber 110. For example, the liquid sensor 136 can have electrodes that can be arranged in the connecting channel 191d above the end 191a or that extend into the connecting channel 191d. The two electrodes are arranged side by side and oriented perpendicular to the flow direction of the liquid dispensed through the end 11a. The sensor 136 can be used to detect the length of a liquid portion and thus to determine the volume or quantity of the liquid portion.Although in illustrative embodiments of the portioning device 180, during operation of the portioning device 180, a negative pressure is applied to the portioning device 180 via the outlet 189, this does not represent a limitation of the present description and, equivalently, only a positive pressure can be applied to the portioning device 180 by a feed pump (not shown) connected to the port 185 (and thus connected to the chamber inlet 185b), whereby a continuous or pulsed liquid flow, represented by arrow 187a in Fig. 8, is introduced under pressure to the accumulation chamber 183a.In this case, applying pressure and / or negative pressure to the portioning device 180 means that a pressure difference is generated between the chamber inlet 185b and the outlet 189, in particular a pressure difference between the chamber inlet 185b and the outlet 189 can be detected at least partially during operation of the portioning device 180, for example via the pressure difference sensor Sp, which, as shown in Fig. 9, can be detected between the chamber inlet 185b and / or the connection chamber 105a, in particular the accumulation chamber 183a, and the outlet 189 and preferably between the upper part of the accumulation chamber and the first connecting channel 191, both of which are free of liquid. The term “pressure difference” is to be understood here as a difference Ap between a pressure p1 detected in the connection 105 or in the connection chamber 185a and / or at the chamber inlet 185b and a pressure p2 detected in the outlet 189 (in particular Ap = p1 - p2, where p1 - p2 > 0).

[0196] In illustrative exemplary embodiments, as shown in Fig. 9, an optional connecting channel 118 can be formed between the outlet connection 189c and the upper section 189b of the outlet 189. This connecting channel 118 runs in a housing wall (see view in Fig. 9) along the accumulation chamber 183a parallel to the riser pipe section 113c and represents a communicating connection between the section 189b and the outlet connection 189c of the outlet 189. An end 193b in the outlet connection 189c can permanently communicate with the outlet 189. This connecting channel 118 can provide permanent pressure equalization between the outlet connection 189c and the upper section 189b, regardless of whether a cover element 109d for closing the outlet chamber 189a toward the outlet 189 is brought into a closed position.Thus, during cleaning operation, in which the cover element 109d closes the outlet chamber 189a from the outlet 189, a pressure difference can be built up between the upper section 189b and the accumulation chamber 183a, so that during flushing with cleaning agent, the outlet chamber 189a can also be filled with cleaning agent. If an upper end of the connecting channel 118 ends in the connecting channel 191d and an opening of the connecting channel 118 in the channel 191d is arranged higher than the end 191b, it can be prevented that cleaning agent flows into the connecting channel 118 when the outlet chamber 189a is filled.

[0197] In a modification herein, instead of a level sensor (not shown), actuation of the electromagnet (not shown) may be effected by the differential pressure sensor Sp according to Fig. 9, which is arranged and configured to detect a differential pressure between at least one of the chamber inlet chamber, accumulation chamber 183a and the outlet chamber 193d.

[0198] With reference to Figs. 10a and 10b, alternative embodiments of a valve, for example a valve which can be used instead of the valve 195 or 535 described above, are now described.

[0199] Fig. 10a shows a schematic cross-sectional view of a valve 315 with a valve body 315a as a floating body in the valve 315 and a closing element 315b, which is arranged to bear against a valve seat 315c in the valve 315. The valve seat 315c can be formed at an end 311a of a connecting channel 311, which can, for example, correspond to the connecting channel 533c in Fig. 2 or 193c in Fig. 8 or generally corresponds to a first connecting channel according to the first aspect. The valve body 315a is arranged above a housing bottom 316 of a housing (not shown) and can, for example, be arranged above an opening 317 corresponding to an opening according to the end 533a in Fig. 2 or 193a in Fig. 8. A valve seat (not shown) for the valve body 315a corresponding to one of the valve seats described above can be provided, as shown, for example, in Fig.3, however, this is not a limitation and a valve seat for the valve body 315a is not necessarily present.

[0200] The valve body 315a and the closing element 315b are rigidly connected by a connecting element 315d, for example, formed as a rod, as shown in Fig. 10a. This means that the closing element 315b is attached to one end of the connecting element 315d, while the valve body 315a is attached to the opposite end of the connecting element 315d. However, this does not represent a limitation of the present invention, and only one of the closing element 315d and the valve body 315a can be firmly connected to the connecting element 315d, while the other of the closing element 315b and the valve body 315a is not firmly connected to the connecting element, but is merely in detachable mechanical contact therewith.For example, the closing element 315b may be mounted on the upper end of the connecting element 315d, for example by a screw connection as shown, while the connecting element 315d merely rests on a surface of the valve body 315a.

[0201] A valve path for the closing element 315b is defined in the valve 315 by a valve cage 315e, which guides a movement of the closing element 315b between the closed position of the valve 315, in which the closing element 315b bears sealingly against the valve seat 315c, and an open position of the valve 315, in which the closing element 315b is at a maximum distance from the valve seat 315c. The valve cage 315e limits a lateral movement of the closing element 315b; in particular, a movement of the closing element 315b transverse to a direction in which the closing element 315b and the valve body 315a are coupled to one another by the connecting element 315d is prevented. As a result, the valve cage 315e only allows a linear movement of the closing element 315b along one direction, for example in a direction in which the closing element 315b and the valve body 315a are coupled to each other by the connecting element 315c.

[0202] According to illustrative examples, the valve cage 315e can be formed by valve cage elements 315e arranged around the valve seat 315c, which extend from the end 311a of the connecting channel 311 toward the valve body 315a. A length of the valve cage 315e toward the valve body 315a, in particular in the extension direction of the valve cage 315e away from the end 311a of the connecting channel 311, can correspond to a maximum distance of the closing element 315b from the valve seat 315c, in particular such that the closing element 315b continues to be limited by the valve cage 315e with respect to lateral freedom of movement at the maximum distance from the valve seat 315c.

[0203] Accordingly, a valve cage 315f can be formed and arranged around the valve body 315a, which prevents lateral movement of the valve body 315a transversely to a direction in which the valve body 315a and the closing element 315b are coupled to one another by the connecting element 315d. For example, the valve cage 315f can be formed by cage elements that extend from the housing base 316 to the end 311a of the connecting channel 311 and define a linear guide for the valve body 315a along a valve path for the valve body 315a, which is movable between a closed position of the valve 315, in which the valve body 315a is spaced a distance 315a from the housing base 316, and an open position of the valve 315a, in which the valve body 315a has a minimal distance from the housing base 316.The valve body 315a is designed as a floating body and is matched to the liquid in the portioning device (not shown) such that the valve body 315a floats in the liquid or experiences a buoyancy force. For example, the valve body 315a can be designed as a hollow body (e.g., a hollow sphere, can, etc.), as shown, wherein the hollow body can be filled with a filling material 315a1 such that a desired buoyancy for the valve body 315a is determined. This allows a reaction time for the valve 315, in particular a time for switching the valve to the closed position when liquid is poured into the portioning device (not shown), to be set.Furthermore, a wide range of materials can be provided for the valve body 315a, regardless of the desired buoyancy behavior of the valve body 315a, wherein the setting of the buoyancy behavior for the valve body 315a is adjusted by the liquid or filling material 315a1 introduced into the valve body 315a.

[0204] Alternatively, the valve body 315a can also be designed as a solid body (not shown), wherein a material selection for the valve body 315a as a solid body depends on a desired buoyancy behavior of the valve body 315a.

[0205] With further reference to Fig. 10a, the closing element 315b can be formed from a material that is at most suspended in liquid or experiences a weight force in liquid that does not impair a buoyancy force acting on the valve body 315a or only counteracts it in a predetermined manner. In illustrative examples, the closing element 315b can be formed from an elastic or partially elastic material, so that an elastic material is present at least only at contact points between the closing element 315b and the valve seat 315c. In alternative embodiments, the closing element 315d can further comprise a sealing material (not shown) at least at points where contact between the closing element 315b and the valve seat 315c occurs in the closed position of the valve 315.

[0206] The valve cages 315e and 315f are designed such that in the open position of the valve 315, penetration of gas into the end 311a of the connecting channel 311 is possible and at least in the closed position of the valve 315, penetration of liquid into the opening 317 under the valve body 315a is not impaired by the valve cage 315f.

[0207] Fig. 10b shows a schematic cross-sectional view of a valve 325 with a valve body 325a as a floating body in the valve 325 and a closing element 325b, which is arranged to bear against a valve seat 325c in the valve 325. The valve seat 325c can be formed at an end 321a of a connecting channel 321, which can, for example, correspond to the connecting channel 191d in Fig. 8 or generally corresponds to a first connecting channel according to the first aspect. The valve body 325a is arranged above a housing bottom 326 of a housing (not shown) and can, for example, be arranged above an opening 327 corresponding to an opening according to the end 533a in Fig. 2 or 193a in Fig. 8. A valve seat (not shown) for the valve body 325a corresponding to one of the valve seats described above can be provided, as shown, for example, in Fig.3, however, this is not a limitation and a valve seat for the valve body 325a is not necessarily present.

[0208] The valve body 325a and the closing element 325b are rigidly connected by a connecting element 325d, for example, formed as a rod, as shown in Fig. 10b. This means that the closing element 325b is attached to one end of the connecting element 325d, while the valve body 325a is attached to the opposite end of the connecting element 325d. However, this does not represent a limitation of the present invention, and only one of the closing element 325d and the valve body 325a can be firmly connected to the connecting element 325d, while the other of the closing element 325b and the valve body 325a is not firmly connected to the connecting element, but is merely in detachable mechanical contact therewith.For example, the closing element 325b may be mounted on the upper end of the connecting element 325d, for example by a screw connection, while the connecting element 325d merely rests on a surface of the valve body 325a.

[0209] A valve path for the closing element 325b is defined in the valve 325 by a valve cage 325e, which guides a movement of the closing element 325b between the closed position of the valve 325, in which the closing element 325b bears sealingly against the valve seat 325c, and an open position of the valve 325, in which the closing element 325b is maximally spaced from the valve seat 325c. The valve cage 325e is delimited by cage elements 325e1, which extend substantially along a normal direction of the end 321a of the connecting channel 321 (i.e., substantially perpendicular to a plane in which an opening of the connecting channel 321 is defined at the end 321a) and limit a lateral movement of the closing element 325b. In particular, a movement of the closing element 325b is prevented substantially obliquely to a direction in which the closing element 325b and the valve body 325a are coupled to each other by the connecting element 325d.As a result, the valve cage 325e only allows a linear movement of the closing element 325b along one direction, for example, in a direction in which the closing element 325b and the valve body 325a are coupled to one another by the connecting element 325c. Furthermore, the valve cage 325e can additionally comprise at least one cage element 325e2 at its end facing the valve body 325a, which cage element limits a linear movement of the closing element 325b toward the bottom surface 326, so that a valve seat for the valve element 325a can be omitted. For example, the cage element 325e2 can be a plate-shaped or disc-shaped element with a bore through which the connecting element 325d extends, wherein the bore has an inner diameter that is smaller than a maximum diameter of the closing element 325b.Alternatively, a plurality of cage elements 325e2 may be provided, providing a through-opening coaxial with the end 321a of the connecting channel 321, which is sufficiently dimensioned to allow linear movement of the connecting element 325d through the through-opening, but suppresses passage for the closing element out of the valve cage 325e.

[0210] According to illustrative examples, the valve cage 325e can be formed by the cage elements 324e1 and 325e2, which represent valve cage elements arranged around the valve seat 325c and define a limited space with respect to the closing element 325b, in which the closing element 325b is confined. A length of the valve cage 325e toward the valve body 325a, in particular in the extension direction of the valve cage 325e away from the end 321a of the connecting channel 321 (or a length of the cage elements 325e1), can correspond to a maximum distance of the closing element 325b from the valve seat 325c, in particular such that the valve body 325a does not close the opening 327. In other words, a length of the cage elements 325e1 is shorter than a distance 325h of the valve body 325a in the closed position of the valve 325 to a position of the valve body 325a relative to the opening 327 in which the valve body 325a closes the opening 327.This ensures that the valve body 325a never closes the opening 327 and that the opening 327 is always open.

[0211] Furthermore, a valve cage 325f can be formed and arranged around the valve body 325a, which prevents lateral movement of the valve body 325a transversely to a direction in which the valve body 325a and the closing element 325b are coupled to one another by the connecting element 325d. For example, the valve cage 325f can be formed by cage elements that extend from the housing base 326 to the end 321a of the connecting channel 321 and define a linear guide for the valve body 325a along a valve path for the valve body 325a, which is movable between a closed position of the valve 325, in which the valve body 325a is spaced a distance 325a from the housing base 316, and an open position of the valve 315a, in which the valve body 315a has a minimal distance from the housing base 316.

[0212] The valve body 325a is designed as a floating body and is matched to the liquid in the portioning device (not shown) such that the valve body 325a floats in the liquid or experiences a buoyancy force. For example, the valve body 325a can be designed as a hollow body (e.g., a hollow sphere, can, etc.), wherein the hollow body can be filled with a filling material such that a desired buoyancy for the valve body 325a is determined. This allows a reaction time for the valve 325, in particular a time for switching the valve to the closed position when liquid is poured into the portioning device (not shown), to be set.Furthermore, a wide range of materials can be provided for the valve body 325a, regardless of the desired buoyancy behavior of the valve body 325a, wherein the buoyancy behavior of the valve body 325a is adjusted by the filler material introduced into the valve body 325a. Alternatively, the valve body 325a can also be designed as a solid body, wherein the choice of material for the valve body 325a as a solid body depends on the desired buoyancy behavior of the valve body 325a.

[0213] With further reference to Fig. 10b, the closing element 325b can be formed from a material that is at most suspended in liquid or experiences a weight force in liquid that does not impair a buoyancy force acting on the valve body 325a or only counteracts it in a predetermined manner. In illustrative examples, the closing element 325b can be formed from an elastic or partially elastic material, so that an elastic material is present at least only at contact points between the closing element 325b and the valve seat 325c. In alternative embodiments, the closing element 325d can further comprise a sealing material (not shown) at least at points where contact between the closing element 325b and the valve seat 325c occurs in the closed position of the valve 325.

[0214] The valve cages 325e and 325f are designed such that, when the valve 325 is in the open position, gas can penetrate into the end 321a of the connecting channel 321, and at least when the valve 325 is in the closed position, the valve cage 325f does not impede the penetration of liquid into the opening 327 below the valve body 325a. With respect to the closing body 325b, as shown in Fig. 10b, this is designed as a base body 325b1 with a sealing body 325b2 formed at its upper end. The sealing body 325b2 can have a sealing element 325b3, e.g., an O-ring, which is held by the sealing body 325b2 and the base body 325b1. The base body 325b1 and the sealing body 325b2 may be provided by cylindrical bodies, wherein the base body 325b1 has a larger diameter than the sealing body 325b2.The sealing body 325b2 can have a diameter that is smaller than the diameter of the opening of the end 321a of the connecting channel, while the base body 325b1 has a diameter that is larger than the diameter of the opening of the end 321a of the connecting channel. This allows the sealing element 325b3 to sealingly engage the valve seat 325c of the valve 325, and an elastic contact is formed between the closing element 325b and the valve seat 325c.

[0215] The valves 315 and 325, described above with reference to Figs. 10a and 10b, provide the advantage that the closing element represents an additional intermediate closure body in the valve, whereby the location of the valve seat, through which gas flows into the first connecting channel when the valve is in the open position, is additionally spaced from the maximum fill level of liquid in the portioning device (not shown), at least by the additional closing element. This prevents foam or mist present in the collection chamber (not shown) of the portioning device (not shown) from penetrating the first connecting channel above a liquid level in the collection chamber to a lesser extent or from being entrained by the inflow of gas.

[0216] Embodiments of the valve in which the closing element is formed by an elastic contact between the closing element and the valve seat prevent so-called bouncing of the valve as described herein with reference to Fig. 7.

[0217] When adjusting the buoyancy of the valve body in the valve, it must be taken into account that rapid floating of the valve body as a floating body in the valve means a greater increase in the pressure difference in the portioning device, whereas a slow reduction in the pressure difference occurs when transitioning from the closed position to the open position. In contrast, a heavier valve body or a heavier closing element means that the pressure difference is eliminated more quickly. In each of the portioning devices described above, instead of a tangential chamber inlet into a cyclone-like space above the actual accumulation space, a distributor plate can be used below a chamber inlet coming from below or above, for example, to advantageously calm and phase separate the milk-air mixture coming in pulses from the milked animal.This distributor plate can extend horizontally almost to the vertical housing walls of the accumulation chamber, forming a very thin, even trickling film along them, thus filling the accumulation chamber with an optimally calmed and vented liquid flow. In further advantageous designs, the resulting slot width times the slot length can be approximately 1.5 to 2 times the area of ​​the chamber inlet cross-section.

[0218] With reference to the portioning devices described above, a liquid quantity measurement system can be achieved by providing one of the portioning devices described above and further providing at least one sensor configured to detect a quantity of a liquid portion produced by the portioning device. Based on the detected quantity of the liquid portion produced, a liquid quantity measurement can be achieved by integrating the detected liquid quantities. Based on this, mass flow and the like can also be determined.

[0219] Although different embodiments of portioning devices are described with reference to the various figures, this does not represent a limitation to individual embodiments, and different structural and functional elements of an individual embodiment can be combined with other embodiments and implemented in other embodiments without this being explicitly mentioned in the above description. For example, sensor elements described with reference to a specific embodiment can also be used in other embodiments without this being explicitly described with reference to other embodiments. Furthermore, designs of valves described with reference to one embodiment can also be adopted or adapted to other embodiments by modifying the valves of other embodiments.Valve configurations of different embodiments can be combined with one another; for example, purely mechanically actuated valves can also be additionally or alternatively designed for electromagnetic actuation by means of electromagnets. Furthermore, portioning devices that are described merely as portioning devices without a sampling function can still have a sampling function by implementing structural features intended for sampling in these devices, as described analogously in portioning devices that have the sampling function. Furthermore, each of the portioning devices described above can also be used in a liquid quantity system or as the basis for a liquid quantity measurement system.

[0220] In illustrative embodiments, a liquid quantity measuring system can be provided based on a portioning device as described above with reference to Figs. 1 to 11. In addition to one of these portioning devices, the liquid quantity measuring system can comprise a sensor designed to detect a liquid and a differential pressure sensor arrangement designed to detect a pressure difference in the portioning device. The sensor is arranged in the collection chamber or downstream of the collection chamber for detecting liquid portions. Additionally or alternatively, the portioning device of the liquid quantity measuring system can have an inlet designed to supply the portioning device with liquid by a liquid stream supplied to the portioning device.

[0221] In illustrative embodiments, the liquid quantity measuring system can be designed such that the differential pressure sensor arrangement comprises a first pressure sensor arranged in or on the inlet for detecting a first pressure occurring at or in the inlet and a second pressure sensor arranged in the accumulation chamber for detecting a second pressure occurring in the accumulation chamber and / or a third pressure sensor arranged in or on the outlet for detecting a third pressure occurring at or in the outlet.

[0222] In illustrative examples of the liquid quantity measuring system, this can further comprise a processor connected to the sensor and / or the differential pressure sensor arrangement, or can be configured to output signals to a processor. The processor can be configured to store and / or process incoming sensor signals. In this case, the processor can be configured to evaluate the sensor signals and determine a liquid quantity in real time and / or to determine a liquid quantity integrated over time. Furthermore, the processor can additionally or alternatively receive and optionally evaluate pressure sensor signals, for example in order to control the valve of a portioning device based on an algorithm. This can be carried out, for example, during the portioning operation and / or cleaning operation of a portioning device.

[0223] With reference to some embodiments, portioning devices are described in which a valve body can be arranged on an opening of the second connecting channel when the valve is in the open position. Alternatively, the valve body can be arranged on a valve seat above the opening, so that the valve body is constantly spaced from the opening at least by the valve seat. The inventor has recognized that the valve seat reduces or eliminates artificial resistance in the portioning device, thus avoiding a potential source of error that negatively influences a liquid plug to be generated by the portioning device.

[0224] In illustrative examples, a measurement method can be implemented based on the following disclosure. A illustrative and non-limiting measurement method can be carried out using a simple yes / no measurement, e.g., via a light barrier or a conductivity sensor (e.g., a pair of rod electrodes arranged parallel and close to each other) in or at the upper end of the second connecting channel (functioning as a so-called "discharge channel" or splitting channel), whereby, for example, a quantity measurement can be determined by four different parameters.

[0225] Measurement parameters for exemplary quantity measurement method: a) Number of pulses: (E) b) Time interval between the pulses (beginning of pulse to beginning of next pulse): (N[s]) c) Time pause between two pulses (end of pulse to beginning of next pulse): (O[s]) d) Time length of the pulse (beginning of pulse to end of pulse): (P[s])

[0226] Using these parameters, the pumped volume flow (e.g. milk flow) (MF[cm 3 / s]) can be calculated. This assumes a static portion size “PfropStat” [cm 3 ], which is composed as follows:

[0227] Projected bottom area of ​​the collection vessel or sample container (“A” [cm 2 ]) times the liquid level difference (“H” [cm]) between the valve open and the valve closed:

[0228] • minus (if applicable) liquid displacement of the float (“Sch” [cm 3 ]) with the valve closed,

[0229] • plus (if applicable) content [cm 3 ] in the communicating second connecting channel (riser) (“riser” [cm3]) as long as it does not run within the collection vessel. This static portion size (“PfropStat” [cm 3]) The additional amount of new milk from the milking cluster enters the collection vessel as a dynamic part during the exact time in which the discharge takes place, i.e., during the measured length of the pulse. Here, the dynamic portion size = "PfropDyn" [cm 3 ]

[0230] GraftStat [cm 3 ] = A [cm 2 ] * H [cm] - Sch [cm 3 ] + rise [cm 3 ]

[0231] GraftDyn [cm 3 ] = GraftStat [cm 3 ] + (PfropStat [cm 3 ] / N [s] * P [s])

[0232] = GraftStat [cm 3 ] * (1 + P [s] / N [s])

[0233] MF [cm 3 / s] = PfropDyn [cm 3 ] / N [s]

[0234] Total amount [cm 3 ] = Sum (1 to E) PfropDyn [cm 3 ]

[0235] When calculating the mass flow (MF [cm 3 / s]) using a simple yes / no measurement, it is assumed that the differential pressure acting on the plug to be ejected, and thus ultimately also the plug speed during ejection, is always the same.

[0236] However, in the specific application of a milking system, this assumption of a constant differential pressure is not always guaranteed in daily milking practice. Rather, the pressure conditions in the milking system can change, particularly in connection with the varying milk flow during milking of the animal and depending on the amount of transport air and leakage air flowing into the system.

[0237] If, instead of the yes-no measurement method described above, a measurement of the differential pressure (U) between the upper interior area of ​​a collection vessel and the outlet is used, the four parameters a) to d) mentioned above can be determined equally well using suitable trigger points.

[0238] However, the newly added pressure parameter also enables the recording of the individual pressure difference between the beginning and end of the plug, thus ultimately the progression of the acceleration force on each individual plug and its resulting instantaneous velocity V (POWER(U;0.5) => V). From this, the individual volume of each plug influenced by the respective differential pressure can be determined. By incorporating this fifth parameter, measurement accuracy in daily practice can be significantly increased without significant additional electronic effort.

[0239] With reference to some of the figures, mechanical, self-actuating valves are shown, wherein a mechanical displacement of a valve body in the valve directly or indirectly causes a closure of a connecting channel. In this regard, the inventor established the following general facts, independent of a specific embodiment.

[0240] The duration of the valve's closure, and thus the discharge of a quantity of liquid from the accumulation chamber through the second connecting channel, determines the degree of well-defined flow of a plug. In other words, a well-defined quantity of liquid is determined by the duration of the valve's closure. In other words, a well-defined plug is created if the closing element (independent closing body or the valve body) releases the first connecting channel as soon as the accumulation chamber is emptied to the desired extent. In extreme cases, the problem of continuous flow can arise, in which the first connecting channel is permanently closed, for example, if the closing element remains on the valve seat for too long and the first connecting channel is no longer released.

[0241] The above problem, which the inventor refers to as "slurping," is evident in measurements that, instead of the graphical representation of measurement results 840 shown with reference to Fig. 6, the graphical representation of measurement results 880 shown in Fig. 11 was carried out by the inventor using a portioning device in a comparative example. Here, a graph 882 represents a trigger signal of a liquid portion determined using a graph 884 representing a measured differential pressure between the port and outlet of a portioning device. Furthermore, graph 888 illustrates a measured flow. In graph 884, slurping is evident in the areas 884a and 884b.These areas represent time periods in the operation of the portioning device according to the comparative example in which a valve of the portioning device did not immediately change to the open position with the discharge of a quantity of liquid determined in a collection chamber, but remained in the closed position for a time period designated as area 884a or 884b in the diagram.

[0242] As a solution to the "slurping" problem, the inventor recognized that the ratio of the weight of the closing element in the valve to the area of ​​the valve seat represents a characteristic value that measures how well the valve responds to the discharge of the defined amount of liquid in the accumulation chamber. The inventor attributed the "slurping" to the fact that the closing element adheres to the valve seat for too long and there is a risk that a liquid will follow the well-defined discharged amount of liquid through the second connecting channel. This causes a plug end to become "blurred" and, in extreme cases, two consecutive plugs can no longer be separated from each other. In other words, "slurping" is evident in the fact that a plug in graph 884 has a flat end in the area 884a and 884b instead of a desired sharp end, as shown, for example, in Fig. 6.Since a hollowed-out plug would be noticeable as a flat outlet in graph 884, if slurping occurs it can no longer be ensured that quantities of liquid in pipes are transported as liquid portions filling the pipe in sections over the entire cross-section.

[0243] By adjusting the ratio “weight / valve seat area” [g / cm 2 ] to a suitable value, a desired point in time can be set at which a closed valve switches to the open position during operation or the point in time at which the closing element falls off the valve seat can be set.

[0244] The inventor interprets this characteristic ratio as a “valve drop force” or a measure thereof, and experimental investigations have led to an advantageous valve drop force of at least 15 g / cm 2 , in particular at least 20 g / cm 2, more preferably in a range of 24 g / cm 2 up to 29 g / cm 2 .

[0245] Terms such as "about," "approximately," "substantially," and the like are intended to refer to both exact values ​​and possible ranges of deviations from exact values ​​within known tolerances. Known tolerances represent the usual inaccuracies in the relevant technical field, as known and familiar to a person skilled in the relevant technical field, or inaccuracies of at most + / - 30% of the exact value, preferably at most + / - 20% of the exact value, and more preferably at most + / - 15% of the exact value, or at most + / - 10% of the exact value, or at most + / - 5% of the exact value, if no usual inaccuracies can be specified.

[0246] With reference to Figs. 3, 4, and 8, separations of representative samples are described, in each of which a sample quantity is separated via a separation channel extending into the second connecting channel. The separation channel opens into a sample collection container, which, as a separate element, is detachably and temporarily connected to the main housing of a portioning device or, alternatively, is permanently mounted thereto or is provided as a separate chamber in the main housing. The following statements apply to each of the embodiments described above with reference to Figs. 3, 4, and 8 and should be read in this context with the above description, which is explicitly incorporated by reference here.

[0247] Assuming a subsample size of 1% of the respective plug volume (or milk volume) and a maximum milk volume per milking session of 30 kg (approximately 30,000 ml), the sample container should have a capacity of at least 300 ml. At the end of the actual milking, the contents collected in the sample container are then used to fill an analysis bottle (volume 30, 40, or 50 ml), which is then sent to the laboratory for analysis of the milk constituents. Due to the separation method used here, the total contents collected in the sample container are precisely representative of the total milk milked during the previous milking; however, the warm milk collected in the sample container can already undergo significant separation during the milking process.Typically, the specific lighter fat content in the sample container rises to the top within a short period of time, so that the milk in the sample container is no longer homogeneous. To obtain a representative milk sample in the analyte bottle, it is advisable to mix the contents of the sample container very thoroughly before filling it into an analyte bottle.

[0248] Traditionally, mixing is done by repeatedly pouring the milk from the sample container back and forth using a second container. This manual mixing requires time, but also highly reliable personnel. If the sample is not mixed properly before filling the analysis bottle, the fat content measured in the laboratory will be unrepresentative and therefore incorrect, and the error cannot be detected.

[0249] Another mixing method consists, as described above in some embodiments, for example with regard to Fig. 5, in introducing several short bursts of atmospheric air near the bottom of the sampling container under milking vacuum.

[0250] It's also important to consider that the sample container must be completely emptied after each milking and, if possible, cleaned in between to ensure it's ready for the next milking. There's also the question of what to do with the remaining sample, which can amount to up to 250 ml with the aforementioned device design.

[0251] An offline filling method is known in practice, in which, with the help of a motor-operated multi-way valve and corresponding connecting hoses, mixing through air intake, as well as filling the anal slurry bottle and emptying the remaining milk after the milking process has ended, can be carried out automatically. However, this requires that the milking vacuum in the system is maintained even after the actual milking process has ended, which is often not the case given the various methods of automatic milking shutdown or cluster removal. Furthermore, this automatic offline filling of the anal slurry bottle after the milking process requires a very similar amount of time loss as manual filling and thus also significantly increases the total milking time, which is notoriously reluctant for farmers, especially with larger herds.

[0252] Fundamentally, the question arises as to why such a voluminous sampling container is used to obtain a representative milk sample of 30 or 50 ml. The problem lies in the fact that one cannot obtain an arbitrarily small sample from a liquid stream—and especially a milk stream—by continually reducing the diameter of a separation channel. Not only are such small diameters impossible to clean and maintain, but molecular forces (capillary effect, van der Waals forces) come into play in very small pipe diameters, leading to practically uncontrollable flow behavior and thus making a useful, representative liquid separation impossible using very small pipe diameters.

[0253] In extensive cleavage tests, the inventor recognized that a cleavage percentage of 0.5% represents a lower limit that cannot be undercut simply by scaling down the cleavage channel. However, this lower limit is unacceptable, since a sample cleavage directly into a 40 ml analysis bottle requires a cleavage percentage in the order of 30,000 ml / 40 ml = 0.13%, which, however, cannot be achieved by reducing the size of the cleavage channel. On the other hand, a rough calculation for a cleavage percentage of 0.5% for a standard inner diameter of 16 mm, corresponding to a cross-sectional area of ​​approximately 200.96 mm 2 that for a channel directed perpendicular to the flow, a theoretically necessary internal cross-sectional area of ​​1 mm 2This corresponds to an inner channel diameter of 1.13 mm. With a desired sample quantity of 1%, this would result in an inner channel diameter of 1.6 mm.

[0254] In agricultural practice, there is a growing trend toward using milk samples as small as possible, not only for logistical reasons but also for ecological reasons (minimizing laboratory waste). Furthermore, in light of advances in analytical technology, increasing attention is being paid to the so-called carryover error in milk samples, i.e., ensuring that a milk sample is not "contaminated" with milk components from a previous animal.

[0255] Based on the above explanations, there is a need for automatic and strictly representative milk sampling during the milking process (=online) from individual animals without intermediate storage, carryover-proof, directly into the analysis bottle (volume 50 ml or smaller), without a motor drive for liquid delivery or control. A cost-effective, structurally simple, compact, practical design that is also easy to operate is desirable.

[0256] In various embodiments, with reference to Figs. 10, 10a and 2, a portioning device with a second connecting channel 1, for example a riser pipe, is provided upstream of an outlet (not shown) of the portioning device with a splitting collection device having two connections to the second connecting channel 1. The splitting collection device comprises a splitting channel 3, for example as a splitting tube extending obliquely upwards in the second connecting channel 1, which opens into a splitting collection space 10, for example in an upper part of a housing 2 of the splitting collection device. In specific examples, the splitting channel 3 can be extended there with a short, easily movable hose 4.

[0257] The separation collection chamber 10 can further have an outlet opening 5a, which is located at an inner floor level B of the separation collection chamber 10. The outlet opening 5a can have a slightly enlarged diameter compared to the inner diameter of the separation channel 3 and can, for example, be part of a substantially horizontally running drain channel 5 (e.g. drain tube), which ends in the second connecting channel 1 with an upwardly directed section 5b, so that a slight suction effect is generated in this drain channel 5 by the liquid flow directed upwards in the second connecting channel 1 (designated in Fig. 12 by arrow FS) due to the Venturi effect.This slight suction effect during the drain from the fission collection chamber 10 back to the second connecting channel 1 ensures that an inflow to the fission collection chamber 10, which is under slight pressure due to the plug formation, does not become blocked under any circumstances and instead a perfectly uniform circulation is created, provided that the fission channel 3 is arranged in the position shown in Fig. 13 with respect to a sample channel 6. In particular, the orientation of the fission channel 3 shown in Fig. 13 and in particular of a fission channel end given by the fission tube 4 means that a quantity of liquid transported through the fission channel 3 is not fed to the sample channel 6, but is discharged into the fission collection chamber 10, through which this quantity of liquid is returned to the second connecting channel 1 via the drain channel 5 (circulation).

[0258] As can be seen from the view in Fig. 12, the sample channel 6 on the lower base of the housing 2 can be formed as a large-volume and vertically extending standpipe open at the top, which extends into the upper part of the housing 2, penetrates the bottom, and opens into a connection piece 7. An analysis bottle (not shown) can be tightly attached to the lower base part of the housing 2 as a sample collection container.

[0259] A lower floor level B' of the separation collection chamber 10 can be raised relative to floor level B on a side of the housing 2 facing the sample channel 6, whereby on the other side facing away from the sample channel 6, at floor level B, a lower-lying, top-open guide channel is created by the division B, B' of the floor level of the separation collection chamber 10. This guide channel can guide a (non-deflected) milk flow in a concentrated manner to the outlet channel 5 when the separation channel end 4 is oriented towards the sample channel 6. To further improve the liquid circulation, the guide channel can be slightly inclined towards the outlet by each of the floor levels B and B' being inclined downwards towards the outlet channel 5.

[0260] In the upper part of the housing 2 there is an approximately horizontally pivotable deflection lever 8, which is mechanically actuated by an actuator 16 via a drive lever 12 when a driving fork 15, which is moved by the actuator 16 via a driving cross pin that engages in a slot in the drive lever 12, is moved. The deflection lever has a guide eyelet at an end of the deflection lever 8 opposite the drive lever 12, which guide eyelet engages the splitting channel end 4. In an illustrative, non-limiting embodiment, the actuator 16 can be formed by an electromagnetic pull magnet, which, when acted upon by an electrical signal, can attract the driving fork 15 towards the pull magnet against a spring 17, or can move it linearly towards the pull magnet, thereby pivoting the splitting channel end 4 towards the sample channel 6. However, this does not represent a restriction to a pull magnet and alternatively, for example,the actuator 16 may be formed by a motor that can move the driving fork 15 linearly.

[0261] With this arrangement, it is advantageous to select the force of the return spring 17, which can be designed to be very weak, so that it corresponds to approximately half the force of a magnetic coil used in the actuator 16. This can significantly shorten the required total switching time for the deflection, as this is made up of two parts: the forward movement, which is caused by the force of the energized magnet and held in this position until the power is switched off, and the return movement, which is effected by the return spring 17 when the magnetic coil is de-energized. If this return spring 17 is designed to be weak, the return movement takes longer than with a strong return spring 17. However, the power consumption for switching against the return spring 17 is greater with a strong spring 17 than with a weak spring.

[0262] In illustrative examples, the separation channel end 4 at the end of the separation channel 3 can be formed by a movable tube attached to the separation channel 3. Since the tube is exposed to virtually no pressure difference and only has to hold and guide the mass flow, it can be designed with very thin walls and thus pivotable with very low forces. However, this does not represent a limitation, and alternatively, a mass flow can also be deflected in a different direction toward or away from the sample channel 6, for example, via a pivoted-in baffle plate (not shown) oriented obliquely to the flow direction.

[0263] In a neutral position, the position of the separation channel end 4 is as shown in Fig. 13. In this case, the separation channel end 4 is located above the free volume of the housing 2. Thus, the milk flow flowing from the separation channel 3 is absorbed by the volume of the housing 2 and returned via the lower discharge channel 5 into the second connecting channel 1 (milk flow circuit).

[0264] If, on the other hand, the separation channel end 4 is pivoted over the upper end of the sample channel 6, the milk flow conveyed via the separation channel 3 flows (without any impairment or change and without loss of kinetic energy) into the sample channel 6. This allows a connected analysis bottle (not shown) to be supplied via the sample channel 6 with the same vacuum level as that which occurs in the interior of the housing 2. Pressure differences that could hinder the filling of an analysis bottle (not shown) can be excluded.

[0265] In further embodiments, a portioning device is described with reference to Figs. 14 and 15, wherein identical or similar features to the embodiments of Figs. 12, 12a and 13 are designated by identical reference numerals, wherein the description relating to these identical reference numerals is incorporated in its entirety by reference in the description of Figs. 14 and 15.

[0266] For the sake of clarity, only differences between the embodiments of Figs. 12, 12a and 13 and the embodiments of Figs. 14 and 15 are described below. The difference between the embodiments of Figs. 12, 12a and 13 and the embodiments of Figs. 14 and 15 lies in the pivoting mechanism with which the separation channel end 4 is displaced in the separation collection chamber 10.

[0267] In the upper part of the housing 2, with regard to Figs. 14 and 15, there is the deflection lever 8 which can be pivoted approximately horizontally and is equipped with a permanent magnet 20 so that the poles of the permanent magnet 20 are oriented transversely to a longitudinal or extension direction of the deflection lever 8.

[0268] In illustrative examples, the separation channel end 4 at the end of the separation channel 3 can be formed by a movable tube attached to the separation channel 3. Since the tube is exposed to virtually no pressure difference and only has to hold and guide the mass flow, it can be designed with very thin walls and thus pivotable with very low forces. However, this does not represent a limitation, and alternatively, a mass flow can also be deflected in a different direction toward or away from the sample channel 6, for example, via a pivoted-in baffle plate (not shown) oriented obliquely to the flow direction.

[0269] In contrast to the use of a plunger-type pull or push magnet to actuate the separation channel end 4, with reference to Figs. 14 and 15, the deflection lever 8 is driven by two opposing magnetic coils 23. This avoids the need for a rust-prone ferromagnetic armature, which often leads to malfunctions due to corrosion in such magnetic systems in highly humid environments such as in a milking parlor or stable. Furthermore, the arrangement with coils 22 does not rely on minimizing an air gap as in the case of an armature. According to the illustration in Figs. 14 and 15, two equally sized magnetic coils 23 with a ferromagnetic core 22 are arranged opposite one another at a suitable distance, as shown schematically in Fig. 15.Between the two cores 22, which protrude slightly over the respective coil length, is the permanent magnet 20. It is mounted directly on the arm of the deflection lever 8, which can pivot about a pivot point, and strikes one or the other coil core at the end of a deflection movement. The permanent magnet 20 and the two ferromagnetic cores 22 can be protected against corrosion by a coating—for example, chrome plating—to improve reliability.

[0270] With further reference to Fig. 15, the two opposing coils 23 are connected simultaneously but in opposite directions to a direct current source (not shown), which can assume three positions: positive, negative, and de-energized. The permanent magnet 20, which has a permanent axial pole orientation (north / south), is always attracted to the coil 23 whose pole is different from the pole of the permanent magnet when the current is switched on, and simultaneously repelled by the coil 23 whose pole is the same as the pole of the permanent magnet. In this way, the deflection lever 8 can be moved back and forth by simply switching the current direction; advantageously, a short current pulse is sufficient.

[0271] Even if the current is switched off, the permanent magnet 20 continues to adhere to the ferromagnetic but no longer polarized core 22 of the now currentless coil 23 due to its permanent magnetic force and thus maintains the last position assumed in a stable and vibration-proof manner even in the currentless state.

[0272] If the current is switched in the other direction, the polarity of both magnetic coils 23 changes and the permanent magnet 20 previously attached to one coil 23 is repelled from this coil 23 with a strong initial force against the magnetic force of attraction due to the small or non-existent air gap between the permanent magnet 20 and the corresponding core 22. At the same time, the permanent magnet 20 is attracted to the opposite coil 22 with increasing force due to the continuously decreasing air gap. These magnetic forces, acting simultaneously in the same direction from both coils 23, ensure a particularly short switching time. This system therefore only requires a short current pulse for the actual switching process and can therefore be operated extremely energy-efficiently, in contrast to a mechanism according to Fig.12, 12a and 13, in which a continuous current supply is required for the duration of one of the two positions to deflect against the preloading spring force.

[0273] In further embodiments, a portioning device is now described with reference to Fig. 16, wherein identical or similar features to the embodiments of Figs. 14 and 15 are designated by identical reference numerals, wherein the description relating to these identical reference numerals is accordingly incorporated in its entirety by reference in the description of Figs. 14 and 15.

[0274] For the sake of clarity, only differences between the embodiments of Figs. 14 and 15 and the embodiments of Fig. 16 are described below. The difference between the embodiments of Figs. 14 and 15 and the embodiments of Fig. 16 consists in additional components, which will now be described with reference to Fig. 16 and which can complement the embodiments of Figs. 14 and 15 or Figs. 12 and 13.

[0275] As shown in Fig. 16, an enlarged section of the second connecting channel 1 is shown, which provides a connection to a first connecting channel 30 of a portioning device, as described above with regard to Figs. 1 to 12. A removable sample collection container 31 is attached to the connecting piece 7, wherein the interior of the sample collection container 31 is connected to the cleavage collection chamber 10 through the sample channel 6 via the connecting piece 7. According to the displacement states of the cleavage channel end 4 described above with reference to Figs. 14 and 16, a cleaved sample quantity can be selectively supplied to the sample collection container 31 by means of the cleavage channel 3 through the sample channel 6.

[0276] According to exemplary embodiments, a fill level sensor 32 with electrodes can be provided on the connecting piece 7, which protrude from the connecting piece 7 parallel to a direction along which the sample container 31 is withdrawn from the connecting piece 7. Upon contact with a liquid accumulating in the sample container, the electrodes of the fill level sensor 32 can detect whether the sample container 31 is sufficiently full, preferably completely (100%), or can be further filled.

[0277] Additionally or alternatively, the connecting piece 7 can comprise a mixing device with a propeller 33 and a safety cage 34 with a lower protective ring for the propeller 33. Additionally or alternatively, the connecting piece 7 can comprise a suction device with a suction pipe 35, which is attached to the connecting piece 7 and / or to the housing 2, and a pump 36, which is coupled to the suction pipe 35 and can apply a negative pressure to the sampling container 31 via the suction pipe 35. The end of the suction pipe 35 is located at a level of 50% to 70%, preferably at 65%, of the volume of the sampling container. This allows a known volume to always be suctioned via the suction pipe 35.

[0278] Although the embodiments of Fig. 16 are illustrated and described with respect to the displacement mechanism according to Figs. 14 and 15, this is not a limitation and alternatively the displacement mechanism according to Figs. 12, 12a and 13 may be provided instead.

[0279] In further embodiments, a portioning device is now described with reference to Fig. 17, wherein identical or similar features to the embodiments of Figs. 14 and 15 are designated by identical reference numerals, wherein the description relating to these identical reference numerals is accordingly incorporated in its entirety by reference in the description of Figs. 14 and 15.

[0280] For the sake of clarity, only differences between the embodiments of Figs. 14 and 15 and the embodiments of Fig. 17 are described below. The difference between the embodiments of Figs. 14 and 15 and the embodiments of Fig. 17 consists in additional components, which will now be described with reference to Fig. 17 and which may supplement the embodiments of Figs. 14 and 15.

[0281] According to the illustration in Fig. 17, an enlarged section of the second connecting channel 1 is shown, which provides a connection to a first connecting channel 30 of a portioning device, as described above with regard to Figs. 1 to 12. A sample withdrawal container 31 is attached to the connection piece 7, wherein the interior of the sample withdrawal container 31 is connected to the cleavage collection chamber 10 through the sample channel 6 through the connection piece 7. According to the displacement states of the cleavage channel end 4 described above with reference to Figs. 14 and 15, a cleaved sample quantity can be selectively supplied to the sample withdrawal container 31 by means of the cleavage channel 3 through the sample channel 6. According to exemplary embodiments, a fill level sensor 32 may be provided on the connection piece, wherein electrodes of the fill level sensor 32 can detect whether the sampling container 31 is full or can be further filled.

[0282] Additionally or alternatively, the connection piece 7 may comprise a mixing device with an air mixing pipe 37 which is attached to the connection piece 7 and / or to the housing 2 and comprises a solenoid valve 38 which can selectively establish a connection between the ambient atmosphere and the sampling container 31 in order to introduce air pulses into the sampling container 31.

[0283] Additionally or alternatively, the connecting piece 7 can comprise a suction device with a suction pipe 35', which is attached to the connecting piece 7 and / or to the housing 2 and opens into a collection reservoir 39 via a U-shaped pipe section. A solenoid valve 40 can be provided at the apex of the U-shaped pipe section to selectively establish a connection between the sampling container 31 and the collection reservoir 39. A Venturi element 41 is arranged in the second connecting channel 1 downstream of the separation channel 3. A Venturi suction line 42 connects the Venturi element 41 to the collection reservoir 39 to apply a negative pressure to the collection reservoir 39.

[0284] The function according to Fig. 16 and 17 is as follows: During milking of an animal with an unknown expected milk yield, the sampling container 31 is filled with a preset, known and relatively high separation rate. If the separated milk quantity in the sampling container 31 reaches its usable volume and thus the electrodes 32 before the end of milking, the separation is briefly interrupted and the milk in the sampling container is mixed with the aid of the propeller 33 or air blasts from the air mixing tube 37. A specific amount of the now homogeneous milk is then removed from the sampling container 31 via the suction tube 35 35'. This amount is defined by the distance between the electrode pair 32 (= 100%) and the lower end of the suction tube (e.g. 65%) and is therefore known. Here it is 35%. After this amount of milk has been removed, space is created for the absorption of further secretions.The separation is then reactivated, but with a correspondingly lower separation rate, reduced by 35% in this case. For example, if the first separation rate was achieved with a displacement duration of 44 ms for the separation channel end 4, the new displacement duration must be shortened to 44 ms x (100% - 35%) = 28.6 ms. This ensures that the representativeness of the sample in the sample container 31 is fully maintained. If the volume of the sample container 31 is still insufficient during milking, the described automatic steps can be repeated several times. In this way, the system adapts to the expected milk yield.

[0285] With this addition according to Fig. 16 and 17, this sampling system can generally also be used in herds without knowledge of the expected milk yields.

[0286] The embodiments described with reference to Figs. 12 to 17 cover the following sampling functions:

[0287] During the discharge process (duration: approximately one second), it organizes and ensures the uniform circulation of the mass flow cut out of each plug, the majority of which is returned unused to the second connecting channel. The size of this circulating mass flow is determined primarily by the size of the inner diameter of the separation channel in the second connecting channel, but also by the design of the return path, in particular the selected inner diameter of the discharge channel and its generated suction effect.

[0288] It briefly deflects this circulating mass flow, sending a small, defined sample volume directly into a sample collection container. The timing—preferably the center stream—and the effective duration of the flow deflection are continuously and precisely controlled by computer.

[0289] It supplies the sample collection container with the correct vacuum level via the shortest possible route and thus guarantees an unadulterated equal pressure between the sample collection container and the system.

[0290] As explained above, the choice of a low separation percentage has strict physical and purification-related limitations. For these reasons, a generally higher separation percentage would be desirable. However, the higher the separation percentage and thus the circulating mass flow, the shorter the deflection time must be to avoid overfilling the sampling container.

[0291] Calculation example:

[0292] Given: Time for plug discharge = Ttotal = 1 s ; milk quantity to be milked = Vcow = 30 L = 30 000 ml ; separation percentage = Ab% = 3% ; bottle volume = Vbottle = 40 ml The following is required: required time for the deflection of the mass flow into the bottle during a discharge process = Tablev

[0293] Tablenk [ms] = Ttotal [ms] * Vbottle [ml] / { Vcow [ml] * Ab%} = 44 [ms]

[0294] If a reliable and precise practical implementation of such an extremely short deflection time per plug ejection using the provided solenoid control system appears technically impossible or advisable, this time can be doubled, for example, if a deflection is performed only every second plug ejection, rather than every time. Excessively short deflection times should not necessarily be considered a limiting factor.

[0295] In the following, cleaning is described for the embodiments described with reference to Figs. 12 to 17.

[0296] When the sample container is removed from the sampling or connection port, atmospheric air suddenly flows into the sampling system, which is under milking vacuum. This automatically cleans the thin tubes (split and circulation tubes) from behind each time the bottle is changed, preventing any blockages caused by milk scum, etc.

Claims

Claims 1. A portioning device for producing liquid portions of a predetermined amount, in particular a milk plug producing device for connection to a milk claw and a pressure source for applying a pressure difference across the portioning device in a milking system, wherein the portioning device comprises: a collection chamber for collecting liquid portions, wherein the collection chamber has a chamber inlet designed to supply the collection chamber with liquid by a liquid flow supplied to the portioning device, an outlet designed to discharge the liquid portions through the portioning device and to apply a negative pressure, a first connecting channel having a first end and a second end, wherein the first end is connected to the collection chamber and the second end communicates with the outlet of the portioning device,a second connecting channel having a third end and a fourth end, the third end being connected to the accumulation chamber and the fourth end communicating with the outlet of the portioning device, and a valve configured to selectively close the first connecting channel depending on a liquid level in the accumulation chamber, the valve having an open position in which a pressure difference applied to the portioning device by means of the outlet and chamber inlet can be applied to the accumulation chamber only through the first connecting channel and the second connecting channel, and a closed position in which the pressure difference applied to the portioning device can be applied to the accumulation chamber only through the second connecting channel.

2. Portioning device according to claim 1, wherein the valve is designed as a currentless and automatically switchable valve.

3. Portioning device according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the valve comprises a float arranged in the accumulation chamber so that the fill level in the accumulation chamber can be detected by the float.

4. Portioning device according to claim 3, wherein the floating body is a spherical body.

5. Portioning device according to claim 3 or 4, wherein the floating body is designed to cause the valve to close in the closed position depending on a predetermined fill level of a liquid in the collection chamber.

6. Portioning device according to one of claims 3 to 5, wherein the first end is designed as a valve seat for receiving the floating body in the closed position of the valve, or wherein the first end is designed as a valve seat for a closing body which is movable by the floating body depending on the fill level of a liquid in the collection chamber and, in the closed position of the valve, determines the closed position of the valve by bearing against the first end.

7. Portioning device according to one of claims 1 to 6, wherein the first connecting channel is formed by a control tube which connects the accumulation chamber to the outlet, the first end being arranged on or in the accumulation chamber and the second end being arranged on or in the outlet or in an outlet chamber which dispenses liquid portions through the outlet.

8. Portioning device according to one of claims 1 to 7, wherein the second connecting channel is formed by a connecting pipe connecting the accumulation chamber to the outlet, the third end being arranged in the accumulation chamber and the fourth end being arranged in or at the outlet.

9. Portioning device according to claim 7, wherein: the second connecting channel is formed by a connecting pipe which connects the accumulation chamber to the outlet, wherein the third end is arranged on or in the accumulation chamber and the fourth end is arranged in or on the outlet; the connecting pipe and the control pipe are each spaced apart in the accumulation chamber from a bottom surface of the accumulation chamber, wherein the connecting pipe and the control pipe are each formed with at least one riser pipe section which extends away from the bottom surface; and the first end is arranged at a higher level relative to the bottom surface in the accumulation chamber than the third end.

10. Portioning device according to claim 9, wherein the control tube has a riser tube section at the third end which is designed such that liquid automatically rises in the riser tube section upon entering the riser tube section.

11. Portioning device according to claim 10, wherein the valve in the riser pipe section is designed as a shut-off valve which is moved from the open position to the closed position by liquid rising in the riser pipe section.

12. The portioning device according to claim 6, wherein: the first connecting channel is formed by a control tube connecting the collection chamber to the outlet, the first end being arranged at or in the collection chamber and the second end being arranged at or in the outlet or in an outlet chamber that discharges liquid portions through the outlet; the second connecting channel is formed by a connecting tube connecting the collection chamber to the outlet, the third end being formed in a bottom surface of the collection chamber as an opening in the bottom surface and the fourth end being arranged in or at the outlet; the connecting tube comprises a riser section such that the fourth end is arranged at a higher level relative to the bottom surface than the first end; and the portioning device further comprises a valve seat element arranged and configured at the third end to receive the floating body or the closing body in an open position of the valve, so that the accumulation chamber permanently communicates with the outlet through the connecting pipe.

13. Portioning device according to claim 12, wherein the valve seat element is formed as a ring arranged on support feet and is arranged on the bottom surface so that the ring is arranged substantially concentrically with the opening in the bottom surface.

14. Portioning device according to claim 13, wherein the support feet are at least partially formed as radial webs with a curvature along the radial direction around the opening in the bottom surface azimuthally.

15. Portioning device according to one of claims 12 to 14, wherein a conical baffle plate arrangement is formed around the control tube and is arranged between the bottom surface and the chamber inlet.

16. Portioning device according to claim 15, wherein the conical baffle assembly has a sieve section.

17. A portioning device according to any one of claims 12 to 16, wherein the third end and the first end are arranged substantially opposite each other and are spaced apart by a valve path for the float and / or the closing element between the valve seat at the first end and the valve seat element at the third end.

18. The portioning device of claim 17, further comprising a cage assembly disposed in the accumulation chamber between the first end and the third end and defining the valve path.

19. A portioning device according to any one of claims 1 to 18, wherein a gas sensor is further arranged in the accumulation chamber to detect a gas content in a liquid that accumulates in the accumulation chamber during operation of the portioning device.

20. The portioning device according to any one of claims 1 to 19, wherein the valve further comprises a locking mechanism configured to lock the valve in an open position in which the first connecting channel communicates with the accumulation chamber and the outlet.

21. Portioning device according to claim 20, further comprising a cleaning agent reservoir or cleaning tube with a connection for coupling to a cleaning agent reservoir, wherein after activation of the locking mechanism a connection between the accumulation chamber and the cleaning tube or the cleaning agent reservoir can be activated in order to introduce cleaning agent into the accumulation chamber.

22. Portioning device according to one of claims 1 to 20, further comprising a splitting channel which branches off from the second connecting channel between the accumulation chamber and the outlet and has a splitting channel end outside the second connecting channel which is designed to be connected to a sample collection container, wherein the splitting channel end is further designed to supply a partial quantity of a liquid portion transported in the second connecting channel, which partial quantity is split off from the second connecting channel through the splitting channel, through the splitting channel end to a sample collection container arranged at the splitting channel end, wherein a size of the splitting partial quantity is preferably in a range of 0.5% to 3% of a liquid portion.

23. Portioning device according to claim 22, further comprising a Separation collection chamber, which is attached to the portioning device in Fluid communication with the separation channel is arranged, wherein the separation space is designed for connection to the sampling container.

24. Portioning device according to claim 23, wherein the splitting collection chamber is connected via a sample channel to a sample withdrawal container connection which is at least temporarily connectable to the sample withdrawal container, wherein the sample channel has a sample receiving opening which is communicatively connected to the splitting collection chamber and a sample outlet opening which is arranged on the sample withdrawal container connection.

25. Portioning device according to claim 24, wherein the splitting channel has a splitting channel end arranged in the splitting collection space, which is designed for selective fluid connection of the splitting channel with the sample receiving opening, so that a sample quantity split by the splitting channel can be selectively supplied to the sample receiving opening and the splitting collection space.

26. Portioning device according to claim 25, wherein the splitting channel end in the Splitting chamber by a mechanical and / or magnetic Displacement mechanism can be moved between two positions.

27. A portioning device according to any one of claims 23 to 26, wherein the splitting collection chamber is connected to the second connecting channel via a splitting collection chamber outlet channel which provides fluid communication with the second connecting channel at the bottom of the splitting collection chamber.

28. Portioning device according to claim 27, wherein the separation collection space outlet channel has a separation collection space outlet tube projecting into the second connecting channel, the outlet opening of which in the second connecting channel is bevelled such that the outlet opening in the second connecting channel is open downstream relative to a flow direction with respect to a fluid flowing in the second connecting channel.

29. Portioning device according to one of claims 23 to 28, wherein the waste collection space is provided by a waste collection device which is permanently attached to the second connecting channel.

30. Portioning device according to one of claims 23 to 28, wherein the waste collection space is provided by a waste collection device which is arranged detachably and sealed on the second connecting channel.

31. Portioning device according to claim 29 or 30, wherein the waste collection device further comprises an overflow container.

32. Portioning device according to claim 31, wherein the overflow container is connected via an additional connecting line downstream of the splitting channel to the second connecting channel via a Venturi nozzle element which is arranged in the second connecting channel.

33. Portioning device according to one of claims 22 to 32, further comprising a sampling container arranged at the splitting channel end, wherein the sampling container comprises a pressure equalization channel communicating with an environment of the portioning device, which has a nozzle at its end exposed to the environment, which nozzle is sealed from the environment by a pressure equalization membrane, wherein the pressure equalization membrane is designed to seal the nozzle against the ingress of liquid and / or dirt particles from the environment under a gas exchange with the environment.

34. Portioning device according to one of claims 22 to 33, wherein the splitting channel is formed by a splitting tube which can be pivoted into the second connecting channel by setting a predetermined angle to at least one side wall of the second connecting channel.

35. Portioning device according to claim 34, wherein the splitting tube can be arranged in the second connecting channel so that a cross-sectional area of ​​an inlet opening of the splitting tube can be arranged at an angle other than 90° to the at least one side wall in the splitting tube.

36. Portioning device according to one of claims 1 to 35, further comprising a housing in which the accumulation chamber and an outlet chamber separate therefrom are formed, wherein the accumulation chamber and the outlet chamber are connected at least by the second connecting channel and at most by the first connecting channel and the second connecting channel depending on a position of the valve, and wherein the outlet, the second end and the fourth end are formed on or in the outlet chamber.

37. A liquid quantity measuring system comprising: the portioning device according to any one of claims 1 to 36; and a sensor configured to detect a liquid, wherein the sensor is arranged in the accumulation chamber or downstream of the accumulation chamber for detecting liquid portions, and / or a differential pressure sensor arrangement which is designed to detect a pressure difference in the portioning device, wherein the portioning device has an inlet which is designed to supply the portioning device with liquid by a liquid flow supplied to the portioning device, and wherein the differential pressure sensor arrangement comprises a first pressure sensor arranged in or on the inlet for detecting a first pressure occurring at or in the inlet and a second pressure sensor arranged in the accumulation chamber for detecting a second pressure occurring in the accumulation chamber and / or a third pressure sensor arranged in or on the outlet for detecting a third pressure occurring at or in the outlet.

38. The fluid flow measurement system of claim 37, further comprising a processor connected to the sensor and / or the differential pressure sensor assembly.

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