Colorimetric Milk Analyzer for Progesterone Detection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for detecting ovulation and fertility in cows, such as using collars with tri-axial accelerometers, are not as accurate as progesterone analysis in milk and require frequent adjustment due to wear and tear, while manual milk sampling is labor-intensive and prone to errors.
Innovation Solution
A milk analyser system using a colorimetric sensor and optically transparent container that automates the measurement of progesterone levels in milk, allowing for real-time detection of ovulation, infertility, and pregnancy, with a biosensor system that integrates with existing milking parlour automation and requires no external wiring or plumbing.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If collars with tri-axial accelerometers are used to detect oestrus, then the device can detect oestrus and lying behaviour, but the device is subject to wear and tear and requires frequent adjustment
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces mechanical collar-based accelerometer systems with a biosensor-based chemical detection system. Instead of mechanically monitoring cow movement and behavior, the system uses biochemical sensors to detect progesterone levels in milk, eliminating wear and tear issues associated with physical collars while maintaining automated monitoring capability
Solution Approach 2:
The biosensor system automatically analyzes milk samples during routine milking operations without requiring separate sampling procedures or manual intervention. The system self-calibrates and processes samples through integrated optical detection, eliminating the need for frequent manual adjustments that plague collar-based systems
2Measurement precision
If manual milk sampling is performed for progesterone analysis, then accurate fertility detection is achieved, but the process is labor-intensive and prone to errors
Solution Approach 1:
The system enables continuous automated analysis of progesterone levels by integrating the biosensor directly into the milk flow path during routine milking operations. Unlike manual sampling that occurs intermittently, the system continuously monitors multiple cows simultaneously, maintaining constant detection capability without labor-intensive periodic sampling
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses optical detection to create a visual copy or representation of the chemical progesterone concentration through colorimetric changes. The biosensor produces a measurable optical signal that replicates the biochemical information, allowing automated reading and elimination of manual sampling errors while maintaining detection accuracy
3Extent of automation
If a biosensor system is integrated into existing milking parlour automation, then automated detection is achieved, but the system requires complex installation infrastructure
Solution Approach 1:
The biosensor system is designed to interface with existing standard milking parlour automation infrastructure, utilizing available milk flow paths, control systems, and data networks. By making the system compatible with universal milking equipment standards, the patent reduces installation complexity while maintaining high automation levels across different farm setups
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The system provides accurate and automated detection of ovulation, infertility, and pregnancy, reducing the need for manual sampling and improving fertility management by integrating with existing milking systems for efficient and reliable data collection.
Implementation Method 1
a colorimetric sensor which is arranged to change colour in the presence of a biomarker to be detected
Data Source
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AI summary
A milk analyser system is provided for detecting the presence of a biomarker, the system comprising: a colorimetric sensor which is arranged to change colour in the presence of a biomarker to be detected; and an optically transparent container which contains the sensor, the container being openable in use to allow milk received by the system to pass over the sensor in order to provide an indication of the biomarker in the milk, any change in colour in the sensor being detectable by viewing the sensor through the container.