Sensor Array for Teat Location Using Detection Zone Intersection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing teat location systems for automatic or semi-automatic milking of animals are complex and not robust enough, often requiring dual ultrasound sensors, multiple laser sensors, or complex optics and algorithms for accurate teat positioning.
Innovation Solution
A device and method utilizing an array of sensors with transmitter-receiver pairs to create detection zones, where all or substantially all receivers generate a signal simultaneously upon detecting an object, allowing for simple signal processing and robust teat location without complex sensors or algorithms.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If dual ultrasound sensors or multiple laser sensors are used to measure distances to the teat, then measurement precision is improved, but device complexity increases and robustness decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The system divides the detection space into multiple discrete detection zones, each associated with a specific sensor in the array. Each sensor independently monitors its own zone, segmenting the complex 3D detection problem into simpler 2D plane detections. This segmentation allows accurate teat location through straightforward signal coincidence detection rather than complex distance measurements.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transforms the 3D distance measurement problem into a 2D detection zone intersection problem. By projecting detection zones onto 2D planes and using the intersection of multiple 2D zones to define the 3D teat position, the system achieves 3D localization without requiring complex 3D distance measurements from multiple sensors.
2Measurement precision
If complex computer algorithms are used to interpret ultrasound or laser signals, then measurement precision is improved, but ease of operation decreases and reliability decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The sensor array system automatically determines teat position through the natural coincidence of detection zone intersections. The geometry of the detection zones themselves provides the localization information, eliminating the need for external complex algorithms. The system serves itself by using the physical arrangement of sensors and their detection zones to directly yield the teat position through simple signal coincidence detection.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent extracts only the essential detection function from each sensor, removing unnecessary complex signal processing capabilities. Each sensor simply detects whether an object is present in its detection zone, and the system extracts position information from the spatial pattern of detected signals rather than from complex signal analysis.
3Measurement precision
If moving parts such as reflectors driven in rotation are used, then measurement precision is improved, but device complexity increases and ease of repair decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The system uses multiple stationary sensors with overlapping detection zones rather than a single rotating sensor. This partial redundancy approach ensures that the teat position can be determined from the intersection of multiple fixed detection zones, eliminating the need for mechanical movement while maintaining or improving detection reliability through excessive sensor coverage.
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
Enables efficient and accurate teat location with minimal computation, suitable for the dairy industry, eliminating the need for complex sensors and algorithms, and reducing equipment complexity.
Implementation Method 1
a receiver means capable of receiving a reflected beam from said object from said transmission beam and reflected by the object within the detection zone
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention is a detection device, system and/or method for locating the position of at least an object present in space, such as the position of a teat of an animal. The device may include an array of sensors. Each sensor in the array may incorporate a transmitter-receiver pair. The transmitter and receiver within each pair may be disposed at an angle, to detect an object in space, through the use of signals. Embodiments of the present invention may include one or more detection devices and may be utilized to detect one or more objects present invention space. The device of the present invention may be used in a system for milking dairy animals.