Milk Conduit Cleaning Evaluation via Slug Profile Sensing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing solutions for evaluating the cleaning process of milking equipment do not effectively determine the quality of the cleaning process, leading to potential inefficiencies and unnecessary resource usage.
Innovation Solution
A system and method that use sensors to measure parameters such as pressure, temperature, and slug characteristics within the milk transporting conduit structure, with a data processor producing indicators reflecting the cross-sectional profile and quality of the cleaning process, allowing for graphical representation and automatic categorization of cleaning success.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If existing cleaning evaluation methods are used, then cleaning processes can be performed, but the quality of cleaning cannot be reliably determined
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces manual visual inspection and subjective cleaning quality assessment with automated optical sensing and image processing systems. Sensors capture images of the conduit interior, and computer algorithms objectively analyze these images to determine cleaning quality, eliminating human subjectivity and improving measurement precision and reliability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an intermediary evaluation system consisting of sensors, image processing units, and analysis software that mediates between the cleaning process and the final quality assessment. This intermediary layer provides objective, quantifiable measurements of cleaning quality that can be reliably tracked and evaluated.
2Loss of substance
If cleaning processes are performed without accurate evaluation, then equipment can be cleaned, but detergent and energy are overused
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a feedback system where sensor data and image analysis results are used to objectively assess cleaning quality and provide information for adjusting subsequent cleaning cycles. This feedback loop prevents overuse of detergent and energy by stopping cleaning processes when quality targets are achieved, rather than using fixed predetermined cleaning durations or chemical amounts.
Solution Approach 2:
The evaluation system enables the cleaning process to self-regulate by using real-time sensor data to determine when cleaning objectives are met. The system automatically adjusts cleaning parameters based on measured conditions, eliminating the need for external oversight or conservative over-cleaning approaches.
3Productivity
If traditional cleaning monitoring is used, then cleaning operations can proceed, but cleaning efficiency cannot be accurately assessed
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces data intermediaries in the form of sensors, data acquisition systems, and analysis software that capture, transmit, and process cleaning process information. These intermediaries convert physical cleaning parameters into quantifiable data that can be stored, analyzed, and used to accurately assess cleaning efficiency and productivity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces manual monitoring and estimation of cleaning efficiency with automated data collection and analysis systems. Sensors continuously measure cleaning parameters, and computer algorithms process this data to objectively calculate cleaning efficiency metrics, eliminating information loss associated with manual observation and record-keeping.
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
Provides a reliable quality measure for evaluating the cleaning efficiency, reducing detergent and energy overuse by accurately assessing the cleaning process and ensuring high cleaning efficiency.
Implementation Method 1
The sensor arrangement (151, 152, 153) is configured to measure at least one parameter related to the slug S
Implementation Method 2
an injector (115) configured to introduce an amount of gas into the milk transporting conduit structure (110), thereby causing a temporary pressure increase
Data Source
AI summary
The cleaning of milk transporting conduit structure involves introducing fluid and an amount of gas into the milk transporting conduit structure, which causes a slug of fluid to be formed in and forwarded through the milk transporting conduit structure. A sensor arrangement measures at least one parameter related to the slug, and repeatedly forwards updatings of the at least one measured parameter to the data processor. Based thereon, the data processor produces an indicator of at least one quality of the cleaning process. The indicator reflects a cross-sectional profile of the slug at at least one position in the milk transporting conduit structure.