Valve assembly with cleaning

Abstract

A valve assembly of a milking plant for milking milk-producing animals, comprising a first valve with an inlet nozzle, a second valve with an outlet nozzle, an outlet of the first valve and an inlet of the second valve forming a channel, a discharge valve, which has a valve body which is movable to and fro and, in a closed position, closes a passage connecting the channel to a clearance and, in an open position, opens up the passage, the clearance being fluidically connected to at least one port.

Description

[0001] Valve arrangement with cleaning

[0002] The subject matter of the invention relates to a valve arrangement of a milking system for milking dairy animals.

[0003] Such milking systems are used for milking milk-producing animals, especially cows, sheep, goats, llamas and other milk-producing animals.

[0004] A milking system comprises several milking stations. Each milking station is equipped with a milking device comprising milking clusters with at least one teat cup. A teat cup is used to attach to a teat of the milk-producing animal, perform a milking process, and drain the milk during milking. The teat cup comprises a teat cup sleeve inserted into an elastically deformable teat cup liner. The term "teat cup liner" is used synonymously. A teat cup liner can be made of any elastic material that is food-safe. Silicone teat cup liners are particularly hygienic.

[0005] The teat cup is connected to a milk claw via a short milk hose, if required. The milk claw outlet is fluidly connected to a milk line system.

[0006] Since milk is an important foodstuff and a starting point for the food industry, it is necessary for milk to meet both national and international quality standards to protect consumers and ensure technical processability. There are corresponding national and international regulations that must be observed. Compliance with specified hygiene standards is also important to ensure high milk quality. Therefore, it is necessary for the components of a milking system to undergo a cleaning process. A cleaning process can be carried out using a fluid, particularly milk with or without cleaning, disinfecting, or other additives.

[0007] In this context, it is therefore necessary to prevent contamination of the usable milk with a cleaning fluid. Appropriate valve arrangements are used for this purpose. Such valve arrangements are intended, in particular, to ensure that unusable milk, for example, from cows with disease, does not enter the usable milk.

[0008] Especially in automated milking processes, this is carried out using an automatic milking system, which can also be a robot. With such automatic milking systems, it is also possible for a so-called dip to be applied to the teat of a lactating animal. This dip must also not get into the milk.

[0009] In particular, to ensure and prevent cross-contamination, valve assemblies are used that have a first valve, a second valve, and a drain valve. Such valve assemblies are also referred to as block-bleed blocks. One such valve arrangement is known, for example, from DE 10 2013 114 195 A1. In such a valve arrangement, the first and second valves are closed simultaneously, which corresponds to a block position. Once the valves, the first valve and the second valve, have assumed the block position, the drain valve is opened. The open position of the drain valve is also referred to as the bleed position. In another position, which can also be referred to as the through position, the first valve and the second valve are open, while the drain valve is closed.

[0010] In a known valve arrangement, this comprises a first valve with an inlet connection and a second valve with an outlet connection. An outlet of the first valve and an inlet of the second valve form a channel. The channel is connected to a line section in which the drain valve is arranged. Given that the drain valve only opens when the first valve and the second valve are closed, a fluid, in particular milk, is present at least in the channel. By opening the drain valve, the fluid is drained at least from the channel.

[0011] There is the problem that the area comprising the drain valve must also be cleaned. To carry out cleaning, it is known that in a valve arrangement comprising several of the above-mentioned valve arrangements, a bowl with an inlet and an outlet is brought onto this valve arrangement and into contact with it if the valve arrangement is to be cleaned in whole or in part. Proceeding from this, the object of the invention is to provide a valve arrangement in which the cleaning of at least one channel is simplified. This objective is achieved with a valve arrangement according to claim 1. Advantageous developments and refinements of the valve arrangement are the subject of the dependent claims.

[0012] The milking system according to the invention for milking milk-producing animals comprises a first valve with an inlet connection and a second valve with an outlet connection. An outlet of the first valve and an inlet of the second valve form a channel. The valve arrangement further comprises a drain valve having a reciprocating valve body. In a closed position, the valve body of the drain valve closes a passage connecting the channel to a free space. In an open position of the drain valve, the valve body opens the passage. The free space is fluidly connected to at least one connection.

[0013] This inventive design of the valve arrangement creates the possibility of cleaning the channel that connects the first valve and the second valve. Through the at least one connection, a cleaning fluid can flow into the free space of the drain valve and from there into the channel. This way, cleaning of the channel is achieved. It is possible for the fluid that is present in the channel and the fluid that is introduced into the free space to also be drawn off via this one connection. If necessary, appropriate ventilation is provided, through which the fluid or fluids flow out or out. A design in which two connections are provided that are fluidically connected to the free space.The connections are preferably arranged opposite one another, so that an inlet for a fluid is created via one connection and an outlet for a fluid is created via the other connection.

[0014] A free space is understood to be a space through which flow can pass freely, in particular when the drain valve is in an open position. A free space can be created, for example, by providing grooves in an inner circumferential surface of the drain valve, which forms a space for receiving the valve body. To simplify the design and reduce the technical effort required to create a drain valve, in particular when the drain valve is made of a plastic, it is proposed that the free space be annular in cross-section. This means that the valve body has a circular cross-section, at least in one section viewed in the axial direction of the valve body. The valve body can, for example, be frustoconical, so that an edge of the frustoconical valve body closes the passage in the closed position.The space in which the valve body is located preferably has a circular cross-section.

[0015] The passage has a valve seat that interacts with the valve body. The valve body can have a seal that is arranged on the valve body and detachably connected to it. This simplifies the replacement of the seal. This is necessary at specified intervals to meet hygienic requirements. The seal is preferably an O-ring seal. This O-ring seal rests against the valve seat in the closed position.

[0016] According to a further preferred embodiment of the valve arrangement, it is proposed that the valve body have a seal that seals the free space from the environment. This ensures, in particular, that if the drain valve leaks from the channel, a fluid flows into the environment. It is also possible to clean the free space when the drain valve is closed.

[0017] According to a further advantageous embodiment of the valve arrangement, it is proposed that the drain valve is designed such that in an open position of the drain valve, the valve body of the drain valve releases the free space to the atmosphere.

[0018] The invention is explained in more detail below with reference to the figures. The figures show a particularly preferred embodiment, to which the invention is not limited, however. The figures and the proportions depicted therein are merely schematic. They show:

[0019] Fig. 1 a valve arrangement in a front view,

[0020] Fig. 2 shows the valve arrangement according to Fig. 1 in a perspective view, Fig. 3 shows a sectional view along the section line HH according to Fig. 1,

[0021] Fig. 4 shows the valve arrangement according to Fig. 1 with offset inlet and outlet nozzles,

[0022] Fig. 5 is a sectional view along section line 11 of Fig. 4,

[0023] Fig. 6 the valve arrangement according to Fig. 1 in a side view with an actuating unit in an operating position

[0024] Fig. 7 is a sectional view along the section line EE according to Fig. 6,

[0025] Fig. 8 the valve arrangement according to Fig. 6 in a side view in a different operating position,

[0026] Fig. 9 is a sectional view along the section line FF according to Fig. 8,

[0027] Fig. 10 the valve arrangement according to Fig. 6 in a further operating position,

[0028] Fig. 11 is a sectional view along the section line GG according to Fig. 10,

[0029] Fig. 12 the valve arrangement with an actuating unit and

[0030] Fig. 13 Actuating unit according to Fig. 12 in a perspective view.

[0031] Fig. 1 shows a front view of a valve assembly 100 for a milking system for milking dairy animals. The valve assembly 100 comprises a first valve 110. The first valve 110 has an inlet connection 111, which can be connected to a line (not shown) of a milking system.

[0032] The first valve 110 comprises a housing 112. In the preferred embodiment, the housing 112 of the first valve 110 is formed in several parts. The housing 112 has a housing body 113. The housing body 113 has the inlet connection 111. The housing body 113 is detachably connected to a housing cover 114. A first piston shaft 115 extends from the housing cover 114.

[0033] The second valve 140 is also constructed in a corresponding manner. The second valve 140 has an outlet port 141 formed on the housing body 143 of a housing 142. The housing body 143 is detachably connected to a housing cover 144. A second piston shaft 145 of the second valve 140 extends through the housing cover 144.

[0034] The housing covers 114 and 144 can be designed as separate components. In particular, it can be seen from Fig. 7 that the housing covers 114 and 144 form a one-piece unit.

[0035] A radially outwardly directed collar 116 is provided on the outer surface of the housing cover 114. The second valve 140 also has a radially outwardly directed collar 146 on its housing cover 144.

[0036] The housing body 113 has a groove 117 at an end region opposite the housing cover 114. The second valve 140 has a housing body 143 with a groove 147 formed opposite the housing cover 144.

[0037] A housing part 200 is provided, which is connected to the end region of the housing body 113 opposite the housing cover 114 of the first valve 110, as well as to the end region of the housing body 143 of the second valve 140 opposite the housing cover 144. The housing part 200 has a connecting means 201. The connecting means 201 is preferably designed in the form of a threaded bore. In the preferred embodiment, the threaded bore of the connecting means 201 is screwed into a threaded rod 202. The threaded rod 202 extends from the connecting means 201 in the direction of the housing covers 114, 144. A first clamping element 203 is fixed to the threaded rod 202.

[0038] The first clamping element 203 is designed such that an edge region of the first clamping element 203 protrudes into the groove 117 of the first valve 110 and another edge region of the first clamping element 203 protrudes into the groove 147 of the second valve 140. This design achieves a positive and non-positive connection between the first clamping element 203 and the housing body 113 of the first valve 110 and the housing body 143 of the second valve 140.

[0039] From the illustration, in particular from Fig. 2, it can be seen that a nut 204 is screwed onto the threaded rod 203 and rests on the first clamping element 203. By turning the nut, the distance between the first clamping element 203 and the connecting means 201 can be changed, so that a force-locking connection between the housing part 200 and the housing body

[0040] 113 of the first valve 110 and the housing body 143 of the second valve 140.

[0041] Fig. 1 and 2 show a second clamping element 205. The threaded rod 202 extends through the second clamping element 205. The second clamping element 205 has a first edge region which is mounted on the collar 116 of the housing cover

[0042] 114 of the first valve 110. The second clamping element 205 has a second edge region that rests on the collar 146 of the second valve 140. A nut 206 is provided to secure the second clamping element 205. The nut 206 can apply a force to the second clamping element 205, which acts on the housing covers 114 and 144, so that the housing cover 114 of the first valve 110 is connected to the housing body 113 of the first valve 110. The same applies to the housing cover 144 and the housing body 143 of the second valve 140.

[0043] The above-described fixing or connection of the housing part 200 to the housing bodies 113, 143 and the housing covers 114, 144 is illustrated in Fig. 1 in a front view of the valve assembly 100. A corresponding configuration is also preferably provided on the rear side of the valve assembly, as partially evident from the sectional view of Fig. 3.

[0044] In particular, it can be seen from Figs. 2 and 3 that the groove 117 or 147 is delimited by a radially outwardly directed rib 118 or 148, respectively, wherein the respective rib 118, 148 is part of the housing body 113 or 143. In particular, it can be seen from Fig. 3 that the rib 118 and the rib 148 each have a toothing 119 or 149, respectively.

[0045] Preferably, the housing part 200 has a corresponding configuration to the respective toothing 119, 149, in particular at least one cam 211.1, 211.2. The cam 211.1 engages between the teeth of the toothing 119, while the cam 211.2 engages between the teeth of the toothing 149.

[0046] From Fig. 3, it can be seen that the housing bodies 113 and 143 are arranged such that the longitudinal axes of the inlet nozzle 111 of the first valve 110 and the outlet nozzle 141 of the second valve 140 lie on a common straight line A. The meshing toothing opens up the possibility of aligning the housing bodies 113 and 143 with respect to one another during assembly of the valve arrangement such that a possible angular offset of a section of a milk line connected to the inlet nozzle 111 and a section of the milk line connected to the outlet nozzle 141 can be compensated. An "angled" arrangement of an inlet nozzle 111 and an outlet nozzle 141 is shown in Figs. 4 and 5. From Fig. 5, it can be seen that the inlet nozzle 111 is offset from the outlet nozzle 141 by the angle B.

[0047] In another embodiment not shown, the housing bodies 113 and 143 are arranged relative to one another such that the teeth 119 and 149 of the housing bodies 113 and 143 mesh with one another.

[0048] Fig. 7 shows a sectional view along section line EE of Fig. 6. From the sectional view of Fig. 7, it can be seen that the first valve 110 has a first movable piston 120. The first movable piston 120 of the first valve 110 has a first piston shaft 115. The first piston shaft 115 is formed in two parts. It has a first section 115.1 and a second section 115.2. The first section 115.1 and the second section 115.2 are detachably connected to one another. The connection is preferably a positive and / or non-positive connection, in particular a screw connection. The first piston shaft 115 extends through a diaphragm seal 124. The diaphragm seal 124 and the first section 115.1 and the second section 115.2 are designed such that the diaphragm seal 124 is between the first section 115.1 and the second section 115.2 and is secured thereby to the first piston shaft 115. The diaphragm seal 124 has a bead-like circumferential edge region, which is positioned sealingly between the housing body 113 and the valve cover 114.

[0049] The first movable piston 120 has at one end a closure body 122 through which an outlet 123 of the first valve 110 can be closed or opened.

[0050] In the operating position shown in Fig. 7, the outlet 123 of the first valve 110 is closed by the closure body 122, so that there is no fluidic connection between the inlet port 111 and the outlet 123. The first movable piston 120 can be moved into an open position, as shown in Fig. 11, so that a fluidic connection is established between the inlet port 111 and the outlet 123.

[0051] Fig. 7 shows that the second valve 140 has a second movable piston 150. The second movable piston 150 has the second piston shaft 145, which comprises two sections, a first 145.1 and a second 145.2. The shaft sections 145.1 and 145.2 are detachably connected to one another. Preferably, the shaft sections 145.1 and 145.2 are screwed together. The second movable piston 150 has a closure body 152. The closure body 152 of the second valve 140 closes - in the illustration according to Fig. 7 - an inlet 153, so that there is no fluidic connection between the inlet 153 and the outlet connection 141.

[0052] The second piston shaft 145 extends through a diaphragm seal 154. The diaphragm seal 154 and the first section 145.1 and the second section 145.2 are configured such that the diaphragm seal 154 is arranged between the first section 145.1 and the second section 145.2 and is secured thereby to the second piston shaft 145. The diaphragm seal 154 has a bead-like circumferential edge region, which is sealingly positioned between the housing body 143 and the housing cover 144.

[0053] The housing 200 has a channel 160 that connects the outlet 123 of the first valve 110 to the inlet 153 of the second valve 140. The channel 160 has a passage 161. The passage 161 has a valve seat 162. The passage 161 can be closed or opened by means of the drain valve 180 shown in Fig. 7.

[0054] The drain valve 180 has a valve body 181. The valve body 181 is connected to an actuating unit so that this valve body 181 can be moved from an open position to a closed position and vice versa. Fig. 7 shows the open position of the valve body 181. The valve body 181 is essentially circular in cross-section. At its free end it has a sealing element 182 which interacts with the valve seat 162. From Fig. 7 it can be seen that a free space 183 surrounds the valve body 181. In the open position of the valve body 181, there is a fluid connection between the channel 160 and the free space 183. If the valve body 181 is moved into the position shown in Figs. 9 to 11, the fluid connection between the channel 160 and the free space 183 is interrupted.

[0055] Returning to Figs. 1 to 5, it can be seen that the housing part 200, which also houses the drain valve 180, has a first connection 190 and a second connection 191. The connections 190, 191 are fluidly connected to the free space 183. The connections 190, 191 are preferably arranged diametrically, i.e., offset by 180° in the circumferential direction of the free space 183. A fluid can flow into the free space 183 through the connection 190 and out through the second connection 191.

[0056] From the illustration in Fig. 7 it can be seen that in the open position of the drain valve 180 a free space 183 is preferably connected to the atmosphere.

[0057] The inventive design of the valve arrangement allows several possibilities for carrying out cleaning depending on the position of the first, the second valve and / or the drain valve.

[0058] If the drain valve 180 is in a closed position, which means that the passage 161 to the channel 160 is closed, the free space 183 can be cleaned by introducing a cleaning fluid into the free space via one connection and discharging it via the other connection.

[0059] If the drain valve 180 is in an open position, meaning that the channel 160 is fluidly connected to the free space 183, and the first valve 110 and the second valve 140 are closed, the fluid in the channel, in particular milk, can be drained via one connection 190 or the other 191. In such an operating position of the valves, the channel 160 and the free space 183 can be cleaned by introducing a cleaning fluid into the free space 183 via one connection 190 and discharging it via the other connection 191.

[0060] In a preferred embodiment, a free space 183 can be connected to the atmosphere in the open position of the drain valve 180. In this operating position, the fluid in the channel 160, in particular milk, can be discharged from the drain valve 180.

[0061] The first valve 110, the second valve 140, and the drain valve 180 form a valve arrangement also known as a block-bleed-block arrangement. In the position shown in Fig. 7, the first valve 110 and the second valve 140 are closed, i.e., they are in a block position. The drain valve 180 is in an open position, i.e., it is in a bleed position.

[0062] In a preferred embodiment, the valve arrangement can be operated such that in an operating position, which can also be referred to as a transition position (see page 19), all valves, i.e. the first valve 110, the second valve 140 and the drain valve 180 are closed, as shown in Fig. 9.

[0063] Fig. 11 shows another operating position of the valve arrangement, in which the first valve 110 and the second valve 140 are open. The drain valve 180 is closed. If a fluid, in particular milk, flows through the inlet port 111 into the first valve 110, the fluid leaves the first valve 110 through the outlet 123 and flows into the channel 160. The fluid flows from the channel 160 through the inlet 153 into the second valve 140 and exits it via the outlet port 141. The flow is indicated by arrows in Fig. 11.

[0064] In this operating position, the drain valve 180 is closed. In particular, it can be seen from Fig. 11 that the valve body 181 has a seal 184 at its end region opposite the sealing element 182. When the drain valve 180 is closed, as shown in Fig. 11, the seal 184 rests against an inner wall of the housing part 200, so that the free space 183 is sealed off from the channel 160 and from the atmosphere. In this operating situation, it is possible to clean, in particular to flush, the free space 183 by connecting a connection 190 to a fluid source, in particular to a water container or the like, so that a fluid, preferably water, flows into the free space 183 through the connection 190 and leaves it again via the connection 191.

[0065] Fig. 12 shows a preferred embodiment of a device 300 in perspective view. The device 300 comprises a valve assembly 100 in conjunction with an actuating unit 320. The actuating unit 320 also forms a mounting module. The mounting module and the valve assembly together form the device. The mounting module enables connection and separation of the mounting module from the valve assembly. The mounting module can be fixed to a structure. When the device is used in this way, the valve assembly is released as a separate unit. It is also possible for the valve assembly to remain firmly connected to sections of a line of a milking installation and for the mounting module to be separated and removed from the valve assembly.

[0066] The structural design of the device reduces the complexity of the device. In particular, this structural design makes it easier to carry out maintenance work on the valve assembly. If the assembly module and the valve assembly are separated, replacing seals can be made easier. This also means that the service time for replacing, for example, a diaphragm seal and, if necessary, the diaphragm seal with the piston can be reduced. A further advantage is that in the event of a malfunction of an actuator included in the actuation unit, the assembly module can be replaced along with the actuator.

[0067] The assembly module and the valve assembly are geometrically coordinated so that the assembly module can be brought into connection with the valve assembly in a predetermined, predefined position. The connection between the valve assembly and the assembly module is preferably a positive connection. It can, in particular, be designed as a snap-in connection. For this purpose, the assembly module has corresponding snap-in projections that engage with correspondingly designed stops on the valve assembly. This will be explained further below.

[0068] When the device 300 is oriented vertically, the actuating unit 320 has an upper mounting plate 322 and a lower mounting plate 324. An actuator 330 is fixedly connected to and between the upper mounting plate 322 and the lower mounting plate 324 (see, for example, Fig. 6). The upper mounting plate 322 has a fastening section 323. In the illustrated embodiment, the lower mounting plate 324 also has a fastening section 325. The fastening sections 323 and 325 preferably lie in a common plane. By means of the fastening sections 323 and 325, the actuating unit 320 can be secured, for example, to a structure not shown, which is preferably a wall or a support.

[0069] The fastening section 323 and the upper mounting plate 322 as well as the fastening section 325 and the lower mounting plate 324 are substantially L-shaped in cross section.

[0070] The actuator 330 is preferably designed as a piston-cylinder unit. This is, in particular, a pneumatic piston-cylinder unit, the connections of which are not shown. The actuator 330 is connected to a controller (not shown), so that the actuator 330 is activated or deactivated depending on the control signals. When the actuator 330 is activated, a rod 332 of the actuator 330 extends out of the cylinder of the actuator 330 (see Figs. 8, 10).

[0071] The free end of the rod 332 of the actuator 330 rests against a head part 340. The head part 340 has a support plate 342. The support plate 342 is preferably aligned parallel to the upper mounting plate 322.

[0072] An L-shaped retaining plate 346 is pivotally connected to the support plate 342. The support plate 342 has slots into which the projections of a leg 347 extend. The slots and the legs are coordinated in such a way that they allow a certain degree of pivoting of the retaining plate 346, which will be discussed further below.

[0073] Two guides 350, 352 are preferably connected to the support plate 342. The guides 350, 352 are preferably circular in cross-section. As can be seen from Fig. 13, the guides 350, 352 extend from the support plate 342 through the upper mounting plate 322 and through the lower mounting plate 324.

[0074] A transmission member 360 is provided. The bleed valve 180 of the valve assembly 100 is actuated by the transmission member 360. The transmission member 360 is preferably U-shaped. It has a first and a second leg 362, 364, which are spaced apart and arranged parallel to one another. The legs 362, 364 are preferably arranged parallel to the support plate 342. Each leg 362, 364 has through openings through which the respective guide 350 or 352 extends. From the illustration in Fig. 13, it can be seen that the lower mounting plate 342 is provided between the first leg 362 and the second leg 364 of the transmission member 360. Between the first leg 362 and the lower mounting plate 324, a first compression spring 370 is provided, which surrounds the guide 350.

[0075] The guide 350 has an abutment 354, which is arranged in the axial direction of the guide 350 between the retaining plate 346 and the first leg 362. The guide 352 has an abutment 356, which is arranged in the axial direction of the guide 352 between the retaining plate 346 and the second leg 364.

[0076] Preferably, the second guide 352 has a corresponding second compression spring 372. The second compression spring 372 rests against the lower mounting plate 324 and the first leg 362. Preferably, the guides 350, 352 and the transmission member are designed symmetrically, so that tilting is avoided when the transmission member 360 is displaced along the guides 350, 352.

[0077] A valve body 181 of the bleed valve of the valve assembly 100 is provided on the leg 364. Preferably, the valve body 181 is detachably connected to the leg 364 of the transmission member 360.

[0078] In particular, it can be seen from the illustration in Fig. 13 that two spring elements 390, 392 are provided. The spring elements 390, 392 are preferably tension springs. The respective free end of the spring element 390 or 392 is connected to the head part 340, preferably to the retaining plate 346. Specifically, this is achieved, for example, by the retaining plate 346 having a recess with a lug that engages an eyelet of the free end of the spring element.

[0079] The opposite end of the spring element 390 or 392 is connected to the lower mounting plate 324.

[0080] The lower mounting plate 324 has a contour that is adapted to the housing part 200 of the valve assembly, so that an end face of the lower mounting plate 324 rests against the housing part 200 when the valve assembly 100 is connected to the actuating unit 300. Fig. 13 shows that the lower mounting plate 324 has two spaced-apart, in particular hook-shaped, rear grips 326, 327. The housing part 200 has two spaced-apart pins 207 (Fig. 2) that are formed substantially vertically in a vertical orientation, i.e., when the piston shafts 115, 145 run vertically. Each pin 207 has two stops 208, 209 spaced apart in the axial direction of the respective pin 207. A radially outwardly directed web 210 is provided between the stops.

[0081] When the valve assembly 100 is connected to the actuation unit 320, the rear grips 326, 327 at least partially encompass the respective pin 207. Each rear grip 326, 327 has a recess into which a web 210 of the respective pin 207 engages. In this way, a releasable, positive-locking connection is formed between the housing part 200 and the lower mounting plate 324. The stops 208, 209 determine the position of the housing part 200 and thus also of the valve assembly in the vertical direction relative to the lower mounting plate 242.

[0082] The upper mounting plate 322 has a contour that is adapted to the housing covers 114, 144 of the valve assembly 100, so that an end face of the upper mounting plate 344 partially rests against the respective housing cover 114, 144 when the valve assembly 100 is connected to the actuating unit 320. Fig. 13 shows that the upper mounting plate 344 has two spaced-apart, particularly hook-shaped, rear grips 328.

[0083] The housing cover 114 has a first and a second rib 125.1, 125.2. The first rib 125.1 and the second rib 125.2 lie in a common plane and run substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis of the first piston skirt 115. The first rib 125.1 and the second rib 125.2 are spaced apart from one another, so that in the assembled state, the upper mounting plate 322 engages between the first rib 125.1 and the second rib 125.2.

[0084] The housing cover 144 has a first and a second rib 151.1, 151.2. The first rib 151.1 and the second rib 151.2 lie in a common plane and run essentially parallel to the longitudinal axis of the second piston skirt 120. The first rib 151.1 and the second rib 151.2 are spaced apart from one another, so that in the assembled state, the upper mounting plate 322 engages between the first rib and the second rib (see Fig. 7). A locking means 380 is provided, which can be seen in particular in Figs. 6, 12 and 13. The locking means 380 has first and a second leg 381, 382, ​​each of which is wedge-shaped. In the assembled state, the first leg 381 rests against the first and second ribs 125.1, 125.2 of the housing cover 114 and extends through the rear recess of the upper mounting plate 322. The same applies to the second leg 328.In the assembled state, the second leg 328 rests against the first and second ribs 151.1, 151.2 of the housing cover 144 and extends through the rear grips of the upper mounting plate 322. The geometric design, in particular of the legs, achieves a positive and non-positive connection between the housing covers 114, 144 and the upper mounting plate 322.

[0085] The first piston shaft 115 of the first valve 110 and the second piston shaft 145 of the second valve 140 extend toward the retaining plate 346. The retaining plate 346 has openings 345.1 and 345.2. A free end portion of the first piston shaft 115 projects into the opening 345.1. Spaced apart from the free end portion of the first piston shaft 115, the first piston shaft 115 has a circumferential stop 127. A free end portion of the second piston shaft 145 of the second valve 140 projects into the opening 345.2. Spaced apart from the free end portion of the second piston shaft 145, the latter has a circumferential stop 154.

[0086] Fig. 6 and Fig. 7 show the device in an operating state in which the first valve 110 and the second valve 140 are closed and the drain valve 180 is open. In this operating state, the rod 332 of the actuator 330 is at least partially retracted. The support plate 342 is spaced apart from the stop 127 of the first valve 110 and from the stop 154 ​​of the second valve 140. The holding plate 346 rests against the stop 127 of the first valve 110 and the stop 154 ​​of the second valve 140. For this operating state, the total spring force of the spring elements 390 and 392 is sufficiently high to close the first valve 110 and the second valve 140.

[0087] The spring elements 390 and 392 exert a tensile force on the guides 350 and 352 connected to the holding plate 346. The abutments 354 and 356 of the guides 350, 352 act on the first leg 362, so that the total spring force of the first and second compression springs 370, 372 is overcome to open the drain valve 180. A travel path of the drain valve 180 is preferably selected such that the drain valve 180 is open, so that cleaning of the drain valve 180, in particular of the free space 183 and the channel 160, can be carried out. In particular, the travel path of the drain valve 180 can alternatively or additionally be selected such that, in the open operating state of the drain valve 180, the free space 160 and the channel are connected to an ambient atmosphere.

[0088] Fig. 8 and Fig. 9 show the device in an operating state in which the first valve 110, the second valve 140, and the drain valve 180 are closed (transitional position). In this operating state, the rod 332 of the actuator 330 is partially extended. The support plate 342 is spaced apart from the stop 127 of the first valve 110 and from the stop 154 ​​of the second valve 140, wherein the distance in this operating state is smaller than in the operating state in which the first valve 110, the second valve 140 are closed and the drain valve 180 is open. In particular, the travel path of the rod 332 of the actuator corresponds to the travel path of the guides 350, 352 with their abutments 354 and 356. The travel path of the abutments 354 and 356 of the guides 350, 352 causes a relaxation of the compression springs 370, 372, so that the transmission member 360 moves in the axial direction of the guides 350, 352 and closes the drain valve 180.A period of time during which the valve unit is in this transition position preferably depends on the kinematic conditions and / or a control of the actuator.

[0089] Fig. 10 and Fig. 11 show the device in an operating state in which the first valve 110 and the second valve 140 are open. The drain valve 180 is closed. In this operating state, the rod 332 of the actuator 330 is extended. As the rod 332 extends, the support plate 342 comes into contact with the stops 127 and 154 of the piston 120 of the first valve 110 and the piston 150 of the second valve are extended so far that the valves move into the open state. The guides 350, 352 connected to the support plate 342 are also moved. The travel of the abutments 354, 356 of the guides 350, 352 can cause a further relaxation of the compression springs 370, 372 in order to increase the closing force of the drain valve.

[0090] Preferably, the locking means 380 can be used as a tool. The legs 381 and 382 can be inserted between the support plate 342 and the holding plate 346. By pivoting the locking means 380, the holding plate 346 is pivoted such that the free end portion of the first piston shaft 115 and the free end portion of the second piston shaft 145 exit the openings 345.1 and 345.2, respectively, so that the valve assembly is separated from the head part 340. The valve assembly can then be separated from the lower mounting plate 324.

[0091] The preferred design of the actuating unit also has the advantage that, in the event of a malfunction of the actuator and / or a control system connected to the actuator, the first valve and the second valve are closed and the drain valve is open. This has the advantage that, viewed in the direction of milk flow, the components of the milking system downstream of the valve arrangement, e.g., a milk tank, are not contaminated by a fluid, in particular a cleaning fluid.

[0092] List of reference symbols

[0093] 100 valve arrangement

[0094] 110 first valve

[0095] 111 Inlet nozzle

[0096] 112 housings

[0097] 113 Housing body

[0098] 114 Housing cover

[0099] 115 first piston skirt

[0100] 115.1 first section piston skirt

[0101] 115.2 second section piston skirt

[0102] 116 collars

[0103] 117 groove

[0104] 118 Rib

[0105] 119 Gearing

[0106] 120 pistons

[0107] 122 breechblock

[0108] 123 Outlet

[0109] 124 Membrane seal

[0110] 125.1 first rib

[0111] 125.2 second rib

[0112] 127 attack

[0113] 140 second valve

[0114] 141 Outlet nozzle

[0115] 142 housing

[0116] 143 Housing body

[0117] 144 Housing cover

[0118] 145 second piston skirt

[0119] 145.1 first section piston skirt

[0120] 145.2 second section piston skirt 146 collar

[0121] 147 groove

[0122] 148 Rib

[0123] 149 Gearing

[0124] 150 pistons

[0125] 151.1 first rib

[0126] 151.2 second rib

[0127] 152 breechblock

[0128] 153 Entrance

[0129] 154 attack

[0130] 160 channel

[0131] 161 passage

[0132] 162 valve seat

[0133] 180 drain valve

[0134] 181 valve body

[0135] 182 Sealing element

[0136] 183 open space

[0137] 190 first connection

[0138] 191 second connection

[0139] 200 housing part

[0140] 201 lanyards

[0141] 202 threaded rod

[0142] 203 first clamping element

[0143] 204 Mother

[0144] 205 second clamping element

[0145] 206 Mother

[0146] 207 cones

[0147] 208 attack

[0148] 209 Stop 210 Bridge

[0149] 211.1 Cam

[0150] 211.2 Cams

[0151] 300 device

[0152] 320 operating unit

[0153] 322 upper mounting plate

[0154] 323 fastening section

[0155] 324 lower mounting plate

[0156] 325 fastening section

[0157] 326 rear grip

[0158] 327 rear grip

[0159] 330 Actuator

[0160] 332 rod

[0161] 340 headboard

[0162] 342 support plate

[0163] 345.1 Opening

[0164] 345.2 Opening

[0165] 346 retaining plate

[0166] 347 thighs

[0167] 350 guide

[0168] 352 leadership

[0169] 354 abutments

[0170] 356 abutments

[0171] 360 transmission link

[0172] 362 first leg

[0173] 364 second leg

[0174] 370 first compression spring

[0175] 372 second compression spring

[0176] 380 locking devices

[0177] 381 Leg 382 Leg

[0178] 390 spring element

[0179] 392 spring element

[0180] A Grade B Angle

Claims

Claims 1. Valve arrangement of a milking plant for milking dairy animals, comprising a first valve with an inlet nozzle, a second valve with an outlet nozzle, wherein an outlet of the first valve and an inlet of the second valve form a channel, a drain valve which has a reciprocating valve body which, in a closed position, closes a passage connecting the channel to a free space and, in an open position, opens the passage, wherein the free space is fluidically connected to at least one connection.

2. Valve arrangement according to claim 1, wherein the free space is annular in cross section.

3. Valve arrangement according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the passage has a valve seat cooperating with the valve body.

4. Valve arrangement according to claim 3, wherein the valve body has a sealing element which rests against the valve seat in the closed position.

5. Valve arrangement according to at least one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the valve body has a seal which seals the free space from the environment.

6. Valve arrangement according to at least one of claims 1 to 5, wherein the drain valve is designed such that in an open position the valve body releases the free space to the atmosphere.

7. Valve arrangement according to at least one of claims 1 to 6, the free space is fluidically connected to two connections which are arranged opposite one another.

Images