DE102004044916A1 - Treating cattle teats with disinfecting dip comprises spraying them through outlets at top of teat cup, milk pipe being shut off by valve during treatment to prevent contamination - Google Patents

Abstract

The method for treating cattle teats with disinfecting dip comprises spraying them through outlets (34) at the top of the teat cup (31). The milk pipe is shut off by a valve during treatment to prevent contamination. An independent claim is included for teat cups for use in the method.

Description

The The invention relates to a method for bringing a fluid into contact with a teat of an animal, especially a cow, as well as a Teat cup, which is suitable, a fluid in contact with a To bring teat of an animal. Although the invention is in the following essentially with respect to cows is described, so the use of the invention is but especially in sheep, goats, buffalos, lamas, camels, dromedaries, Yaks and other milk-giving animals. Also the semi-automatic, fully automatic or robot-controlled use is possible, such as e.g. in an automatic robotic milking system. It is also the use in dairy farms with a conventional milking plant prefers.

In Dairy farms are at considerable risk of transmission from infectious agents to and into the mammary gland. Udder illnesses therefore apply in many countries with a developed dairy industry as the most significant damage factor in animal production.

The Infection injection for The pathogen that is widespread in the environment of dairy animals is the Teat canal. The transfer the infectious agent during Dairy withdrawal and their transport through the teat canal can by preventing a cyclic with the combined occurrence and regular Vacuum fluctuations related reflux of milk reduced become. However, at the end of the milk withdrawal, milk remains in shape of a drop or film adhering to the gland opening found in suckler cows of the Calf is eliminated with the tongue. One such situation is in dairy cows that be milked by machine, not given. Will this drop or Film is not removed, so the milk is a nutrient medium for the multiplication of the Surrounding bacteria, which thus have the opportunity Penetrate the duct and trigger an infection of the gland. The Liability of the germs is caused by fissures of the skin at the tip of the head and partial protuberances promoted the teat canal mucosa, so that this area is permanent Exciter reservoir can serve.

It is therefore a target of preventive measures, the teatcup of possible pathogens to keep free. This can be done by an antiseptic treatment of Teats are obtained following the milk removal. There are different treatment methods known. When dipping will be the teats e.g. dipped or sprayed in a dipping agent. The Dippmittel can in addition to the disinfecting ingredients also nourishing substances, such as glycerol or lanolin. By the caring substances will be a refatting reached the teats, leaving the teat skin soft and supple remains.

A Another method of application is spraying. This is a means through a spraying device sprayed on the teat. This agent may be a cleaning and / or disinfecting agent or Dippmittel act. Such a treatment method describes WO 99/66787, by which a milking device has become known is that a sprayer has, by which a means is sprayed on the teat. In the lower region of the teat cup, a valve is arranged, with the milk route can be closed is to make sure that by the chemical application no contamination the milk is made. When applying the chemicals is located The teat inside the teat cup and it is from a below the teat arranged spray nozzle a disinfectant sprayed on the teatcup. The procedure must be done carefully carried out be there spraying in the direction of the bar channel. Spraying with high pressure can Stroke duct of the teat subject to high loads. Is too high Sprayed, can germs in the teat space are in the teat canal, the then possibly worsen the hygiene.

Of these, Based on the present invention, the objective is based; another device and method for applying a fluid on the teat of an animal, preferably a cow, to disposal to deliver.

Preferably It is an object to provide a device with which one simple and reliable process management possible is. It is also an aspect to ensure that there is a risk of contamination the milk-bearing Parts with the fluid as possible kept low or excluded.

These Objective is achieved by a method having the features of claim 1 and by a Teat cup solved with the features of claim 13. Advantageous developments and embodiments are the subject of the respective subclaims.

According to an inventive idea, a method for bringing into contact, in particular for applying a fluid to a teat of an animal, in particular a cow, proposed, in which at least one fluid, in particular a disinfectant, through at least one exit region in an upper region of the teat cup the teat is directed, with the milk path below half of the teat is closed by means of a valve to prevent contamination.

By the closing of the milk path there is no risk of contamination of the milk or the milk in the tank.

Preferably the application is at least partially during a piecing process a teat cup on one or at least partially during one Removal process from a teat of an animal. It can also be one Application carried out while the teat is still in the teat cup, e.g. just before a pick-up a teat cup.

By The invention becomes possible in a simple way given to bring a fluid into contact with the teat. Preferably becomes a disinfectant and in particular becomes a dipping agent applied. Preferably, the application is carried out after a treatment of the animal, such as after milking.

According to one process management becomes during the downward movement of the teat cup when removing it from the teat of the animal the teat of the animal with a fluid, in particular a disinfectant, wetted. By this method of the invention is ensures that the teat is substantially completely wetted. An advantage The invention resides in that by a corresponding means the teatcup is kept free of pathogens, creating a pathogenic change the teat and the udder can be effectively avoided.

Also before a milking process of the invention can find application. Before milking, the teat of an animal usually undergoes a cleaning process subjected. The cleaning fluid sticks to the teat, causing it to slide on the Can form teat. There is therefore the possibility that during the Milking process of the teat cup moves upwards and against the Fürstenbergischen Vein ring pushes. This may cause the milking readiness of the animal to drop. To avoid this, air can also be used as the fluid to be applied be that while a piecing process is brought into contact with the teat. So As a result, a drying of the teat is achieved. By drying the teat is eliminated the sliding film and the risk of climbing of the teat cup or milking cup considerably reduced.

Preferably is at least one exit area for a fluid in the head area arranged the teat cup.

It it is preferred that at least one exit region on the inner Edge of the teat cup is arranged. Preferably, an exit area provided in the inner head area, leaving the means from the side is applied to the teat.

Preferably is in the implementation of the method at least one exit area on or on the upper and / or outer edge arranged the teat cup. In such an embodiment can according to a further proceedings the removal of the teat cup a certain amount of disinfectant on the outer surface of the Teat cup for wetting the teat edge are applied. This can for example by arranged at the upper edge of the teat cup outlet openings done so that the leaked fluid on the top of the teat cup around the teat. When in the teat cup still prevails vacuum, then by the difference in air pressure from the environment to the teat chamber, the fluid in the teat cup due to leaks sucked and introduced. The fluid flows due to gravity down along the teat and distributed on the teat surface.

The Introduce and distributing the fluid may also be by movement of the teatcup liner supports become. For this, e.g. the pulsation will be turned on and on the pulse space an alternating vacuum with a frequency of e.g. between 45 and 75 per minute. Is preferred a higher one Frequency of e.g. between 150 and 400 per minute. Suitable can e.g. a frequency of about 300 cycles per minute, as they are used during stimulation. The vacuum level can also be compared to the Pulsraumvakuum be reduced when milking, for. a massage and to achieve a good distribution of the fluid. By the vibrating Movement, the teat is so wetted overall.

According to one advantageous development of the method is proposed that the volume flow of the at least one fluid as a function of the length the teat and / or the piecing or Abnahmefortschrittes is changed. This can also be an adaptation of the volume flow to the speed, with the teat cup placed on the teat or from the teat is removed.

The Wetting of the teat with at least one fluid is preferably carried out by spraying at least a fluid.

For example, if initially a sufficiently large amount of fluid is brought to the teat at the beginning of the removal process, the fluid, when the fluid is a liquid, flows downwards in the direction of the teat tip. The Volu flow can be reduced in a corresponding manner.

The Fluid can also emerge promptly at the beginning of the acceptance process, so that too the transition area between the teat and the udder of the animal wetted by the fluid becomes.

It can also two, three or more different fluids are sprayed. Preferably, at least two fluids are different Passed exit areas. The two fluids can be such liquids act, who develop their activity only at the meeting.

Preferably At least one dipping agent is used. It may also be additional or Instead, at least one care agent be used.

preferably, becomes after order of a disinfecting or dipping or care product the teat cup cleaned, rinsed and / or disinfected. It may also be a disinfecting of the teat cup be made after each milking.

Preferably The teat cup is flushed from the valve by a corresponding in the valve Inlet for a rinse and / or disinfectant is provided.

Of the Teat cups according to the invention includes a housing and one in the housing arranged teat-liner, which has a teat chamber from a pulse room separates and that a head area, a shank area and a End region which communicates with a milk hose, wherein a valve is provided, with which a fluidic connection is closed by the teat chamber and the milk hose. The head area has at least one exit area which is so is formed such that a fluid leaving the exit region, in particular a disinfectant, at least partially radially is aligned inwards.

The means that the fluid is moving towards a central axis or a central region of the teat cup is aligned or, that the exiting fluid has a radial component.

For example, may be a concentric arrangement of several exit areas. Single exit areas or all can also be in addition to a radial component having a tangential component.

In Departure from the known state of the art, as described in WO 99/66787 is described, the fluid is not from below on the teat tip sprayed. By this measure a formation of a fluid drop is achieved at the gland opening. The teat canal is wetted and sealed in an excellent way, so the danger of a pathogenic situation at the teat in one considerable dimensions is reduced.

Preferably the fluid leaving the exit area occurs at least partially also in the direction of a longitudinal axis of the teat cup. The Auströmrichtung of the fluid thus an axial component.

advantageously, is at least one exit area on the inside of the teatcup liner arranged.

Of the at least one exit area is preferably in the head area of the teatcup liner arranged so that this exit area, outside a lying through the teatcup liner teat receiving space lies. By this measure will also be the opportunity created to clean the exit area without the fluid gets into the teat room. That can be in the headspace inside or above be arranged on the teatcup liner.

Of the Head region preferably has a plurality of exit regions on. The arrangements of the exit regions are chosen such that a complete Wetting of the teat with the fluid is possible, or e.g. by subsequent Self-distribution takes place.

Especially It is proposed that several be on an imaginary scope of Head area equidistant mutually arranged exit regions are provided. By this measure can a relatively even division of the fluid over be achieved to the extent when the exit areas similar are designed. The advantage of several on one imaginary Scope of the head area equidistant Also located therein exit areas is located therein; that the manufacture of the teatcup liner is simplified since this particular symmetrical, preferably rotationally symmetrical, is formed.

Prefers is an embodiment of a teatcup liner, in which several in the scope and in the axial direction of the teatcup liner staggered exit areas are provided. This will give a further improved wetting achieved a teat.

For effective wetting of the teat as well as for a reduction of the consumption of the fluid, it is proposed that at least one exit region is nozzle-shaped. In particular, it is proposed that the outlet region is designed in the form of a spray nozzle. The spray angle, or the Spray lobe of the individual exit areas can be different. If the teat rubber has a plurality of outlet regions, then individual outlet regions or groups of outlet regions can be formed with different spray nozzles, so that the spray effect can be influenced to a positive extent. There is also the possibility of causing different spray patterns by variations of the exit areas.

According to one Yet another advantageous embodiment of the teatcup liner is proposed that at least one over extending at least part of the circumference of the head region Channel is provided, which has at least one exit area. By this measure For example, the fluid conducted into the channel can be distributed over several exit regions stepping out. The channel can be provided in a separate component be, which e.g. made of metal.

To a still further advantageous embodiment of the teatcup liner It is proposed that the exit area at one end face one substantially in the axial direction of the teatcup liner extending channel is formed. By this measure can each exit area over a separate channel to be supplied with a fluid. It exists hence the possibility through different exit areas different fluids emerge allow. These may be, for example, two different ones liquids act only by their meeting their desired property develop.

The Supply of the channel or channels preferably takes place via at least a supply channel. The supply channel can be attached to the teat liner be self-trained. There is a possibility that, for example two supply channels are provided, wherein the one supply channel as a reserve channel serves, which is then used when the other supply channel inoperable becomes.

To a still further advantageous embodiment of the teatcup liner It is proposed that at least two supply channels be provided are by which independent mutually differing fluids to the exit areas supplied are.

By This measure for example, it is possible to that while a piecing of a teatcup according to the invention with the teatcup liner, For example, air through the supply channel to the exit areas is passed, whereby a cleaning effect and optionally a drying effect is achieved. By the air flowing against the teat can be particles be blown away from the teat.

is the teat or the udder of an animal before the milking one Cleaning process has been subjected, in which still on the teat a liquid adheres, so can through the air flowing out of the outlet areas a drying of the liquid be achieved, so that the liquid is not gets into the teat rubber, causing a possible contamination of the milking to lead can.

to Simplification of the production of the teatcup liner is proposed that the teatcup liner is formed in two parts.

According to one Still another advantageous embodiment of the teatcup liner are the exit areas and / or the channels in and / or at the head area of the teatcup liner. The channels can be splashed. However, there is a possibility that the channels in situ while the manufacturing process of the teatcup liner are formed. The Teat rubber is preferably made of an elastomeric material.

To Another inventive idea is an article for use proposed with a teatcup liner and / or a teatcup, wherein the teat cup at least one valve for blocking the Milk way has. The essay is tubular. He points in the area of an end face at least one exit region, which is formed such that a fluid leaving the exit area, in particular a disinfectant, at least partially exits in the direction of a longitudinal axis of the teatcup liner.

Of the inventive essay open the possibility, existing teat cups or teat cups with closing valve in the way to retrofit, that a treatment of the teat with a fluid is made possible while maintaining the quality the whey milk is not endangered by the disinfectant, since penetration into the milk path is reliably prevented. The retrofitting of the Teat rubber or a teat cup takes place in the style and Way that the essay about the teatcup liner or the teat cup is inverted. Because of that Tower tubular is formed, the opening remains free in the teatcup liner, so that the functionality of the teatcup liner or the teat cup is maintained. The essay is like that adapted to the teatcup liner or teat cup that a lip of the teat rubber head in terms of their flexibility the essay unchanged remains.

Preferred is an embodiment of an article, in which a plurality of circumferentially equidistant from each other arranged exit regions are provided. The exit areas can not only distributed on the circumference, but also offset in the axial direction of the essay to each other.

Around a spraying effect to achieve at least one exit region of the attachment is nozzle-shaped, preferably in the form of a spray nozzle, educated. There is also the possibility that spray nozzles as Separate components are used in the exit areas. This possibility exists not only in the article, but also in the teatcup liner according to the invention.

About one almost ring-shaped Channel, i. a channel that extends over at least part of the circumference of the essay, the supply of the least one can Outlet area made with a fluid. Are several exit areas provided, so it is advantageous if each exit area over a separate channel is supplied with a fluid. The one in a separate Component arranged annular channel can be used as a separate part for retrofitting conventional Teat rubbers are used when the separate component as insert introduced is and preferably supplied in the head area, the leads from the outside and be connected.

The individual channels the exit areas can be connected to at least one supply channel.

In dependence from the construction of the teatcup liner or teatcup can It may be advantageous if the essay is formed in two parts to so the attachment of the essay on the teat liner or on the teat cup to facilitate.

The Exit areas and / or the channels are preferably in and / or formed on a wall of the essay. The essay exists preferably made of a plastic, in particular of an elastomeric Plastic.

Around a secure connection of the attachment with a teatcup liner and / or Achieving with a teat cup is further advantageous Design of the essay proposed that this means for positive or non-positive connection in the teat liner and / or a teat cup.

The Connection of the attachment with the teat liner and / or a teat cup is preferably a solvable educated connection so that the possibility is created For example, replace the teatcup liner when worn is.

The casing the teat cup according to the invention preferably has at least one connection channel, which with at least one channel and / or supply channel is connected and communicates with at least one fluid source. In particular, will proposed that the connection channel has a neck on; which projects into the channel or in the supply channel. By This measure becomes a connection between the connection channel with simple means and the channel or supply channel. The cross sections of the Connection channel and the nozzle are dimensioned so that a fluid-tight connection arises.

According to one Still another advantageous embodiment of the teat cup is suggested that this is connected to a hose, the at least two guide channels wherein at least one of the guide channels with the at least one Connection channel is connected. In this case, an embodiment is preferred a hose, in which, having a guide channel with the end portion the teatcup liner is connected and another channel with a Pulsvakuumstutzen is connected. The three Leitkanäle having Hose is used to drain the milked milk, the supply the pulse space with varying negative pressure and the supply of Exit areas with a fluid. The guide channels inside the hose can have different cross-sectional shapes. This is at appropriate design of the connection piece the way the confusion of the connections reduced.

has the teat cup according to the invention a Aufsatz on, so it is advantageous if the teat cup and the Attachment means for positive or non-positive connection have. In particular, it is suggested that between the teat cup and the attachment a latching connection is formed.

To another variant of the invention is proposed that at least one teat cup is attached to a teat of the animal. Close to the piecing process a milking process. If the milking process is completed viewed, a signal is generated. There is a decrease in the Teat cup, when the signal was generated, at least during the Removal of the teat cup at least one fluid through in the head area a teatcup liner provided at least one exit area on the teat above the head area emerges. The exit area can in the teatcup itself and / or in an essay, like him described above, be formed.

The teat cup may be a combination of the teatcup liner of the invention and the he according to the invention essay. By means of this inventive combination, a variation of the exit regions can be achieved with regard to their number and configuration.

Of the Teat cup may be in any of the previously described embodiments Include multi-way valve. In particular, the valve can be closed the milk path of the teat cup be designed as a multi-way valve. By means of the valve, the milk path from the teat cup is closed to to prevent contamination of the milk by the dipping agent.

Preferably the valve is in a lower area, especially in the end area or the milk hose arranged. Advantageously, this includes Valve at least one spray nozzle. Especially preferred is the spray nozzle of the valve in the closed position in operating position. Preferably the valve has a drain which is active in the operating position and drain through the drained fluid from the teat cup to the outside can.

Of Further can be provided on the valve different derivatives. For example, can be next to the line for the main cheese also provided a discharge for the foremilk be, e.g. leads to a sensor for the examination of the foremilk, the the foremilk on flakes or the cell count or other parameters examined. There may also be a derivation for "bad milk" is derived directly from the non-recyclable milk. It can too one or more derivatives for Milk of different quality be provided, e.g. one for Milk with a particularly high fat content, etc., to milk different quality levels in different containers to collect.

The Valve is preferably at the transition from Teat rubber to the short milk tube or arranged in the sight glass. At the valve or the multi-way valve may be provided a supply line, to a disinfectant and / or a dipping agent and / or a Apply care products to the teat from below. It may additionally or Instead of this line, a line for supplying a cleaning fluid be arranged by means of e.g. Rinse water can be supplied after the milking machine has been removed was to rinse out residues and reliable to remove. Even after an intermediate disinfection can by a such line water or the like can be supplied.

In the teatcup or thereafter, e.g. in short or long Milk tube may be a sensor device or it may be multiple sensor devices be provided. For example, can use it for temperature and conductivity the milk to be determined. Thus, a characteristic measure of e.g. the Temperature and / or the conductance or the conductivity can be determined. In addition, can a milk flow sensor integrated or be available separately. Farther a pressure sensor may be provided. Even a tilt sensor can be arranged on the teat cup, the e.g. when a teat cup falls off outputs a signal. In addition, can be provided on the teat cup, a teat sensor, the presence of a teat detected. The sensor can be capacitive, inductive or other sensor executed be. The signals are used to control the process.

Prefers At least one combined Senuoreinrichtung is provided by means of at least one temperature and a measure of the conductivity of the milk can be determined is.

The individual sensors or the sensor device can be wired or be wirelessly connected to a controller. To is preferably a signal transmission device for wireless transmission provided by signals. It is possible for a sensor to have a Battery or another type of energy storage includes. It is also possible the use of RFID technology, in which case elements with rewritable Memory can be used. An energy supply can then also through the readout field done. Overall, the structure can be modular.

Further Details and advantages of the invention will be apparent from the in the Drawing illustrated embodiments explains without the subject of the application to these specific embodiments limited becomes.

In show the figures:

1 A first embodiment of a teatcup liner according to the invention in a plan view,

2 the teatcup liner after 1 in section along the section line AA after 1 .

3a enlarges a detail X of the head region of the teatcup liner,

3b enlarges another detail X of the head region of the teatcup liner,

4 A second embodiment of a teatcup liner in a plan view,

5 a side view of the second embodiment of the teatcup liner,

6 an embodiment of a Aufsat in a side view,

7 the essay in a sectional view along the section line AA after 6 .

8th the essay in a supervision,

9 a teat cup in a side view,

10 the teat cup in a side view, and

11 the teat cup in a perspective view.

In the 1 . 2 and 3 a first embodiment of a teat cup according to the invention is shown very schematically. The teatcup liner 1 of the teat cup 30 has a header 2 on. The housing 31 of the teat cup 30 is here in 1 . 2 and 3 not pictured, but in 11 , To the head area 2 of the teatcup liner 1 closes a shaft area 3 at the end of an area 4 passes. The end area 4 is designed so that this with the housing 31 of the teat cup 30 is connectable.

The end area 4 is open at the bottom to carry away the milked milk. The end area 4 is fluidly connected in a milking plant with a milk hose for the removal of the milk. At the end area 4 the teatcup liner closes in the teat cup or teat cup 30 a valve 40 on, here in this embodiment as a multi-way valve 50 is formed or includes such. By means of the valve, the milk path is closed when dipping agent is applied to the teat in order to prevent impurity of the milked milk. A tight seal of the milk path during dipping a teat is an essential aspect in the design of the teat cup to safely prevent contamination of the milkmaid.

The head area 2 has an opening 5 on, through which a teat of an animal (not shown) in the teat cup or in the teat rubber can be introduced. The opening 5 is by a lip 6 limited. The lip 6 is flexible, so that it clings to the surface of a teat. The opening 5 opposite section of the head area 2 is double-walled with a to the end area 4 towards opening ring groove 7 educated. In the ring groove 7 protrudes an upper end portion of the housing 31 of the teat cup 30 into it.

The teat cup in the illustrated embodiment comprises four different types of exit regions 8th . 8a . 8b and 8c , The three exit area types 8a . 8b and 8c each serve for the application of fluid and in particular of disinfectant, dipping and / or care agent on the teat. Through the exit area 8c For example, the teat cup or teat may be rinsed to clean the teat prior to milking or to rinse the teat cup after milking.

The head area 2 has four exit areas in the illustrated embodiment 8th and four exit areas 8a on. The exit areas 8th and 8a are each designed so that one the exit area 8th respectively. 8a leaving fluid, in particular a disinfectant, at least partially aligned radially inwardly emerges. In the 2 is that from the exit areas 8th emerging fluid schematically by dashed lines 61 and that from the exit areas 8a emerging fluid schematically by dashed lines 62 shown.

From the exit areas 8th the fluid occurs essentially only in one plane, axial components of the flow direction in the direction of the teat cup extension are only to a small extent. The teat cup located in the teat cup is sprayed directly with the dipping agent. The dipping agent runs down the teat. By an appropriate number of exit areas 8th or outlet openings ensures that the teat is completely wetted safely. To assist in dispensing the dipping agent, pulsation may be employed to massaging the teatcup liner onto the teat. Preferably, a high frequency is set, as is otherwise selected at the start of milking during the stimulation. The pulsation vacuum for distributing the dipping agent is also chosen to be lower than the pulse vacuum during milking. Preferably, the pulse vacuum is selected so that the teat liner all the time essentially abuts the teat and not or only slightly lifts.

The exit areas 8a On the other hand, each are designed so that one the exit areas 8a leaving fluid exits not only in the radial direction inwards, but also directed axially upward in the direction of the udder. By means of the exit areas 8a Dippmittel is sprayed onto the arranged above the teat cup teat. The dipping agent will run down the outside of the teat and accumulate on top of the teatcup liner when the teat is still in the teatcup. Due to the pressure difference and leaking abutment of the teatcup liner on the teat, the dipping agent enters the interior and is distributed over the teat. The distribution may be assisted by a teat rubber movement as described in the previous paragraph.

But it can work with the exit areas 8a Also dipping means are sprayed exactly when the vacuum is switched off and the removal of the teat cup takes place. Upon selection of a suitable time, the teat is sprayed over the entire outer surface when removing, especially if at the same time from the inner outlet areas 8th Dipping agent is sprayed.

The exit areas 8th and 8a are arranged in the illustrated example, each on an imaginary circumference of the head region equidistant from each other. The exit areas 8th respectively. 8a are preferably in the form of spray nozzles.

For supplying the fluid to the individual outlet areas 8th respectively. 8a are channels 10 in the head area 2 educated. Each exit area 8th respectively. 8a is one channel each 10 assigned. The channels 10 extend substantially in the axial direction of the head area 2 or the teatcup liner, as is known from the 2 . 3a and 3b is apparent. The fact that the exit areas are connected to individual channels can lead to single or multiple exit areas 8th and 8a different fluids are supplied.

The embodiment of the teatcup liner according to the invention, as shown in the 3a and 3b is shown, shows that the channels in the head area 2 are formed. The exit areas 8th with the associated channels 10 may also be formed on a separate component, which in the teat rubber 1 or in the teat cup 30 is used.

The exit area 8b is at the multi-way valve 50 provided here only schematically in 2 is shown. Through the supply line 42 For example, a dipping or care agent or a disinfectant can be supplied to the interior of the teat cup. The Rays 63 schematically show how the fluid enters the teat cup. The exit area 8b can be in addition to one or both exit areas 8th and 8a used to bring fluid in contact with a teat. It can from the exit areas 8th . 8a and 8b in each case the same dipping agent be applied.

It can different from the different types of exit areas Dipping means are brought into the interior of the teat cup to the different To consider positions with respect to the teat.

In other process guides, dipping agent is only from the exit areas 8th or 8a applied, after erfölgtem dipping and removal of the teat cup of the teat cup is disinfected by a disinfectant from the exit area 8b is brought into the interior of the teat cup. Through the exit area 8c then rinse water can be passed into the teat cup.

But it is also possible that via the feed line 41 the exit area 8c First, a disinfectant for disinfecting the teat cup is passed, and then rinse water through the supply line 41 to be led.

It it is possible, that several channels be connected to at least one supply channel.

In the teat cup or in the subsequent tube, various sensors may be provided whose sensor signals by means of a signal transmission device 55 wireless or wired transferable.

In the present embodiment, a flow sensor 43 present, which serves to determine the milk flow. Depending on the accuracy of the measurement result, the milking process can be controlled overall. A temperature and conductivity sensor is used to record the milk temperature and the conductivity in order to determine the conductivity of the milk. Both parameters can be used to estimate the health status. To avoid blind milking is a milk flow sensor 43 intended. To check the vacuum, a pressure sensor is used 47 whose signals can be used to detect, for example, a teat bent in the milking cup.

A tilt sensor 46 , as known in the art, serves for positional control of the teat cup 30 , From a certain angle, a warning signal is issued because the teat cup may have dropped or chipped off.

By means of a capacitive teat sensor 48 It is checked before the start of milking, whether the teat is in the teat cup, otherwise a signal is issued. The teat sensor 48 is still used to check that the teat is still in the teat cup before applying the dipping agent. Before a rinsing or disinfection process of the teat cup, the presence of a teat is also first checked, in these cases, however, rinsing or disinfecting does not occur in existing teat, especially since the disinfectant for the teat cup is not suitable for direct contact with the teat or to must be provided.

With the multi-way valve 50 can milk the foremilk in a pipe 51 derived for the foremilk, which leads to a (not shown) sensor for examining the foremilk, for example on flakes. The main cheese is in the management 52 For good milk derived, unless the control is a segregation of the milk in a pipe 53 for bad milk. This can be done on the basis of measurement data, or if the animal is being treated with medication, for example, and the milk has to be discarded. It is also possible that different lines are available for different milk qualities in order to divert milk of particularly high quality or with a particularly high fat content into a special tank.

Closing the milk path through the valve 40 respectively. 50 can be a drainage channel 54 opened, which communicates with the environment or with a special drain or bad milk line. Through the drainage channel 54 can then flow freely when dipping down Dippmittelreste unhindered.

4 and 5 show a second embodiment of a teatcup liner for the teat cup according to the invention. The teatcup liner 11 has a header 12 in a shaft area 13 passes. He also has an end portion, not shown 5 on. The basic structure of the teatcup liner 11 corresponds to the structure of the in the 1 . 2 and 3a and 3b illustrated embodiment of a teatcup liner.

Like from the 4 and the 5 can be seen, the head area 12 four exit areas 14 on, which are offset from each other by 90 degrees. The exit areas 14 are with channels 15 connected. The channels 15 are in the illustrated embodiment on the surface 16 of the head area 12 formed. You can go to the head area 12 be sprayed. Furthermore, internal exit areas can also 8th be provided, which allow spraying the teat in the headspace.

In the 6 . 7 and 8th an attachment for use with a teatcup liner or teatcup is shown. The essay 20 has a basic body 21 on. The main body 21 is formed substantially tubular. He has an inner jacket 22 on, which can be brought to rest on the surface of a teat cup. For this purpose, the attachment is pushed over a front end portion of the teat cup or over the head region of a teatcup liner. The inner jacket 22 of the essay 20 may comprise means for positive or non-positive connection with a teatcup liner or a teat cup. Preference as the means are locking means. To replace the essay or a teatcup liner from a teat cup, the connection between the attachment and the teatcup liner or the attachment and the teat cup is made detachable.

The essay 20 points in the area of an end face 24 exit areas 25 on, which are designed so that a the exit area 25 leaving fluid, in particular a disinfectant, at least partially in the radial direction and partially in a longitudinal axis 26 and above the face 24 exit. That from the exit areas 25 Outgoing fluid is schematically represented by the dashed line in the 7 shown. The supply of the fluid to the exit areas 25 takes place via channels 27 which extend substantially in the axial direction of the attachment. In the illustrated embodiment, the channels 27 on a wall 23 formed the essay. This is not mandatory. There is also the possibility that the channels in the wall 23 are integrated. The essay 20 is preferably made of an elastic material, in particular of a Elastoberen plastic.

A teat cup 30 is in the 9 to 11 shown. The teat cup 30 has a housing 31 on. The housing 31 is formed substantially cylindrical. The teat cup further includes a teatcup liner 32 on top of a head area 33 having. To the head area 33 joins a shank area, which in the housing 31 protrudes. A valve 40 or a Mehwegeventil 50 is intended to close the milk path. The end portion of the teatcup liner communicates with a milk tube, not shown.

In the illustrated embodiment, the head area 33 exit areas 34 on. The exit areas 34 are formed such that the exit area 34 leaving fluid, in particular a disinfectant or a dip agent, at least partially radially inwardly and also in the direction of a longitudinal axis and above the head region 33 exit.

The supply of a fluid via channels 35 , The channels 35 may be connected to hoses, not shown, through which a fluid from a fluid source is transported to the exit areas. There is also the. Possibility that a hose is provided which has a plurality of guide channels. This hose has z. B. a guide channel, which is connectable to the end portion of the teatcup liner, said guide channel is used to transport the milk. Another guide channel can be with a pulse vacuum nozzle 36 be connected. Another guide channel is used to supply the outlet areas with a fluid.

alternative there is also the possibility that in the case self supply channels are formed. these can for example, be integrated in the wall of the housing.

By the invention, the possibility ge give a fluid with the teat in contact. For example, when air as a fluid is brought into contact with the teat during a piecing operation, drying of the teat is achieved. Before milking, the teat of an animal is cleaned. The cleaning liquid adheres to the teat, whereby it forms a lubricating film. As a result, during the milking process, the teat cup can migrate upwards and press against the Fürstenbergian vein ring, as a result of which, among other things, the milking readiness of the animal can drop. By drying the teat, the lubricating film is removed.

In all embodiments, the exit areas 8a and 8b etc., or be separated from each other. It is then a simultaneous or alternating operation possible.

1

liner

2

head area

3

shaft area

4

end

5

opening

6

lip

7

ring groove

8th, 8a, 8b

exit area

9

longitudinal axis

10

channel

11

liner

12

head area

13

shaft area

14

exit area

15

channel

16

surface

20

essay

21

body

22

inner sheath

23

wall

24

face

25

exit area

26

longitudinal axis

27

channel

30

teat cup

31

casing

32

liner

33

head area

34

exit area

 35

channel

36

Pulse vacuum port

40

Valve

41

spray channel

42

irrigation channel

43

flow sensor

44

Temperature- and conductivity sensor

45

derivation

46

tilt sensor

47

pressure sensor

48

teat sensor

50

Multi-way valve

51

management for the foremilk

52

management for good milk

53

management for bad milk

54

outflow

55

Signal transmission means

Claims (36)

Method for bringing a fluid into contact with a teat of an animal, in particular a cow, in which at least one fluid, in particular a disinfectant, passes through at least one exit area ( 8th . 25 . 34 ) in an upper region of the teat cup ( 30 ) exits directed to the teat, wherein the milk path is sealed under the teat by means of a valve to prevent contamination. Method according to claim 1, wherein at least one exit region in the head region of the teat cup (FIG. 30 ) is arranged. Method according to claim 1 or 2, wherein at least one exit region on the inner edge of the teat cup ( 30 ) is arranged. A method according to claim 1 or 2, wherein at least one exit region on the upper and / or outer edge of the teat cup ( 30 ) is arranged. Method according to one of the preceding claims, in the volume flow of the at least one fluid in dependence of the length the teat and / or the piecing or the Abnahmefortschrittes is changed. Method according to one of the preceding claims, in the at least one fluid is sprayed. Method according to one of the preceding claims, in the least two fluids are sprayed. Method according to one of the preceding claims, wherein at least two fluids through different exit regions ( 8th . 8a . 8b . 8c 25 . 34 ). Method according to one of the preceding claims, in the at least one dipping agent is used. Method according to one of the preceding claims, in the at least one care product is used. Method according to one of the preceding claims, in then rinsed the teat cup and / or is disinfected. Method according to the preceding claim, in the teat cup afterwards flushed from the valve becomes. Teat cup ( 30 ) with a housing ( 31 ) and one in the housing ( 31 ) arranged teatcup liner ( 32 ), which separates a teat space from a pulse space and which has a head area ( 33 ), a stem portion and an end portion communicating with a milk tube, a valve being provided with which a fluidic connection from the teat space to the milk tube is closable, and wherein the head portion (11) 33 ) at least one exit area ( 34 ), which is designed so that a the exit area ( 34 ) leaving fluid, in particular a disinfectant, at least partially directed radially inward. Teat cup according to claim 13, characterized in that the outlet area ( 34 ) leaving fluid at least partially in the direction of a longitudinal axis of the teat cup ( 30 ) exit. Teat cup according to claim 13 or 14, characterized in that at least one exit region ( 8th ) on the inside of the teatcup liner ( 1 ) is arranged .. Teat cup according to claim 13, 14 or 15, characterized by a teatcup liner having a plurality on an imaginary circumference of the head region ( 2 ) equidistantly arranged exit areas ( 8th . 8a ). Teat cup according to one of claims 13 to 16, characterized by a teatcup liner which has a plurality on the circumference and in the axial direction of the teatcup liner ( 1 ) offset to each other exit areas ( 8th . 8a ) having. Teat cup according to one of claims 13 to 17, characterized by at least one nozzle-shaped outlet area ( 8th . 8a . 8b ), which is formed in particular in the form of a spray nozzle. Teat cup according to one of claims 13 to 17, characterized in that at least one part of the circumference of the head region ( 2 ) extending channel is provided, the at least one exit area ( 8th . 8a ) having. Teat cup according to one of claims 13 to 19, characterized in that the exit area ( 8a ) on an end face of a substantially in the axial direction of the teatcup liner ( 1 ) Channels ( 10 ) is trained. Teat cup according to one of claims 13 to 20, characterized in that the channel (s) ( 10 ) is connected to at least one supply channel or are. Teat cup according to claim 21, characterized in that at least two supply channels are provided, by the independently differing Fluida to the exit areas ( 8th ) can be supplied. Teat cup according to one of claims 13 to 22, characterized in that the teatcup liner is formed in two parts is. Teat cup according to one of claims 13 to 23, characterized in that the exit areas ( 8th . 8a ) and / or the channels ( 10 ) in and / or on the head area ( 2 ) are formed. Teat cup according to one of claims 13 to 24, characterized in that the valve ( 40 ) in a lower region, in particular in the end region ( 4 ) or the milk hose is arranged. Teat cup according to one of claims 13 to 25, characterized in that the valve ( 40 ) at least one spray nozzle ( 8b ). Teat cup according to one of claims 13 to 26, characterized in that the spray nozzle ( 8b ) of the valve ( 40 ) is in the position closing the milk path in operating position. Teat cup according to one of claims 13 to 27, characterized in that the valve ( 40 ) at least one outlet opening ( 8b . 8c ) for rinsing and / or disinfectant. Teat cup according to one of claims 13 to 28, characterized in that the valve ( 40 ) a multi-way valve ( 50 ). Teat cup according to one of claims 13 to 29, characterized in that a separate derivative ( 51 ) is provided for the foremilk. Teat cup according to one of claims 13 to 30, characterized in that at least two separate derivatives ( 52 . 53 ) are provided for milk of different quality. Teat cup according to one of claims 13 to 31, characterized in that at least one feed ( 41 ) is provided for a rinsing liquid, which preferably at the valve ( 40 ) angeord is net. Teat cup according to one of claims 13 to 32, characterized in that on the valve ( 40 ) at least one feed ( 8b ) is provided for a disinfectant and / or care agent for application to the teat. Teat cup according to one of claims 13 to 33, characterized in that at least one sensor device ( 43 - 48 ) is provided, by means of which at least one parameter from a group of parameters can be determined, which comprises a temperature, a conductance, a measure of the conductivity, a measure of the cell count of the milk. Teat cup according to one of claims 13 to 34, characterized in that at least one combined sensor device ( 43 . 44 . 45 ) is provided, by means of which at least one temperature and a measure of a conductivity of the milk can be determined. Teat cup according to one of claims 13 to 35, characterized in that a signal transmission device ( 55 ) is provided for wireless transmission of signals.