Distribution unit for providing a milk sample mixed with a stainer liquid to a milk analyse device

Abstract

Distribution unit (110) for providing a milk mixture comprising milk and liquid to a milk analyse device (140). The distribution unit (110) comprises a first section (201) comprising a first fluid port (155), a first groove (121), a second fluid port (156), a second groove (122), a first fluid outlet (141), and a third groove (142). The first groove (121) extends from the first fluid port to a mixing cavity (120) while the second groove extends from the second fluid port to the mixing cavity. The third groove extends from the mixing cavity to the first fluid outlet. A second section (202) may be attached to the first section, thereby creating a first conduit by enclosing the first groove, a second conduit by enclosing the second groove, a third conduit by enclosing the third groove and a closed mixing chamber by enclosing the mixing cavity.

Description

[0001] DISTRIBUTION UNIT FOR PROVIDING A MILK SAMPLE MIXED WITH A STAINER LIQ¬

[0002] UID TO A MILK ANALYSE DEVICE

[0003] TECHNICAL FIELD

[0004] This document discloses a distribution unit according to the appended claims.

[0005] BACKGROUND

[0006] On a dairy farm, it is sometimes desired to analyse a milk sample of milk from a particular animal in a milk analytic instrument. The reason may be to investigate whether the animal is suffering from Mastitis, Ketosis, Urea, or some decease or condition that may affect the milk yield and / or milk quality; or measuring a parameter reflecting milk quality itself, for example percentage of fat, protein, lactose, etc.

[0007] A convenient way of extracting the milk sample is when the animal is being milked in a milking station, for example by a milking robot, or in a rotary parlour. A milk sampling device may then extract the milk sample from a milk line comprising milk of the animal and provide the milk sample to the milk analytic instrument.

[0008] The milk analytic instrument may require mixing of the milk with one or several other liquids before providing the milk sample to the milk analytic instrument, depending on the type of test to be made, thereby optimally preparing the milk sample for the test. For example, the milk may have to be diluted with a diluent or prepared with a chemical indicator.

[0009] It is desired that no dirt or other non-desired particles is allowed to contaminate the milk sample, as the result of the analyses may be affected. It is also desired that the dosing proportions between the milk portion and the portion / s of the other liquid / s are precise, as these proportions play an important part when for example calculating Somatic Cell Count (SCC) of the milk portion of the milk sample. It is also desired to automate the sampling / testing process to an as large extent as possible, avoiding or preferably eliminating potential sources of failure during the mixture and human interaction to save work for the farmer. It also has to be assured that liquids / chemicals used by the milk analytic instrument are not allowed to reach the milk line under any circumstances.

[0010] It would be desired through further investigations and development to evolve a concept for preparing a milk sample for the purpose of making an analysis thereof. SUMMARY

[0011] It is therefore an object of this invention to solve at least some of the above problems and facilitate preparation of a milk sample for milk sample analysis.

[0012] According to a first aspect of the invention, this objective is achieved by a distribution unit. The distribution unit aims at providing a milk mixture comprising milk and a liquid to a milk analyse device. The milk analyse device thereby receives and is enabled to analyse the milk mixture / milk sample. The analysis may for example comprise Somatic Cell Count (SCC), Standard Plate Counts (SPC), conductivity, antibody detection of one or several diseases, milk pregnancy testing, Preliminary Incubation Count (PIC), Lab Pasteurized Count (LPC), coliform count and / or Gerber test (for determining milk fat).

[0013] The distribution unit comprises a first section, in turn comprising a first elongated block having a first side extending in a substantially horizontal plane. The first section also comprises a mixing cavity formed in the first elongated block, wherein the mixing cavity is open towards the first side of the first elongated block.

[0014] Also, the first section comprises a first fluid port formed in the first elongated block. In addition, the first section comprises a first groove formed in the first elongated block. The first groove extends from the first fluid port to the mixing cavity wherein the first groove is open towards the first side of the first elongated block.

[0015] The first section also comprises a second fluid port formed in the first elongated block.

[0016] The first section also comprises a second groove. The second groove is formed in the first elongated block. The second groove extends from the second fluid port to the mixing cavity. The second groove is open towards the first side of the first elongated block.

[0017] The first section also comprises a first fluid outlet formed in the first elongated block. In addition, the first section comprises a third groove formed in the first elongated block, wherein the third groove extends from the mixing cavity to the first fluid outlet wherein the third groove is open towards the first side of the first elongated block.

[0018] The distribution unit in addition comprises a second section. The second section comprises a second elongated block having a second side extending in a substantially horizontal plane.

[0019] A first conduit is formed by enclosing the open side of the first groove when the first side of the first block abuts the second side of the second block in an assembled state. Also, a second conduit is formed by enclosing the open side of the second groove. A third conduit is formed by enclosing the open side of the third groove. In addition, a closed mixing chamber is formed by enclosing the open side of the mixing cavity.

[0020] Thereby, a distribution unit is provided for receiving milk and at least one other liquid, mixing the milk and the other liquid to a milk mixture in an appropriate proportion, and also provide the milk mixture to the milk analyse device for analyses. The provided distribution unit is reliable and has a compact design. Also, the distribution unit has a minimum of angles, nooks and crannies where dirt and / or milk residues may remain. Thereby cleaning is facilitated and the risks of carry over effect between milk samples is reduced.

[0021] Optionally, the second elongated block of the distribution unit may comprise an elongated recess. The elongated recess may extend substantially over the second side of the second elongated block. The elongated recess may be operable to receive and maintain a sealing device.

[0022] By applying a sealing device in the recess of the second elongated block, an efficient enclosing of the conduits and the mixing chamber which are formed between the first elongated block and the second elongated block. The continuous sheet is efficiently hold in place by the elongated recess, which facilitates correct mounting of the sealing device, while eliminating the risk that the sealing device is misplaced during operation. Leakage of milk / liquid / milk mixture is / are thereby prevented and avoided.

[0023] Optionally, the sealing device may be a continuous sheet.

[0024] The sealing provided by the sealing device in form of a continuous sheet is superior to the sealing properties of a gasket following the shapes of the grooves and the mixing cavity in the first elongated block. Mistakes during mounting and / or replacement of the sealing device is / are avoided, or at least reduced.

[0025] Optionally, the mixing cavity and the grooves of the distribution unit may be surrounded by a respective rim. The rim may define an edge of the respective cavity and groove, extending in a direction perpendicular to the first side of the first elongated block.

[0026] The respective rim, when the first section and the second section are in the assembled state, may form a sealing of the respective conduit and the closed mixing chamber, together with the sealing device of the second elongated block.

[0027] The rim, in particular when used together with the sealing device, will provide an efficient sealing of the formed conduits / mixing chamber, in cooperation with the sealing device, as the rim will engage with the flexible sealing device. Thereby, risks of leakage of milk / liquid / milk mixture is additionally reduced.

[0028] Optionally, the first section and the second section of the distribution unit may be releasably assembled in the assembled state by at least one holding means, thereby enabling exchange of the sealing device.

[0029] In addition, also replacement or repair of any other component of the distribution unit; or cleaning, is facilitated by the releasable assembly.

[0030] Optionally, the mixing chamber may comprise an agitating member, which may be configured to rotate within the mixing chamber.

[0031] By the rotational movements of the agitating member maintained in the mixing chamber, the milk and the liquid are mixed in a convenient, yet efficient manner. A well-made mixing is a prerequisite for enabling a reliable milk analysis of the milk mixture by the milk analyse device.

[0032] Optionally, the agitating member may comprise a magnet, which may be configured to rotate within the mixing chamber when acted upon by an external magnetic field.

[0033] Thanks to the agitating member in form of a magnet, the rotation of the agitating member could be made without having any rotational mechanism or for example an axle for the agitating member to rotate around. Cleaning problems and possible reparations or maintenance measures associated with such mechanisms are avoided. The external magnetic field may for example be generated by an electrical motor external to the mixing chamber. In case of reparation / maintenance requirements of the external electrical motor, it could easily be replaced with a replacement motor during the repairment, without affecting the milk production.

[0034] Optionally, the agitating member may be covered with a protective coating.

[0035] The protective coating for example in form of plastic or rubber, may protect the magnetic agitating member both from being affected by the milk / liquid, and from harming the internal walls of the mixing chamber. The technical life-time of the agitating member is extended.

[0036] Optionally, the distribution unit may comprise a first valve device. The first section may comprise a third fluid port formed in the first elongated block. The first section may also comprise a fourth fluid port, formed in the first elongated block. In addition, the first section may comprise a second fluid outlet formed in the first elongated block, a fifth fluid port formed in the first elongated block, and a sixth fluid port, also formed in the first elongated block. The first section may additionally comprise a seventh fluid port formed in the first elongated block wherein the seventh fluid port is arranged to receive milk, and a first connective tubing, re- leasably connectable to the fifth fluid port, and also to the sixth fluid port.

[0037] The first section may also comprise a fourth groove formed in the first elongated block, extending from the third fluid port to the second fluid outlet, wherein the fourth groove is open towards the first side of the first elongated block. The first section may comprise a fifth groove formed in the first elongated block, extending from the fourth fluid port to the fifth fluid port, wherein the fifth groove is open towards the first side of the first elongated block. Also, the first section may comprise a sixth groove, formed in the first elongated block, extending from the sixth fluid port to the seventh fluid port, wherein the sixth groove is open towards the first side of the first elongated block.

[0038] The first valve device may be connectable to the third fluid port, the fourth fluid port, and the first fluid port. The following may occur when the first section and the second section are in the assembled state: a fourth conduit may be formed by enclosing the open side of the fourth groove. A fifth conduit may be formed by enclosing the open side of the fifth groove. A sixth conduit may be formed by enclosing the open side of the sixth groove.

[0039] The first valve device may be controllable between a first mode, connecting the fifth conduit with the fourth conduit; and a second mode, connecting the fifth conduit with the first conduit.

[0040] By introducing a first valve device to the distribution unit, for example in form of a three-way valve, the dosage of milk to the mixing chamber could be controlled in a detailed and precise manner, leading to improved results of the milk analysis of the milk analyse device.

[0041] Optionally, the distribution unit may comprise a second valve device. The first section may comprise an eighth fluid port formed in the first elongated block, a ninth fluid port formed in the first elongated block, and a tenth fluid port formed in the first elongated block. The tenth fluid port may be connectable to a first liquid container. The first section may in addition comprise an eleventh fluid port formed in the first elongated block.

[0042] The first section may also comprise a seventh groove formed in the first elongated block. The seventh groove may extend from the ninth fluid port to the tenth fluid port. The seventh groove may be open towards the first side of the first elongated block.

[0043] The first section may also comprise an eighth groove formed in the first elongated block, extending from the eighth fluid port to the eleventh fluid port, wherein the eighth groove is open towards the first side of the first elongated block.

[0044] The second valve device may be connectable to the eighth fluid port, the ninth fluid port, and the second fluid port. When the first section and the second section are in the assembled state: a seventh conduit may be formed by enclosing the open side of the seventh groove. Also, an eighth conduit may be formed by enclosing the open side of the eighth groove.

[0045] The second valve device may be controllable between a first mode, connecting the seventh conduit with the eighth conduit; and a second mode, connecting the eighth conduit with the second conduit.

[0046] By introducing a second valve device to the distribution unit, for example in form of a three- way valve, the dosage of liquid to the mixing chamber could be controlled in a detailed and precise manner, leading to improved results of the milk analysis of the milk analyse device.

[0047] Optionally, the distribution unit may comprise a third valve device. The first section may comprise a twelfth fluid port formed in the first elongated block, a thirteenth fluid port formed in the first elongated block, a fourteenth fluid port formed in the first elongated block, and a fifteenth fluid port formed in the first elongated block.

[0048] The first section may in addition comprise a second connective tubing, releasably connectable to the eleventh fluid port, and also to the twelfth fluid port. The first section may also comprise a pump connectable to the fifteenth fluid port.

[0049] The first section may comprise a ninth groove formed in the first elongated block, extending from the twelfth fluid port to the thirteenth fluid port, wherein the ninth groove is open towards the first side of the first elongated block. The first section may also comprise a tenth groove formed in the first elongated block, extending from the fourteenth fluid port to the fifteenth fluid port. The tenth groove may be open towards the first side of the first elongated block. The third valve device may be connectable to the thirteenth fluid port, and the fourteenth fluid port.

[0050] When the first section and the second section are in the assembled state, a ninth conduit may be formed by enclosing the open side of the ninth groove, a tenth conduit may be formed by enclosing the open side of the tenth groove. The third valve device may be controllable between a first mode, connecting the ninth conduit with the tenth conduit; and a second mode, disconnecting the ninth conduit from the tenth conduit.

[0051] By introducing a third valve device to the distribution unit, the dosage of liquid and / or milk to the mixing chamber could be controlled in a detailed and precise manner by the connected pump, leading to improved precision in the composition of the milk mixture. The results of the milk analysis by the milk analyse device is thereby also improved.

[0052] Optionally, the distribution unit comprises a fourth valve device. Also, the first section may comprise a sixteenth fluid port formed in the first elongated block, a seventeenth fluid port formed in the first elongated block, and an eighteenth fluid port formed in the first elongated block. The eighteenth fluid port may be connectable to a second liquid container.

[0053] The first section may also comprise a nineteenth fluid port formed in the first elongated block. The nineteenth fluid port may be connectable to the pump. The first section may comprise an eleventh groove formed in the first elongated block, extending from the sixteenth fluid port to the eighteenth fluid port. The eleventh groove may be open towards the first side of the first elongated block.

[0054] The first section may in addition comprise a twelfth groove formed in the first elongated block, extending from the seventeenth fluid port to the nineteenth fluid port, wherein the twelfth groove is open towards the first side of the first elongated block.

[0055] The fourth valve device may be connectable to the sixteenth fluid port, and the seventeenth fluid port.

[0056] When the first section and the second section are in the assembled state, an eleventh conduit may be formed by enclosing the open side of the eleventh groove. Also, a twelfth conduit may be formed by enclosing the open side of the twelfth groove. The fourth valve device may be adjustable between a first mode, connecting the eleventh conduit with the twelfth conduit; and a second mode, disconnecting the eleventh conduit from the twelfth conduit.

[0057] By introducing a fourth valve device to the distribution unit, the dosage of liquid / s and / or milk to the mixing chamber could be controlled in a detailed and precise manner by the connected pump, leading to improved precision in the composition of the milk mixture. The results of the milk analysis by the milk analyse device is thereby also improved.

[0058] Optionally, the distribution unit comprises a fifth valve device. The first section may also comprise a twentieth fluid port formed in the first elongated block, a twenty-first fluid port formed in the first elongated block, and a thirteenth groove formed in the first elongated block, extending from the twentieth fluid port to the tenth groove. The thirteenth groove may be open towards the first side of the first elongated block.

[0059] The first section may also comprise a fourteenth groove formed in the first elongated block, extending from the twenty-first fluid port to the sixth groove. The fourteenth groove may be open towards the first side of the first elongated block.

[0060] The fifth valve device may be connectable to the twentieth fluid port, and the twenty-first fluid port.

[0061] When the first section and the second section may be in the assembled state, a thirteenth conduit may be formed by enclosing the open side of the thirteenth groove, and a fourteenth conduit is formed by enclosing the open side of the fourteenth groove.

[0062] The fifth valve device may be adjustable between a first mode, connecting the thirteenth conduit with the fourteenth conduit; and a second mode, disconnecting the thirteenth conduit from the fourteenth conduit.

[0063] By introducing a fifth valve device to the distribution unit, the dosage of liquid / s and / or milk to the mixing chamber could be controlled in a detailed and precise manner by the connected pump, leading to improved precision in the composition of the milk mixture. The results of the milk analysis by the milk analyse device is thereby also improved.

[0064] Optionally, the first section may comprise a twenty-second fluid port formed in the first elongated block, and also a fifteenth groove formed in the first elongated block, extending from the mixing cavity to the twenty-second fluid port. The fifteenth groove may be open towards the first side of the first elongated block. When the first section and the second section are in the assembled state, a fifteenth conduit may be formed by enclosing the open side of the fifteenth groove.

[0065] Thanks to the provided fifteenth conduit and twenty-second fluid port, excess milk mixture, may be evacuated from the mixing chamber to waste, without passing the milk analyse device.

[0066] Optionally, the first section and the second section when the first side of the first block abuts the second side of the second block in the assembled state forms a liquid distribution manifold.

[0067] Optionally, the liquid of the milk mixture may be a first liquid provided from the first liquid container.

[0068] Optionally, the liquid of the milk mixture may be a second liquid provided from the second liquid container.

[0069] Optionally, the liquid may comprise anyone, or any combination of a stainer liquid, a diluent and / or a saline solution.

[0070] Optionally, the liquid of the milk mixture may be the first liquid provided from the first liquid container and the second liquid provided from the second liquid container.

[0071] Optionally, the second liquid may comprise water, demineralised water, water mixed with preservative, acid, cations, and / or anions, a saline solution, a citric acid solution, a phosphoric acid, an acetic acid, or a similar liquid.

[0072] Optionally, the first liquid may comprise a stainer, which may be enabled to colour a cell nucleus.

[0073] The first liquid / stainer is rather expensive. Also, the stainer may have to be handled with special care due to its colouring capacity, fluorescent capacity and / or possibly toxic properties; i.e. , it has to be handled with particular care during the milk analysis process. From an environmentally friendly / working environment perspective, it may be desired to minimize or at least reduce the amount of used stainer, while achieving a reliable result of the milk analyses. By diluting the milk mixture with the second liquid, costs and environmental footprint are reduced, while yet achieving a reliable result of the milk analysis.

[0074] Other advantages and additional novel features will become apparent from the subsequent detailed description.

[0075] FIGURES

[0076] Embodiments of the invention will now be described in further detail with reference to the accompanying figures, in which:

[0077] Figure 1A illustrates an example of a system comprising a distribution unit, according to an embodiment of the invention;

[0078] Figure 1B illustrates an example of a system comprising a distribution unit, according to an embodiment of the invention;

[0079] Figure 2 illustrates an example of a distribution unit comprising a first elongated block and a second elongated block according to an embodiment;

[0080] Figure 3A illustrates an example of a first elongated block in a side view, according to an embodiment of the invention;

[0081] Figure 3B illustrates an example of a first section of the system, comprising a first elongated block, according to an embodiment of the invention;

[0082] Figure 4A illustrates an example of a second elongated block comprising an elongated recess, and a sealing device, according to an embodiment;

[0083] Figure 4B illustrates an example of a second section of the distribution unit, according to an embodiment of the invention.

[0084] DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0085] Embodiments of the invention described herein are defined as a distribution unit, which may be put into practice in the embodiments described below. These embodiments may, however, be exemplified and realised in many different forms and are not to be limited to the examples set forth herein; rather, these illustrative examples of embodiments are provided so that this disclosure will be thorough and complete.

[0086] Still other objects and features may become apparent from the following detailed description, considered in conjunction with the accompanying drawings. It is to be understood, however, that the drawings are designed solely for purposes of illustration and not as a definition of the limits of the herein disclosed embodiments, for which reference is to be made to the appended claims. Further, the drawings are not necessarily drawn to scale and, unless otherwise indicated, they are merely intended to conceptually illustrate the structures and procedures described herein.

[0087] Figure 1A illustrates a system 100 in a scenario wherein a milk sample is extracted from a milk line comprising milk. The milk is extracted from an animal. The animal may be comprised in a herd of animals for dairy farming at a farm. The system 100 may with advantage, although not necessarily, be implemented in an automatic milking facility such as a milking robot, rotary milking parlour, or similar arrangement. The system 100 may alternatively be applied during manual milking in a milking parlour.

[0088] “Animal” may be any arbitrary type of domesticated female mammal such as e.g., cow, goat, sheep, camel, horse, dairy buffalo, donkey, yak, etc.

[0089] The system 100 may be configured to orchestrate the extraction of the milk sample of the animal during regular milking of the animal, via a milk sampling device 101. The milk sampling device 101 may be configured to extract a milk sample from a milk line comprising milk, i.e. , the milk that has been extracted from one individual animal during the milking session. The extracted milk sample may be for example some few centilitres, or some millilitres.

[0090] The purpose of the milk sample extraction may be to analyse the milk sample, or a part thereof, in a milk analytic instrument 140. The milk analytic instrument 140 may be configured to receive the milk sample and perform an analysis on the received milk sample, for example concerning Mastitis, Ketosis, somatic cell count, etc.

[0091] To avoid that any impurities such as dirt, hair, pieces of bedding / fodder and other particles in the extracted milk is forwarded to the milk analytic instrument 140, the system 100 may comprise a filter device. The filter device may be arranged between the milk sampling device 101 and the milk analytic instrument 140, preferably closer to the milk sampling device 101 than to the milk analytic instrument 140 to disallow entrance of impurities in as large part of involved tubings as possible.

[0092] The extracted milk may be forwarded by a pump 113 via a fluid connection line 114 to a distribution unit 110. The pump 113 may be for example a peristaltic pump, hose pump, roller pump, tube pump, or similar arrangement in different embodiments.

[0093] The fluid connection line 114, and possibly also other tubings of the system 100 may comprise a piece of elastic hose comprising or being fabricated of for example plastic (e.g., nylon, polyurethane, polyethylene, Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC)); or synthetic or natural rubber. The fluid connection line 114 may have a substantially circular cross section. The inner diameter of the fluid connection lines 114 may be for example between 1-5 mm, preferably about 2-3 mm.

[0094] The distribution unit 110 is an entity wherein a milk mixture comprising milk and also at least one liquid, are mixed in a controlled manner. The correctly prepared milk mixture is then provided to the milk analyse device 140.

[0095] The distribution unit 110 comprises first section 201 comprising a first elongated block 210 with a first side 211 extending in a substantially horizontal plane, and a second section 202 comprising a second elongated block 220 having a second side 222 extending in the substantially horizontal plane, as illustrated in Figure 2.

[0096] The first section 201 and the second section 202 are enabled to be mounted in an assembled state wherein the first side 211 of the first block 210 abuts the second side 222 of the second block 220.

[0097] The first section 201 and the second section 202 may, when the first side 211 of the first block 210 abuts the second side 222 of the second block 220 in the assembled state may form a liquid distribution manifold.

[0098] The first section 201 comprises a mixing cavity 120 formed in the first elongated block 210. The mixing cavity 120 is open towards the first side 211 of the first elongated block 210. The first section 201 also comprises a first fluid port 155 formed in the first elongated block 210. The fluid connection line 114 may be mounted to the first fluid port 155, thereby enabling reception of milk extracted from the animal.

[0099] The first section 201 comprises a first groove 121 formed in the first elongated block 210. The first groove 121 extends from the first fluid port 155 to the mixing cavity 120. The first groove 121 is open towards the first side 211 of the first elongated block 210. The first section 201 in addition comprises a second fluid port 156 formed in the first elongated block 210. The second fluid port 156 may be connected to a liquid container 130. The distribution unit 110 is thereby enabled to receive liquid comprised in the liquid container 130. The liquid container 130 may comprise a liquid to be mixed with milk. The liquid may comprise anyone, or any combination of a stainer liquid, a diluent and / or a saline solution.

[0100] Also, the first section 201 comprises a second groove 122 formed in the first elongated block 210. The second groove 122 extends from the second fluid port 156 to the mixing cavity 120. The second groove 122 is open towards the first side 211 of the first elongated block 210.

[0101] When the first section 201 / first block 210 and the second section 202 / second block 220 are mounted in the assembled state, a closed mixing chamber is formed by enclosing the open side of the mixing cavity 120. Also, a first conduit is formed by enclosing the open side of the first groove 121 and a second conduit is formed by enclosing the open side of the second groove 122. Thereby, milk and liquid, respectively, may be received in an appropriate proportion in the closed mixing chamber.

[0102] In some embodiments, the second conduit formed based on the second groove 122 may comprise a one-way valve 113, configured to disallow return of milk mixture in the mixing cavity 120 to the liquid container 130.

[0103] The first section 201 also comprises a first fluid outlet 141 formed in the first elongated block 210. The first fluid outlet 141 may be connected to the milk analytic instrument 140, via a liquid connection tubing. A third groove 142 is formed in the first elongated block 210, wherein the third groove 142 extends from the mixing cavity 120 to the first fluid outlet 141. The third groove 142 is open towards the first side 211 of the first elongated block 210.

[0104] Thus, when the first section 201 / first block 210 and the second section 202 / second block 220 are mounted in the assembled state, a third conduit is formed by enclosing the open side of the third groove 142. Via the third conduit, the first fluid outlet 141 , and the liquid connection tubing, the milk mixture comprising milk and the liquid may be provided from the closed mixing chamber to the milk analytic instrument 140. The milk analytic instrument 140 is thereby enabled to perform the analysis of the provided milk mixture.

[0105] The illustration of the embodiment of the system 100 illustrated in Figure 1A may also comprise a first liquid sensor 115 and / or a second liquid sensor 116. The respective liquid sensor 115, 116 is / are enabled to detect air bubbles and / or presence of liquid in the fluid connection line 114 and / or other tubing for forwarding milk / liquid and / or milk mixture.

[0106] The first liquid sensor 115 and / or a second liquid sensor 116 may for example comprise a bubble detector, arranged to be clamped-on the fluid connection line 114 and / or other tubing. Based on ultrasonic detection of the bubble detector / s, air bubbles may be detected in the fluid connection line 114 and / or other tubing. Thereby, liquid passage / monitoring is enabled in a non-invasive, contamination-free manner.

[0107] The first liquid sensor 115 and / or a second liquid sensor 116 may alternatively comprise e.g., an optical sensor, possibly in combination with an appropriately arranged light source for enabling detection of changes in the detected light level, caused by bubbles scattering / blocking light of the light source. For instance, the light source may be placed on one side of the fluid connection line 114 and / or other tubing, and the optical sensor on the other.

[0108] Other possible alternatives of the optional first liquid sensor 115 and / or second liquid sensor

[0109] 116 may be capacitive sensors, conductivity sensors, pressure sensors, flow meters, etc.

[0110] The system 100 may also comprise a means for regulating, i.e., allow / disallow passage of milk mixture, such as a valve or a pump; i.e., a second pump 117. The second pump 117 may be enabled to forward milk mixture in the milk analytic instrument 140 to waste 150, for example after the milk analysis has been performed on the milk mixture. The second pump

[0111] 117 may be enabled to maintain a received milk mixture in the milk analytic instrument 140 by preventing milk mixture to pass to waste 150.

[0112] An advantage with using a pump instead of a valve is that the pump could provide a very precise control of the milk mixture passage. Also, the pump could be run in both directions which in turn enable cleaning / rinsing of the involved fluid connection lines.

[0113] The second pump 117 may be for example a peristaltic pump, hose pump, roller pump, tube pump, or similar arrangement in different embodiments.

[0114] Figure 1 B also illustrates a scenario comprising an embodiment of a system 100, with a similar purpose as the embodiment illustrated in Figure 1A, and also having at least some technical features in common, such as for example the milk sampling device 101 , the distribution unit 110, the milk analyse device 140, the first section 201 , the first elongated block 210 having a first side 211 , the mixing cavity 120, the first fluid port 155, the first groove 121 , the second fluid port 156, the second groove 122, the first fluid outlet 141 , the third groove 142, the second section 202, the second elongated block 220 having a second side 222, and the first, second and third conduits formed when the first side 211 of the first block 210 abuts the second side 222 of the second block 220 in the assembled state.

[0115] The mixing cavity / chamber 120 may comprise an agitating member 125, which may be configured to rotate within the mixing chamber when the distribution unit 110 is in the assembled state. The agitating member 125 may comprise a magnet, which may be configured to rotate within the mixing chamber 120 when acted upon by an external magnetic field.

[0116] The external magnetic field may be caused by a rotating permanent magnet, or electrical magnetic field, for example.

[0117] The agitating member 125 may be covered with a protective coating in some embodiments, such as rubber, plastic or similar.

[0118] The liquid of the milk mixture, which is mixed with the extracted milk, may be a first liquid provided from the first liquid container 130; and / or a second liquid provided from a second liquid container 167. The liquid may comprise anyone, or any combination of a stainer liquid, a diluent and / or a saline solution in some embodiments.

[0119] In some embodiments, the liquid of the milk mixture may comprise both the first liquid provided from the first liquid container 130 and the second liquid provided from the second liquid container 167.

[0120] The first liquid may then comprise a stainer, which may be enabled to colour a cell nucleus. The stainer, or stainer liquid, may alternatively be referred to as a reagent or (fluorescence) dye. Some non-limiting examples of stainer may be Trypan Blue, Methylene Blue, Pyronin Y-methyl green, Propidium iodide, Safranin.

[0121] By colouring cell nucleus of the milk mixture with the stainer, Somatic Cell Count (SCC) is enabled. SCC is a measure of the number of somatic cells, primarily white blood cells (leukocytes) and possibly epithelial cells, present in milk. SCC is often used as an indicator of milk quality and the health of the animal. High SCC is often associated with mastitis, an inflammation of the mammary gland usually due to infection.

[0122] The somatic cells of a milk sample, thanks to the colouring of the stainer, could then be counted, for example manually by counting the number of coloured cells, or by taking a photo and analyse the images by an image detecting computer program. Yet another possibility may be electronic counting, wherein the milk sample is stained with the stainer and then passed through a flow chamber. As coloured cells pass through a laser beam, they scatter light and fluoresce, thereby enabling counting of the coloured cells.

[0123] After having determined the SCC, the results may be compared to a threshold value, for example 200 000 cells / ml. In some countries / regions, there are legal limits for SCC in milk intended for human consumption (> 400 000 cells / ml in European Union (EU)), as high counts can affect milk quality, shelf life, and its suitability for certain processed products such as cheese.

[0124] Regular monitoring of SCC is vital for the farmer to ensure the health of their herds and the quality of the produced milk. Sometimes, low SCC may render a payment bonus (and / or high SCC may render a payment reduction) by the milk processor purchasing the milk, for awarding and promoting high milk quality at the farms.

[0125] The second liquid may comprise water, demineralised water, water mixed with preservative, acid, cations, and / or anions, a saline solution, a citric acid solution, a phosphoric acid, an acetic acid, or a similar liquid.

[0126] The first liquid / stainer is rather expensive. Also, the stainer may have to be handled with special care due to its colouring capacity, fluorescent capacity and / or possibly toxic properties; i.e., it has to be handled with particular care during all the process. From an environmentally friendly / working environment perspective, it may be desired to minimize or at least reduce the amount of used stainer, while achieving a reliable result of the milk analyses.

[0127] For this reason, it may be desired to dilute the milk mixture with the second liquid, thereby reducing costs and environmental footprint, yet achieving a reliable result.

[0128] The distribution unit 110 may comprise a first valve device 161 . The first section 210 of the distribution unit 110 may comprise a number of fluid ports formed in the first elongated block 210, such as e.g., a third fluid port 153, a fourth fluid port 154, a second fluid outlet 151 , a fifth fluid port 124, a sixth fluid port 126, and a seventh fluid port 111. The seventh fluid port 111 is arranged to receive milk, from a milk line comprising milk, i.e., the milk that has been extracted from the individual animal during the milking session.

[0129] The first section 201 of the distribution unit 110 may also comprise a first connective tubing 125, releasably connectable to the fifth fluid port 124, and also to the sixth fluid port 126. The first section 201 may also comprise a fourth groove 152 formed in the first elongated block 210, extending from the third fluid port 153 to the second fluid outlet 151. The fourth groove 152 may be open towards the first side 211 of the first elongated block 210. The first section 201 may in addition comprise a fifth groove 123 formed in the first elongated block 210, extending from the fourth fluid port 154 to the fifth fluid port 124, wherein the fifth groove 123 may be open towards the first side 211 of the first elongated block 210.

[0130] The first section 201 may also comprise a sixth groove 112 formed in the first elongated block 210, extending from the sixth fluid port 126 to the seventh fluid port 111 , wherein the sixth groove 112 may be open towards the first side 211 of the first elongated block 210.

[0131] The first valve device 161 may be connectable to the third fluid port 153, the fourth fluid port 154, and the first fluid port 155.

[0132] Thereby, when the first section 201 and the second section 202 are in the assembled state, a number of conduits may be formed by enclosing the grooves in the first elongated block 210. Thus, a fourth conduit may be formed by enclosing the open side of the fourth groove 152; a fifth conduit may be formed by enclosing the open side of the fifth groove 123; and a sixth conduit may be formed by enclosing the open side of the sixth groove 112.

[0133] The first valve device 161 may be controllable between a first mode, connecting the fifth conduit with the fourth conduit; and a second mode, connecting the fifth conduit with the first conduit.

[0134] The first valve device 161 may thereby receive milk and allow / disallow passage of milk from the milk sampling device 101 via the fluid connection line 114, to the mixing chamber 120. The first valve device 161 may be embodied as a three-way valve, in some embodiments.

[0135] The distribution unit 110 may also comprise a second valve device 162. The first section 201 of the distribution unit 110 may comprise an additional number of fluid ports formed in the first elongated block 210. The first section 201 may comprise an eighth fluid port 157, a ninth fluid port 158, and also a tenth fluid port 131 formed in the first elongated block 210.

[0136] The tenth fluid port 131 may be connectable to a first liquid container 130.

[0137] The first section 201 may also comprise an eleventh fluid port 127 formed in the first elongated block 210.

[0138] A seventh groove 132 may be formed in the first elongated block 210, extending from the ninth fluid port 158 to the tenth fluid port 131. The seventh groove 132 may be open towards the first side 211 of the first elongated block 210.

[0139] The first section 201 may in addition comprise an eighth groove 171 formed in the first elongated block 210, extending from the eighth fluid port 157 to the eleventh fluid port 127, wherein the eighth groove 171 may be open towards the first side 211 of the first elongated block 210.

[0140] The second valve device 162 may be connectable to the eighth fluid port 157, the ninth fluid port 158, and the second fluid port 156.

[0141] Thereby, when the first section 201 and the second section 202 are in the assembled state, a number of conduits may be formed by enclosing the open side of the grooves formed in the first elongated block 210. Thus, a seventh conduit may be formed by enclosing the open side of the seventh groove 132. An eighth conduit may be formed by enclosing the open side of the eighth groove 171.

[0142] The second valve device 162 may be controllable between a first mode, connecting the seventh conduit with the eighth conduit; and a second mode, connecting the eighth conduit with the second conduit.

[0143] The second valve device 162 may be configured to receive liquid from the first liquid container 130 and provide the first liquid to the mixing chamber 120. The second valve device 162 may be embodied as a three-way valve, in some embodiments.

[0144] In yet some embodiments, the distribution unit 110 may comprise a third valve device 163. The first section 201 of the distribution unit 110 may also comprise a number of fluid ports formed in the first elongated block 210. For example, a twelfth fluid port 129, a thirteenth fluid port 177, a fourteenth fluid port 176, and a fifteenth fluid port 193 may be formed in the first elongated block 210.

[0145] The first section 201 may additionally comprise a second connective tubing 128, releasably connectable to the eleventh fluid port 127, and also to the twelfth fluid port 129. In addition, the first section 201 may comprise a pump 166 connectable to the fifteenth fluid port 193. The pump 166 may comprise a (positive) displacement pump such as e.g., a piston pump, a peristaltic pump or similar device.

[0146] The first section 201 also may comprise a ninth groove 183 formed in the first elongated block 210, extending from the twelfth fluid port 129 to the thirteenth fluid port 177. The ninth groove 183 may be open towards the first side 211 of the first elongated block 210. Additionally, the first section 201 may comprise a tenth groove 184 formed in the first elongated block 210, extending from the fourteenth fluid port 176 to the fifteenth fluid port 193, wherein the tenth groove 184 may be open towards the first side 211 of the first elongated block 210.

[0147] The third valve device 163 may be connectable to the thirteenth fluid port 177, and the fourteenth fluid port 176, in some embodiments.

[0148] When the first section 201 and the second section 202 are in the assembled state, a number of conduits may be formed. Thus, a ninth conduit may be formed by enclosing the open side of the ninth groove 183. Also, a tenth conduit may be formed by enclosing the open side of the tenth groove 184.

[0149] The third valve device 163 may be controllable between a first mode, connecting the ninth conduit with the tenth conduit; and a second mode, disconnecting the ninth conduit from the tenth conduit. Thereby, the third valve device 163 may connect a port of the second valve device 162 with the pump 166, enabling a precise distribution of the liquid comprised in the first liquid container 130 to the mixing chamber when the second valve device 162 is set in appropriate position.

[0150] The distribution unit 110 may comprise a fourth valve device 164 in some embodiments. The first section 201 of the distribution unit 110 may in addition comprise a number of additional ports formed in the first elongated block 210. Those additional ports may comprise a sixteenth fluid port 179, a seventeenth fluid port 178, an eighteenth fluid port 191 , and a nineteenth fluid port 192, all formed in the first elongated block 210.

[0151] The eighteenth fluid port 191 may be connectable to a second liquid container 167. The nineteenth fluid port 192 may be connectable to the pump 166.

[0152] The first section 201 may also comprise an eleventh groove 181 formed in the first elongated block 210, extending from the sixteenth fluid port 179 to the eighteenth fluid port 191. The eleventh groove 181 may be open towards the first side 211 of the first elongated block 210.

[0153] The first section 201 may also comprise a twelfth groove 182 formed in the first elongated block 210, extending from the seventeenth fluid port 178 to the nineteenth fluid port 192, wherein the twelfth groove 182 may be open towards the first side 211 of the first elongated block 210.

[0154] The fourth valve device 164 may be connectable to the sixteenth fluid port 179, and the seventeenth fluid port 178.

[0155] When the first section 201 and the second section 202 are in the assembled state, an eleventh conduit may be formed by enclosing the open side of the eleventh groove 181 , and a twelfth conduit may be formed by enclosing the open side of the twelfth groove 182.

[0156] The fourth valve device 164 may be adjustable between a first mode, connecting the eleventh conduit with the twelfth conduit; and a second mode, disconnecting the eleventh conduit from the twelfth conduit.

[0157] The distribution unit 110 may comprise a fifth valve device 165. The first section 201 of the distribution unit 110 may comprise a twentieth fluid port 175 formed in the first elongated block 210, and also a twenty-first fluid port 174 formed in the first elongated block 210.

[0158] A thirteenth groove 185 may be formed in the first elongated block 210, extending from the twentieth fluid port 175 to the tenth groove 184, wherein the thirteenth groove 185 may be open towards the first side 211 of the first elongated block 210.

[0159] The first section 201 may also comprise a fourteenth groove 186, formed in the first elongated block 210, extending from the twenty-first fluid port 174 to the sixth groove 112, wherein the fourteenth groove 186 may be open towards the first side 211 of the first elongated block 210.

[0160] The fifth valve device 165 may be connectable to the twentieth fluid port 175, and the twenty- first fluid port 174.

[0161] A thirteenth conduit may be formed by enclosing the open side of the thirteenth groove 185, and a fourteenth conduit may be formed by enclosing the open side of the fourteenth groove 186 when the first section 201 and the second section 202 are in the assembled state. The fifth valve device 165 may be adjustable between a first mode, connecting the thirteenth conduit with the fourteenth conduit; and a second mode, disconnecting the thirteenth conduit from the fourteenth conduit.

[0162] The first section 201 of the distribution unit 110 may comprise a twenty-second fluid port 172, formed in the first elongated block 210. Also, the distribution unit 110 may comprise a fifteenth groove 173, which also may be formed in the first elongated block 210. This fifteenth groove 173 may extend from the mixing cavity 120, to the twenty-second fluid port 172. The fifteenth groove 173 may be open towards the first side 211 of the first elongated block 210 in some embodiments.

[0163] A fifteenth conduit may be formed by enclosing the open side of the fifteenth groove 173 when the first section 201 and the second section 202 are in the assembled state.

[0164] Figure 3A illustrates an example of a first elongated block 210 of the first section 201 of the distribution unit 110, as regarded in a side view. Figure 3B illustrates the first elongated block 210 in a view perpendicular to the view illustrated in Figure 3A.

[0165] The grooves 121 , 122, 142 and the mixing cavity 120 formed in the first elongated block 210 may be surrounded by a rim R, in some embodiments. The respective rim R may define an edge of the respective cavity 120 and groove 121 , 122, 142. The respective rim R may extend in a direction substantially perpendicular to the first side 211 of the first elongated block 210.

[0166] When the first section 201 and the second section 202 of the distribution unit 110 are in the assembled state, the respective rim R may form a sealing of the respective conduit and the closed mixing chamber, together with a sealing device 410 of the second elongated block 220.

[0167] The first section 201 and the second section 202 of the distribution unit 110 may be assembled together with a sealing device 410 arranged in between, as illustrated in Figure 4A.

[0168] In some embodiments, the first section 201 and the second section 202 may be releasably assembled in the assembled state by at least one holding means 430, thereby enabling exchange of the sealing device 410. The holding means 430 may comprise a fastener, i.e. , a hardware device that mechanically joins or affixes the first section 201 and the second section 202 together. Some examples of holding means 430 may be bolt and nut (possibly with one or several washers), a captive fastener, a fastener based on magnetism, a cable tie, a cantilever snap-fit or similar solutions.

[0169] Figure 4B illustrates an example of the second elongated block 220 in the second section 202. The second elongated block 220 may comprise an elongated recess 420, extending substantially over the second side 222 of the second elongated block 220. The elongated recess 420 may be operable to receive and maintain a sealing device 410.

[0170] The sealing device 410 may be a continuous sheet. The sealing device 410 may be made of an elastomer or any other similar material with elastic properties such as e.g., silicone, rubber, synthetic rubber, thermoplastics, etc. The thickness of the sealing device 410 when embodied as a continuous sheet may be a couple of millimetres, such as about e.g., 2-5 mm.

[0171] The system 100 may also comprise a controller, communicatively connected to the milk sampling device 110, to the pumps 113, 117, 166, to the valves 161 , 162, 163, 164, 165, and / or to the milk analytic instrument 140.

[0172] The controller may be configured to send a control signal to the milk sampling device 110, to extract the milk sample. Also, the controller may be configured to send a control signal to the first pump 113, to transport the milk sample along the first fluid connection line 114 to the distribution unit 110.

[0173] The controller may be communicatively connected to the pump 166 and the valves 161 , 162, 163, 164, 165, and arrange for providing milk and liquid / s to the mixing chamber. The prepared mixture may then be provided to the milk analytic instrument 120 for enabling analysis of the milk mixture.

[0174] The controller may comprise one or more instances of a processing circuit configured for performing various calculations for controlling the operations of the milk sampling device 110, the pumps 113, 117, 166, the valves 161 , 162, 163, 164, 165, and / or the milk analytic instrument 140. The controller may also comprise a memory in some embodiments. The optional memory may comprise a physical device utilised to store data or programs, i.e., sequences of instructions, on a temporary or permanent basis. According to some embodiments, the memory may comprise integrated circuits comprising silicon-based transistors. The memory may comprise e.g., a memory card, a flash memory, a USB memory, a hard disc, or another similar volatile or non-volatile storage unit for storing data such as e.g., ROM (Read-Only Memory), PROM (Programmable Read-Only Memory), EPROM (Erasable PROM), EEPROM (Electrically Erasable PROM), etc. in different embodiments.

[0175] The terminology used in the description of the embodiments as illustrated in the accompanying drawings is not intended to be limiting of the described distribution unit 110. Various changes, substitutions and / or alterations may be made, without departing from invention embodiments as defined by the appended claims.

[0176] As used herein, the term “and / or” comprises any and all combinations of one or more of the associated listed items. The term “or” as used herein, is to be interpreted as a mathematical OR, i.e. , as an inclusive disjunction; not as a mathematical exclusive OR (XOR), unless expressly stated otherwise. In addition, the singular forms “a”, “an” and “the” are to be interpreted as “at least one”, thus also possibly comprising a plurality of entities of the same kind, unless expressly stated otherwise. It will be further understood that the terms “includes”, “comprises”, “including” and / or “comprising”, specifies the presence of stated features, actions, integers, steps, operations, elements, and / or components, but do not preclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, actions, integers, steps, operations, elements, components, and / or groups thereof. A single unit such as e.g., a processor may fulfil the functions of several items recited in the claims. The mere fact that certain measures or features are recited in mutually different dependent claims, illustrated in different figures or discussed in conjunction with different embodiments does not indicate that a combination of these measures or features cannot be used to advantage. A computer program may be stored / distributed on a suitable medium, such as an optical storage medium or a solid-state medium supplied together with or as part of other hardware but may also be distributed in other forms such as via Internet or other wired or wireless communication system.

Claims

PATENT CLAIMS1. A distribution unit (110) for providing a milk mixture comprising milk and a liquid to a milk analyse device (140), wherein the distribution unit (110) comprises a first section (201) comprising a first elongated block (210) having a first side (211) extending in a substantially horizontal plane, wherein the first section (201) comprises a mixing cavity (120) formed in the first elongated block (210), wherein the mixing cavity (120) is open towards the first side (211) of the first elongated block (210); a first fluid port (155) formed in the first elongated block (210); a first groove (121) formed in the first elongated block (210), wherein the first groove (121) extends from the first fluid port (155) to the mixing cavity (120) wherein the first groove (121) is open towards the first side (211) of the first elongated block (210); a second fluid port (156) formed in the first elongated block (210); a second groove (122) formed in the first elongated block (210), wherein the second groove (122) extends from the second fluid port (156) to the mixing cavity (120), wherein the second groove (122) is open towards the first side (211) of the first elongated block (210); a first fluid outlet (141) formed in the first elongated block (210); a third groove (142) formed in the first elongated block (210), wherein the third groove (142) extends from the mixing cavity (120) to the first fluid outlet (141) wherein the third groove (142) is open towards the first side (211) of the first elongated block (210); and a second section (202) comprising a second elongated block (220) having a second side (222) extending in a substantially horizontal plane, wherein when the first side (211) of the first block (210) abuts the second side (222) of the second block (220) in an assembled state a first conduit is formed by enclosing the open side of the first groove (121); a second conduit is formed by enclosing the open side of the second groove (122); a third conduit is formed by enclosing the open side of the third groove (142); and a closed mixing chamber is formed by enclosing the open side of the mixing cavity (120).

2. The distribution unit (110) according to claim 1 ; wherein the second elongated block (220) comprises an elongated recess (420), extending substantially over the second side (222) of the second elongated block (220), and wherein the elongated recess (420) is operable to receive and maintain a sealing device (410).

3. The distribution unit (110) according to claim 2, wherein the sealing device (410) is a continuous sheet.

4. The distribution unit (110) according to any one of claim 2 or claim 3; wherein the mixing cavity (120) and the grooves (121 , 122, 142) are surrounded by a respective rim (R), defining an edge of the respective cavity (120) and groove (121 , 122, 142), extending in a direction perpendicular to the first side (211) of the first elongated block (210); and wherein the respective rim (R), when the first section (201) and the second section (202) are in the assembled state, forms a sealing of the respective conduit and the closed mixing chamber, together with the sealing device (410) of the second elongated block (220).

5. The distribution unit (110) according to any one of claims 1-4; wherein the first section (201) and the second section (202) are releasably assembled in the assembled state by at least one holding means (430), thereby enabling exchange of the sealing device (410).

6. The distribution unit (110) according to any one of claims 1-5; wherein the mixing chamber (120) comprises an agitating member (125), which is configured to rotate within the mixing chamber (120).

7. The distribution unit (110) according to claim 6; wherein the agitating member (125) comprises a magnet, which is configured to rotate within the mixing chamber (120) when acted upon by an external magnetic field.

8. The distribution unit (110) according to any one of claims 6-7; wherein the agitating member (125) is covered with a protective coating.

9. The distribution unit (110) according to any one of claims 1-8; comprising a first valve device (161); and wherein the first section (201) comprises a third fluid port (153) formed in the first elongated block (210); a fourth fluid port (154) formed in the first elongated block (210); a second fluid outlet (151) formed in the first elongated block (210); a fifth fluid port (124) formed in the first elongated block (210); a sixth fluid port (126) formed in the first elongated block (210); a seventh fluid port (111) formed in the first elongated block (210) wherein the seventh fluid port (111) is arranged to receive milk; a first connective tubing (125), releasably connectable to the fifth fluid port (124),and also to the sixth fluid port (126); a fourth groove (152) formed in the first elongated block (210), extending from the third fluid port (153) to the second fluid outlet (151), wherein the fourth groove (152) is open towards the first side (211) of the first elongated block (210); a fifth groove (123) formed in the first elongated block (210), extending from the fourth fluid port (154) to the fifth fluid port (124), wherein the fifth groove (123) is open towards the first side (211) of the first elongated block (210); a sixth groove (112) formed in the first elongated block (210), extending from the sixth fluid port (126) to the seventh fluid port (111), wherein the sixth groove (112) is open towards the first side (211) of the first elongated block (210); and wherein the first valve device (161) is connectable to the third fluid port (153), the fourth fluid port (154), and the first fluid port (155); and wherein when the first section (201) and the second section (202) are in the assembled state, a fourth conduit is formed by enclosing the open side of the fourth groove (152); a fifth conduit is formed by enclosing the open side of the fifth groove (123); a sixth conduit is formed by enclosing the open side of the sixth groove (112); wherein the first valve device (161) is controllable between a first mode, connecting the fifth conduit with the fourth conduit; and a second mode, connecting the fifth conduit with the first conduit.

10. The distribution unit (110) according to any one of claims 1-9; comprising a second valve device (162); and wherein the first section (201) comprises an eighth fluid port (157) formed in the first elongated block (210); a ninth fluid port (158) formed in the first elongated block (210); a tenth fluid port (131) formed in the first elongated block (210); wherein the tenth fluid port (131) is connectable to a first liquid container (130); an eleventh fluid port (127) formed in the first elongated block (210); a seventh groove (132) formed in the first elongated block (210), extending from the ninth fluid port (158) to the tenth fluid port (131), wherein the seventh groove (132) is open towards the first side (211) of the first elongated block (210); an eighth groove (171) formed in the first elongated block (210), extending from the eighth fluid port (157) to the eleventh fluid port (127), wherein the eighth groove (171) is open towards the first side (211) of the first elongated block (210); wherein the second valve device (162) is connectable to the eighth fluid port (157), the ninth fluid port (158), and the second fluid port (156); and wherein when the first section (201) and the second section (202) are in the assembled state, a seventh conduit is formed by enclosing the open side of the seventh groove (132);an eighth conduit is formed by enclosing the open side of the eighth groove (171); and wherein the second valve device (162) is controllable between a first mode, connecting the seventh conduit with the eighth conduit; and a second mode, connecting the eighth conduit with the second conduit.

11. The distribution unit (110) according to claim 10, comprising a third valve device(163); and wherein the first section (201) comprises a twelfth fluid port (129) formed in the first elongated block (210); a thirteenth fluid port (177) formed in the first elongated block (210); a fourteenth fluid port (176) formed in the first elongated block (210); a fifteenth fluid port (193) formed in the first elongated block (210); a second connective tubing (128), releasably connectable to the eleventh fluid port (127), and also to the twelfth fluid port (129); a pump (166) connectable to the fifteenth fluid port (193); a ninth groove (183) formed in the first elongated block (210), extending from the twelfth fluid port (129) to the thirteenth fluid port (177), wherein the ninth groove (183) is open towards the first side (211) of the first elongated block (210); a tenth groove (184) formed in the first elongated block (210), extending from the fourteenth fluid port (176) to the fifteenth fluid port (193), wherein the tenth groove (184) is open towards the first side (211) of the first elongated block (210); wherein the third valve device (163) is connectable to the thirteenth fluid port (177), and the fourteenth fluid port (176), and wherein when the first section (201) and the second section (202) are in the assembled state, a ninth conduit is formed by enclosing the open side of the ninth groove (183); a tenth conduit is formed by enclosing the open side of the tenth groove (184); and wherein the third valve device (163) is controllable between a first mode, connecting the ninth conduit with the tenth conduit; and a second mode, disconnecting the ninth conduit from the tenth conduit.

12. The distribution unit (110) according to claim 11 , comprising a fourth valve device(164); and wherein the first section (201) comprises a sixteenth fluid port (179) formed in the first elongated block (210); a seventeenth fluid port (178) formed in the first elongated block (210); an eighteenth fluid port (191) formed in the first elongated block (210); wherein the eighteenth fluid port (191) is connectable to a second liquid container (167); a nineteenth fluid port (192) formed in the first elongated block (210); wherein the nineteenth fluid port (192) is connectable to the pump (166);an eleventh groove (181) formed in the first elongated block (210), extending from the sixteenth fluid port (179) to the eighteenth fluid port (191), wherein the eleventh groove(181) is open towards the first side (211) of the first elongated block (210); a twelfth groove (182) formed in the first elongated block (210), extending from the seventeenth fluid port (178) to the nineteenth fluid port (192), wherein the twelfth groove(182) is open towards the first side (211) of the first elongated block (210); wherein the fourth valve device (164) is connectable to the sixteenth fluid port (179), and the seventeenth fluid port (178); and wherein when the first section (201) and the second section (202) are in the assembled state, an eleventh conduit is formed by enclosing the open side of the eleventh groove (181); a twelfth conduit is formed by enclosing the open side of the twelfth groove (182); and wherein the fourth valve device (164) is adjustable between a first mode, connecting the eleventh conduit with the twelfth conduit; and a second mode, disconnecting the eleventh conduit from the twelfth conduit.

13. The distribution unit (110) according to any one of claim 11 or claim 12, comprising a fifth valve device (165); and wherein the first section (201) comprises a twentieth fluid port (175) formed in the first elongated block (210); a twenty-first fluid port (174) formed in the first elongated block (210); a thirteenth groove (185) formed in the first elongated block (210), extending from the twentieth fluid port (175) to the tenth groove (184), wherein the thirteenth groove (185) is open towards the first side (211) of the first elongated block (210); a fourteenth groove (186) formed in the first elongated block (210), extending from the twenty-first fluid port (174) to the sixth groove (112), wherein the fourteenth groove (186) is open towards the first side (211) of the first elongated block (210); wherein the fifth valve device (165) is connectable to the twentieth fluid port (175), and the twenty-first fluid port (174); and wherein, when the first section (201) and the second section (202) are in the assembled state, a thirteenth conduit is formed by enclosing the open side of the thirteenth groove(185); a fourteenth conduit is formed by enclosing the open side of the fourteenth groove(186); and wherein the fifth valve device (165) is adjustable between a first mode, connecting the thirteenth conduit with the fourteenth conduit; and a second mode, disconnecting the thirteenth conduit from the fourteenth conduit.

14. The distribution unit (110) according to any one of claims 1-13; wherein the firstsection (201) comprises a twenty-second fluid port (172) formed in the first elongated block (210); a fifteenth groove (173) formed in the first elongated block (210), extending from the mixing cavity (120) to the twenty-second fluid port (172), wherein the fifteenth groove (173) is open towards the first side (211) of the first elongated block (210); and wherein when the first section (201) and the second section (202) are in the assembled state, a fifteenth conduit is formed by enclosing the open side of the fifteenth groove (173).

15. The distribution unit (110) according to any one of claims 1-14; wherein the first section (201) and the second section (202) when the first side (211) of the first block (210) abuts the second side (222) of the second block (220) in the assembled state forms a liquid distribution manifold.

16. The distribution unit (110) according to any one of claims 10-15; wherein the liquid of the milk mixture is a first liquid provided from the first liquid container (130).

17. The distribution unit (110) according to any one of claims 12-16; wherein the liquid of the milk mixture is a second liquid provided from the second liquid container (167).

18. The distribution unit (110) according to any one of claims 1-17; wherein the liquid comprises anyone, or any combination of a stainer liquid, a diluent and / or a saline solution.

19. The distribution unit (110) according to any one of claims 16-18; wherein the liquid of the milk mixture is the first liquid provided from the first liquid container (130) and the second liquid provided from the second liquid container (167).

20. The distribution unit (110) according to any one of claims 1-19, wherein the second liquid comprises water, demineralised water, water mixed with preservative, acid, cations, and / or anions, a saline solution, a citric acid solution, a phosphoric acid, an acetic acid, or a similar liquid.

21. The distribution unit (110) according to any one of claims 1-20, wherein the first liquid comprises a stainer, which is enabled to colour a cell nucleus.

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