Milk Flow Detection via Filling Level Variation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for detecting milk flow in milking processes are complex and limited, often hindered by friction and air-milk mixture in the milk line, requiring sophisticated analysis devices and being ineffective in determining the presence of milk flow due to irregularities.
Innovation Solution
A method that measures the filling level of milk in a measuring section, calculates an indicator number from variations in the filling level over time, and compares it to a threshold value to determine the presence or absence of milk flow, using sensors like feelers, optical, or conductivity sensors, without needing to know the flow rate.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If frequency analysis is carried out on the flow signal to detect milk flow, then the detection can be performed, but the analysis device becomes fairly complex and the method is limited to a specific section of the milk line
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the essential detection information by taking out only the filling level measurement from the complex frequency analysis system. Instead of analyzing the entire flow signal frequency spectrum, the invention isolates and measures just the filling level parameter, which is sufficient to detect milk flow presence. This simplifies the device while maintaining detection reliability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the complex mechanical/electronic frequency analysis system with a simpler measurement approach. Instead of using sophisticated analysis devices to process flow signals, the invention uses direct filling level measurements that can be processed more simply, substituting a complex signal processing system with a more straightforward measurement method.
2Reliability
If frequency analysis is used to detect milk flow, then flow detection is possible, but the method is impeded by friction of milk with the lines and by milk and admitted air flowing together
Solution Approach 1:
The patent converts the harmful effect of friction and air-milk mixture, which distort flow signals in frequency analysis methods, into a beneficial indicator. The filling level variations caused by these factors actually provide information about milk flow presence. Instead of trying to eliminate these disturbances, the invention uses them as the basis for detection, turning harmful interference into useful detection signals.
3Reliability
If the filling level is measured continuously to detect flow variations, then the presence of milk flow can be determined, but the measurement system becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies partial action by measuring the filling level at specific intervals or periods rather than requiring continuous complex monitoring. The invention determines flow presence by comparing filling level variations over time periods, using only the necessary amount of measurement data to make a reliable determination, rather than excessive continuous measurement.
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
This approach provides a reliable and simple method to detect milk flow, preventing issues like blind milking and obstructed aeration openings, allowing for timely corrective actions and ensuring efficient milking processes.
Implementation Method 1
said level can, for example, be determined by means of feelers, a vertical range of optical or conductivity sensors or the like
Implementation Method 2
said level can, for example, be determined by means of feelers, a vertical range of optical or conductivity sensors or the like
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2A~2B
AI summary
Method of detecting a flow, detection device, automatic milking device and computer program The present invention provides a method and a device (1) for monitoring a flow of milk (8) in a milk line (2) which is connected to a teat cup (3) and which has an aeration opening (5), like in a milking device. For this purpose, the milk filling level is monitored in a measuring section (7) of the line. If the variation therein is too little, the absence of a flow, or at least an inadequate flow, is established. If, additionally, a (sufficient) filling level is detected, it can be concluded that there is an obstructed aeration opening (5).